For the regular meeting of council on July 11, 2011.

Council endorses UBCM Strategic Wildfire Prevention Operational Fuel Treatment Program

In 2010 the Tri-Regional Districts applied for and received funding through the Federal Job Opportunities program (JOP) to undertake fuel treatment programs throughout the Kootenays.  Fernie was slated to undertake their program this past spring but just as work was to begin the program was cancelled due to a funding shortfall.

Council endorsed the grant application for the UBCM Strategic Wildfire Prevention Operational Fuel Treatment Program and committed to the necessary program management and related reporting requirements.

If the application is approved, council also approved that B.A. Blackwell and Associates be awarded a contract to manage and oversee the treatment program including writing a Request for Proposal, selecting the successful candidate, ensuring the work is completed according to the fuel prescription and writing a final report for UBCM.  The prescriptions and area mapping to be used were completed under the former grant process.  If this application is successful these funds would be used to treat the 10.2 hectares of forested municipal land identified in the Ridgemont Area.

Beer gardens approved

Council authorized the application put forward by Victoria Avenue Initiative and Wednesday Socials to operate beer gardens on July 20, August 3, August 17 and August 31, from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., subject to proof of comprehensive general liability insurance.

Letter to Highway 3 Mayors and Chairs Committee

Council will be forwarding a letter to the Ministry of Transportation (MOT) and Infrastructure detailing specific safety concerns on Highway 3 at Dicken Road, Vanlerberg Road, Lizard Creek Bridge and the Fairy Creek Bridge.

Council is requesting that MOT take actions to resolve the dangerous conditions at these sites along Highway 3.

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