Town Council Meeting
Shannon LeClair – Times Reporter
Town council had a few items which were a source of discontent for many community members, and even some council members at the town’s council meeting May 19.
There was a public hearing with regard to Bylaw #10-07 discussions about regulating the use of water, and of course, the big irrigation debate. Here’s what was discussed at the meeting.
Lot sizes (Bylaw #10-07)
This Bylaw has been in the works for a number of months now. The proposal includes the consideration of smaller lot sizes, as well as additions to the definitions section of the Land Use Bylaw, and a number of textual amendments to the Residential Districts Sections. There was an Open House hosted a few weeks ago at the Civic Centre, and 40 people came to participate. Two of the concerns citizens brought up were; how much green space will be available; and fire security. Under the Municipal Government Act, the Town can take up to 10 per cent Municipal Reserve from each new subdivision. Council requested additional information, and wanted affected citizens to have additional time to provide feedback, so the Public Hearing was recessed and discussions will resume at the reconvened Public Hearing on June 16.
Water Regulations (Bylaw #10-09)
This will come back to the June 2 meeting because it did not receive unanimous consent. Councillor Mike Lloyd was against putting water bans on certain days for Strathmore residents. The Town is looking at banning lawn watering between certain times, and allowing watering only on certain days. Town Council is encouraging residents to continue to use water conservation means such as rain barrels and timers, for outdoor watering.
Residential irrigation
Council passed a motion to disable the Residential Irrigation Service for the 2010 season. In addition, a motion was passed to form a committee to evaluate and suggest a solution for the Residential Irrigation System to make it a viable alternative to potable watering for outdoor watering. Residents were upset that there wasn’t any forward planning in case of something like this.
“It’s a sad day for Strathmore,” said Councillor Earl Best.
Councillors Earl Best, Lois Wegener and John Rempel were against cancelling the irrigation. Residents who have already paid for use of the system will be refunded by cheque.
Hope Bridges
The Hope Bridges group asked the town to help fund a $25,000 feasibility study. They asked the Town to commit to $11,000. Council said they will give an answer in a few weeks, but first they would like to see an arts council set up to ensure all of the entertainment industry is involved. The Hope Bridges group also spoke to county council on May 18, and are waiting to hear back from them as well.