It’s budget debate week! We have a long meeting Monday, followed by budget deliberation starting at 2pm on Tuesday. Although there are just over 20 motions on the table, I don’t expect this to be a long meeting. More contentious items include:
The proposal to change how and to what level we fund FCSS programs.
Reconsidering the $98,000 pickleball sound fencing that was unanimously rejected in April. If this fails again, there will be a proposal to fund a $10,000 1-day sound study.
The proposal to fund the remaining trail connection along the river by Oakmont.
Earlier Monday, Committee of the Whole will also meet for an in-camera item regarding “Operational Review Business Case”.
Last week highlights
Adapting to Alberta's Changing Economy webinar
This presentation by ATB Chief Economist Todd Hirsh provided valuable insight on what Albertans can expect of the economy in 2021 and beyond. I was particularly drawn to comments about the need to respond to the covid pandemic by moving forward, rather than trying to go backwards.
Emergency Advisory Management Committee
In preparation for announcements made by the province on Tuesday, we heard a presentation about the current situation. With only one of the two announced Health Orders available, we will likely wait until both are available to consider further response by the City.
Homeland Housing Organizational & Regular Meeting
A couple of months ago, the chair of Homeland Housing asked if I would consider taking on the role of Board Chair - Last week, I accepted a nomination and was acclaimed. This is a wonderful organization to work with, and I look forward to chairing for the next year. Highlights of our meeting include seeing the light at the end of the tunnel for the delayed affordable housing building in Morinville - We expect to receive occupancy permits any day now.
Agenda highlights
These meetings continue to be a virtual/in-person hybrid. Members of the public may contact Legislative services if they wish to address Council either in chambers or via Zoom.
Emergency Operations Centre Update (2:15pm)
This is a time-specific in-camera item from our Director of Emergency Management.
Operational and Fiscal Review - Phase One Final Report
Ernst & Young was retained earlier this year to review:
“"What" services the City provides and "how" the services are provided, emphasizing "what" services and programs the City should deliver or can afford to deliver and at "what" level or standard of service; and”
“Identify alternative service delivery methods and opportunities that have the potential to result in expenditure reductions.”
The final report for the first phase of this project, relating to Community Services, Economic Development, CAO Office, Recreation & Parks, Transit, Strategic Services & Information Technology Services and Environment, was completed earlier this fall. Administration will present their response and recommendations based on E&Y’s findings.
Residential Front-Back Land Use Bylaw amendment (2nd & 3rd reading)
Last spring, Council directed admin to prepare a bylaw to allow front-back multi-family homes. This is an example of a front-to back duplex in Edmonton, with one unit’s garage in the front and the second unit’s in the back off a lane. Although only representatives of the development industry are registered to speak in the public hearing for this bylaw, I haven’t heard any concerns from members of the public about this change.
Zero Lot Lines (2nd & 3rd reading)
This amendment would allow “zero lot line” (ZLL) development, to allow homes to be built on a property line using easements to manage overhangs and property access on/from the neighbouring property. Like the front-back public hearing, only representatives of the development community have registered to address Council. If this passes, minimum distances between neighbouring homes in ZLL districts would be reduced from 2.5m to 1.5m. Additional measures for fire protection will also be required because the properties are so close together that they don’t adhere to traditional building codes. Options for treed boulevards and street parking may also be limited. Front garages would also mean reduced space for utilities like power boxes and fire hydrants, and it might mean an increased snow clearing budget when there is nowhere to store snow.
This is a brief and incomplete overview of our meetings, with my personal comments sprinkled in - In no way are my opinions representative of the official direction of council or the City of St. Albert. Please let me know of any typos or errors.
