Council Rundown
March 12th, 2024
The Regular Meeting of Council of March 12, 2024 featured a number of items arising from the March 5 Corporate Services Committee Meeting.
Espanola Pride Event Sponsorship
Council approved the waiver of fees associated with the track and field rental and approved that the insurance fees be covered by the Town for the annual Espanola Pride celebration events for 2024 and declined Espanola Pride’s further request for a $1,000 donation. The waiver of rental fees and the insurance coverage represents a donation of approximately $686.00. Events are expected to take place in June.
Food Bank Donation
Council approved a recommendation for a one-time donation to the Espanola Helping Hands Foodbank in the amount of $1,500 and declined the Food Bank’s request to cover their rent costs of $18,000 annually. Staff’s report on this item outlined that of 9 comparator municipalities surveyed, only one municipality donated to their local Food Bank in the amount of $200 annually. Following review and clarification of the financial statements submitted by the Food Bank which is required for a donation request under the Town’s Charitable Donations Policy, it was determined that the Food Bank was able to generate enough funds for their operating expenses in 2023 through fundraising and the grants that they receive. The Food Bank expressed that they never have certainty around expected fundraising levels in any given year and that they are not sure if the funding level they receive from Food Banks Canada will continue, but have not been notified of any change for 2024. As outlined in the staff report, staff’s recommendation to the Committee and Council was that if local fundraising efforts are meeting the needs of the Food Bank, then it is not recommended that the Town take over the Food Bank's rent costs. The Committee engaged in a discussion on this item and formulated the recommendation that was ultimately approved by Council on March 12th. The Food Bank was encouraged to continue dialogue with the Town if their financial situation changes significantly. The Town commends the Food Bank and its volunteers for their work.
Council Remuneration
Council approved not to increase Council renumeration in 2024. As per the Salary Administration Policy, Council remuneration is to be reviewed by Council on an annual basis.
Public Works Pick-up Truck Replacement
Council approved the replacement of the Public Works’ 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pick-up truck for a cost of $62,000 due to a crank shaft failure and lingering transmission issues. The staff report outlined details surrounding the Department’s fleet and the way in which pick-up trucks are utilized in the critical operations of the Public Works department. As outlined in the report, this truck was forecasted for replacement in 2026 due to its projected mileage, but unfortunately replacement was recommended early due to the engine failure and transmission issue.
Fire Department Pumper/Tanker Replacement
Council approved the replacement of the 32 year-old, 9120, Pumper/Tanker Fire Truck. Relying on a 32-year old vehicle for emergency services is strongly discouraged by sector standards as was outlined to the Corporate Services Committee. As part of the staff recommendation, it was outlined that various reductions were made to the features of the truck that still suit the needs of the Department in order to reduce the cost from an expected $700,000. As outlined in the staff report, prices for trucks of these specifications have gone up by over 60% in the past five years with prices expected to continue climbing. It is expected that the truck will be delivered in 2025 or 2026 as there is a an approximate 18 month waiting period. In the meantime, the 9120 truck will continue to operate to ensure the current standard of fire service in Town is maintained.
Mayor and Councillor Announcements
There were no announcements.
Special Meeting following the Regular Meeting
A closed meeting of Council was held to consider potential land acquisition or disposition matters.
The Council Rundown provides a summary of each Council Meeting. The official record of each meeting is the Meeting Minutes and can be found in the Council Meetings section of the website. Video recordings of meetings are similarly available in the same section. Any questions regarding Council Meetings can be directed to Joseph Burke, CAO/Clerk at [email protected] or by calling 705-869-1540.