By Andrea Arnold
The May 24 McBride Council meeting was called to order at 7:00pm by Mayor Gene Runtz.
Cleaner water
Council passed a motion confirming a funding allocation of $69,752 towards the preparation of a Water Filtration Feasibility Study to determine the most appropriate drinking water filtration system for the Village of McBride drinking water facility at Dominion Creek.
New lights for Main Street
Council moved to direct staff to allocate an addition $150,000 to the 2022 Capital Budget to cover costs associated with removal and replacement of 30 concrete light post bases and associated sidewalk repair from the Canada Community Building Fund (Gas Tax) in the amount of $84,599 and the Northern Capital Planning Grant Reserve in the amount of $65,401.
Grad Banner
Council approved the request from McBride Secondary School to hang a congratulatory banner for the 2022 graduating class from the Welcome to McBride archway at the end of Main Street, and authorized Public Works to hang the banner if needed. Councillor Allan Frederick commented that the McBride District Fire Department has volunteered to hang the banner as part of their weekly practice on June 6, 2022.
Garbage can request
Council did not approve the request from the McBride District Volunteer Fire Department for a new garbage collection receptacle next to the memorial bench they recently installed. The request was for either a cement or metal container. Council discussed the request and made a motion to direct staff to consult the Beautification Committee regarding options before proceeding.
Discontent at RDFFG/Council scheduling conflict
As Council discussed the information items, a letter from Michael Higgins, General Manager of Community Services for the Regional District of Fraser Fort George was brought forward. A meeting between RDFFG and community members regarding the future of the Curling Club’s lease agreement at the recreation centre, was being held at the same time as the Council meeting. As the Council representative to the Regional District, Councillor Frederick was unable to attend the curling meeting in his official capacity. The timing meant no village council member was able to attend. Council made the motion to send a letter to the Regional District addressing this issue and requesting that future meetings not be scheduled for the same day and time as regular council meetings.
Development variance permit
Council approved the request for development variance permit 2022-02 for 361 Dominion Street. The request comes from Kevin and Jenny Taphorn regarding a rear setback relaxation request and an increase in accessory building area maximum on their property. Approval will allow the couple to build a storage unit for recreational vehicles on their existing property.
Council adjourned at 7:47pm.
