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Council Decisions In Brief
New City Manager Appointed -- City Council approved a recommendation from Executive Committee appointing Murray Totland as the new City Manager. Mr. Totland is currently the General Manager of Infrastructure Services, and has been with the City for 27 years. Mr. Totland’s appointment is effective January 1, 2009. Current City Manager Phil Richards retires December 19, 2008 after 35 years with the City of Saskatoon.
2009 Preliminary Capital Budget-- City Council received the 2009 Preliminary Capital Budget and referred it to the Budget Committee for review at its meeting on December 9, who in turn refer the budget back to City Council with its recommendations. If approved, the budget totals $241.7 million in expenditures. Forty-three percent of the budget will go toward land development projects primarily in the Evergreen, Rosewood, and Blairmore neighbourhoods, as well as servicing in Willowgrove and Stonebridge neighbourhoods. In addition, the budget continues to address the maintenance, replacement and enhancement of the City’s existing infrastructure. Some other highlights include the south river crossing ($10.14 million); water and wastewater treatment plant upgrades ($20 million); and the remainder of land acquisition and design of the new police facility ($5 million in 2009; total project cost $91 million by 2013).
Access Transit Annual Report – City Council received the Access Transit Annual Report from the Administration and Finance Committee. The report noted that service has significantly improved in 2007, with revenue trips going up, and trip denials (trip requests that cannot be accommodated) and complaints going down, as compared to 2006; though some people are still not able to get to work or school during peak times. City Council also approved that Administration report on the projected needs of Access Transit for continuing trips for renal dialysis in 2009, and on whether these trips can be scheduled at other than peak hours. Another recommendation approved by City Council was that Administration report on what incentives could be built into the Access Transit system that would alleviate the strain on peak hour service.
Proclamations –
Independent Living Day, December 3, North Saskatchewan Independent Living Centre
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Hydro Power Generation at Weir-- City Council approved a report from Administration recommending that the next phase of the feasibility study for a hydro generation project at the weir be started, with the City’s portion of the study at $300,000. The report also includes a white water park feasibility review, which will be funded by the Province at a cost of $100,000, to help the White Water Park Proposal Committee with their part of the study. It will take approximately 1 1/2 years to complete the study, and the results will give a clearer understating of the technical, environmental, economic, and social implications of this potential alternative energy generation project.
Proposed Increase to Flood Protection Levy-- City Council approved a recommendation from Administration that the Flood Protection Program Levy be extended for up to 10 years and be increased from $3.00 per month to $4.50 per month, starting in January 2009. The increase will fund projects and potential liabilities related to basement flooding from severe storm events.
Snow and Ice Program-- City Council approved the creation of three maintenance districts to deliver better service for snow and ice removal. Changing from a centralized operation to maintenance districts allows staff to become familiar with the area, reducing the time it takes for them to complete their priories. It also allows staff to become knowledgeable about any potential hazards, as well as any specialized services required. Staff will provide coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw-- City Council also approved a recommendation that no tickets be issued for violations of the Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, but that the amount charged for the City to clear those sidewalks in violation go up to $100 for frontage and $150 for frontage and flankage. Those costs will be added to that property owner’s property taxes. Residential property owners have 48 hours after a snow event to clear their sidewalks; certain business districts have 24 hours to clear the sidewalks of snow and ice.
Transit Electronic Fare Box – City Council approved a recommendation to award the contract of $2.9 million for electronic fare boxes on transit buses, and that the project’s capital funding be increased by $1.4 million to come from Transit Federal Funding. The new fare boxes allow for the automation of passenger counts, revenue recognition (it counts coins and reads passes), routing, and scheduling requirements. It also involves the use of smart cards that function as passes that can be reloaded and purchased online, by phone, or at authorized vendors.
Proclamations –
Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day, November 6, National Union
Osteoporosis Month, November 2008, Osteoporosis Canada
Klassical Meets Klezmer Musik Week, January 11-17, 2009
For further information:
Sasha Goddard, Communications Officer, 975-3521
Pleasant Hill Revitalization - City Council referred a report to the Executive Committee regarding the City entering into a sales agreement with Cenith Energy Corporation for the development of housing units on Parcels B and D in the Pleasant Hill Revitalization area. The proposal from Cenith Energy Corporation will introduce a new kind of housing to Saskatoon, manufactured entirely from factory built, prefabricated components. The proposal contains 16 units for parcel B and 41 units for parcel D.
Circle Drive South Project - City Council approved a report from the Executive Committee recommending that a Design Build process be the method for the construction of the Circle Drive South Project. The project includes a new south bridge, four or six lane roadways, four traffic interchanges, sound attenuation walls, bike paths, and pedestrian pathways. The Design Build process has the successful contractor being responsible for both the design and construction for the whole project. This process establishes costs up front, better scheduling, and shortens the construction period. It is anticipated that a contractor will be chosen in late 2009, construction will begin in early 2010, and that the project will be completed in 2012.
Proclamations -
United Way Month, November 2008, United Way of Saskatoon and Area
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Personal Use of Fireworks and Firecrackers in City Limits -- City Council has referred the issue of imposing restrictions with respect to the weight of fireworks, and specific days/times for the sale/discharge of fireworks within City Limits to the Administration and Finance Committee for further information.
For further information:
Sasha Goddard
Communications Officer
975-3521
Sale of 140 4th Ave. North, Lighthouse Supported Living - City Council approved a recommendation from Administration to sell the Saskatoon Police Station parking lot to Saskatchewan Housing for $1, plus development charges, for the development of a mixed housing project (Lighthouse Supported Living). The developer will also provide the City with 100 enclosed parking spaces. The project includes a 120-unit supported and transitional housing development, plus 20 emergency shelter beds. The development also includes market housing of 116 units, and approximately 10,000 square feet of commercial office space. Lighthouse Supported Living currently operates in Capri Place and is looking to expand.
Proclamations -
October 2008, Community Living Month, Saskatchewan Association for Community Living
October 6-10, Rideshare Week, Utility Services Department
November 16-23, Restorative Justice Week, Correction Service Canada
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Application for Direct Control District (DCD) 1 Approval for River Landing Village -- City Council approved the DCD 1 application to construct a mixed-use residential, hotel, and office complex (River Landing Village) on part of River Landing. The approval process is contingent upon a review of the Concept Plan for the River Landing Village project, the provision of final landscaping and lighting, submission of a wind study, and review and approval by the Infrastructure Services Department of the hotel loading zone configuration. Approval was also subject to an agreement to provide public access to the plaza by way of elevators at all times when the plaza is in use.
Shaw Centre Competitive Timing, Scoring, and Video Scoreboard System -- City Council approved the proposal submitted by Dactronics Inc. to supply and install a competitive aquatic automated officiating and video display system at the Shaw Centre for a total cost of up to $725,800 (including PST). The system complies with Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA) regulations and will compliment and support the City's intent to host national and international events. The total cost for the Competitive Aquatic Centre in the Shaw Centre, including recreation and competitive program equipment and supplies, is estimated at $1.2 million.
Proclamations -
Maple Leaf Day, September 24, Tree Canada
In motion Month, October 2008, Saskatoon Health Region
Fire Prevention Week, October 5 to 11, Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services
United Nations Day, October 24, United Nations Association of Canada
For further information:
Wendy McLeod, Communications Officer, 975-3071
Powerhouse Lift Station - City Council approved the construction of a 670 litre-per-second sewage lift station east of the south embankment of the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge, to replace the existing powerhouse lift station (located west of the north embankment of the bridge). The lift station will be constructed in the embankment of the bridge in order to minimize the visual impact and impact to Rotary Park. City Council also approved that a comprehensive odour abatement solution be designed and constructed, that the parking lot in the park be paved, and that a comprehensive site plan be designed, with community consultation, for the improvement of the area on both sides of the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge.
Ultraviolet Disinfection Facility at the Wastewater Treatment Plant -- City Council referred to Executive Committee (In-Camera) a report from Administration recommending that a contract for $10.5 million be awarded to the second-lowest bidder for the construction of an ultraviolet disinfection facility at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The proposed UV facility will replace the existing chlorination system, and is required to meet the impending provincial and federal regulatory requirements. A pollution prevention plan is required to reduce the total residual chorine concentration in the effluent flow by the end of 2009. Construction will begin in the fall of 2008.
Gordon Howe Bowl Master Plan -- City Council approved the Master Plan for the redevelopment of Gordon Howe Bowl, and approved in principle Phase One at a cost of $12.4 million, subject to federal funding. Phase One involves upgrading the football field to CFL standards, an international-size soccer pitch with artificial turf, an eight-lane running track, a throws and jumps area, perimeter fencing, and a stand-alone service building including change rooms, public washrooms, and a concession. Phase Two, at a cost of $12.8 million, includes new bleachers, washrooms, concessions, meeting rooms, entry plaza, press booth, and landscaping. Phase Three, at a cost of $4.8 million, includes paving the parking lot, construction of private boxes, and final landscaping. Funding is proposed to come from the federal government, the City of Saskatoon, corporate sponsorship, and an improvement levy added to admission fees.
Proclamations -
Lions Clubs International Week, September 15-20, USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum
Poverty Awareness Week, October 12-18, Saskatoon Anti Poverty Coalition
Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Month, November 2008, Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada
For further information: Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Seat Expansion and Renovations at Credit Union Centre -- City Council approved a request from Credit Union Centre (CUC) to borrow $2.5 million to expand the lower bowl of the arena for increased seating. The 2010 Junior Hockey Championships, awarded to Saskatoon earlier this year, require the seating expansion. In addition, City Council approved the CUC's request to upgrade their current dressing rooms and construct a new Blades Operations Suite. These upgrades will be covered by the Blades Hockey Club and the CUC Facility Enhancement Reserve.
New Police Headquarters -- City Council approved the purchase of 5.74 acres of land located north of 25th Street and west of Ontario Avenue for the new Saskatoon Police Services Headquarters. Permission was also granted to proceed with the preparation and release of an Expression of Interest to select a consultant team with expertise in Police Headquarters facility design. The successful team will incorporate the Warehouse District Local Area Plan, Accessibility Plan, LEED, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, and Occupational Health and Safety impacts.
Property Acquisition for the Circle Drive South River Crossing Project -- City Council approved the purchase of 6.59 acres of land on 11th Street West for the purpose of providing partial relocation lands for In-Storage Self Storage whose current property on 11th Street West will be affected by the Circle Drive South River Crossing Project. The purchase price of the land is $1,647,500, and will be charged to the Property Realized Reserve as the interim source of financing.
Request to Purchase City-Owned Property in the Blairmore Suburban Centre -- City Council approved the sale of three commercial parcels (total of 7.9 acres) on the east side of Betts Avenue in the Blairmore Suburban Centre to Smart Centres. Smart Centres also owns 30.73 acres for the development of a Regional Retail Site on the west side of Betts Avenue.
Proclamations-
Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month, September, Muscular Dystrophy Canada
International Literacy Day, September 8, Saskatoon Literacy Coalition
Shinerama Days, September 11 and 18, Saskatoon Business College
Biotech Week, September 19-26, Ag-West Bio Inc.
Home Energy Efficiency Day, September 25, Share the Warmth
Saskatoon Interval House Week, October 12-18, Interval House
This document is a summary of issues that may be of general public interest. Complete Council Agendas and Reports are available for viewing at all Saskatoon Public Libraries or through the City Clerk's Office: 975-3240. Visit us on-line: www.saskatoon.ca
Naming of University Heights Neighbourhood #1-- City Council approved the name "Evergreen" for the next University Heights neighbourhood to be developed. "Evergreen" was chosen in reference to two rows of forty year old Scots Pine and Spruce trees that are the remains of the Saskatoon Forest Nursery Station which once occupied the area.
Future Growth Strategy Group- City Council approved a report recommending the adoption of Terms of Reference for the Future Growth Strategy Group. The Group is made up of City planning, engineering and accounting staff, who are responsible for preparing a comprehensive long-range Master Future Growth Plan for Saskatoon from 2010 to the limits of the City's identified future growth sectors. Their work involves an examination of the strategic sequence for land development (including brownfield and densification opportunities) and expansion into new suburban development areas and neighbourhoods. The Terms of Reference focus on four main areas of interest. These are land use planning, environmental protection, infrastructure development and finance.
For further information:
Sasha Goddard, Communications Officer, 975-3521
Housing Corporation - Entry-Level Housing -- City Council approved in principle the creation of a housing corporation to provide entry-level housing to moderate-income working individuals or families for their first home. Council also approved that an outside consultant be hired to develop a financial plan to determine if the operation of the proposed housing corporation would be self-financing. Within the past 18 months, the average house price has risen from $160,000 to $250,000. Consequently, the household income required to finance such a house has risen from $48,000 to $70,000. A vast majority of individuals/families whose incomes are above the maximum income levels needed to qualify for social or support housing, but below the $70,000 level (needed to qualify for financing), are by implication, left without any support. Administration refers to this segment of the housing continuum as entry-level housing, and this program is designed to give tenants a foothold to build equity and a financial base, allowing them to enter the open market in the future. In many ways, the entry-level housing would be a traditional landlord-tenant rental agreement, but would also have the ability for the tenants to accumulate equity in exchange for doing minor repairs, maintenance, and yard work. The City would maintain ownership of the premises and ensure that they remain accessible as entry-level housing.
Proclamations -
Refugee Month, June 2008, Saskatoon Refugee Coalition
St. John Ambulance Week, June 23-27, St. John Ambulance
Right to Know Week, September 28-October 4, Saskatchewan Right to Know Committee
Waste Reduction Week, October 19-25, Waste Reduction Council
Green Week, October 27-November 2, Building Saskatchewan Green
For further information: Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Riversdale Local Area Plan -- City Council approved the Riversdale Local Area Plan and instructed Administration to implement its recommendations. Local Area Planning is a community-based approach to developing comprehensive neighbourhood plans involving residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. Riversdale is one of Saskatoon's original communities and is expected to undergo significant transition over the next five years due to the development of River Landing, the economic upturn in the commercial district, and the increased desirability to live and invest in the neighbourhood.
Rosewood Neighbourhood Concept Plan -- City Council approved in principle the Rosewood Neighbourhood Concept Plan, subject to the developers entering into a Maintenance Service Agreement with the City. This neighbourhood will provide a wide range of housing options including neo-traditional (modified grid with narrower lots and rear lanes), and conventional suburban subdivision designs, which include sites for one and two-unit dwellings, townhouses, multiple-unit dwellings, seniors-oriented housing, mixed-use and commercial developments. The proposed Rosewood neighbourhood is 293 hectares (724 acres) in area and will have an estimated population of 10,700 people when fully developed. This is the final neighbourhood to be developed in the Lakewood Suburban Development Area.
Proclamations -
Speech and Hearing Awareness Month, May 2008, Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc.
Drinking Water Week, May 4-10, City of Saskatoon Utility Services Department
Saskatoon Pride Week, June 8-14, Saskatoon Diversity Network
Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Week, June 30-July 6, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan
International Mustang Week, August 24-31, 27th International Mustang Meet
Family Business Day, October 16, Saskatoon Chapter of the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
2008 Operating Budget -- City Council approved the 2008 Operating Budget. The budget will have a 5.44 increase on the municipal portion of Saskatoon property tax bills. The overall 2008 operating budget is $254.76 million. The municipal property tax rate increase for a house with a fair value assessment (not current value) of $100,000, works out to an additional $44.84 for the year or $3.74 a month.
Backyard Fire Pits -- City Council received a report from the Executive Committee and defeated the motion to amend the current bylaw to include a midnight curfew for fire pits. Council did approve: that the City Solicitor report on the appropriate level of fines for repeat offenders; that the issue be reviewed in 2010; and that the Administration prepare public communications regarding fire pit use.
Condominium Conversions -- City Council amended the Condominium Approvals Policy so that if the average vacancy rate in Saskatoon is below 1.5%, no applications for condominium conversions will be received or approved, with some exceptions. Those exceptions include buildings vacant for 12 months or more, and buildings that have been declared to be in a very dilapidated state. City Council also amended the policy to approve condominium conversions when support is received from 75% of the residents in a building and if the property owner offers the same financial incentives to all tenants to secure their consent for a conversion.
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Collection of Outstanding Parking Violations-- City Council approved a plan for collection of unpaid parking violations through vehicle impounding starting in May 2008. Recent changes in provincial legislation has provided the alternative of seizing the vehicle and impounding it until all fines and charges have been paid. Citizens with outstanding parking tickets receive a reminder notification by mail, followed by a mailed Summons to appear in court. If the vehicle owner does not appear in court, a Notice of Default Conviction will be mailed, providing 30 days to pay the fine before a $40 late fee is applied to the ticket amount and the vehicle being added to the Chronic Offenders Parking Enforcement list for seizure by bylaw enforcement officers. Impounded vehicles that are unclaimed after 30 days will be sold and the proceeds used to recover the costs of the parking violations and impound charges.
Wet Weather Inflow Remediation, Phase I - West Side Flooding -- City Council approved a report that the design and construction of two buried sanitary sewage holding tanks and lift stations begin-the locations at Confederation Drive and Borden Place, and Makaroff Road and George Road. These are new solutions to reduce the risk of basement flooding for areas serviced by the Confederation Drive trunk sewer. The measures are designed to take advantage of new infrastructure that will service future neighbourhoods in the Blairmore sector.
Condominium Conversions-- City Council did not complete the discussion, and will continue the consideration of this report at the next Council meeting on Monday, May 5.
Proclamations -
National Day of Mourning, April 28, CUPE 59
Saskatoon Literacy Week, April 29-May 5, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
MS Awareness Month, May 2008, Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Sask. Division
Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, May 2008, Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
National Public Works Week, May 18-24, Canadian Public Works Association
Khilafat Day, May 27, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
Filipino-Canadian Day, June 12, Filipino-Canadian Association of Saskatoon
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
2008 Preliminary Operating Budget -- City Council received the 2008 Preliminary Operating Budget, and referred it to the Budget Committee for review on April 15 and 16. The $255.5 million budget proposes an 8.61% municipal property tax rate increase ($9.1 million more than 2007). If approved, the municipal property tax rate increase for a house with a fair value assessment (not current value) of $100,000, works out to an additional $70.40 for the year or $5.87 a month.
Low-Income Subsidized Spay-Neuter Program -- City Council approved a report from the Administration and Finance Committee, that the low-income subsidized spay and neuter program be referred to the Budget Committee for consideration. The program proposes that the fine revenue from enforcement of the animal bylaws not currently designated for use by the Animal Services Program be used to provide a low-cost spay-neuter program for those who cannot afford the full cost. The report states that this has the potential to reduce the number of unwanted animals, reduce the number of euthanizations, and reduce the nuisance complaints in Saskatoon, while encouraging responsible pet ownership.
New Rental Construction Land-Cost Rebate Program -- City Council adopted in principle the New Construction Land-Cost Rebate Program, and further approved that Administration prepare an implementation plan by June 30. The program proposes a land-cost rebate to all developers of new rental units in Saskatoon, provided these units are constructed within 18 months and they remain rental units for 15 years. A further requirement is that 20% of these units be targeted as entry-level housing, and would also be eligible for an additional land-cost rebate. The rebates would be between 50% to 75% of land costs in return for an expedient delivery of new rental units. The program target is the construction of 1,000 new rental units within a two-year period. During the past twenty years, Saskatoon has had little investment in new rental unit construction, and this proposed one-time incentive is required immediately to break the inertia on new rental unit construction.
Proclamations -
Volunteer Recognition Week, April 27-April 3, Volunteer Saskatoon
Holodomor Awareness Week, Keep the Flame Alive, April 28-May 3, Ukrainian Canadian Congress
Speech and Hearing Month, May 2008, Saskatoon Elks Lodge #12
Red Shield Month, May 2008, The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal
World Laughter Day, May 4, Helen Bzdel
Naturopathic Medicine Week, May 4-11, Saskatchewan Association of Naturopathic Practitioners
Rotary Week, May 25-31, Rotary International District 5550
Recreation and Parks Month, June 2008, Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Funding for New Fire Station-City Council approved a report recommending the $5.4 million capital budget be approved for the design and construction of a new fire station in the Lakewood Suburban Centre over the next two years. The new station will ensure Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services can continue to provide the 4-minute first-in response time for the fast growing south-east corner of the city.
Report on Trade and Investment Labour Mobility Agreement-- City Council received a report from the Estey Centre for Law and Economics in International Trade regarding the potential impact on cities from joining the B.C.-Alberta Trade and Investment Labour Mobility Agreement. The study will be forwarded to the provincial Minister Responsible for Intergovernmental Affairs for future consideration.
River Landing Management Structure and Operations-City Council approved a report recommending River Landing be established as a city-owned, non-profit corporation with a board of directors to oversee its maintenance, operations and governance. City Council will continue to be responsible for its mandate, budgets, and board appointments.
Proclamations-
World Malaria Day, April 25, 2008, City of Kingston
Annual Day of Mourning, April 28, 2008, Saskatoon & District Labour Council
Missing Children's Month, May 2008, Child Find Saskatchewan
Wood Worker's Week, May 25-31, Saskatchewan Woodworkers' Guild
For further information:
Sasha Goddard, Communications Officer, 975-3521
2007 Preliminary Statement of Revenues and Expenditures-City Council received a report indicating that the City of Saskatoon has a 2007 operating deficit of $1,482,000, subject to confirmation from an external audit. The Revenue Stabilization Reserve will offset this deficit, so there is no mill rate impact in 2008. This deficit represents a variance of less than 1% (.065%) on the City's total operating budget of $229.7 million.
Parking Meter Rate Increase-City Council approved a report from the Planning and Operations Committee recommending that parking meter rates in Riversdale be increased to $1.00 per hour (from $0.50) and all other metered areas to $1.50 per hour (from $1.00), effective April 1, 2008. The increase is the first since 1990, and aims to keep on-street parking rates reflective of off-street parking rates (thus reducing on-street parking congestion to create more parking for business patrons or visitors), and to encourage use of public transportation.
Cost Recovery - Indoor Arenas-City Council approved a report from the Planning and Operations Committee recommending the removal of the building reserve contribution from the cost recovery calculation for indoor ice rental rates. The indoor ice arena rental rates will increase by $12 an hour per year from 2008 to 2012 to remain at 100% cost recovery and maintain market comparability for ice rental rates.
Willowgrove Integrated Community Centre/School Site Project-City Council approved a report from the Executive Committee to accept the preliminary site footprint for the Willowgrove Integrated Community Centre/School Site. An integrated facility and site provides a single location for key services in recreation, sport, and education to interact. The public consultation process into potential programs and services at the centre will occur this spring followed by development of concept plans and design later this year. Construction will occur in 2009 and the earliest date that the community centre would be open is April 2010.
Temporary Closure of 19th Street Between 2nd Avenue and Avenue A-City Council approved a recommendation from Administration that 19th Street between 2nd Avenue and Avenue A be temporarily closed on April 15 (or sooner if the roadway becomes unserviceable) so the roadwork and underground servicing on 19th Street can be continued in order to complete the new access to the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge. Various detours and restrictions in the area will also be in effect. In addition, the on-ramp from 20th Street and 1st Avenue will be closed until the work is finished and the new at-grade bridge access at 19th Street and 1st Avenue is completed.
Proclamations-
Red Hat Anniversary Day, April 25, 2008
For further information:
Sasha Goddard, Communications Officer, 975-3521
Sump Pump Program-City Council approved the recommendations that Administration continue to give permission to home owners to discharge their sump pump water to the sanitary sewer system (instead of to the surface, where it could ice over and be dangerous) from October to May only. Homeowners must sign an agreement acknowledging certain conditions and permitting the City to inspect the connection at any time. The City will subsidize Flood Protection Program participants up to $225 for this seasonal bypass of their pump. The report also stated that effective immediately, all new neighbourhoods be required to undergo a groundwater impact evaluation at the concept plan stage to ensure that groundwater levels are below foundation footings, and that starting in January 2009, all neighbourhoods currently under development, undergo a hydro-geological evaluation, and based on the results, develop solutions to also ensure that groundwater levels are below foundations. These measures are to help prevent future flooding of basements.
Revision of Walkway Closure Policy-City Council approved the recommendations for revisions to the Walkway Closure Policy. The revisions state that all non-essential walkway closure applications must meet the following criteria before they would be supported by Administration: a safe alternative pedestrian route must be identified; a pedestrian study must be conducted, with extended hours over peak usage times; and a survey of the catchment area must be conducted and 80% of the residents must be in support of the closure.
Proclamations-
Red Cross Month, March 2008, Canadian Red Cross
Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, March 7-23, Le Federation des francophones de Saskatoon
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21, Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission
Commissionaires Week, April 27-May 3, Commissionaires-North Saskatchewan Division
Internal Audit Awareness Month, May 2008, The Institute of Internal Auditors
Leave a Legacy Month, May 2008, Leave a Legacy Saskatoon
Realtor Safety Week, September 8-12, Saskatoon Region Association of Realtors
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Disclosure of Campaign Contributions and Expenses - City Council approved the Executive Committee recommendation that for all future elections, all candidates in breach of the Campaign Disclosure and Spending Limits Bylaw be prosecuted, and that the question of sanctions for candidates who do not comply with the provisions of the bylaw be referred to the Executive Committee for further review and report. City Council also approved that all candidates be required to disclose what they have done or intend to do, with any surplus contributions.
The Lighthouse Supported Living Inc. - Affordable Rental Units - City Council approved the recommendation from the Planning and Operations Committee that $1.458 million from the Affordable Housing Reserve be used to fund ten percent of the project cost for the development of 120 affordable rental units and 20 shelter units by The Lighthouse Supported Living Inc., and that a five-year tax abatement on the incremental taxes be applied. The proposed development project is on the parking lot directly north of the Police Station.
Proclamations -
in motion Day, February 18, in motion Committee
Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month, March 2008, Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Committee
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
Sale and Development of River Landing Parcel "Y" -- City Council approved an agreement with Lake Placid River Landing Inc. for the sale of Parcel "Y", River Landing Phase I, and the development of an "Urban Village" on the site. The sale agreement includes a price of $4.765M, and a requirement that Lake Placid receive approvals for the final proposal and design from both the City of Saskatoon and the Meewasin Valley Authority by October 31, 2008.
19th Street Connections and Pathways -- City Council received information from Administration on the 19th Street reconfiguration, pathways, and parking project. The project was re-tendered following a review of the design, and the low tender was issued by SaskCon for $5.4 million. Complete project costs is estimated to be $7.3M which incorporates work already completed on 19th Street including the replacement and relocation of underground utilities and the temporary re-surfacing of the roadway. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2008 with completion scheduled for late fall. Removal of the overpass bridge and the reconfiguration of the roadway will require the closure of 19th Street for much of the year, and the temporary closure of the 1st Avenue access to the Idylwyld Freeway.
Proclamations -
Environmental Public Health Week, January 14-20, Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors
Psychology Month, February 2008, Psychological Society of Saskatchewan
International Networking Week, February 3-9, BNI (Business Networking International)
John Howard Week, February 10-16, John Howard Society of Saskatchewan
For further information:
Jill Cope, Communications Manager, 975-3461
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