Here are some highlights from Monday night's council meeting in North Battleford:
Members of the Canadian Red Cross were on hand at council to promote Pink Day, an initiative to stop and prevent bullying. They made a presentation to council, with all members of council wearing pink shirts in recognition of Pink Day.
Councillor Ryan Bater thanked the Red Cross for their efforts and noted these days kids cannot escape bullying. “If you’re on Facebook and you’re being bullied on Facebook, you’re getting it 24/7,” he said.
Councillor Greg Lightfoot also took time to thank the Red Cross for their efforts in hosting evacuees from Northern communities in North Battleford last summer during the wildfire situation.
Also, at the meeting Mayor Ian Hamilton proclaimed Feb. 24, 2016 as Red Cross Pink Day. The mayor also proclaimed March 7 to 11 as Francophonie Week in North Battleford.
RCMP Insp. John Sutherland provided his monthly police report, which focused on intelligence-led policing initiatives that are under way.
In announcements, Councillor Ryan Bater reminded council this weekend was the Provincial Snowmobile Festival in North Battleford. He also noted council had approved temporary trail access to specific areas of the city to access hotel properties.
Mayor Hamilton also reminded council the Senior Women's and Men's Provincial Curling Championships were taking place this week in the city.
Leisure services director Bill Samborski spoke about a busy Winter-Tainment Week in the city. He said the various events attracted between 30 to upwards of 400 people, and staff were looking forward to holding it again next year.
The Snow Angel program, which recognizes the efforts of residents who help clear neighbours’ snow, saw a busy month of February with the wintery weather conditions.
Communications coordinator Susanne Abe reported there were 19 nominations as of Feb. 18. The winner of the draw for this month is George Nachtegaele. His name was drawn at the council meeting by Mayor Hamilton, and he wins a $50 Visa gift certificate.
Council has also resolved to provide an additional $2,000 in funding to Battlefords Humane Society. City manager Jim Puffalt explained this is to cover increased staffing costs.
