It’s rare that I know I won’t be able to attend at least part of a scheduled Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, but this is one of them. In the morning, I’m heading to the Legislature to meet with a couple MLA’s - I’ll provide an update on that meeting later - and will join COW when I’m able.
Agenda highlights
Dodger Dog Park & Off-leash area signage ($200,000)
Administration is recommending that we fence Dodger Dog Park in Campbell Park/near Servus Place - Knowing the popularity of the fenced Lacombe Park Dog Park, I could see this project increasing usage in this area. They’ve also proposed that we “enhanc[e] circulation at the three main pinch points on the site” - I’m not sure what this means, but I’m sure we’ll find out! In line with resident feedback, they are also recommending that we install signage in key off-leash areas (like Willoghby Park) that explains off-least area guidelines/responsibilities. The funding for these projects would come from the reserve created using dog licence fees.
E-Scooter Pilot Report
With almost 20,000 e-scooter trips recorded in 2022 with an average ride time of 21.5 minutes, this technology seems to have been a hit in St. Albert. Admin is recommending that we permanently allow e-scooter companies to operate in St. Albert with minimal municipal intervention, with a less regulated framework than the pilot - but still limiting speeds, parking, etc. Another option is to either ban commercial e-scooter companies or to introduce a higher-cost regulated framework that would allow us to collect data.
Civic Granting Delegation
Based on feedback from Council, Admin is recommending that we proceed with the development of guidelines to delegate granting in certain situations. Right now, Council approves everything - no matter how small - after a recommendation is made from a committee of council. This process is quite labour-intensive and slow for all applicants. Three levels of delegation are being proposed:
“Level 1 Delegation: Community Initiative Grants… includes Grant Programs that provide low dollar value, low risk, one-time, funding in support of grassroot or citizen led initiatives. Application Review & Recommendation for Grant Approval [would be delegated to the] CAO [and] final Grant Allocation Approval [also rests with the] CAO. Current Grant Program alignment would include:
a) Council Sponsorship Grants
b) Commercial Area Beautification Grant
Level 2 Delegation: Community Spirit Grants… includes Grant Programs that breathe life into St. Albert through celebrations, experiences, programs, or services…. Application Review & Recommendation for
Grant Approval [would still be delegated to the] Appropriate Committee of Council… [and] Final Grant Allocation Approval Appropriate [would also rest with the] Committee of Council… Current Grant Program alignment would include:
a) Community Events Grant
b) Environmental Initiatives Grant
c) LG Distinguished Young Artists Legacy Grant
Level 3 Delegation: Community Investment Grants.. includes Grant Programs that provide a significant investment in organizations that build and sustain St. Albert…. Application Review & Recommendation for
Approval [would still be delegated to the] Appropriate Committee of Council… [and] Final Grant Allocation Approval [would stay with] Council. Current Grant Program alignment would include:
a) Community Capital Grant Program
b) Outside Agency Grant Program”
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. Members of the public can register to speak if they have information to present to council. Full agenda packages can be found on the stalbert.ca website.