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Council received a budget presentation from Don Nettleton, Finance Manager
for the Okanagan Regional Library. Their total circulation of books and
materials system wide is currently over 3.4 million items per year. The
usage of their database, website and electronic resources is growing
rapidly, as more and more people take advantage of the fact that they
can access these services from any computer 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week. The library is planning on offering a DVD collection in 2005.
Story hour and the Summer reading club have been identified as core
services. Revelstoke’s circulation has increased steadily from 67,890 in
1994 to over 90,000 in 2003. Revelstoke’s tax levy per capita for
library services is $25.28 in 2004, up from $24.17 in 2003. The tax
average per house is $31.57. Revelstoke remains on the lower end of the
scale in costs for library services compared to other communities.
Council is looking for
feedback on a couple of issues. The Grizzlies have requested permission
to sell beer at their games this season and Council has granted
conditional approval, subject to input from the public. As well, Council
is looking for input on future uses for Centennial Pool.
Council has received
letters of support and disapproval of the new 4 way stop at Eighth
Street and Victoria Road. The matter is being referred back to the
Public Works committee for further discussion.
Urban Systems are now
ready to present to Council the final aspects, costs and funding options
for the Grizzly Plaza extension. Presentations will also be made to the
Enhancement Committee.
Council has reviewed the
minutes of the recent Mackenzie Avenue Crossing Committee meetings.
Input has been received from CP Rail, Transport Canada, Emergency
Services and the Canadian Transportation Agency. A public meeting was
also held on September 29th and was attended by members of the committee
as well as all of City Council. Issues discussed at that meeting were
safety, costs, CP Rail operations, aesthetics, tourism, process and
equity for residents. The committee will use that input as part of its
recommendation to Council.
The Economic Development
committee of Council and the Parks and Recreation department are
reviewing the possibilities of Revelstoke hosting the 2008 or 2010 BC
Summer and Winter Games. Limiting factors may be the facilities required
as well as accommodation capacity.
A project has been
brought forward for consideration in regards to the Mark Kingsbury
Foundation. It involves restoration of the bridge on the Illecillewaet
River where the abutments still stand and expanding the trail system in
the Illecillewaet Green Belt to make a nature reserve. A public
consultation process will occur before any decisions are made.
A public meeting has
tentatively been scheduled for Thursday, October 21st from 7 to 9 p.m.
(please watch the newspaper for further notice), to review the City’s
consultant’s response to the Mount Mackenzie Resort Development Master
Plan. Brent Harley, as well as representatives from Land and Water BC
will be on hand to answer questions.
Council has approved the
Tax Exemption Bylaw for 2005. This bylaw provides relief from taxation
for various religious facilities and community organizations. The total
value of the exemptions granted for 2005 are $74,268.
Researches, educators,
administrators and Council attended a meeting with UBC and OUC
representatives regarding the proposed Research Centre. The City of
Revelstoke has demonstrated its ongoing support for this project, which
includes our participation in costs for a feasibility study. This is an
exciting project that will enhance Revelstoke’s profile as well as be a
benefit to our economy.
Progress continues on the
Aquatic Centre, with the Construction Managers still aiming for an early
December opening. Unfortunately, Council has been presented with the
scenario of the project going over budget. TASK has presented to Council
that the reason is escalations in construction industry costs. On a
brighter note, Council has received a contribution on behalf of CP Rail
Employees for $25,000 for the pool. Thanks to the CP Rail Employees!
Prepared by Councillor
Matt Singh
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