Edson Town Council updates
Aug. 23 meeting
Public Hearings. Council held a public hearing for a pair of bylaws to close a portion of unused roadways in the Lions Park area for the purpose of consolidation with the existing Lions Park lot.
One resident was on hand to speak about Bylaw 2183, which would close a road allowance on the south end of 40th street, abutting CN Rail and the new hospital land. He expressed concerns about the closure restricting future access to his land to the south. Council passed a motion to forward that closure back to administration for further review.
There were no submissions for Bylaw 2184, closing an unused road allowance within Lions Park. Council passed a motion to forward this bylaw to the Minister of Transportation for signature prior to second and third reading.
Foster Parent Association Delegation. James Toner gave a presentation to Council regarding the Alberta Foster Parent Association. He made a request to hold a special flag raising ceremony for Foster Parent Appreciation Week. Council supported his request and will allow the Foster Parent Association flag to be raised at the Galloway Station Museum, replacing the Town of Edson flag for that week.
Advertisement Benches. Council passed a motion to enter into a request for proposal process for a proprietor to operate and administer an advertisement bench program on Town owned lands. It was felt this would be a fair process and allows the Town to build a program that suits the needs of both bench users and advertisers, as well as keeping things in line with the Town’s beautification plans.
Airport Equipment. As previously discussed at the July 19th Council Meeting, the Edson Airport is in need of some replacement equipment (sweeper/ blower) prior to winter. A demo unit was found and Council has directed administration to purchase the equipment with funds coming from reserves pending approval from Yellowhead County. The cost of the unit is just over $500,000 and is cost shared with the County as part of the airport partnership.
Vehicle Purchase. Council has approved the purchase of a 1998 International S Series Truck in the amount of $10,000. This truck will help with the snow removal season and reduce the amount of contractors the Town would have to hire. The truck is equipped with a sander and plow which means it can also be used as a backup for the airport if necessary.
Copier. Council has approved the purchase of a new photo copier for the Community Services Department as the current unit is no longer working properly and likely won’t last until the next budget year. The funds will be taken from reserves.
Meeting Cancellation. Council has cancelled the regularly scheduled Council meeting for September 6, 2016 due to the Labour Day Long Weekend.
Proclamation. Council has proclaimed September 2016 to be Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the Town of Edson.
Next meeting - The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held September 13, 2016 at 10:00a.m. The next Council Meeting is scheduled for September 20 at 7:30p.m.