Here is a rundown of some of the other items that came up at the Dec. 9 meeting of North Battleford city council.
It was the final council meeting of 2013 and also the final meeting for outgoing City Manager Jim Toye, who departs at the end of December.
A number of items were on the evening's agenda, one of which was a lengthy presentation by lawyer Richard Gibbons representing the Ionic Temple, regarding the impact of tax levy increases on local service club organizations.
Also submitting information were North Battlefords Knights of Columbus No. 2094 and the Battlefords Ukrainian Seniors Association. All are seeking a tax levy decrease for those organizations.
The City received correspondence from North Battleford Housing Authority, who thanked the NB Fire Department Deputy Chief Kevin Steinborn for conducting recent fire and safety information meetings. Karla White of Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association wrote about concern with the official community plan and how it may impact the operations of the Battlefords Agricultural Society. David Conroy expressed disappointment with plans to apply legislative changes allowable under section 333 of the Cities Act, where the tenant's unpaid utilities are the responsibility of the landlord if the tenant leaves.
In announcements and inquiries, Councillor Greg Lightfoot commended the Downtown Business Improvement District for the Christmas trees lining the streets.
Councillor Ray Fox congratulated FSIN for a successful volleyball tournament at NationsWEST Field House the previous weekend that attracted almost 30 teams.
Councilors suggested an increased city bylaw and NBFD presence in school zones to slow down traffic. Councillor Don Buglas noted the four-way signs have been effective so far near Lawrence School, but asked if signage could be looked into for 19th Avenue and 102nd Street as well.
In reports, a building report was presented for Community Futures Northwest. That building is going up at 504 Frontier Way and is valued at $1,061,400.
In new business, the appointment of Lindgren, Blais, Frank and Illingworth as city solicitiors has been extended to Dec. 31, 2014.
The City's Community Development Financial Assistance Program has awarded funding to the following: Catholic Family Services $2,500, Empty Stocking Fund Inc. $5,000, Midwest Food Resources $6,000 and North Battleford Junior Golf Program $1,500.
The next council meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13 at 8 p.m.
((Most information provided courtesy City Marketing and Communications Co-ordinator Mike Halstead)
