Airport lease rates in Ponoka are rising by five per cent.
Town councillors made the decision Sept. 24 during a meeting and the suggestion came from the Airport Commission, explained CAO Brad Watson. “The commission recommended five per cent.”
The increase will add rental revenue, to $11,989 from $11,423.
The Ponoka Industrial Airport is expected to have a $12,973 deficit for 2013. Coun. Shayne Steffen asked the commission if the lease rates were comparable to other communities. “We’re right in line…I think this increase is fair.”
There are 23 rented properties at the airport.
Airport commission appointment
Council approved Lyle Boman for a three-year term on the airport commission. The term begins Dec. 1 and ends Nov. 30, 2016.
“There are new members on there as well as resource people. Mr. Boman brings a lot of continuity,” explained Watson.
The position was not advertised.
Parkland library budget
Parkland Regional Public Library’s budget for 2014 to 2016 was approved by councillors.
The board budgets for revenue at $3.1 million for 2013 and $3 million for 2014 for its 50 member libraries.
The majority of revenue is expected to come from membership fees budgeted at $1.5 million.
For 2013 there was a provincial grant at $914,000, and $423,000 from a rural library services grant. There was also $158,000 in school contracts.
Steffen believes the board has worked diligently to provide a solid budget. “It’s really a tight budget. I must commend the library board for tightening their belts so to speak.”
The board has earmarked 15 cents per capita from book orders and placed them into technology orders. This allows the board to update computers and software as technology advances.
Historical building request
Marc Yaworski, owner of the Leland Hotel, has spoken with Watson on the potential his hotel can be designated as a Municipal Heritage Building. Yaworski is working with Alberta Municipal Affairs to meet criteria.
If approved, Yaworski would take advantage of provincial funding. The money would go to making the building similar to its original condition. He must keep the hotel in its original appearance for it to be considered a heritage site.
In-camera
Council met in-camera for just over 30 minutes to discuss a request from Telus. After, council approved to sign a memorandum of understanding with Telus. This allows the company to upgrade its infrastructure within the Town of Ponoka.