Council Meeting Highlights – December 20, 2022
- Council appointed the following community members to various Advisory Panels: Trees and Trails Advisory Panel: Gerry Brown, Terry Childs, David Frid and Calder Schweitzer. Municipal Heritage Advisory Panel: David Anderson, Christine Milks and Darryl Wood.
- Year-end reports were presented by Joanne van Dreumel, Executive Director (1000 Islands History Museum) and Jennifer Baril, Tourism Coordinator (Visitor Centre).
- Council authorized a $5,000 draw from the Kinsmen Building reserve for the procurement of an architect.
- The decision to amend the Procedural By-law to replace the definition of “Deputy Mayor” and to appoint the position for a 4- Year Term was postponed. Councillor Vicki Leakey was appointed to cover the position of Acting/Deputy Mayor for the week of December 23, 2022 to December 31, 2022 while the Mayor is out of the Country.
- Council recommended that the Gananoque Seniors Association obtain its own charitable status so that it may directly issue tax receipts for donations made to the Gananoque Seniors Association.
- The Town will continue to look at options for tenancy of the Kinsmen Building, and will seek approval from the granting agency to re-direct $60,000 towards the Lou Jeffries Arena to support Accessibility needs. The intention would be to create a safe space for the social, recreation, cultural and educational programs that support the interests and well-being of older adults, seniors and people with disabilities.
- Mayor Beddows presented a Notice of Motion to seek a staff report to amend the Sale and Disposition of Land Policy.
- The Water and Wastewater Third (3rd) Quarter Report was received for information. No water quality incidents or bypass/overflow events were reported.
- The By-law to Regulate Water Works (By-law No. 2008-020), was amended to change the process for the issuance of water meters as well as some of the language, terms and personnel listed within. More amendments will be presented in 2023.
- The Town’s Sign and Merchandise Display By-law was amended to allow sponsorship signage at various recreational areas including: 600 King Street East (all elements such as GBM Canada 150 Outdoor Rink, BMX Track, etc.), 30 King Street (ballfield facility), 145 River Street (dog park) and other municipal facilities with recreational fields. All signage will be inside facing.
- Council received the 2022 Third Quarter Operating Income Statement. As of September 30, 2022, identified cost overruns were at approximately $305,403. Staff are anticipating that the Town will meet budget, due to supplemental taxation $141,577 over budget and bank interest over budget by approximately $170,845. In the event that the Town is faced with a year-end deficit, the insurance overage will be funded by a draw from reserves.
- Town Hall will be closed over the holidays from December 23, 2022 to January 2, 2023.
