Regular St. Albert Council Meeting - Monday, November 6, 2017

Tim Osborne left big shoes to fill.

I always appreciated Tim's overview of the following week's council meeting, so I hope to continue the tradition he started with translating the agenda. I'll probably be more brief that Tim was, I'll often paraphrase, and I'll likely drop in a few of my own comments. If you want all the dry details, read the agenda & attachments in full here! 

I also encourage everyone who is able to tune in the the live-stream of the meeting (3pm here) or attend in-person (3rd floor of St. Albert Place, hang a right getting out of the elevator). You can also register to speak if you have information to present to council.

Highlights:

(For everything proposed by the members of the last council, the motion must be formally moved   before we debate. It it's not brought forward by anyone, it will be left on the floor.)

5.1 Diversity & Inclusion Declaration

This is  a presentation looking at publicly declaring our commitment to diversity & inclusion. I look forward to hearing more. Yay, diversity & inclusion! Details here. 

7.1 Legislative Appointments

Last week, Council met to make recommendations for appointments to all the boards and committees where we have representation. There are a lot. 

12.1 Active Communities Proposal

Last term, Councillor Cam MacKay gave notice of motion proposing that "That the Mayor draft a letter of support for the Active Communities proposal."

The Active Communities is a not-for-profit-operated recreation facility model (gymnastics, ice, community space, etc.) with an active proposal for SW St. Albert. 

Backgrounder here.

12.2 2018 Utility Capital Contribution

Back in September 2016, Councillor Hughes provided notice that she would bring forward the following:

"That the 2018 utility capital contribution component is adjusted to reflect a 10 year capital plan that includes the 30% of the MSI funding allocation for utilities and bring to Council an amended utility model by the end of Q4 of 2017."

Backgrounder here.

12.3 St. Albert Handi-bus

Last term, Councillor Russell gave notice of motion "That Council approve the Edmonton General Hospital as a required stop for St. Albert patients effective in 30 days. "

The backgrounder for this one answered all the questions I had about demand, requests for services, and adjustments to routes.

12.3/4/5 Riel Park Signage & Sports Wall of Fame & Social Development Policy

Mayor Crouse proposed:

"That signage signifying that Riel Business park be updated to also include its residential nature and completed in 2019" 

"That Administration explore opportunities for various Sports "Wall of Fame" similar to the ice sports one at Servus Place and a report to Council in 2020." 

"That the Social Development Policy be updated to speak to Neighbourhood and Community Development and be brought to Council in 2019."

Discontinue the branch library (Backgrounder also mentions ice)

This is what it sounds like, in response to the ballot question answers from October 17. This will likely be the longest discussion of the night, and I expect presenters from both side of the debate will attend to share their positions. I recommend that everyone with an interest in community and social development read the backgrounder. If you don't have time to read the whole document, pages 5-6 give some information on the planning that is happening now for a "holistic study, exploring potential facility partnership opportunities and service delivery models".

 Please contact me if you have any questions or comments!