Sunday, 26 May 2013

Moment with the Mayor: Budget Items


Hi Everyone:

Does anyone recall when the stoplights were installed on Main St.? As we were going through the budget we were hit with sticker shock for new stop lights. Granted they aren’t due for replacement until 2015 or so but we are looking ahead. We have 4 stoplights on Main St. and the cost of replacing them is expected to be $4million; $1 million per intersection. That price took my breath away as well.

In response to our surprise we have asked for more information regarding the regulations surrounding municipal stoplights. My understanding is that our current lights do no conform to legislation because they are not properly positioned on the streets.

Now you may be wondering: who is responsible for stoplights on the highway? We are. However, the stoplights are compliant and don’t need replacing. Recently our eastern most stoplight was down for a few days because of an accident. Repairing and replacing the light was expensive and the bill has been sent to the trucking company responsible for the damage.

Another big ticket budget item coming down the road is a ladder truck for our friends in the Fire Department. The cost of a ladder truck is approximately $1 million. If you haven’t, you should go to the Fire Department’s open house and see their facility; it is cramped. If you want to see how things can be optimally organized visit the fire house. Needless to say the Fire Department needs a larger fire house to store equipment and for training. Currently the 2 command vehicles are stored outside. Building a new fire house means constructing a building that conforms to different building codes so the building will still be standing should some type of disaster strike. Because of this, the expense of building the fire house is considerably more. One more thing: are you looking for a volunteer opportunity in which you can see the difference you make and get an adrenaline rush at the same time? Become a Fire Fighter!

So, stop lights and fire trucks, things we take for granted, will be consuming some of our tax funds in the near to middle future.

How is the walking track working for you? Its use has exceeded expectations and we are having some growing pains that I am confident we will grow out of. Last March the Youth Track Club negotiated an exclusive use agreement for the use of the track; what are your thoughts? How is this affecting your walk/run? My email is below.

On another matter: I need some help. Specifically, I need a couple of volunteers to help me with a couple of initiatives. If you like organizing events please give me a call. Each event will be only for part of a day and it will be a great opportunity to meet lots of people and learn more about Kindersley and our surrounding neighbours. My email is below.

Bouquets to all those good neighbours who pulled together during our recent snowfall. I’ve heard many good stories of neighbourhoods working together to move the snow around. We have a lot of snow so let’s be proactive and considerate as we work to reduce the risk of flooding in and near our properties.

If you have any questions or comments drop me a line at the town office or email me at mayorenns-wind@kindersley.ca. I appreciate your feedback.

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