The following are highlights from the July 22, 2019 regular meeting of council.
Policing & Safe Community Committee Bylaw
Earlier this year, Town Administration developed a bylaw establishing a Policing & Community Safety Committee. At the July 8, 2019 meeting, Council approved first and second readings of the bylaw. On Monday, July 22, 2019, the bylaw was given third reading and was passed.
Utility Billing Fee
Council engaged in a discussion regarding the fee, set to begin in September of 2019, for residents who choose to continue receiving paper utility bills in the mail. The fee was originally included as part of the utility bylaw approved earlier this year. Following further discussion, a motion was introduced directing administration to prepare an amendment to the bylaw to remove the fee.
Second-Quarter Financial Statements
The Town’s current financial statements were presented to Council, including a review of revenues and expenses. Council accepted the financial statements as information.
Accounting Software
Town staff and administration currently use accounting software that no longer meets the Town’s needs. After consultation and an examination of best practices, it has been determined that the Town should move to a new accounting software platform. The cost of this process is $284,000 and includes a full conversion to the new platform, training sessions for staff, a web-based interface for citizens and added administrative tools. The funds for the 2019 portion will come from the Town’s operating reserve, and the 2020 portion will be proposed as part of the future 2020 budget. Council approved entering into an agreement with Diamond Municipal Solutions for the purchase and associated services of the accounting software program.
Innisfail Minor Hockey Lease Agreement
The Innisfail Minor Hockey Association currently leases office space at the Town’s arena facility. After discussion between the group and Town staff, it was proposed to Council that the lease be renewed. Council approved a new lease agreement with the Innisfail Minor Hockey Association at a rate of $300 per month for the term from September 1, 2019 through to August 31, 2021.
Weed Inspector
The Town currently contracts weed inspection services from Red Deer County during the period from May 15 to August 31 on an annual basis. There are shoulder periods outside of the contract period for which the Town is still responsible for weed inspection and control. Administration recommended and Council approved the appointment of two staff members as weed inspectors.
Community & Business Awards Gala
The Town of Innisfail and the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce both work together, through a committee, to help organize and host the annual Community & Business Awards Gala. A list of roles and responsibilities has been created for the planning committee, and it was determined that it is unnecessary to make this a committee of Council. Council accepted the Business & Community Awards Gala Committee report as information.
A & P Meeting Cancelled – August 6, 2019
Council approved a motion to cancel the August 6, 2019 Agendas and Priorities Meeting.
