Two options for a new auditor was presented to Youngstown council Wed. Jan. 5 with Brian King Professional Corp. based out of Hardisty, Alta. being selected.
They quoted $9,000 per year for a four-year contract.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Emma Garlock shared that King ‘gets small municipalities’ after hearing from quite a few clients including other similar-sized villages who were satisfied with his work.
“I think he’d be the one to try,” said Mayor Robert Blagen.
Council passed a motion to go with Brian King Professional Corp. with the condition a review takes place after two years of service to assess the situation if needed.
Water bylaw
Council agreed to increase and set new water and sewer rates for the 2022 year within the village.
The increase of approximately three per cent is due to increases passed on by Henry Kroeger Regional Water Services Commission as well as increased repair and maintenance costs.
Residential water (minimum 30 cubic metres bimonthly) is $105 with any overages coming to $3.50 per cubic metre.
As for sewer rates, residences and churches will now pay $45, small business at $60 and large business and the school at $130.
Special Areas has a special bimonthly usage rate of $1,450.
Interim budget passed
Council passed the 2022 interim budget.
Possible projects were discussed including an update to administration’s software from MIG to Muniware at $18,000 from MSI Operating.
There was also talk of replacing one of the fire hydrants in town as it was first installed in the 70s and no longer works properly. This would be covered in the water portion of the budget.
For sidewalks, council is looking at expanding them from four feet to five feet in some parts of Main Street for a more cohesive look but nothing is set in stone at this time.
The official 2022 budget will be accepted in the spring.
Terri Huxley
ECA Review
