Forestburg town council approved the third and final reading of the Water, Sewer and Garbage rates bylaw at their regular meeting on Jan. 18 with a recorded vote.
In the bylaw there is a $1.20 decrease in monthly garbage fees, no changes to the water rates and a $0.50 increase in sewer monthly maintenance fees.
Much discussion arose from the presented idea of implementing a monthly commercial bin charge, which would be an additional cost on top of the private contracts businesses pay to rent the bins.
Mayor Blaise Young declared pecuniary interest and stepped away from the meeting during discussion.
According to Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Debra Moffatt, businesses who rent bins do not pay the town for the requisition of their garbage.
“Residents cover the shortfall of businesses,” Coun. Elaine Fossen believes.Council has elected to spend a portion of the Forestburg Recreation, Arts and Culture Grant (FRACCA) which supports local groups who do not normally receive funding from the village.
To be eligible for the FRACCA grant groups must be based out of the village and provide recreational and cultural opportunities to the residents of Forestburg. Council does have authority to make exemptions.
The Forestburg Dance Society will receive $1000 from the FRACCA grant.
Deputy Mayor Bob Coutts motioned that Forestburg Learn and Play School receive $750, even though they do not meet the eligibility requirements.
It is viewed that the Learn and Play School provides more of a learning environment rather than recreational and cultural.
“They provide a good service and are an asset to the community,” Deputy Mayor Coutts explained.
The Valley Ski Club wrote to council requesting donation for their upcoming fundraising event, however, council made the decision instead of donating to the event, to give $1000 to the club.
These funds will be taken from the FRACCA grant, although the club does not operate out of Forestburg, many residents utilize and enjoy the recreational service they provide.
Emily Wheller
ECA Review
