The following are highlights from the Tuesday, October 12 Regular Meeting of Council.
Land Use Bylaw (LUB) Amendment 1470-A73
Administration proposed amendments containing numerous changes to the Town’s LUB, improving the functionality of the bylaw and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy. A public hearing was held and, after questions from the public were addressed, the proposed bylaw received third reading and was passed.
Land Use Bylaw (LUB) Amendment 1470-A74
Administration proposed an amendment to the Town’s LUB that would add “contractor services – major” and “manufacturing industries” as discretionary uses on a specific lot located in the Highway Commercial District. After a public hearing at which no members of the community spoke regarding the bylaw, Council gave third reading and passed a motion to approve the bylaw.
IPSOS – 2021 Citizen Perspectives Survey Presentation
Earlier this year, the Town engaged the services of the firm Ipsos to conduct a Citizen Satisfaction Survey. The survey was completed this fall; on Tuesday, company representative Erin Roulston gave a report highlighting the results. Council accepted the report as information. The report will now be shared with the public via the Town’s website.
Delegation – Vaccine Passports/Inclusivity/ Future
Three members of the community appeared before Council to speak about perceived risks associated with the province’s current health restrictions. Council thanked the delegation for appearing and for sharing their concerns.
2021 Fortis Franchise Fee Riders
Each year, Fortis provides the opportunity for municipalities to change the franchise fees associated with residents’ electricity bills. Changes must be submitted by November 1. Administration proposed a 2% increase to the Town’s current rate of 15% to help cover anticipated increased operational costs. Council discussed their concerns with increasing the fees before a new council is in place and defeated a motion to increase the rate. A second motion instructing Administration to contact Fortis regarding an extension of the current deadline was then carried.
2021 ATCO Gas Franchise Fee Rates
At Administration’s recommendation, a motion to maintain the current ATCO franchise fee at 27% was carried, and a second motion to contact ATCO regarding an extension of the current rate-change deadline was carried.
2021 Third-Quarter Financials
Administration presented the 2021 Town of Innisfail Third-Quarter Financial Report for the period from July 1 – September 30, 2021. Administration provided a brief overview, informing Council that tax revenues are at 86% of the 2021 budgeted amount while expenses currently sit at about 63%. Council approved the report as information.
Innisfail Town Council strives to maintain a level of openness with its residents. The highlights only briefly touch upon the exchanges and decisions reached during the most recent Council meeting.
The full meeting is available to view on YouTube (click here)
Visit www.innisfail.ca/council to review full meeting agendas and minutes.
