Wetaskiwin public meetings in 2021
44 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets December 13, 2021 to consider several items, including a 2022 Rates and Fees Bylaw, an interim operating budget of $11,200,000 for the first quarter of 2022, and a Memorandum of Understanding with Wetaskiwin Family and Community Support Services (FCSS). Council will also hear delegations from Katimavik and Alberta Regional Rail Inc., and discuss a request for direction on the current state of homelessness. An in camera session is scheduled to discuss matters under sections 16 and 29 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
- 2022 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2009-21 (first, second, and third readings)
- 2022 Interim Operating Budget Funding of $11,200,000 for first quarter
- Memorandum of Understanding with Wetaskiwin FCSS Board dated December 13, 2021
- Request for Proposal - Property Assessment Services contract with Accurate Assessment (March 1, 2022 to February 28, 2025)
- Public hearing on Municipally Controlled Corporation - Peace Hills Utilities Inc. set for January 24, 2022
Special Council Meeting
Wetaskiwin City Council is holding a special meeting on December 7, 2021, called by Mayor Tyler Gandam, to receive advice from officials in a closed (in camera) session. The closed session is proposed under Section 24 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, which covers advice from officials. Council is asked to pass motions to go in camera and then return to a public session; no other business is listed on the agenda.
- Special Council Meeting called by Mayor Tyler Gandam under Section 194(1)(a) of the Municipal Government Act
- In camera session proposed under Section 24 of FOIP (advice from officials)
- CAO Update presented by Sue Howard, City Manager, as a request for further direction
- Motions: proceed in camera, then continue the meeting in public
- Administration reports no financial, legal, program, or organizational implications at this time
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets November 22, 2021 to receive the Archives Assessment final report, review facility utilization and the 2020 audited financial statements, and decide on a Santa Claus Parade road closure. Council will also receive committee attendance reports and may go in camera under Section 29. Several motions are proposed, including directing administration on archives options and surveying residents on the Memorial Arts Centre.
- Santa Claus Parade road closure on Mainstreet November 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m., starting at 53 Street to City Hall
- Archives Assessment final report (pages 18-148) with a motion to direct administration to analyze options and report back by end of Q2 2022
- Facility Utilization Review (pages 149-221) proposing a community-wide survey on the Memorial Arts Centre
- Draft 2020 Audited Financial Statements and 2020 Audit Presentation by Grant Thornton (pages 222-223)
- In camera under Section 29, including 2020 External Audit Recommendations - Implementation Plan
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole is scheduled to meet on November 22, 2021, with the only substantive item being a closed (in camera) session under Section 29 of Alberta's FOIP Act. Administration says an ongoing city initiative is close to being finalized and will be made public at the December 13, 2021 meeting. The public portion of the agenda consists only of calling the meeting to order and adjournment; no financial, legal, program, or organizational implications are noted at this time.
- In camera session proposed under Section 29 of FOIP (information that is or will be available to the public)
- Administration states an ongoing city initiative is close to being finalized and will be made public December 13, 2021
- Report presented by Sue Howard, City Manager; approved November 16, 2021
- No financial, legal, program/service, or organizational implications reported at this time
- Public agenda items limited to call to order and adjournment
Special Council Meeting
Wetaskiwin City Council held a special meeting on November 12, 2021 to consider a request from Administration to cover a funding shortfall for a trailer encampment. Administration says it has secured trailers to meet a prior Council motion, but the cost is slightly above the amount RDN provided, and it wants Council to approve additional money from the contingency reserve. The dollar amount is left blank in the agenda, and Administration notes a risk that the funds may not be recovered through other orders of government or grants. If approved, Administration will proceed with the lease; if not, it will keep seeking funding.
- Request to approve funding from the contingency reserve to finalize a trailer lease; the dollar amount is blank in the agenda
- Administration reports trailers were secured to meet a prior Council motion but cost slightly more than RDN funding provided
- Administration flags risk that the funds cannot be recovered through other orders of government or grants
- Presented by Paul Edginton, General Manager of Community and Protective Services; approved by City Manager Sue Howard on Nov 11, 2021
- If funding is not approved, Administration will continue to seek funding
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets November 8, 2021 to give final reading to four bylaws governing council procedure, conduct, committees, and the city manager, and to consider several new business items. Council will decide whether to approve $65,000 from the contingency reserve for private security to continue operating the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) from November 8, 2021 to February 28, 2022. It will also receive reports on Rainbow Crosswalks and a Winter Emergency Shelter Update, hear a delegation from Virginia Leahman about memorial trees, and recognize Scott Kyba as October 2021 Citizen of the Month. A closed session on a CAO update is also scheduled.
- $65,000 from the contingency reserve proposed for private security to operate the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) from November 8, 2021 to February 28, 2022
- Third and final reading proposed for Council Procedural Bylaw 2003-21, Council Code of Conduct Bylaw 2004-21, Council Boards and Committees Bylaw 2005-21, and City Manager Bylaw 2006-21
- Delegation from Virginia Leahman proposing memorial trees within the City of Wetaskiwin
- Recognition of Scott Kyba as Citizen of the Month for October 2021
- Reports received as information: Rainbow Crosswalks and Winter Emergency Shelter Update dated November 8, 2021
Organizational Meeting
Wetaskiwin City Council holds its annual organizational meeting to approve the Council and Committee of the Whole meeting schedules for November 1, 2021 to October 31, 2022, appoint Council members to committees and boards, and set the Deputy Mayor rotation. The agenda items are procedural housekeeping required under the Meeting Procedural bylaw 1957-20 and the Municipal Government Act. No financial, legal, or service implications are noted for any item.
- Approval of the 2021-2022 Committee of the Whole and Regular Council meeting schedules (meetings generally at 1:00PM and 4:00PM in Council Chambers)
- Appointment of Council members to committees and boards, including the Emergency Advisory Committee, Assessment Review Board, Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, and Wetaskiwin Library Board
- Establishment of the Deputy Mayor rotation with two-month terms from November through October
- No dollar amounts, rezonings, or public hearings appear on this agenda
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is set to give first, second, and third readings to four bylaws that govern how council operates: the Council Procedural Bylaw, the Council Code of Conduct Bylaw, the Council Boards and Committees Bylaw, and the City Manager Bylaw. The procedural bylaw would repeal Bylaw 1906-18 and updates rules on meetings, motions, and conduct. The agenda also includes approval of the October 12, 2021 minutes and an open mic segment.
- Council Procedural Bylaw 2003-21 — would repeal Bylaw 1906-18 and update meeting rules
- Council Code of Conduct Bylaw 2004-21 — first reading proposed
- Council Boards and Committees Bylaw 2005-21 — first reading proposed
- City Manager Bylaw 2006-21 — first reading proposed
- Approval of October 12, 2021 Regular Council meeting minutes
Regular Council
City Council will review a presentation on utility franchise fee rates for Fortis and ATCO. The body is also asked to approve the hiring of three new finance department positions, including a full-time financial analyst and a property tax clerk, funded from existing budget surpluses or reserves.
- Approval of hiring a full-time financial analyst for $75,000 funded through existing budget surplus
- Approval of hiring a two-year term financial analyst for $75,000 funded through contingency reserve
- Approval of hiring a full-time property tax/accounts receivable finance clerk for $75,000 funded through existing budget surplus
- Informational presentation on utility franchise fees, noting current rates of 13.8% for electrical (Fortis) and 33% for gas (ATCO)
Special Council Meeting
The City of Wetaskiwin held a special council meeting on October 1, 2021, at City Hall. The agenda consisted solely of procedural items and a notice regarding the 'Vulnerable Population.' No specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances were detailed in the provided text.
- Special Council Meeting called by Mayor Tyler Gandam under Section 194(1)(a) of the Municipal Government Act
- Agenda item listed as 'Vulnerable Population' with no further details provided
Regular Council
City Council will give third and final reading to the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, which includes moving to annual licensing and limiting animals per household. The council will also approve the re-instatement of the temporary masking bylaw and complete all readings for the 2021 Rates and Fees Bylaw. Additionally, council will direct funding for sidewalk rehabilitation, fire station renovation, and lane line projects.
- Third and final reading of the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw (Bylaw 2000-21).
- Approval of the re-instatement of Temporary Masking Bylaw #1973-20 as amended.
- First through third reading of the 2021 Rates and Fees Bylaw (Bylaw 2002-21).
- Funding of $210,000 for the 2021 Sidewalk Rehabilitation project from the Municipal Sustainability Initiative.
- Funding of $37,500 for Fire Station Renovation and $84,000 for Lane Line Rehabilitation from the Infrastructure Tax Reserve.
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole met to receive information on council committee attendance, RCMP Q2 2021 performance, and the 2021 Customer Service Report. The RCMP presentation detailed crime statistics for January to August 2021, noting an 8% decrease in total Criminal Code offences compared to the same period in 2020. The Customer Service Report highlighted that half of respondents found the city website difficult to navigate and recommended ongoing staff training.
- RCMP Q2 2021 Presentation received as information, including crime stats showing a 35% increase in persons crimes and 7% decrease in property crimes year-over-year.
- 2021 Customer Service Report received as information, noting 76 participants and specific feedback on website navigability.
- Council Committee Reports and Attendance accepted as information.
- Project Updates - Archives and Current State of Homelessness Reports received as information.
Regular Council
City Council will decide whether to authorize administration to negotiate a lease with Barefoot Compost Company for a facility at the Wetaskiwin Landfill site. The meeting also includes an information presentation from the Winter Shelter Subcommittee and the approval of minutes from previous meetings.
- Motion to commence negotiations with Barefoot Compost Company for a compost facility at the Wetaskiwin Landfill site
- Delegation from Winter Shelter Subcommittee regarding guidance for vulnerable populations
- Approval of Committee of the Whole, Regular Council, and Special Council minutes from August 2021
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is scheduled to receive a presentation on the updated Utility Master Plan from Associated Engineering. The plan provides direction for future water, wastewater, and storm network investments based on community values and growth forecasts. Council will also receive an Enforcement Services Bi-Annual Report and a CAO update as informational items.
- Utility Master Plan Presentation accepted as information
- Enforcement Services Bi-Annual Report received as information
- CAO Update accepted as information
Special Council Meeting
This special meeting was called by Mayor Tyler Gandam to further discuss a proposed future site for the homeless. The item was previously presented at the June 14, 2021 Regular Council Meeting. No other business items are listed on the agenda.
- Discussion of proposed future site for homeless services
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets August 16, 2021 to hold a public hearing and second/third readings on Bylaw 1997-21, which amends the Land Use Bylaw 1804-13 with administrative and terminology changes. Council will also consider first and second reading of Bylaw 2000-21, the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, and receive reports on grants in place of taxes, vacant property development, and airport governance. Several items are scheduled for closed session, including a property tax penalty cancellation request and a CAO update.
- Public hearing and second/third reading of Bylaw 1997-21 to amend Land Use Bylaw 1804-13
- First and second reading of Bylaw 2000-21, the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw
- Report on Grants in Place of Taxes (GIPOT) received for information
- Request to tender a vacuum street sweeper approved in the 2021 Budget
- Closed session on Property Tax Penalty Cancellation Request - Tax Roll No. 261000
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets August 16, 2021 in Council Chambers to receive information reports. Council members will present committee reports and attendance, administration will give the August 2021 Grants Update, and the City Manager will give a CAO Update. All items are information updates with no decisions scheduled; the meeting ends with adjournment.
- August 2021 Grants Update: $1,638,446 approved from Alberta Transportation's Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program for airport runway, Apron 1 and Taxiway B overlays (total project cost $2,184,595, grant covers 75%)
- Approved 2021 grants total $1,956,946 applied, including $145,000 Housing and Homeless Supports and $50,000 Good Food Access Fund
- Unapproved 2021 grants total $287,400 applied, including $200,000 Intermunicipal Collaboration and $60,500 Civil Society Fund
- Outstanding 2020 grant: $34,400 Municipal Asset Management Program application under review by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
- CAO Update topics: COR, BTLP, Council Strategic Plan Update, Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets July 19, 2021 to consider first reading of Bylaw 1997-21, a Land Use Bylaw amendment, and to schedule a public hearing. Council will also vote on all three readings of Bylaw 1999-21, the Municipal Election Bylaw. Other items include a Memorandum of Understanding with the Wetaskiwin Public Library, retention of a hydrovac unit, and a financial update to June 30, 2021.
- Bylaw 1997-21 Land Use Bylaw Amendment: first reading and scheduling of public hearing
- Bylaw 1999-21 Municipal Election Bylaw: first, second, and third readings
- Memorandum of Understanding with the Wetaskiwin Public Library dated July 19, 2021
- Request to retain Unit #234 - Hydrovac Unit
- Financial Update to June 30, 2021 accepted as information
Regular Council
The Wetaskiwin City Council will vote on a development permit for an accessory building at 5317 50 Avenue. The agenda also includes directing administration to investigate vacant land assessments and propose development incentives by August 16, 2021. Three delegations will present information on the Dorchester Ranch RV development, gender identity in businesses, and a fee waiver request for a Pride event.
- Vote on Development Permit 21D056 for a 9.1m x 7.31m accessory building at 5317 50 Avenue
- Direct administration to assess vacant properties and report on incentives by August 16, 2021
- Delegation from SAGA requesting a $157.50 fee waiver for Amphitheatre usage at Diamond Jubilee Park
- Delegation from Ellis Jovica regarding the Dorchester Ranch RV development
- Delegation from Chevi Rabbit on gender identity and business respect
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole meets June 28, 2021 to receive two information reports: the Municipal Services Division Bi-Annual Report and the RCMP Q1 2021 Presentation. Council will also hear a CAO update, part of which is scheduled for a closed session under Section 24 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. No decisions on bylaws, contracts, or fee changes are on the agenda; the reports are for information.
- Municipal Services Division Bi-Annual Report covering September 2020 to June 2021, including capital projects such as 62 Street Road Reconstruction and the Airport Pavement Program (Year 1 of 5)
- RCMP Q1 2021 Presentation by Insp. Keith Durance, with crime statistics and community priorities
- Closed session for a CAO update under Section 24 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
- Development Services permit summary: 50 development permit applications, 37 building permit applications, 39 sign permit applications, 59 business license applications
- Lead Program: 41 water samples completed, 5 over the limit
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole received information reports on the Fire Services Department, Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, and municipal grants. No new decisions were made; items were presented for information only. A closed session was held to discuss payroll systems under privacy exceptions.
- Fire Services Bi-Annual Report: 212 emergency calls responded to as of May 11, 2021
- Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw Update presented as information
- June 2021 Grants Updates and Municipal Operating Support Transfer Grant accepted as information
- Proposed City Owned Building Lease Policy received as information
- Closed session regarding Ceridian Dayforce Payroll and HR Information System
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is deciding on funding for the relocation of the 24/7 Response Hub, including $270,000 for modular trailers and service installation. The agenda also includes the final approval of a new bylaw regulating pawnshops, second-hand dealers, and scrap metal dealers. Additionally, council will approve 2021 policing priorities and funding for increased RCMP patrols and private security in the downtown area.
- Approve $270,000 from operating contingency for 24/7 Response Hub relocation costs
- Final reading of Bylaw 1994-21 for Pawnshop, Second Hand Dealer and Scrap Metal Dealers
- Approve $15,000 for fencing and $22,000 for private security for Wetaskiwin HUB Taskforce
- Direct increased downtown RCMP patrols until August 10, 2021
- First and second readings of Master Rates Amendment Bylaw 1996-21 for online credit card fees
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council will vote on reducing power contract minimums for five facilities, including the Water Treatment Plant and Library, to save an estimated $84,649 annually. The agenda also includes approving a temporary Main Street closure for crosswalk painting and extending the deadline for a report on Hub relocation costs.
- Fortis contract buy-downs for Water Treatment Plant, Raw Water Pumps, 4705 50 Ave, NE Sewage, and Wetaskiwin Library
- Estimated annual savings of $84,649 from reducing power contract minimums
- Temporary Main Street closure on June 18, 2021, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm for crosswalk painting
- Extension of deadline to June 14, 2021, for costs on Hub relocation and ATCO trailer options
- Closed session discussion under Section 24 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council moved to transfer $50,000 from the Contingency Reserve to the Public Art Reserve and authorized a $29,500 carry-forward for Finance contracted services. Council also approved a temporary Main Street closure for a Rock Soup event on June 20 and gave three readings to an updated FOIP Bylaw. Additionally, Council appointed Ahsan Ahmed as the Returning Officer for the 2021 Municipal Election and accepted a preliminary survey report on Centennial Park.
- Transfer of $50,000 from Contingency Reserve to Public Art Reserve
- Temporary closure of Main Street from 50 Street to 47 Street roundabout on June 20, 2021
- Authorization of $29,500 carry-forward from Finance contracted services to Carry Forward Reserve
- First, second, and third readings of Updated and Revised FOIP Bylaw 1995-21
- Appointment of Ahsan Ahmed as Returning Officer for 2021 Municipal Election
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole received an information report on a proposed City Owned Building Lease Policy. The policy aims to standardize lease rates for city-owned facilities, offering non-profit organizations 50% of market value while charging for-profit entities full market rates. Administration plans to implement changes over three years and will bring the policy to Council for approval on May 25, 2021.
- Proposed policy sets non-profit lease rates at 50% of market value and for-profit rates at full market value
- Wetaskiwin Curling Club lease rate proposed to increase from $3.09 to $5.00 per sq. ft.
- Precision Gymnastics lease rate proposed to increase from $2.93 to $10.00 per sq. ft.
- Wetaskiwin Arts and Crafts Centre lease rate proposed to increase from $1.18 to $2.50 per sq. ft.
- Current annual combined revenue from nine city building tenants is $265,207
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets April 26, 2021 to consider several bylaws, including the 2021 Tax Rate Bylaw, borrowing and a local improvement tax for the 62 Street to Evergreen Close project, and a rezoning at 4816 50 Avenue. A public hearing is scheduled on the rezoning before Council votes. Council will also discuss a temporary patio policy, concrete/asphalt recycling, archives, community safety, and a provincial deployment request.
- Public hearing on Bylaw 1992-21 to redistrict 4816 50 Avenue from DDO to C2 (General Commercial District)
- Bylaw 1988-21 to borrow for the 62 Street to Evergreen Close local improvement
- Bylaw 1989-21 setting the local improvement tax for 62 Street to Evergreen Close
- 2021 Tax Rate Bylaw 1993-21
- Pawnshop, Second Dealer and Scrap Metal Dealer Bylaw 1994-21
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets April 26, 2021 to receive an Emergency Management update from Fire Chief Jamie Wilkinson on COVID-19 restrictions, local emergency measures, and isolation-site funding, and a bi-annual Recreation Department presentation. Council will also discuss a FOIP Bylaw update and may go into closed session under Sections 24 and 25 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Most items are receive-as-information; no final decisions are scheduled.
- Emergency Management update: State of Local Emergency for the Civic Building HUB renewed weekly since Nov 12, 2020
- Assisted Self Isolation Site at Siding 16 Hotel initially funded $439,177.00, with about $75,000 remaining
- Recreation Department bi-annual presentation: 2021 operating budget $6,748,900.00 and capital budget $2,324,387
- FOIP Bylaw Update listed under Bylaws
- Closed session proposed under FOIP Sections 24 and 25 for advice from officials
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is holding its regular meeting on April 12, 2021, with two rezoning bylaws on the agenda. Bylaw 1991-21 would redistrict 5610 - 45 Avenue from Highway Commercial to Heavy Industrial to allow a pawn shop to expand onto the site, but City Administration recommends refusal, citing nearby residential land and land use conflicts. Bylaw 1992-21 would redistrict 4816 50 Avenue from the Downtown District Overlay to General Commercial. Council will also recognize Henry Sieweke as April 2021 Citizen of the Month and may enter a closed session under Section 24 of FOIP.
- Bylaw 1991-21: redistrict 5610 - 45 Avenue (Plan 8820890; Block 1; Lot 26) from C3 - Highway Commercial to M2 - Heavy Industrial for pawn shop expansion; Administration recommends refusal
- Bylaw 1992-21: redistrict 4816 50 Avenue (Plan M3; Block 11; Lot 1-3) from DDO (Downtown District Overlay) to C2 (General Commercial District)
- Citizen of the Month - April 2021: Henry Sieweke to be recognized for over 60 years of community service
- Closed Session under Section 24 of FOIP
- Public hearing on Bylaw 1991-21, if first reading passes, recommended for April 26, 2021
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets April 12, 2021 to receive an information update on grants and to review proposed amendments to Land Use Bylaw 1804-13. Administration is asking council to shortlist which bylaw changes need separate debate or public consultation so they can pass before the summer construction season. Council will also discuss an airport authority update.
- Grants Update April 2021: $237,250 in approved 2021 grants, including $145,000 for a self-isolation site and $50,000 for the Good Food Access Fund
- Outstanding grant applications total $1,885,346 for 2020 and $231,387.50 for 2021, including $1,638,446 for airport runway, Apron 1 and Taxiway B overlays
- Proposed Land Use Bylaw 1804-13 amendments cover definitions, outdated references, and terminology; administration requests direction on which need standalone debate or public consultation
- Administration's motion would direct staff to prepare a single amending bylaw for first reading
- Airport Authority update/discussion scheduled
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets March 22, 2021 to hear a pharmacy/medical clinic delegation, receive an update on the Archives Assessment Project, and discuss possible bylaw changes for liquor stores. The Archives review follows Council's November 2020 decision to temporarily close the Archives and report back by Q2 2021. Council may also go into closed session under Section 24 of FOIP for advice from officials.
- Archives Assessment Project: proposed 11-week review running April 6 to June 18, 2021, with an anticipated $30,000 budget funded from the existing Archives cost centre
- Proposed bylaw changes for liquor stores, following a complaint about a local store believed to be overserving patrons
- Delegation from Care Gateway Pharmacies Ltd, opening a pharmacy and medical clinic in the Wetaskiwin mall with an estimated early-May opening
- Closed session proposed under Section 24 of FOIP (advice from officials)
- Council to receive the Archives report as information and give feedback to finalize the project plan
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets March 22, 2021 to consider five new and unfinished business items, including proposed 2021 levels of service for grass, plant and flower bed maintenance. Council will also discuss wastewater treatment plant funding, a Kubota equipment purchase, relocation of the 24/7 Integrated Response Hub, and Biology Casework Analysis Agreements expenses. The meeting also includes approval of March 8 minutes and council attendance reports.
- Grass, plant and flower bed maintenance proposed 2021 levels of service, including naturalization of some areas and a 4-student landscape crew
- WWTP (wastewater treatment plant) funding preference
- BIR 21-007 Kubota with sanding attachment
- 24/7 Integrated Response Hub re-location — available funding, costs and timing
- Biology Casework Analysis Agreements (BCAA) expenses
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is holding its regular meeting on March 8, 2021, with the main decisions being a Master Rates Bylaw that would reduce utility rates, approval of the 2021 operating and capital budgets, and 2020 reserve motions. Council will also hear a delegation honouring Fabian Littlechild for reconciliation efforts and may go into closed session under Section 24 of FOIP. Several items follow up on budget deliberations held February 17-22.
- Master Rates Bylaw 1990-21 proposes a one-time 22.5% reduction to water and wastewater flat fees, tied to a $710,000 utility budget reduction
- Request for approval of the 2021 Operating and Capital Budgets
- 2020 Reserve Motions
- Business License Fee formal information request, following a February 22 direction to report back by March 8
- Delegation honouring Fabian Littlechild for reconciliation efforts between Wetaskiwin and Maskwacis
Budget Deliberations Day 3
Wetaskiwin City Council is scheduled to meet on February 22, 2021 at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers for what the agenda titles 'Budget Deliberations Day 3.' The published agenda itself contains only procedural items — call to order, adoption of agenda, new and unfinished business, closed sessions, and adjournment — with no budget figures, motions, or specific topics listed. No dollar amounts, contracts, or decisions are described in the supplied text.
- Meeting listed as 'Budget Deliberations Day 3'
- Agenda includes a closed session item
- No specific budget items, dollar amounts, or motions are listed in the agenda text
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is considering two bylaws to fund reconstruction of roads and ditches along 62 Street, 49 Avenue, and Evergreen Close, with a total project budget of $1,712,600. Council will also hear a delegation from the Rock Soup Greenhouse & Food Bank, consider the Civic Centre Twin Arena ice season, appoint library board members, and decide on transferring $16,009.79 from reserves for the Legacy View Development Agreement. A closed session on a land matter is also scheduled.
- Bylaw 1988-21: borrowing $1,712,600 for 62 Street to Evergreen Close local improvement, with $1,257,204.09 from the municipality and $455,395.91 from benefitting owners
- Bylaw 1989-21: local improvement tax bylaw to collect $455,395.91 from benefitting property owners
- Transfer of $16,009.79 from reserves for amounts owing under the Legacy View Development Agreement
- Delegation from Rock Soup Greenhouse & Food Bank
- Appointment of members at large to the Wetaskiwin Library Board
Budget Deliberations Day 2
Wetaskiwin City Council is holding Day 2 of its 2021 budget deliberations, continuing from Day 1. Council is reviewing the proposed 2021 municipal operating and capital budgets, which include community group funding requests totaling $454,311. Public input this year came from 54 community members, down from 234 for the 2020 budget. The budget is scheduled for approval at a December 14 meeting.
- Continuation of Day 1 budget deliberations
- Community group funding requests total $454,311, including $345,311 for The Rock Soup Greenhouse & Food Bank and $75,000 for the Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum
- Public consultation drew 54 responses, down from 234 for the 2020 budget
- Administration prioritized projects and moved some to the unfunded category for 2021
- New wastewater effluent regulations expected to cost Wetaskiwin $40 million by 2022
Budget Deliberations Day 1
Wetaskiwin City Council meets February 17, 2021 for Day 1 of budget deliberations, reviewing the City of Wetaskiwin Proposed Budget and a 2021 operating summary by department. The agenda also includes a delegation from Martin Sonnenberg and a closed session. The proposed budget documents note a 2021 community funding request total of $454,311 and public consultation feedback from 54 community members.
- Review of the City of Wetaskiwin Proposed Budget (agenda item 4a)
- Operating Summary by Department - 2021 (agenda item 4b)
- Delegation from Martin Sonnenberg
- Community group funding requests for 2021 total $454,311, including $345,311 from The Rock Soup Greenhouse & Food Bank and $75,000 from the Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum
- Closed session listed on the agenda
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council is reviewing a Downtown Safety Plan developed by administration with the RCMP and Open Door, following concerns raised by downtown businesses about crime and safety. Council will also consider options to relocate the 24/7 Integrated Response Hub, a bylaw to redistrict 4904 - 51 Street from C1 to DC, a strategic plan update, and a whistleblowing policy amendment. The meeting includes approval of January 25 committee and council minutes.
- Downtown Safety Plan: enhanced RCMP/CPO patrols cost about $10,000 in overtime, with 229 business contacts and 256 public contacts
- Options to re-locate the 24/7 Integrated Response Hub
- Bylaw 1978-20 to redistrict 4904 - 51 Street from C1 (Downtown Commercial) to DC (Direct Control)
- Council Strategic Plan Update 2021
- Amendment to Policy CO-050 Whistleblowing
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets Feb. 8, 2021 to receive a presentation on the updated Transportation Master Plan (TMP), prepared by McElhanney, covering road safety, traffic, active transportation, truck routing, and road/sidewalk condition strategies. Council is asked to accept the report as information; the TMP would guide future transportation investment and the 10-year Capital Plan. Council will also hold a closed session under Section 24 of FOIP to receive advice from officials, then return to public session.
- Transportation Master Plan presentation by McElhanney; Council asked to accept the report as information
- TMP update was approved as part of the 2019 Capital Budget
- Proposed new truck routes: extend Highway 13 route to City Limits (South); 47 Avenue from 56 Street to 64 Street; 48 Street south of 40 Avenue
- Grade separation feasibility study at 55th Avenue (pedestrian) and 40th Avenue (vehicles)
- Closed session under Section 24 of FOIP (advice from officials); no financial, legal, or service implications noted
Special Council Meeting
Wetaskiwin City Council is holding a special meeting on February 2, 2021, whose only substantive item is a closed session under Section 24 of Alberta's FOIP Act (advice from officials). Council will first adopt the agenda, then move into closed session to discuss two matters, and then continue in public before adjourning. The agenda does not disclose what the two matters concern.
- Closed session under Section 24 of FOIP (advice from officials) covering two undisclosed matters
- Meeting called by Mayor Tyler Gandam under Section 194(1)(a) of the Municipal Government Act
- Held at Council Chambers, City Hall, 4705 — 50 Avenue
- No financial, legal, program, or organizational implications noted by administration
- Agenda otherwise limited to call to order, agenda adoption, and adjournment
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council meets January 25, 2021 to hold a public hearing on Bylaw 1985-20, which would move subdivision and development fees into the Master Rates Bylaw, and to consider the Master Rates Bylaw 1979-20 itself. Council will also hear two delegations, including Noah George asking for a reduction of a $630 fire invoice from an August 7, 2020 Highway 2 accident, and review the 2020 Customer Service Survey results and a property tax cancellation request (Roll #181090).
- Public hearing on Bylaw 1985-20 to amend Land Use Bylaw 1804-13 so subdivision and development fees sit in the Master Rates Bylaw
- Master Rates Bylaw 1979-20 on the agenda for consideration
- Delegation by Noah George requesting reduction of a $630.00 fire invoice tied to an August 7, 2020 Highway 2 accident
- Delegation by Yuin Kim
- 2020 Customer Service Survey results and a property tax cancellation request for Roll #181090
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets January 25, 2021 to receive information updates rather than pass bylaws. Council will hear a COVID-19 communications presentation from Tangent Civic and an RCMP Q4 2020 presentation from Inspector Keith Durance, plus a January 2021 grants status report. Council may also go into closed session under Section 24 of FOIP for advice from officials.
- COVID-19 communications update from Sean Mellis and Karen Kolenc of Tangent Civic
- RCMP Q4 2020 presentation by Inspector Keith Durance, reporting a 10% decrease in total Criminal Code offences and 550 curfew checks in 2020
- Grants Update January 2021: $21,743,155 in approved 2020 grants and $1,902,246 in outstanding applications
- Approved 2021 grants include $4,500 from AUMA for diversity training and $439,177 from the Ministry of Community and Social Services for self-isolation site expenses
- Closed session under Section 24 of FOIP (advice from officials)
Special Council Meeting
Wetaskiwin City Council holds a special meeting on January 18, 2021 to appoint two councillors plus the Mayor to the Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, and to receive a presentation of the draft 2019 financial statements from the auditor. Council is asked to approve the 2019 financial statements as presented. A closed session is also scheduled under Section 24 of FOIP.
- Appointment of 2 councillors plus Mayor Gandam to the Diversity and Inclusion Task Force
- Presentation of the draft 2019 City of Wetaskiwin financial statements by the auditor
- Motion to approve the 2019 financial statements as presented
- Closed session under Section 24 of FOIP
- Task force recruitment kept open rather than waiting for 12-15 members
Regular Council
Wetaskiwin City Council holds a statutory public hearing and considers Bylaw 1978-20 to redistrict the Civic Building at 4904 - 51 Street from Downtown Commercial (C1) to Direct Control (DC) so it can house an Integrated Support Hub run by The Open Door. Council also reviews COVID-19 business grants, land and surplus property policies, a rent reduction for Multiplex tenants, and a regional rail MOU request. A closed session is scheduled under Section 24 of FOIP.
- Public hearing and Bylaw 1978-20 to redistrict Plan M, Block 7, Lot 14 (4904 - 51 Street) from C1 to DC for an Integrated Support Hub
- COVID-19 Business Grants
- Land Transaction Policy CO-051
- Revisions to Policy CO-024 Disposal of Surplus Property
- Rent reduction for Multiplex tenants affected by provincial COVID-19 restrictions; Regional Rail YEG - YYC MOU request
Committee of the Whole
Wetaskiwin's Committee of the Whole meets January 11, 2021 to receive a Business Mix and Gap Analysis presentation on retail growth strategy, review the 2020 Red Tape Reduction Report tied to $1,504,288 in Municipal Stimulus Program funding, and consider a servicing cost estimate for 5800 37A Avenue. Council will also hold a closed session on land analysis. Most items are information updates with no decisions required unless Council refers them to a regular Council meeting.
- Business Mix and Gap Analysis presentation by Key Planning Strategies on retail tenants and investment attraction
- 2020 Red Tape Reduction Report to be submitted to the Province by February 1, 2021
- $1,504,288 Municipal Stimulus Program allocation for asphalt overlays on 40th Avenue, trail replacement west of 56th Street to 64th Street, and 48th Street in South East Industrial Park
- Servicing cost estimate for 5800 37A Avenue
- Closed session on land analysis