The Town of Ponoka’s council meeting was short and sweet on May 28, dealing with a few smaller items.
Regulated rate option
Council unanimously passed third reading of bylaw no. 426-19, the regulated rate option tariff/default supplier tariff.
The bylaw extends the town’s contract with ENMAX Energy Corporation to perform certain retail functions of these tariffs on behalf of the town.
Grant writer
Coun. Teri Underhill submitted a notice of motion, asking council to approve a partnership with the Calnash Ag Event Centre and potentially Ponoka County to share the cost of a grant writer.
Coun. Kevin Ferguson agreed with the need for a grant writer, saying, “There is a skill set that is required.”
The motion was carried.
Council, board and committee remuneration
Council approved a 2.1 per cent cost of living adjustment for management, out of scope and council in the 2019 operating budget. Council approved the remuneration policy as presented.
The last pay adjustment was done in fall 2018, to make the council’s “take home pay” on level with their pay before the introduction of new income tax rules in 2019.
Festival of Trees sponsorship
Town council approved a $3,750 sponsorship for the 2019 Ponoka Festival of Trees. The town will be the sponsor of the new Family Fun Day. They sponsored the breakfast with Santa for the past three years for a similar donation amount.
Other town updates
Dust control measures began last week on 54 St. near Poplar Grove Mobile Home Village, including application of calcium chloride to harden the road surface and reduce dust.
Roadway rehabilitation and repairs on 64 St. at the south end of the Froman Business Park between 42 and 44 Ave. will begin in July.
Various paving repairs and concrete replacement projects are also planned throughout Ponoka this summer.