Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Quesnel Council Highlights - Oct 1st Mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

City to upgrade transit fleet

Two new "Vicinity" buses will make the Quesnel transit rounds following Council's decision to upgrade the fleet. Council approved using the new models to replace two aging Ford "Polars" currently in the Quesnel Transit fleet that are due to be replaced in 2013. In addition, a third Polar will be replaced by a new "Arboc" model.

The Vicinity is a low-floor bus with seating for 23, plus 16 standees and two wheelchair spots. It is light, quiet and delivers good fuel economy while meeting strict emissions standards. Replacing the three older models with two Vicinities and an Arboc will save the City about $6,300 annually in lease payments.

City's airshow costs provided

Council received a report regarding the cost to the City to host Skyfest 2012. In-kind support (personnel and materials) cost about $10,000, not including RCMP and fire department personnel. The City also provided $3,000, which the Quesnel SkyFest Society used to offset the price of fuel for performers. Staff reported that the event went very well, with no mishaps or major issues.

S&R building to get improvements

The Quesnel Search and Rescue Society has the green light to add two, 600-square-foot additions to its current facility at 14 Johnston Loop. The additions will be used to add training, storage and office space to the original building, constructed in 2010. The Society operates on City land under a lease agreement, and uses the old "mini-golf" building for storage. That building will be demolished once the upgrades are complete.

Other News

-Council approved two new members being named to the Quesnel Community and Economic Development Corporation Board. Jorge Busca and Greg Andrews will serve two-year terms.

-The City will offer free handyDART transit service for Veterans wishing to attend Remembrance Day ceremonies at the cenotaph on Nov. 11. The City's transit operator, Five Five Transport, is providing a driver, while BC Transit is cost sharing the service with the City (about $300 for the City).

-The City will renew a five-year lease agreement with the Baker Creek Enhancement Society. The Society operates the Nature Education and Resource Centre on the top floor of the concession building in the West Fraser Timber Park.

-Council approved a development permit that allows new paint, trim and signage for the Crosswater Retail building at 397 Kinchant Street (at the corner of St. Laurent Avenue).

-Reid Street will come alive with trick-or-treaters on October 31. The Quesnel Downtown Association requested that the street be closed at 3:30 p.m. to allow its annual Halloween March to take place. The march begins at the 200 block of Reid Street, ends at the Safeway parking lot, and is expected to take about 30 minutes.

-Council will write a letter of support for the Dakelh and Community Housing Society for a grant application designed to improve affordable housing in the community. The grant would help the organization develop a business plan and budget to further support their goals. One long-term goal is to provide more housing and support for those at risk of becoming homeless.

Important Dates

October 12 - Spend a Night in the Cold Fundraiser
October 27 - Child Development Centre Variety Show Fundraiser

Proclamations

October - Accessible Parking Awareness Month
October - Foster Family Appreciation Month
October 11 - International Day of the Girl
October 22 to 27 - Child Development Week

Next Regular Council Meeting: Monday October 22 at 7 p.m.
Next Delegation/Committee of the Whole Meeting: Monday October 15 at 7 p.m.
Next North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Meeting: Tuesday October 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Editor's Note - above 3 meetings in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant Street)


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