IN THE NEWS

1. Broadband Policy Framework
Council continues to discuss the most efficient, fiscally responsible way to help improve broadband service in the county. At its meeting on January 23 council directed Administration to prepare a “Terms of Reference” policy giving council more specific direction for the development of enhanced broadband coverage. This project will involve public engagement through education articles in local newspapers and on the county’s website as well as community hall meetings. Watch for further info and be ready to assist the councillors with your opinion.

2. CPO Program
 Currently we are down to 4 Community Police Officers (from 5) and there was discussion at the last council meeting on whether to go back to 5 or keep as 4. CPO’s are limited to bylaw enforcement with no power on criminal matters, but it was noted that, potentially, with a night shift, it might be beneficial to have them “out there” as extra eyes. Currently the summer shifts end at 10:00PM and the winter shifts end at 8:00PM. In the end a motion to hire a 5th CPO was defeated but a motion to continue discussion on ways to improve the program for the benefit of residents was passed.

3. Leslieville/Condor Fire Halls
 The discussion continues on this topic. At Tuesday’s council meeting the county’s fire chief noted that the volunteer fire fighting members wanted to maintain the two stations. Discussion took place on the benefits of having two facilities with potentially similar designs but different “footprints”, noting that they did not have to be identical. Council made it clear that they will engage the public with community meetings before decisions are made and there is no time line for proceeding.

4. Council/Board/Committee Remuneration Policy
 Council is currently working on establishing a policy that would see the organization of a committee to work on setting future remuneration for councillors and members of county boards or committees. It has been suggested that a Council Compensation Committee be established to review this matter. It would be made up of no more than 5 public members who would meet a maximum of 3 times while working with administration to research the necessary information. Ads would be posted on the county’s website asking for interested parties to apply. A final draft of this policy will be prepared by administration and brought back to council for approval.




“Friends are as companions on a journey aiding each other on the road to a happier life.” Pythagoras
“Side by side or miles apart, truest friends are always close at heart.” Anonymous


Coming Events:
Thursday, February 8, 2018, 7:30 PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular Meeting with Guest Speaker
Thursday, March 8, 2018, 7:30 PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular Meeting