The following is a synopsis of what occurred during the Jan. 16 District of Sparwood council meeting.

DELEGATION

Sparwood Food Bank

The Sparwood Food Bank presented to Council their history and search for a new location. Although they have found a temporary location, they are planning for a permanent location.

BYLAWS

Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw and Zoning Amendment Bylaw

Council adopted the two amendment bylaws to allow for a multi-unit affordable housing development at 441 Pine Avenue. This location is south of the recently completed 30-unit Timbers Landing affordable housing project.

Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw

First three readings were given to the Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw. The purpose of this bylaw is to provide for an operating line of credit in 2024 for cash flow purposes, if required. Under the Community Charter, the District of Sparwood may borrow money to pay its current liabilities and to repay other public bodies for for taxing obligations. The district has not had an overdraft for many years.

Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw

First three readings were given to the Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw. During Committee-of-the-Whole on November 21, 2023 the committee engaged in discussion regarding electronic attendance during regular council meetings. Staff received feedback from the Committee-of-the-Whole and identified a few administrative changes to be implemented, including:

• Section 3.1.3 the addition of the Corporate Officer, who can determine if there is insufficient business to convene a meeting;
• Section 3.1.8 Members who are unable to attend a meeting or hearing may only participate by means of electronic means by resolution of council;
• Section 3.2.7(b) the addition of Water Use Permit hearings;
• Updating Bylaw numbers in the definitions section.

BUSINESS

Water Use Permit Application – 115 Industrial Road #3

A Water Use Permit for Elk Valley Pure Water Ltd. at 115 Industrial Road #3 for the resale of municipal water was issued for a five-year term, subject to the conditions listed in the permit.

Finalization of Borrowing for Centennial Plaza

To finalize the borrowing funds, council authorized staff to borrow up to $465,000, under section 175 of the Community Charter, from the Municipal Finance Authority for the purpose of the Centennial Plaza Revitalization Project and that the loan be repaid within five years, with no rights of renewal.

COMMITTEE-OF-THE-WHOLE

Finance and Information Technology: Organizational Excellence Update

The Finance and Information Technology team gave an update to council on their division’s updates. The full report is available on the district’s website. Fun Fact: The finance department manages over 1,700 general ledger accounts for the district. These accounts categorize all the financial transactions for the district.

e-KNOW file photos

District of Sparwood

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