Trisha Shanks
Arrow Lakes News
Ten Years of Service
Mayor Karen Hamling presented Richard Cann, Arena/Parks Assistant Manager with his ten year pin at the start of Monday’s council meeting. There was also a pin for Terry Warren, Fire Chief but he was unable to attend.
Water and Sewer Budget
Most of the meeting was comprised of a presentation from Village Staff concerning the water and sewer costs, usage and infrastructure from the last few years as well as projections for this year and into the future. There have been many changes in the legislation around sewage in recent years, handed down from the Ministry of the Environment and which have cost a lot to implement, in addition to the costs of general required upgrades and ongoing maintenance/pipe replacement. This increase in expenses has necessitated a price increase for all users of 2 per cent this year and 5 per cent long term. As far as usage goes, rates are based on the type of usage — single family dwelling, office, hotel, etc. — but actual amount of water and sewage used. It is largely an honor system as the village still does not have plans to install water metering for residential or commercial customers, although provincial building code now requires all new builds to have it in place. Mayor Karen Hamling stated, “People really need to conserve the water. Watering a lawn for four or five hours is a thing of the past.”
Other news
The lease on the land for the Canadian Mountain Holidays helicopter hangar was motioned to be renewed with a nominal increase for five more years.
The Chamber of Commerce has approached the Village for assistance with street banners placed high up, in the hopes that vehicles with the height capability be offered for use. Staff will research the options.
Council has been made aware of two available grants for funding: Build Canada fund and the Federal Gas Tax Strategic Priorities fund.
