Council update, December 7, 2008

What a lovely snowfall today -- so nice to see the Town snow-covered, with the prospect of a great ski season and a beautiful holiday season ahead!

What's coming to Council tomorrow?

Council has a briefing on the bio-solids project before the Council meeting, and a budget meeting after the Council meeting, but the actual regular meeting agenda is quite short.  You can see the package here:  http://www.banff.ca/AssetFactory.aspx?did=1796

We'll be looking at a revised version of the Animal Control Bylaw.  Besides tidying up the formatting, the most significant change is a move away from specific regulations about particular breeds -- pit bulls, to be exact.  Bylaw Services are recommending that we concentrate on the behaviour of dogs, rather than what breed they are, and have provided some compelling background information to go with this recommendation.  I have to say that I agree with them - I've met some delightful, sociable pit bulls, and some cranky Lab crosses.

Council will also be reviewing a whole range of fees -- we do this annually, and try to keep the fees in line with inflation and with the cost of providing service.

What's happening with the budget?

Council is tentatively finished with the operating budget, and it looks like a zero percent tax increase.  I found myself in the unusual position of arguing for a bit more spending on items such as the transfer to capital, but I feel that the final budget represents council and staff's best effort to do the right thing in difficult economic times.  I feel that everyone did their homework and brought their ideas to the table.

Tomorrow we will go through the capital budget -- the intention is to try to finish budget tomorrow evening.  We're working through dinner, and there was some talk of "until midnight, if that's what it takes!"

An opportunity for input

A lot of you have expressed interest in the town's new directional signage.  On Thursday, December 11, from 3 - 5 pm, there will be an open house in Council Chambers at Town Hall.  You can take a look at the proposed sign locations and provide your feedback.  I know that this is an awfully busy time of year, but do try to drop in.  If you have any questions in advance of the meeting, you can contact Elizabeth at 403-762-1221. 

The fine print

As always, this blog represents my own opinion, and does not in any way represent the position of Council or of the Town of Banff.