MD Council notes September 27, 2011

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

In addition to the Spotted Knapweed problem reported on elsewhere, the Municipal District of Pincher Creek Council addressed several other issues at their September 27 meeting.

Director of Operations Leo Reedyk was questioned about the airport lease review.  He indicated he was mildly concerned at the lack of an environmental clause in the lease agreement, even though he believes there are "no real environmental issues at this time."  Deputy Reeve Bjorn Berg asked "Does the airport need it's own development plan?"  Reedyk indicated the "airport has no zoning per se at the moment."  Council decided to amend the current lease with an environmental clause.

The Road Closure Bylaws 1205-10, 1206-10, 1208-10, and 1209-10 passed second and third readings with very little discussion.

Coaldale, Fishburne, and Willow Valley community halls will be appraised for insurance purposes, at a cost of $450.00 to the MD.

A letter was accepted as information and discussed from a Lundbreck citizen concerned with the condition of the road/railway crossing leading into the hamlet from Highway 3. Reeve Cyr voiced the opinion that the letter gives the council an opportunity to get the CPR's attention.

A letter from the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties regarding the Oldman River Wind Energy Interconnection project, including the "Oldman 2" substation was also received as information.
Some council members were concerned at the prospect of temporary lines being built to transmit power.
"If it goes longer (than the stipulated) 18 months, are we going to close it down?" asked Councillor Rod Zielinski.  "We have concerns about the proliferation of transmission lines, temporary or otherwise," said Berg.

Councillor Helen Cyr reported on possible plans for Crestview Lodge.  She said a new facility on the site could cost as much as 6 or 7 million dollars.
Councillor Terry Yagos said the Landfill has decided to reward a scholarship to one student at each school. He also said there were concerns with dust control, particularly at the intersection leading to the landfill.  A brief but heated debate ensued, with Councillor Zielinski expressing his concern at involving the MD in such an expenditure.

Schedule:
A preliminary budget meeting has been set for Monday, October 17 at 1:00 pm.
MD Council will meet with Family and Community Support Services on Tuesday, October 11.

MD Council will be holding a public open-house in the administration office lower meeting room today, Wednesday, September 28 at 7 pm to discuss the Windy Point Wind Park.