Schreiber Council Meeting Focusses on Upcoming Summer Events

The Schreiber town council meeting of April 18th started with a thank you from mayor Kevin Mullins to all the volunteers in the community and the work they do. 
The minutes of the previous meeting were then adopted.
Transfer of remaining reserve funds for the fitness centre upgrades was approved.
The trail improvement project also received their additional funding from the infrastructure reserve fund.
The Handi transit replacement vehicle was approved and will be funded through the federal gas tax reserve allocation.
The expenditure request for the various water reservoir inspections and related equipment costs were voted on and carried. The annual report from OCWA was also accepted.
All accounts for payment and bank transfers were approved and ratified. It was mentioned that the amount had increased due to the purchase of the new loader and heating system improvements and repairs. 
Under other business, the bylaw to authorize a contract for media advertising was approved.
Another contract for technical engineering had also been approved through a bylaw.
A bylaw to appoint a weed inspector as per provincial legislation was found humorous and was further explained by CAO Nathan Dias. The duties will include include inspection and destruction of weeds in the town. It seemed rather odd in light of the recent efforts by the gardening community and its efforts to promote natural vegetation. A bylaw passed last year to regulate property standards was met with some opposition by people who objected to manicured lawns and would rather see more natural vegetation in the area.
A request for assistance for funding to attend a recruiting event to help with the hiring of medical professionals was carried.
A property currently owned by the town is now considered a surplus asset to be disposed of at a later date. The address of the property was not disclosed.
The memorial bench program was then discussed. Contracts will be drawn up between the purchaser and the town for a 10 year period. Locations will centre around the new splash pad and branch out over the next few years. The design of the benches was also discussed. 
The treasurer report was presented and highlighted transfers from reserve funds to various departments. Property tax allowance for doubtful accounts showed a possible shortfall of nearly half a million dollars. The allowance fund can be transferred back to make up a portion of the shortfall owed. 
Director of Operations report provided an update and summary on current ongoing projects within the town. Repairs to infrastructure is ongoing and includes water works and treatment facility upgrades.
Downtown revitalization project update included refurbishing the washrooms and adding more electric outlets to the Scotia street corner. 
Recreation programmer report focused on entertainment for the event in July this year. The event will be shorter this year with entertainment over 3 days. A request for a grant in aid to cover rental for the high school graduation dance at the rec centre was brought forward. The grant in aid programme was discussed as the costs for donating the hall is absorbed by the community. There is also a need for clarification on what organizations are eligible for the freebie and the cost involved for scheduling of staff for setup and cleaning. A chip reader and iPad are up for sale from the town office. 
The Senior centre report summarized the upcoming activities of the centre.
The Bylaw report highlighted issues with bylaw enforcement.
The community economic development report focussed on the upcoming business networking event and the revival of the Aguasobon chamber of commerce. The last event of this type occurred over 3 years ago. 
Fire chief Jan Morrison was on hand to take questions from council on the latest fire department activity. Council was asked to sign an agreement with the MNRI to define costs associated with fire fighting on crown land.
The OCWA report is always comprehensive but often difficult for laypersons to understand. It shows that the town has remained compliant in its efforts to maintain reliable and safe water supply for residents.
The Treasurer report was presented and Treasurer Marlene Bottomly was in attendance to clarify any questions. The Ontario Street reline project was once again brought up and is a big budget item for this year.
Under Communications, there was a letter from Parks Canada asking for feedback on future marine conservation regulations. 
The Drag Race committee has suggested the town purchase a banner to help identify the location of the event.
Unfinished business focussed on issues dealing with Sewage repairs due to blockages. The meeting was then adjourned.