Upgraded technology
Council voted to direct staff to move ahead with the purchase of new technology for councillors to stay connected.
Coun. Caleb Moss, who put forward the resolution, said that it is important for the municipality to upgrade its outdated technology and equip councillors with tablets, as most other communities have already done.
It was also noted that switching to tablets, such as iPads, would be less expensive than upgrading the computers.
“What’s important is that we’re keeping up with current technology,” said CAO Jon Wilsgard.
It was not explicitly stated what product would be purchased, but given that the municipality already operates with an Apple system, staff indicated that Apple iPods would be the best option.
Federal Gas Tax Fund
Council has decided to put forward one more application to the Federal Gas Tax Fund Strategic Priorities Fund.
The previous two applications, voted on at the previous council meeting, were for capital projects in town. This application, under the Capacity Building Stream, is to finance an Ice Jamming Study for the Kicking Horse River. The estimated value of the study is $75,000, which would be 100 per cent covered if the application is approved.
“It turns my stomach to do another study,” said Mayor Ron Oszust. “But it is necessary, and this is our chance to get it 100 per cent covered.”
“The intent of undertaking a study is to determine the best solution for ice management, whether it be effective management of gravel before jamming occurs, facilities to stop ice before entering the community, or strategies for managing ice jams/flows when the occur,” read the staff report.
Air Quality Committee
At the last regular meeting, council discussed a request made by the Golden and District Air Quality Committee at the previous meeting. Annette Lutterman, representing the committee, request that council set up a Select Committee.
Although council indicated that they support GDAQC, and would like to keep the lines of communication open, they decided that establishing a select committee (which carries with it an end date, and specific goals) at this time was not necessary.
“I personally do not believe we need a select committee,” said Oszust.
