WHITEWATER REGION (Cobden) — Last night there was a special council meeting held at the Township of Whitewater Region’s municipal chambers. It began with a closed session for training purposes with Watson and Associates, and was opened to the public for a general government meeting which started at 7:27 p.m. Two items were discussed which were tabled at the meeting.
The first was regarding the 2020/2030 Final Draft Strategic Plan, which details the strategies and actions items the Township plans to execute. There will be a public meeting next week on Wednesday, November 6 at 6:00 p.m. before the bill adoption, where comments and concerns are able to be voiced. A survey for feedback was made available online, with residents encouraged to submit their feedback, and closes tomorrow.
Due to the current numbers from 118 residents who have submitted the survey, it does not seem road maintenance and access to the water for recreation purposes are a priority, stated Robert Tremblay, Chief Administrative Officer. He says he has not received any written comments to-date. The motion to postpone submission of the final draft until after a public meeting was carried, being moved by Councillor Dave MacKay and seconded by Councillor Charlene Jackson.
Discussed second was the 2020 Draft Tax Supported Operating Budget and User Fees Schedules. Information was given to councillors for them to digest, as they will meet again on Wednesday, November 15 at 6:00 p.m. to speak on capital with department managers. There is a public meeting for the draft on Wednesday, December 4 at 6:00 p.m.
According to the draft, the tax levy will not increase but the Township will still see a positive $198 thousand. “We are not in the business of making money, we are service providers,” said Sean Crozier, Treasurer. Three packages were given with detailed numbers, which Whitewater News will be going through and reporting on in the weeks to come.
