By Mary Giuliano
There are only 21 months left in this council’s term to accomplish the many goals being established during strategic planning.
A lot of concerns have been expressed over snow removal. Our workers do a good job with the equipment available. It is difficult to clear the entire town in one day when a snow event happens. Weekends are more difficult as fewer workers are on duty due to financial constraints and lack of manpower. Making changes to allow for more workers and equipment means increasing the snow removal budget presently at half a million dollars. It’s also difficult to do a good job of clearing the streets when vehicles are parked. Please contact the City to find when alternate days are for moving vehicles to the different side of the street for snow clearing.
There has been a lot of negative comment regarding the small lot subdivision which came about to allow for more affordable housing. Most of the homes built on these small lots are not deemed affordable however a modular home would allow for home ownership at a reasonable price range. The City owns 30 buildings, some of which are in need of repair. A facilities master plan will be conducted to address these issues.
Some people are asking why council meetings are no longer televised. The person doing the filming resigned and as the city doesn’t have the equipment needed until an investment is made they will remain untelevised. This isn’t due to council not wanting this action but to the length of time it takes for the process to make such an action happen.
As mayor I continue to attend workshops, seminars, meetings and events. I answer all emails and phone calls and do my best to find solutions to concerns but sometimes it is difficult to do so. Regardless, I appreciate all correspondence and want to thank everyone for all comments. Jim Hendricks is officially the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Fernie. Council extends sincere congratulations to Jim and thanks him for the many hours of service as acting CAO, deputy clerk and chief financial officer. In Mr. Hendricks new role as CAO council feels confident goals will be achieved under his capable management.