Because of the Canada Day holiday one of my regular city committee meetings has been bumped to Tuesday - the General Government Services (GGS) Committee. As I mentioned last time I posted an agenda from GGS, this committee meets every second week and generally deals with things like internal corporate services (IT, and Finance) as well as the administrative functions of the corporation.
Below is the agenda for today's meeting. The names you see below the agenda items are the staff members who are presenting the report on that item. My quick comments are in italics.
Delegations
1. Mr. B. Manz - 2008 Aquatera Annual Report (attached)
The city owns Aquatera (along with the County of GP and the Town of Sexsmith) and as part of that relationship we see them at meetings quite often. Presenting the annual report is kind of just an FYI thing as all council members receive it in our mail boxes.
2. Committee “In Camera” (land matter)
3. Grande Prairie Public Library 2008 Audited Financial Statements (attached)
S. Walker, Acting Corporate Services Director
The Library is one of two organizations who's year end financial statements are combined with the City's. The other is the Airport. The library ended the year with a surplus of $292,776 - mostly due to a number of smaller factors that added up; unexpected grants and higher than expected fundraising on the revenue side and lower than expected or deferred expenses. Any surplus is transferred to a reserve and will cover some of the increased expenses that come as the library grows in to the new building.
4. Branding Exercise RFP Award (attached)
D. Olinger, Manager Marketing and Communications
This will ensure that the city is effectively marketing itself in a coordinated manner. The most visible result of this for the public will likely be some kind of new logo for the city (Right now we are using the city Crest which really isn't a logo). I won't be surprised if there is some angry feedback on this expense ($36,000) but ultimately the city is a large corporation that needs to communicate effectively with the public and this will help.
5. Strategic Priorities Chart Update (attached)
A. Cerny, Acting Legislative Services Manager
6. Correspondence
6.1 Mr. W. Drysdale, MLA, re: 2009 Municipal Sustainability Initiative allocation (attached)
This is in response to a letter we sent outlining the negative impact that the province's decision to reduce MSI funding had on our city. The province chopped about $2.4 million out of grant funding we were supposed to receive this year - money that was going to the construction of the multiplex.
6.2 AUMA Mayors’ Caucus, re: Bill 203 Local Authorities Election Act Amendment (attached)
This new provincial bill (view as a pdf)came from an MLA's private member motion late this spring. It sets out rules for how municipal election campaigns are financed and reported. I don't think anyone has too much of a problem with having fair guidelines in place that ensure transparency (I don't) the issue is that this was sprung on municipalities without any consultation. Because of that there are a number of holes in the proposed legislation that could have negative impacts. Hopefully we'll be able to correct these things by working through AUMA before this becomes law.
7. Other Business
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Council Agenda for June 29th, 2009
Hope you are enjoying the sunshine! Below is the agenda for tonight's regular council meeting. These regular meetings start at 7pm and are open if you want to attend. If you can't make it in to watch live, in person then you can always watch online. (All council meeting webcasts have also been archived here too- meaning you can call up and watch any meeting all the way back to June of 2004!)
Some quick items of note on this agenda; starting the process for development to start on the south east corner of 68th Ave and Resources Road (8.3), closing off access to the Provincial Building parking lot from 104Ave (9.3.1), buying a new street sweeper for $208,966 (9.3.2) and a tree-trimmer truck for parks at a cost of $159,897 (9.3.3), borrowing $454,446 for the Centre for Creative Arts renovation (9.4.1), Providing Fire Dispatch Services to the Towns of High Prairie & Spirit River (9.9.1 & 9.9.2), a 10 year agreement between the city and ATCO for a Arctic Winter Games cauldron in Muskoseepi Park (9.10.4)
Grande Prairie City Council Agenda for June 29th, 2009
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. NATIONAL ANTHEM
3. ADOPTION OF PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
5. DELEGATIONS
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
8.1 Appointments to the City/County Joint Recreation Committee (attached) Request to appoint four Council members to the City/County Joint Recreation Committee.
RECOMMENDATION
Council appoint Aldermen Deimert, Gustafson and Wong, and Mayor Logan (ex officio) to the City/County Joint Recreation
Committee.
8.2 Bylaw C-1100-145, to Amend the Land Use Bylaw (attached)
Bylaw C-1100-145, to amend the Land Use Bylaw, to include “Fleet Services” as a Discretionary Use in the “CC – Central Commercial” District.
RECOMMENDATION
Council give Bylaw C-1100-145, to amend the Land Use Bylaw first reading.
Council establish Monday, July 27, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers as the date, time and location for Public Hearing purposes for Bylaw C-1100-145.
8.3 Bylaw C-1060-10 to amend the South East Area Structure plan & Bylaw C-1100-112 to amend the Land Use Bylaw
Adoption of the Kennedy Development Ltd. Outline Plan
RECOMMENDATION
Council give Bylaw C-1060-10, to amend the South East Area Structure Plan first reading.
Council give Bylaw C-1100-112, to amend the Land Use Bylaw first reading.
Council establish Monday, July 27, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers as the date, time and location for Public Hearing purposes for Bylaw C-1060-10 and Bylaw C-1100-112.
9. COMMITTEE BUSINESS
9.1 Municipal Government Day Team – June 10, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Municipal Government Day Team meeting held June 10, 2009.
9.2 Council Committee of the Whole – June 15, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the Whole meeting held June 15, 2009.
9.3 Public Works Committee - June 16, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Public Works Committee meeting held June 16, 2009.
9.3.1 Access to 104 Avenue from the Provincial Building
RECOMMENDATION
Council reinstate the status quo of the access to 104 Avenue from the Provincial Building parking lot pending neighborhood
consultation.
9.3.2 Tender Award, T-12-547-09, Street Sweeper
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Tender T-12-547-09 for the purchase of a street sweeper be awarded to Western Equipment & Services
Inc. in the amount of $208,966.74 (excluding GST), as the lowest tender meeting specifications.
9.3.3 Tender Award – T-14-547-09, Truck with Forestry Aerial Device
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Tender T-14-547-09 for the purchase of a forestry aerial device and chip/dump mounted on a single axle truck be awarded to Calco Equipment Inc. in the amount of $159,879.00 (excluding GST), as the lowest tender meeting specifications.
9.3.4 Bylaw C-1233, to close a portion of 88 Street, south of 112 Avenue (attached)
RECOMMENDATION
1. Give Bylaw C-1233 first reading, and;
2. Set Monday, July 27, 2009 as the date for consideration for second and third readings.
9.3.5 Inspection Services Quality Management Plan (attached)
RECOMMENDATION
Council adopt the City of Grande Prairie and the Town of Beaverlodge Joint Uniform Quality Management Plan.
9.4 General Government Services Committee – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the General Government
Services Committee meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.4.1 Borrowing Bylaw C-1229, to borrow for Renovations of the Centre for Creative Arts
RECOMMENDATION
Council give first reading to Bylaw C-1229, to borrow for the
renovations of the Centre for Creative Arts building.
9.5 Council Committee of the Whole – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the
Whole meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.6 Pursuit of Excellence Committee – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Pursuit of Excellence
Committee meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.7 Environment Committee – June 22, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Environment Committee
meeting held June 22, 2009.
9.8 Council Committee of the Whole – June 22, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the
Whole meeting held June 22, 2009.
9.9 Protective Services Committee – June 23, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Protective Services
Committee meeting held June 23, 2009.
9.9.1 Renewal of Dispatch Agreement – Town of High Prairie
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the renewal of the contract with the Town of
High Prairie to provide emergency fire dispatch services for a
five year period in accordance with the fee schedule as
presented.
9.9.2 Renewal of Dispatch Agreement – Town of Spirit River
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the renewal of the contract with the Town of
Spirit River to provide emergency fire dispatch services for a
five year period in accordance with the fee schedule as
presented.
9.9.3 Ownership and Operating Agreement – Animal Pound
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the City enter into the Ownership and
Operating Agreement for the Animal Pound with the County
of Grande Prairie and the Grande Prairie and District SPCA.
9.9.4 Police and Crisis Team (PACT) Initiative
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the Mayor send a letter to the Minister
of Public Safety and Emergency recommending an additional
RCMP officer be hired for the Police and Crisis Team (PACT)
initiative.
9.10 Community Development Committee – June 23, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Community Development
Committee meeting held June 23, 2009.
9.10.1 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Request for Funding
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the funding of $20,307 from the Recreation
and Culture Program Budget for the 2010 Olympic Torch
Relay Event.
9.10.2 Bear Creek Pool Request for Funding
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve an additional $10,000 from the Leisure Centre
Operating Budget be provided to the Piranhas Swim Club for
the 2009 Summer Season provided additional grants and
revenues are not received, and further refer the annual
operating grant for future Bear Creek Pool contracts to the
2010 Budget review.
9.10.3 Crystal Centre Food and Beverage Service RFP Award
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the award of RFP-12-439-09 for the provision
of Crystal Centre Food and Beverage Service to Crystal
Catering Ltd. for a three year period with an option to renew
for an additional three year term, as the highest evaluated
proponent meeting specifications.
9.10.4 ATCO Gas Agreement – Arctic Winter Games
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve a 10 year Agreement between the City and
ATCO Gas for the installation, operation and maintenance of
an Arctic Winter Games cauldron and pedestal in Muskoseepi
Park.
10. CORRESPONDENCE
11. DELEGATION BUSINESS
12. NOTICES OF MOTION
13. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Some quick items of note on this agenda; starting the process for development to start on the south east corner of 68th Ave and Resources Road (8.3), closing off access to the Provincial Building parking lot from 104Ave (9.3.1), buying a new street sweeper for $208,966 (9.3.2) and a tree-trimmer truck for parks at a cost of $159,897 (9.3.3), borrowing $454,446 for the Centre for Creative Arts renovation (9.4.1), Providing Fire Dispatch Services to the Towns of High Prairie & Spirit River (9.9.1 & 9.9.2), a 10 year agreement between the city and ATCO for a Arctic Winter Games cauldron in Muskoseepi Park (9.10.4)
Grande Prairie City Council Agenda for June 29th, 2009
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. NATIONAL ANTHEM
3. ADOPTION OF PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
5. DELEGATIONS
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
8.1 Appointments to the City/County Joint Recreation Committee (attached) Request to appoint four Council members to the City/County Joint Recreation Committee.
RECOMMENDATION
Council appoint Aldermen Deimert, Gustafson and Wong, and Mayor Logan (ex officio) to the City/County Joint Recreation
Committee.
8.2 Bylaw C-1100-145, to Amend the Land Use Bylaw (attached)
Bylaw C-1100-145, to amend the Land Use Bylaw, to include “Fleet Services” as a Discretionary Use in the “CC – Central Commercial” District.
RECOMMENDATION
Council give Bylaw C-1100-145, to amend the Land Use Bylaw first reading.
Council establish Monday, July 27, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers as the date, time and location for Public Hearing purposes for Bylaw C-1100-145.
8.3 Bylaw C-1060-10 to amend the South East Area Structure plan & Bylaw C-1100-112 to amend the Land Use Bylaw
Adoption of the Kennedy Development Ltd. Outline Plan
RECOMMENDATION
Council give Bylaw C-1060-10, to amend the South East Area Structure Plan first reading.
Council give Bylaw C-1100-112, to amend the Land Use Bylaw first reading.
Council establish Monday, July 27, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers as the date, time and location for Public Hearing purposes for Bylaw C-1060-10 and Bylaw C-1100-112.
9. COMMITTEE BUSINESS
9.1 Municipal Government Day Team – June 10, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Municipal Government Day Team meeting held June 10, 2009.
9.2 Council Committee of the Whole – June 15, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the Whole meeting held June 15, 2009.
9.3 Public Works Committee - June 16, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Public Works Committee meeting held June 16, 2009.
9.3.1 Access to 104 Avenue from the Provincial Building
RECOMMENDATION
Council reinstate the status quo of the access to 104 Avenue from the Provincial Building parking lot pending neighborhood
consultation.
9.3.2 Tender Award, T-12-547-09, Street Sweeper
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Tender T-12-547-09 for the purchase of a street sweeper be awarded to Western Equipment & Services
Inc. in the amount of $208,966.74 (excluding GST), as the lowest tender meeting specifications.
9.3.3 Tender Award – T-14-547-09, Truck with Forestry Aerial Device
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Tender T-14-547-09 for the purchase of a forestry aerial device and chip/dump mounted on a single axle truck be awarded to Calco Equipment Inc. in the amount of $159,879.00 (excluding GST), as the lowest tender meeting specifications.
9.3.4 Bylaw C-1233, to close a portion of 88 Street, south of 112 Avenue (attached)
RECOMMENDATION
1. Give Bylaw C-1233 first reading, and;
2. Set Monday, July 27, 2009 as the date for consideration for second and third readings.
9.3.5 Inspection Services Quality Management Plan (attached)
RECOMMENDATION
Council adopt the City of Grande Prairie and the Town of Beaverlodge Joint Uniform Quality Management Plan.
9.4 General Government Services Committee – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the General Government
Services Committee meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.4.1 Borrowing Bylaw C-1229, to borrow for Renovations of the Centre for Creative Arts
RECOMMENDATION
Council give first reading to Bylaw C-1229, to borrow for the
renovations of the Centre for Creative Arts building.
9.5 Council Committee of the Whole – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the
Whole meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.6 Pursuit of Excellence Committee – June 17, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Pursuit of Excellence
Committee meeting held June 17, 2009.
9.7 Environment Committee – June 22, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Environment Committee
meeting held June 22, 2009.
9.8 Council Committee of the Whole – June 22, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Council Committee of the
Whole meeting held June 22, 2009.
9.9 Protective Services Committee – June 23, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Protective Services
Committee meeting held June 23, 2009.
9.9.1 Renewal of Dispatch Agreement – Town of High Prairie
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the renewal of the contract with the Town of
High Prairie to provide emergency fire dispatch services for a
five year period in accordance with the fee schedule as
presented.
9.9.2 Renewal of Dispatch Agreement – Town of Spirit River
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the renewal of the contract with the Town of
Spirit River to provide emergency fire dispatch services for a
five year period in accordance with the fee schedule as
presented.
9.9.3 Ownership and Operating Agreement – Animal Pound
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the City enter into the Ownership and
Operating Agreement for the Animal Pound with the County
of Grande Prairie and the Grande Prairie and District SPCA.
9.9.4 Police and Crisis Team (PACT) Initiative
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the Mayor send a letter to the Minister
of Public Safety and Emergency recommending an additional
RCMP officer be hired for the Police and Crisis Team (PACT)
initiative.
9.10 Community Development Committee – June 23, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Community Development
Committee meeting held June 23, 2009.
9.10.1 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Request for Funding
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the funding of $20,307 from the Recreation
and Culture Program Budget for the 2010 Olympic Torch
Relay Event.
9.10.2 Bear Creek Pool Request for Funding
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve an additional $10,000 from the Leisure Centre
Operating Budget be provided to the Piranhas Swim Club for
the 2009 Summer Season provided additional grants and
revenues are not received, and further refer the annual
operating grant for future Bear Creek Pool contracts to the
2010 Budget review.
9.10.3 Crystal Centre Food and Beverage Service RFP Award
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the award of RFP-12-439-09 for the provision
of Crystal Centre Food and Beverage Service to Crystal
Catering Ltd. for a three year period with an option to renew
for an additional three year term, as the highest evaluated
proponent meeting specifications.
9.10.4 ATCO Gas Agreement – Arctic Winter Games
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve a 10 year Agreement between the City and
ATCO Gas for the installation, operation and maintenance of
an Arctic Winter Games cauldron and pedestal in Muskoseepi
Park.
10. CORRESPONDENCE
11. DELEGATION BUSINESS
12. NOTICES OF MOTION
13. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Monday, June 15, 2009
Iskoteo Arts Festival - Busy Week In GP!
Grande Prairie has an amazing week ahead of it! Seriously, tell me the list of events isn't impressive - I dare you!
In all seriousness this is going to be a great week that features the diversity of our community and hopefully will open some people's eyes to the thriving arts and cultural scene in Grande Prairie. The Iskoteo Arts Festival is a combination of new and annual events coordinated to coincide with the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards. Most of the events are free and those that do have a fee attached are supporting good causes. If you're not from GP, there's still time for you to plan a visit!
Tuesday, June 16th
• 4:00pm-8:00pm Muskoseepi Park
Municipal Government Day Check out my Photo Tour of last year's event (free)
• 7:00pm GPRC Glass Gallery
Art of the Peace Juried Art Show Opening Reception(free)
• 7:00pmGPRC Glass Gallery
Art Walk Launch(free)
Wednesday, June 17th
• 4:00pm-5:30pm Public Library
The Local Connections @ Your Library (free)
• 4:30pm-6:30pm Prairie Art Gallery
Bibi Clement "East Meets West" Exhibit Opens (free)
• 7:00pm-10:00pm Montrose Cultural Centre
Chamber of Culture Mixer (free)
Thursday, June 18th
• 1:30pm-2:30pm Public Library
Iskoteo Puppet Play & Story Time for Families (free)
• 3:00pm-5:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Poetry in French Workshop($30)
• 3:00pm-5:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Publishing & Publicity Panel($30)
• 7:00pm-9:00pm Public Library
Clem & Muriel Collins Writing Contest Awards Night(free)
Friday, June 19th
• 11:30pm-1:30pm, Montrose Cultural Centre
Frontenac House - Quartet 2009 Book Launch (free)
• 1:30pm Prairie Art Gallery
Best Small Gallery in the World Research Project (free)
• 3:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre Entrance
Guided Art Walk (free)
• 6:00pm South Bear Creek Ball Diamonds
Peace Starts At Home Concert for Sunrise House Youth Emergency Shelter ($5)
8:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre
Songs at Solstice - Featuring; Danyluk & Card, Trevor Horswill, Amalea Lutsenko, Celeigh Cardinal and Renee Golemba ($12 - $17)
Saturday, June 20th
10:00am-4:00pm Farmer's Market
Summer Solstice Super Market (free)
10:00am-12:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Memoir: Writing Your Life Workshop with Bob Stallworthy ($30)
1:00pm-3:00pm Rabbit Hole Bookstore
Reading by Sid Marty, author of "The Black Grizzly of Whiskey Creek" (free)
1:30pm-3:30pm GP Friendship Centre
Youth Writing Workshop with Anna Marie Sewell ($10 donation suggested)
5:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards Gala (Sold Out)
Sunday, June 21st
10:00am-1:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Narrative Non-Fiction Workshop with Sid Marty (free)
1:00pm-8:00pm Muskoseepi Park
National Aboriginal Day Celebrations (free)
Week Long Events
• Art Board Show & Auction, Centre for Creative Arts
• Art Show & Sale, Tito's Bistro & Bar
• GP Guild of Artists "Expressions of Light" Art Show & Sale, Unique Gallery
Friday, June 12, 2009
Multiplex Construction Webcams Up!
Have you driven by the Coca-Cola Centre and the CKC lately? If you have you'll have noticed the construction of the Aquatics Centre & Multiplex.
If you haven't had a chance to go by, or if you want to keep really up to date on how things are going you can follow along through two new construction site webcams the city has set up. The images update every hour between 6am and 8pm.
VIEW #1 looks north across the site from the roof of the gymnastics centre. On the far right of the picture you can see where the 54m main tank of the pool will be. (The concrete running down the middle separates the main tank on the right from the "water park features" like the spray deck and adventure river on the left.)
VIEW #2 looks directly east front the gymnastics centre, back towards the Coca-Cola Centre. In the upper right is St. Joe's school, the concrete structure below that is the start of the 2nd level seating area that will be above the fieldhouse gym. On the left you can see the elevator shafts starting to pop up. These will be in the common area that forms part of the "mall" on the first level.
If you haven't had a chance to go by, or if you want to keep really up to date on how things are going you can follow along through two new construction site webcams the city has set up. The images update every hour between 6am and 8pm.
VIEW #1 looks north across the site from the roof of the gymnastics centre. On the far right of the picture you can see where the 54m main tank of the pool will be. (The concrete running down the middle separates the main tank on the right from the "water park features" like the spray deck and adventure river on the left.)
VIEW #2 looks directly east front the gymnastics centre, back towards the Coca-Cola Centre. In the upper right is St. Joe's school, the concrete structure below that is the start of the 2nd level seating area that will be above the fieldhouse gym. On the left you can see the elevator shafts starting to pop up. These will be in the common area that forms part of the "mall" on the first level.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Minister Blackett in GP to Make Funding Announcements
Back in 2007 I mentioned that a new funding program, the Major Community Facilities Program (MCFP), was launched by the provincial government at the Coca-Cola Centre in Grande Prairie. I was hopeful that the time that having the launch at the CKC would be a good omen for the city receiving some support from this program for the construction of the aquatics centre.
The program was originally supposed to provide up to $280 million in grants to communities across the province. Since it's launch the department responsible has a new minister in charge (Lindsay Blackett, MLA for Calgary North-West has take over for Hector Goudreau, MLA for Dunvegan-Central Peace) and the program has given out 131 grants adding up to $203 million.
See the list of grants given out here:
Grants in 2007/08 (pdf)
Grants in 2008/09 (pdf)
So far Grande Prairie hasn't received any money from this program towards the aquatics centre. The only grant the city has received at this point is $500,000 towards the Centre for Creative Arts renovations. Even when you add in the $350,000 the county of GP received for renos to the Clairmont arena I can't help but feel the Grande Prairie area is being left out compared to other Alberta communities
Check out these examples:
Brooks, $3.38 Million (Multiplex)
Camrose, $3.5 Million (Performing Arts Centre)
Cold Lake, $3.0 Million (Multiplex)
Leduc, $2.0 Million (Multiplex)
Lethbridge (U of L), $2.0 Million (Sports Centre)
Lethbridge, $3.68 Million (Multiplex Renewal)
Penhold, $2.0 Million (Multiplex)
Red Deer, $3.7 Million (Community Centre Renos)
Of course that's leaving out Edmonton & Calgary who have seen multiple grants. In some situations multiplex projects in the two major centres have been given grants of $10 million in one shot.
So, I'm hopeful that this afternoon we'll have some good news from Minster Blackett.
Update:
The city received $1M towards the multiplex construction. Of course we are grateful for any support but that's about 1% of the cost of the project so although it's helpful it's only so great. The minister did hand out just over $4M in grants during his visit. The Daily Herald has all the details here
The program was originally supposed to provide up to $280 million in grants to communities across the province. Since it's launch the department responsible has a new minister in charge (Lindsay Blackett, MLA for Calgary North-West has take over for Hector Goudreau, MLA for Dunvegan-Central Peace) and the program has given out 131 grants adding up to $203 million.
See the list of grants given out here:
Grants in 2007/08 (pdf)
Grants in 2008/09 (pdf)
So far Grande Prairie hasn't received any money from this program towards the aquatics centre. The only grant the city has received at this point is $500,000 towards the Centre for Creative Arts renovations. Even when you add in the $350,000 the county of GP received for renos to the Clairmont arena I can't help but feel the Grande Prairie area is being left out compared to other Alberta communities
Check out these examples:
Brooks, $3.38 Million (Multiplex)
Camrose, $3.5 Million (Performing Arts Centre)
Cold Lake, $3.0 Million (Multiplex)
Leduc, $2.0 Million (Multiplex)
Lethbridge (U of L), $2.0 Million (Sports Centre)
Lethbridge, $3.68 Million (Multiplex Renewal)
Penhold, $2.0 Million (Multiplex)
Red Deer, $3.7 Million (Community Centre Renos)
Of course that's leaving out Edmonton & Calgary who have seen multiple grants. In some situations multiplex projects in the two major centres have been given grants of $10 million in one shot.
So, I'm hopeful that this afternoon we'll have some good news from Minster Blackett.
Update:
The city received $1M towards the multiplex construction. Of course we are grateful for any support but that's about 1% of the cost of the project so although it's helpful it's only so great. The minister did hand out just over $4M in grants during his visit. The Daily Herald has all the details here
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Low Water Levels in Bear Creek Reservoir
One of the great features of Muskoseepi Park is the reservoir on the north end of Bear Creek. I remember "back in the the day" spending a few summers exploring the shore lines in rented paddle wheel boats and I'm sure pretty much everyone has walked around it at least once. (If you haven't, plan on it - it's a great summer walk!)
Anyhow like any great feature or facility, it needs a little TCL now and then. Over time the reservoir has filled up with silt and just this last year council approved a project to renovate the gates that control the out-flow of water. On top of all that we are undertaking a study of the whole Bear Creek corridor to look at the stablity of the bank. Part of the study of course looks at the banks around the reservoir. To get a good look they need to lower the level of water a bit - so there might not be too much paddling going on for a while. Check out the city media release below:
"Media Release - June 5, 2009
Lower Water Levels in Reservoir
The City of Grande Prairie is advising residents to expect reduced water levels in the Bear Creek reservoir for the next five days.
“Levels will be lowered to a minimum along the Bear Creek corridor to properly examine the Corridor for the Slope Stability Study,” says Project Technologist Richard Sali. “The purpose of this study is to inspect the banks of the creek for signs of deterioration and identify any possible areas of concern.”
After assessment of the corridor is complete, the reservoir gates will be closed and water levels will return to normal.
Any questions or concerns should be directed to the City’s Transportation Engineering Department at (780)538-0417."
Anyhow like any great feature or facility, it needs a little TCL now and then. Over time the reservoir has filled up with silt and just this last year council approved a project to renovate the gates that control the out-flow of water. On top of all that we are undertaking a study of the whole Bear Creek corridor to look at the stablity of the bank. Part of the study of course looks at the banks around the reservoir. To get a good look they need to lower the level of water a bit - so there might not be too much paddling going on for a while. Check out the city media release below:
"Media Release - June 5, 2009
Lower Water Levels in Reservoir
The City of Grande Prairie is advising residents to expect reduced water levels in the Bear Creek reservoir for the next five days.
“Levels will be lowered to a minimum along the Bear Creek corridor to properly examine the Corridor for the Slope Stability Study,” says Project Technologist Richard Sali. “The purpose of this study is to inspect the banks of the creek for signs of deterioration and identify any possible areas of concern.”
After assessment of the corridor is complete, the reservoir gates will be closed and water levels will return to normal.
Any questions or concerns should be directed to the City’s Transportation Engineering Department at (780)538-0417."
Monday, June 1, 2009
Council Agenda for June 1st, 2009
A couple of weeks ago I posted the agenda for the General Government Services committee. There was some positive feedback that a few readers found it to be useful information so I'll continue doing that. In the mean time I thought I'd see if people might appreciate seeing what's on the agenda for tonight's full council meeting.
We have the full council meetings every two weeks on Monday at 7pm. They are of course open to the public and you can view them live on the web (or check the archive for our "greatest hits" ). Have a look at the agenda for tonight's meeting below. My coments are in bold italics and I've highlighted the action items in bold.
It's a lot of text and I'm not sure that this is what people want to see from my blog so if you don't think it's useful please let me know.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. NATIONAL ANTHEM
3. ADOPTION OF PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
5. DELEGATIONS
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. COMMITTEE BUSINESS
9.1 Public Works Committee - May 19, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Public Works Committee meeting held May 19, 2009.
9.1.1 Transit Operations Contract Extension
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve:
1. Renewal of the Transit Operator Provision contract with Cardinal Coach Lines Ltd. to April 30, 2011; and
2. The hourly rate for Basic Hours of Service for the Transit Operator Provision contract be increased by 3% to $35.49, May 1, 2009 to April 30, 2010, and by 3% to $36.55, May 1, 2010 to April 30, 2011; and
3. The hourly rate for Charter Service for the Transit Operator Provision contract be increased by 3% to $51.41, May 1, 2009 to April 30, 2010, and by 3% to $52.95, May 1, 2010 to April 30, 2011.
9.1.2 Development Permit Application D09-0119 - Request for Fee Waiver
RECOMMENDATION
Council waive the fees, totaling $3,480.30, for the development and construction of a multi-attached dwelling (three-plex) located at 9304 - 103 Avenue.
These fees would be waived because the project is an affordable housing project that meets certain criteria. This is one way the city supports those developing affordable housing.
9.1.3 Tender Award - 2009 Overlay Program
RECOMMENDATION
Council award Tender T-09-552-08 for the 2009 Overlay Program to Reco Construction Ltd. in the amount of $1,339,000 (excluding GST) as the lowest tender meeting specifications, with funding from the 2009 Overlay Program, and further that an additional $300,000 be allocated from the 2008 Overlay Program to cover the project costs.
9.1.4 Provincial Building Parking Access to 104 Avenue
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve opening the existing gated access from 104 Avenue to the Provincial Building east parking lot.
9.1.5 Land Use Bylaw Review Addendum to RFP 01-324-09
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the proposed addendum to RFP 01-324-09 for the Land Use Bylaw Review as awarded to Lovatt Planning Consultants Inc., and ISL Engineering and Land Services, in the amount of $42,498 (excluding GST), and further that funding be allocated from the Engineering Reserve.
The mayor has been pushing to have a Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) developed and this amount is needed to get the consultants to give us some information on how the MPC could be set up & what it would do. I'm still not 100% convinced that we need an MPC but I'm willing to keep an open mind and wait for the results of this work.
9.2 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Committee - May 19, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Committee meeting held May 19, 2009.
9.3 General Government Services Committee - May 20, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the General Government Services Committee meeting held May 20, 2009.
These are the minutes from the agenda I posted a couple of weeks ago. You'll notice that the items we discussed then have moved forward to here everything has to go through this process before it's finally approved by council.
9.3.1 March 2009 Financial Statements
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive for information the financial statements and schedules for the three month period ended March 31, 2009.
9.3.2 Cancellation of Regularly Scheduled Meetings
RECOMMENDATION
Council cancel the June 8th, 2009 Environment Committee meeting and the June 9th, 2009 Protective Services Committee and Community Development Committee meetings.
9.3.3 Destruction of Municipal Records
RECOMMENDATION
Council authorize the destruction of all records listed on the attached Schedule A and that all records destroyed be listed and incorporated in the minutes of Council along with signed affidavits as to witnessing of the destruction.
9.3.4 Grande Prairie Airport Commission Lease to 810807 Alberta Ltd.
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve a lease agreement between the Grande Prairie Airport Commission and 810807 Alberta Ltd. for a term ending May 31, 2035.
9.3.5 Strategic Plan and Priorities Chart
Council approve the 2009-2011 Strategic Plan and Priorities Chart, as presented.
9.3.6 Northern Alberta Elected Leaders,
re: Airport Traffic Services Review Discussion Paper
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the Mayor write a letter to the appropriate authorities in regard to the Airport Traffic Services Review Discussion Paper and indicate support for retention of the existing transportation links in the Northern Alberta, with copies of the letter to the Northern Alberta Elected Leaders Group, NADC, MP and MLA’s.
I'm council's rep on the NAEL and I just attended their last meeting on the 22nd of May when I drove up to Manning. I think it's important that the City supports the communities around us because ultimately what impacts Peace River, or Manning or Spirit River trickles down to impact us. If we can help them, we can help ourselves.
9.3.7 2010 Arctic Winter Games Logo
RECOMMENDATION
Council direct Administration to pursue use of the Arctic Winter Games Logo on the City’s letterhead, printed material, the website and other appropriate products.
I brought this up as an add on at the committee meeting. It's a simple thing but it needs to be done - I'm not sure why it hadn't before now.
9.4 Combative Sports Commission - May 21, 2009
Council receive the minutes of the Combative Sports Commission meeting held May 21, 2009.
9.5 Protective Services Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Protective Services Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.6 Lt. Governor of Alberta 2009 Arts Awards Gala Event Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Lt. Governor of Alberta 2009 Arts Awards Gala Event Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.7 Special City Council Meeting - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Special City Council meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.8 Community Development Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Community Development Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.8.1 United Way/Cool Aid Society
RECOMMENDATION
Council support the United Way Days of Caring, refer the request for project assistance for construction completion of the Cool Aid Southside location to administration for action and approve the Mayor proclaim Days of Caring.
9.8.2 2009 Park Improvement Grant
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the 2009 Park Improvement Grants as follows:
1. Mission Heights Community Playground Society - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Derek Taylor School;
2. Mother Teresa Parent Association - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Mother Teresa School; and,
3. Club des Amis - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Ecole Nouvelle Frontiere
9.8.3 Prairie Art Gallery Restoration Project
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the award of RFP 04-430-09, for the Prairie Art Gallery Restoration Project, Architectural Design Services to Teeple Architects Ltd., in the amount of $748,645 (exclusive of GST), as follows:
1. Proceed with the Feasibility Study portion of the proposal, in the amount of $138,795; and
2. Subject to the satisfactory outcome of the Feasibility Study and the identification of funding sources for construction, proceed with the remaining architectural services in the amount of $609,850.
9.8.4 Centre for Creative Arts Building Retrofit Project Budget Shortfall
RECOMMENDATION
Council:
1. approve reallocation of $500,000 from the Facility Depreciation Reserve and $272,000 from the Unallocated Future Expenditure Reserve to address shortfalls to the Centre for Creative Arts Building Retrofit Project; and
2. rescind a portion of its August 25, 2008 motion as follows: “re-allocate $50,000 to Playgrounds, $100,000 to the Fire Hall Roof Replacement Project, $34,000 to the Outdoor Pool Drain and $15,000 for the Library Facility renewal from the Creative Arts Retrofit Capital Project”.
9.9 Municipal Government Day Team - May 27, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Municipal Government Day Team meeting held May 27, 2009.
10. CORRESPONDENCE
10.1 C. Warkentin, MP, re: the City’s Gas Tax Fund Transfer.
10.2 C. Warkentin, MP, re: Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RInC).
10.3 C. Warkentin, MP, re: Grande Prairie Young Offender Centre.
11. DELEGATION BUSINESS
12. NOTICES OF MOTION
13. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
We have the full council meetings every two weeks on Monday at 7pm. They are of course open to the public and you can view them live on the web (or check the archive for our "greatest hits" ). Have a look at the agenda for tonight's meeting below. My coments are in bold italics and I've highlighted the action items in bold.
It's a lot of text and I'm not sure that this is what people want to see from my blog so if you don't think it's useful please let me know.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. NATIONAL ANTHEM
3. ADOPTION OF PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
5. DELEGATIONS
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. COMMITTEE BUSINESS
9.1 Public Works Committee - May 19, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Public Works Committee meeting held May 19, 2009.
9.1.1 Transit Operations Contract Extension
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve:
1. Renewal of the Transit Operator Provision contract with Cardinal Coach Lines Ltd. to April 30, 2011; and
2. The hourly rate for Basic Hours of Service for the Transit Operator Provision contract be increased by 3% to $35.49, May 1, 2009 to April 30, 2010, and by 3% to $36.55, May 1, 2010 to April 30, 2011; and
3. The hourly rate for Charter Service for the Transit Operator Provision contract be increased by 3% to $51.41, May 1, 2009 to April 30, 2010, and by 3% to $52.95, May 1, 2010 to April 30, 2011.
9.1.2 Development Permit Application D09-0119 - Request for Fee Waiver
RECOMMENDATION
Council waive the fees, totaling $3,480.30, for the development and construction of a multi-attached dwelling (three-plex) located at 9304 - 103 Avenue.
These fees would be waived because the project is an affordable housing project that meets certain criteria. This is one way the city supports those developing affordable housing.
9.1.3 Tender Award - 2009 Overlay Program
RECOMMENDATION
Council award Tender T-09-552-08 for the 2009 Overlay Program to Reco Construction Ltd. in the amount of $1,339,000 (excluding GST) as the lowest tender meeting specifications, with funding from the 2009 Overlay Program, and further that an additional $300,000 be allocated from the 2008 Overlay Program to cover the project costs.
9.1.4 Provincial Building Parking Access to 104 Avenue
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve opening the existing gated access from 104 Avenue to the Provincial Building east parking lot.
9.1.5 Land Use Bylaw Review Addendum to RFP 01-324-09
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the proposed addendum to RFP 01-324-09 for the Land Use Bylaw Review as awarded to Lovatt Planning Consultants Inc., and ISL Engineering and Land Services, in the amount of $42,498 (excluding GST), and further that funding be allocated from the Engineering Reserve.
The mayor has been pushing to have a Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) developed and this amount is needed to get the consultants to give us some information on how the MPC could be set up & what it would do. I'm still not 100% convinced that we need an MPC but I'm willing to keep an open mind and wait for the results of this work.
9.2 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Committee - May 19, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay Event Committee meeting held May 19, 2009.
9.3 General Government Services Committee - May 20, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the General Government Services Committee meeting held May 20, 2009.
These are the minutes from the agenda I posted a couple of weeks ago. You'll notice that the items we discussed then have moved forward to here everything has to go through this process before it's finally approved by council.
9.3.1 March 2009 Financial Statements
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive for information the financial statements and schedules for the three month period ended March 31, 2009.
9.3.2 Cancellation of Regularly Scheduled Meetings
RECOMMENDATION
Council cancel the June 8th, 2009 Environment Committee meeting and the June 9th, 2009 Protective Services Committee and Community Development Committee meetings.
9.3.3 Destruction of Municipal Records
RECOMMENDATION
Council authorize the destruction of all records listed on the attached Schedule A and that all records destroyed be listed and incorporated in the minutes of Council along with signed affidavits as to witnessing of the destruction.
9.3.4 Grande Prairie Airport Commission Lease to 810807 Alberta Ltd.
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve a lease agreement between the Grande Prairie Airport Commission and 810807 Alberta Ltd. for a term ending May 31, 2035.
9.3.5 Strategic Plan and Priorities Chart
Council approve the 2009-2011 Strategic Plan and Priorities Chart, as presented.
9.3.6 Northern Alberta Elected Leaders,
re: Airport Traffic Services Review Discussion Paper
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve that the Mayor write a letter to the appropriate authorities in regard to the Airport Traffic Services Review Discussion Paper and indicate support for retention of the existing transportation links in the Northern Alberta, with copies of the letter to the Northern Alberta Elected Leaders Group, NADC, MP and MLA’s.
I'm council's rep on the NAEL and I just attended their last meeting on the 22nd of May when I drove up to Manning. I think it's important that the City supports the communities around us because ultimately what impacts Peace River, or Manning or Spirit River trickles down to impact us. If we can help them, we can help ourselves.
9.3.7 2010 Arctic Winter Games Logo
RECOMMENDATION
Council direct Administration to pursue use of the Arctic Winter Games Logo on the City’s letterhead, printed material, the website and other appropriate products.
I brought this up as an add on at the committee meeting. It's a simple thing but it needs to be done - I'm not sure why it hadn't before now.
9.4 Combative Sports Commission - May 21, 2009
Council receive the minutes of the Combative Sports Commission meeting held May 21, 2009.
9.5 Protective Services Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Protective Services Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.6 Lt. Governor of Alberta 2009 Arts Awards Gala Event Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Lt. Governor of Alberta 2009 Arts Awards Gala Event Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.7 Special City Council Meeting - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Special City Council meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.8 Community Development Committee - May 26, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Community Development Committee meeting held May 26, 2009.
9.8.1 United Way/Cool Aid Society
RECOMMENDATION
Council support the United Way Days of Caring, refer the request for project assistance for construction completion of the Cool Aid Southside location to administration for action and approve the Mayor proclaim Days of Caring.
9.8.2 2009 Park Improvement Grant
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the 2009 Park Improvement Grants as follows:
1. Mission Heights Community Playground Society - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Derek Taylor School;
2. Mother Teresa Parent Association - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Mother Teresa School; and,
3. Club des Amis - $8,333.33, for the supply and installation of a new playground at Ecole Nouvelle Frontiere
9.8.3 Prairie Art Gallery Restoration Project
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve the award of RFP 04-430-09, for the Prairie Art Gallery Restoration Project, Architectural Design Services to Teeple Architects Ltd., in the amount of $748,645 (exclusive of GST), as follows:
1. Proceed with the Feasibility Study portion of the proposal, in the amount of $138,795; and
2. Subject to the satisfactory outcome of the Feasibility Study and the identification of funding sources for construction, proceed with the remaining architectural services in the amount of $609,850.
9.8.4 Centre for Creative Arts Building Retrofit Project Budget Shortfall
RECOMMENDATION
Council:
1. approve reallocation of $500,000 from the Facility Depreciation Reserve and $272,000 from the Unallocated Future Expenditure Reserve to address shortfalls to the Centre for Creative Arts Building Retrofit Project; and
2. rescind a portion of its August 25, 2008 motion as follows: “re-allocate $50,000 to Playgrounds, $100,000 to the Fire Hall Roof Replacement Project, $34,000 to the Outdoor Pool Drain and $15,000 for the Library Facility renewal from the Creative Arts Retrofit Capital Project”.
9.9 Municipal Government Day Team - May 27, 2009
RECOMMENDATION
Council receive the minutes of the Municipal Government Day Team meeting held May 27, 2009.
10. CORRESPONDENCE
10.1 C. Warkentin, MP, re: the City’s Gas Tax Fund Transfer.
10.2 C. Warkentin, MP, re: Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RInC).
10.3 C. Warkentin, MP, re: Grande Prairie Young Offender Centre.
11. DELEGATION BUSINESS
12. NOTICES OF MOTION
13. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
LinkWithin
