Yorkton Council passed a new Snowmobile Bylaw giving it both second and third readings at its regular meeting Monday.
"The Snowmobile Bylaw for the City of Yorkton was originally passed Sept 18, 1995 with amendments to the schedule over the years. Due to increased development within the City of Yorkton, it is necessary to revisit the Bylaw and map that provides snowmobilers with the approved trails for entering and exiting the City of Yorkton for the purpose of fuel, food and lodging ," City Clerk Bonnie Schenher.
Schenher said the changes included in the bylaw were created through extensive consultation.
"Administration has met with members of the Sno Riders Club on three occasions to discuss the proposed trail. Most points of access are at locations under the ownership and control of the City of Yorkton. There are two private landowners that have provided their approval in allowing snowmobilers access to the trail crossing their property. It is important to note that snowmobilers are not allowed to operate within the City of Yorkton except on the approved trails. The city will also sign various locations to further advise that snowmobilers are not allowed. These prohibitive signs are to warn of danger due to bodies of water, such as storm retention ponds, and of course at Logan Green. Every winter we receive complaints of snowmobilers being operated outside of the approved trails. We appreciate the input and cooperation from the Sno Riders Club in preparing and maintaining a workable trail system and encouraging all riders to abide by this Bylaw. The approved trails will be signed and then groomed and maintained by the Sno Riders club," she said.
The bylaw had come before Council Nov. 19, and after passing first reading Administration was directed to review the changes with the RCMP.
"Administration and executive members of the Sno Riders club did meet with the RCMP last week and the RCMP advised that they have no concerns with the route as presented. Their concern is only with those who continue to drive their snowmobiles outside of the approved trails, Public Notice was provided to the residents of Yorkton and at the time of writing this report, no additional feedback has been received," said Schenher.
Councillor Chris Wyatt said he had concerns with some of the trail locations, such as the one along Dracup Avenue because of increased traffic in the area.
"I can see trouble arising," he said, adding it might be time for some additional changes to the bylaw.
Wyatt would be opposed to the motion to pass the bylaw.
Schenher said there was also a request for some financial help from the local snowmobile club.
"The Sno Riders have requested that the City of Yorkton work with them in installing the new signage. The Sno Riders will order the signs through their supplier. They are requesting consideration from Council for payment of the materials and assisting with installation of the signs. Public Works has advised that the estimated cost for materials and labour is $2,200. Funding for this project could be taken out of the snow removal budget for 2012, if Council chooses to assist financially with this project. As landowners, we need to be involved with locates and ensuring that the placement of the signs are in the correct locations" she explained.
The total investment in signage unanimously supported by Council was $2,200.
