Water, sewer rates set to change
Council gave first three readings to a bylaw amendment that will see water and sewer rates increase in 2011. Water fees will increase by $23.16 per year for residents, while sewer rates will increase by $9.42. Water rates were last adjusted in 2004, with sewer rates last increased in 2009. The new fees allow the City to begin setting aside funds for the future replacement of water and sewer infrastructure and the system's overall sustainability.
Quesnel Blooms Again
Quesnel was awarded five blooms in the International Challenge - Small Category of the Communities in Bloom program. The community also received special mention for the restoration of the Fraser River Footbridge. The overall winner was Warwick New York. City Council thanked the volunteers, city staff and sponsors for making this year's competition a success.
QCEDC gets new members
Three new members were appointed to the Board of Directors for the Quesnel Community and Economic Development Corporation. Jim Gorsline, Bruce Broughton and Rob Swaan will begin two-year terms with the wholly owned subsidiary of the City of Quesnel that works to facilitate economic, social and environmental wealth for Quesnel residents.
Fire protection discussed
Council received a letter regarding the province's role in fire protection for Williams Subdivision, Hilborn Subdivision and Banner, Trask and Couldwell Roads. These areas were excluded from municipal boundary expansions in 1970. Since then, taxes have been collected by the provincial government and paid to the City of Quesnel to provide fire protection for those areas. The province is investigating removing itself from the role of tax collector for that function. As a result, Council will approach the Cariboo Regional District regarding future taxation and service provision in those areas.
Business licence bylaw to change
Council noted that the City strives to provide top quality customer service and to be responsive to the needs of the business community. With that in mind, Council is reviewing its business licence bylaw, including how much is charged and the services included, such as fire inspection, when a business licence is purchased. The fee for the vast majority of businesses is currently $50 and has been for more than a decade. The City is proposing increasing the business licence fee across the board by $25 for 2011. A public input session will be held Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers.
Other News
Council awarded the contract for the purchase of a new 2010 Elgin Crosswind Regenerative Air Street Sweeper from Vimar Equipment Ltd. The total cost to the City after trade-ins and taxes is $207,600, below the original budget of $237,000. The new sweeper uses air to do the majority of the work, as opposed to brushes, resulting in a better first pass and less dust in the air.
Council received notice from the West Park Mall requesting the removal of the recycling bins due to loitering and parking concerns. Council directed staff to try to find a resolution that would see the popular recycling station remain as is.
Important Dates
Nov. 6 - Diwali Fireworks display
Nov. 11 - Remembrance Day
Nov. 20, 5 p.m. - 10th Annual Taste of Quesnel Variety Dinner and Artisan Auction at the Seniors' Centre.
Dec. 3 and 4 - Museum Gift Shop Sale - 20% off every item.
Proclamations
Oct. 27 to Nov. 10 - Veterans' Days
Nov. 14 to 21 - Restorative Justice Week Nov. 20 - National Child Day
Future Quesnel Council or Joint Committee Meetings':
Next Delegation Meeting:
Monday, November 8
Next North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Meeting:
Tuesday, November 9
Next Committee of the Whole Meeting:
Monday, November 15
Next Regular Council Meeting:
Monday, November 22
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