The following are highlights from the October 28, 2019 regular meeting of council.
Councillor Donnie Hill – Deputy Mayor
Councillor Donnie Hill was officially sworn in as Deputy Mayor for the period of November 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020.
Land Use Bylaw Amendment – 1470-A65
A public hearing was held for a proposed Land Use Bylaw amendment regarding a portion of Town land located directly adjacent to a resident’s property. The resident requested a rezoning to facilitate a lease of the land. No members of the public opposed the amendment at the public hearing, after which Town Council approved the amendment.
Resident Complaint – Alley Repairs
A group of town residents have filed an official complaint about the alley located between 45 Street and 55 Avenue. The group claims that the condition of the alley is a safety issue. Town Council accepted a petition prepared by the group as information and has directed Town administration to report back with proposed actions to resolve the complaint.
SW Industrial Lands – Grading Project
In 2015 the Town received a Building Canada Grant to remediate the sewage treatment plant and lagoons for the purpose of developing an industrial subdivision. The next step in developing these lands involve completing the site grading. After bids were collected, Town Council awarded the contract to Northside Construction with a bid of $1,625,283.55. Tagish Engineering was also awarded the engineering contract for the grading project in the amount of $171,247.00.
Rail-Crossing and Train Whistle Cessation
Safety concerns about railway crossings within town limits have escalated. A safety assessment was completed 12 years ago; therefore, Town administration suggests that a new assessment be prepared. This assessment could also take into consideration the requirements for potential whistle cessation within town boundaries. On Monday, Town Council directed administration to prepare cost estimates for an upgraded pedestrian crossing at the “White Rock” location and to prepare an RFP for a feasibility study evaluating the possibility of train whistle cessation within town limits.
Bylaw 1636-2019 – Streets, Naming and Addressing
A new bylaw to support Town staff and to provide direction to land developers was presented by Town administration. The new bylaw formalizes current practices with respect to the addressing of properties and the creation of street names. Council approved the bylaw as presented.