Third quarter update
Council received a report regarding the City’s financial performance to the end of the third quarter (Sept. 30). Overall the City is performing as budgeted, with expenses and revenues in line. Council did receive notice, however, that the City is not projected to have a surplus for 2010.
Recycling station options sought
Council received a request from the West Park Mall that the City relocate its recycling station located in that facility’s parking lot. The mall management indicated there were concerns regarding loitering, garbage and parking availability. City staff have been unsuccessful in finding a resolution that would see the popular recycling station remain as is. The City will continue to investigate options regarding where the bins may be located.
City to seek grants for infrastructure - St. Laurent avenue improvements
The City will apply to the provincial government’s Towns for Tomorrow grant program for $375,000 to pay for a portion of the reconstruction of the 200 and 300 blocks of St. Laurent Avenue. The City’s share of the $890,000 project would be $515,000 and come from the Quesnel Works: Capital Reinvestment Program. The work includes repaving, new sidewalks and new curb and gutter. All the detailed engineering work is complete, meaning the project is ready to proceed. This project was slated for the 2010 season, but was cancelled.
Municipal Landfill improvements
The City will apply to the General Strategic Priorities Fund (A Gas Tax program that local governments may apply to) for improvements at the municipal landfill. These funds are used to support local government infrastructure that contributes to cleaner air, cleaner water and reduced greenhouse gas emissions and may be used to improve a wide range of environmental issues, including solid waste management. The improvements will include weigh scales, a scale house, fencing and various traffic control improvements. The City will have much greater control over the materials entering the landfill once the project is complete. It is anticipated that the improvements will also encourage greater recycling. The project budget is $648,900, with the Gas Tax funds potentially paying for 100% of the costs.
Other news
Council will increase business licence fees in 2011 for all businesses except those that are home-based. The fee will increase by $25, from $50 to $75 for the majority of businesses. Council also approved some regulatory changes to the business licence bylaw. All businesses will receive an insert with their 2011 business licence explaining: the changes to the bylaw; the reasons for, and benefits of, a business licence; a revised application form; and notice that the fee structure will be revisited in 2011.
Council approved a 1.6% increase to their indemnity, following established policy. That policy states that Council indemnities will be linked with the increase to the Consumer Price Index in September of each year.
Council appointed four members to the Museum and Heritage Commission. Peter Walsh, Bob Lebeck and Brian Milthorp were re-appointed, with one new member, Lori McKee, appointed for her first term.
The Quesnel Kennel Club will continue to call a portion of City Hall home. Council approved renewing the club’s lease for a portion of the basement. The rent for 2011 was increased from $500 to $525 per month.
Council approved its meeting schedule for 2011. Of note, the first official Council meeting of 2011 is Dec. 6 2010. The first public budget meeting is slated for Jan. 17, with further budget discussions on Jan. 31 and Feb. 14. The final meeting for this Council’s term is Nov. 21. The complete schedule is available at http://www.city.quesnel.bc.ca/
Important Dates
Dec. 3 and 4 - Museum Gift Shop Sale - 20% off every item.
Dec. 4, 3:30 p.m. - Santa Parade along Reid Street.
Proclamations
November - Adoption Awareness Month
Next Regular Council Meeting:
December 6
Next Delegation Meeting:
November 29
Next Committee of the Whole Meeting:
December 13
Next North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Meeting:
December 14
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