10 n TIMESReview n WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014
Council briefs – Dec. 9, 2014
N ews
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Local Government Leadership Academy too expensive for council Alex Cooper
editor@revelstoketimesreview.com
Council balked at a budget request for them to attend the Local Government Leadership Academy in Kelowna, instead asking if there was a cheaper option available. The cost for the mayor, all six councillors, and Tim Palmer, the city's Chief Administrative Officer, to attend the academy in Kelowna next month was billed at $11,000 for attendance fees, meals and accommodation. "We ran to save money and I figure this is the first one we could save money quite easily," said councillor Scott Duke. "And also
Tim's time – three days to go to this – and our time may be used better." Instead, council asked staff to find out how much it would cost to bring a trainer to Revelstoke. A new report is expected at the Dec. 23 meeting of council. The academy is held to teach elected officials their roles and responsibilities as councillors on things like priority setting, decision making, local government law, finance, citizen engagement, communications, media relation and community planning. ***
Odour control equipment purchased Council voted to approve the purchase of odour control equipment for the sewage treatment plant. The equipment, which will treat the odour inside the headworks, will be purchased from Advanced Air Solutions at a cost of $105,930 plus tax. "The headworks has a big fan that blows out smelly air from building. That's what we're targeting," said Mike Thomas, the city's director of engineering.
The sewer smell issue in Southside has been ongoing for a number of years, with the odour ruining many outdoor evenings. Council budgeted $230,000 for the project earlier in 2014. Now, staff will put out a bid request to install the equipment. The goal is to have the equipment installed by summer. "I've walked up there with my dog on smelly nights and it's an issue we need to deal with," said councillor Aaron Orlando. "I think we can deliver a big win to the residents of Southside neighbourhood."
Fireworks at RMR Revelstoke Mountain Resort was given approval to hold a New Year's Eve fireworks show at the ski hill, but not before receiving a scolding from the city. The resort put on a show last year, but did so without permission, prompting a letter from fire chief Rob Girard threatening them with penalties for any future infractions. Fireworks are illegal in Revelstoke, unless council gives its consent. Girard, in a report to council, said he would work with the resort to ensure all conditions are in place before the show.
Share your ideas with CBT and win Contributed by COLUMBIA BASIN TRUST
You still have time to share your ideas with Columbia Basin Trust before the first phase of Our Trust, Our Future wraps up. Whether you know a lot or a little about the Trust, this is your opportunity to share your ideas—from the comfort of your home and on your own schedule—through our interactive website. Visit ourtrustourfuture.cbt.org to sign up and take part in this ongoing conversation. “If you haven’t given us your thoughts yet, there’s still plenty of time and opportunity. We encourage you to contribute online—plus you can view the ideas already submitted by Basin residents,” said Neil Muth, Columbia Basin Trust President and CEO. “Your input will help us determine how we can best support communities now and into the future, so spread the word about our online tool and inspire others to participate.” By signing up and providing your input, you have the chance to win $1,000 to donate to a non-profit of your choice. The sign-up process is quick and easy. Share your ideas, complete surveys and comment on as many discussions as you wish. The more you engage, the more rewards you earn, which can be redeemed for prizes. You can also give input in other ways. You can catch Trust staff at booths set up in public spaces, or send comments by mail. You can host your own conversations with friends or family, or ask the Trust to meet with a local group or organization. Email ourtrustourfuture@cbt.org to obtain a workbook to host your own conversation or set up a meeting. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, visit cbt.org or call 1.800.505.8998.
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