Council Notes
From the meeting of The Committee of the Whole January 18, 2016
Mayor Terry Yemen called the Committee of the Whole meeting to order.
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The proposed changes to Bylaw 04.15, the removal of Schedule B, was under discussion with councillors and Travel Drumheller. Requests were asked of Travel Drumheller to produce a 2016 budget, but without any guaranteed revenues from Schedule B, a budget cannot be prepared. Council requested a ball park budget for operations and this was accepted by Travel Drumheller and to be produced at the next council meeting. Further discussion will be required with Travel Drumheller to come up with an acceptable revenue plan.
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Communication Officer Cody Glydon presented an overview of the Housing Needs Assessment Report. Glydon explained that 18.3% of working residents in Drumheller currently earn less than $25,000. He further explained that approximately 15 residents of Drumheller are homeless with 5 of that number being youths. The need for Low Income Housing and Supported Living Housing for seniors is necessary. Many seniors still living at their home, supported by relatives, wait too long to get into supported living. Long term plans are necessary, the needs assessment will allow the Housing authority to pursue support.
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Director of Community Services Paul Salvatore presented the 2016-2017 Service Fee Schedule. As per Council’s direction, arena fees have been increased by 10% to better connect to the actual operating costs. These increases will be effective July 1, 2016 allowing our major user groups to budget for their 2016-2017 seasons. Effective February 1, 2016 all other recreation fees including membership have been increased by 3% in order that the Town will be able to better meet our cost recovery goals. The fee assistance program was also brought under discussion regarding a discount program be established for low income families to enjoy the Town’s facilities such as the Aquaplex and Badlands Community Facility. Council compared the discount programs to the cities of Red Deer and Leduc. Council agreed in principle that this will encourage Drumheller residents with lower incomes to be able to use and enjoy our facilities.
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Councillor Sharel Shoff presented the Community Futures Update and the Palliser Regional Municipal Service Update.
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Mayor Terry Yemen called the meeting adjourned.
