Moment with the Mayor: A Review of 2014

Hi Neighbours:

It’s hard to believe another year has slipped by. I have to confess that this year has seemed faster than others. This has been a busy year and here is a brief look at the year that was:

·         One of the big things is the construction of new homes in Brookhollow Estates; and the last two lots on Coleman Crescent were sold and now have homes on them.

·         The Kindersley Cemetery has a new structure serving as a ‘quiet place.’

·         Kindersley was featured in the Sask Business Magazine in March.

·         The Town of Kindersley, for the first time, has been invited to SUMA’s City Mayors’ Caucus.

·         Kindersley hosted the second Saskatchewan Municipal Infrastructure Conference.

·         Two budgets were completed in 2015 as we shifted from doing the budget in March/April to November.

·         The pool had to be closed and we are working towards a new pool and complex. (I agree that progress seems too slow).

·         Council adopted a new Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw.

·         To welcome newcomers to Kindersley, Welcome Wednesdays was launched.

·         Council passed an Economic Development Tax Incentive.

·         Numerous community groups shared with Council what and why they do what they do, and who they serve.

·         Changes have been made to our recycling program, including closing two collection depot sites and launching curbside collection service.

·         Water rates have increased with a tiered system. Debt payments on water infrastructure exceed $1 million.

·         For the first time in 25 years, the Mobile Home Licensing Fee has been updated.

·         There is now a spray park at the foot of the water tower near the library.

·         Partnering with private business, there is a new lift station under development to serve a new hotel and more growth.

·         A partnership with Holland’s has resulted in the waste water from the backwash of the Haubrich Water Treatment Plant being sold for industrial purposes.

·         Council has incrementally made changes to the Policy Manual and is intent on being a governance-run Council.

·         An infrastructure capacity report has been completed and informed the Asset Management Plan and Long Term Financial Plan (10 years).

·         The Kindersley Health Services Needs Assessment Report is being reviewed.

·         The lights at Ditson and HWY #7 are finally installed and the Town saved more than $1 million.

·         The site of the new regional landfill has been selected and an RFP has been advertised.

·         At our last meeting, Council adopted an Anti-Bullying Bylaw.

These are some of the highlights of the year. Have a Happy New Year!

Please write or phone if you would like me to discuss a particular topic. If you have any questions or comments, drop me a line at the town office or email me at mayorenns-wind@kindersley.ca. You can also check out my blog at http://mayorjohn.blogspot.ca/. I appreciate your feedback.