Council Highlights - September 15, 2020

Citizens' Minute with Council

Residents are welcome to speak to Council about issues, events, celebrations or concerns during Minute with Council. At the beginning of each regular Council Meeting, Mayor Michaels opens the floor to the public to speak and share with Council members, administration and meeting observers.

There were no speakers.

Delegations

Presentations are required to be arranged through the Executive Assistant, so that presenters can be sure time is set aside for their presentations on the Council agenda. Find out more about how to be a delegation by following this link.

Natalie Charlton, Hinton Chamber of Commerce
Charlton presented on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, detailing the Explore Hinton project both as a website and as the banner under which the Visitor Information Centre has operated since the Chamber took over from Travel Alberta.

View the presentation in the agenda package, available here.

Public Hearings

In some instances, Council is required to conduct public hearings regarding land use bylaws, rezoning, etc., or on any other matter council deems appropriate.

There were no public hearings.

Action Items

1. Civic Partnership Policy
To ensure Council can best balance funding requests, Administration has aligned this Policy to coincide with the annual budget process. To best prepare both Council and Administration in managing potential partnership proposals, this Policy commits Administration to providing an annual Partnership Inventory Report that highlights all current Partnership Agreements, the level of satisfaction with those agreements, and renewal dates so that Council may contemplate either the continuation or dissolution of the current agreements prior to entering budget deliberations. Through this Policy, Council will also be provided with an annual Proposed Partnership Report so that Council may provide direction to Administration as to which proposed partnerships should be considered during budget deliberations. Any partnership proposals that were not approved through the administrative review process will be included in Council Information Packages. Council may provide direction to Administration to reevaluate or provide additional information regarding any proposals not administratively approved for partnership. While some comparator policies set out funding maximums for each category, Administration did not include this parameter within the Civic Partnership Policy. This omission allows Council flexibility in budgetary decision making. It was moved that Council approve the Civic Partnership Policy #1107. This motion carried.

2. Recreation & parks user fees policy #082 proposed amendments
The fees in Policy #082 were designed to regulate user fees and admissions for the use of recreation facilities managed by the Parks, Recreation & Culture department. Policy #082 specifies that Council shall approve each three-year fee schedule term (see Attachment #1). The current term became effective in September 2018 and ends in August 2021. Specific fees are established in Schedules A and B and form part of the Policy. A thorough Policy and Fee Schedule review is scheduled for Spring/Summer of 2021. The proposed amendments to Policy #082 are limited at this time to the context of free and reduced-fee rates that reflect past and recent situations where the Policy has not provided Council and Administration with the direction needed to address and respond to customer requests in an effective and efficient manner. Therefore, the proposed amendments are intended to create this guidance by establishing variations in rates while maintaining current base rates. On August 25, 2020, Committee passed a consensus direction recommending that Council approve amendments to Recreation & Parks User Fee Policy #082 as presented. It was moved That Council approve Recreation & Parks User Fee Policy #082 as presented. This motion carried.

3. Proposed Parks & Recreation Service Area Addition (Disc Golf)
Disc golf was initiated by knowledgeable volunteers as a community driven activity. At the Standing Committee of September 8, 2020, consensus was achieved to recommend “that Council approve the addition of disc golf to be included in the Parks & Recreation service area portfolio for 2021 and beyond.” Attachment 1 provides supplementary portfolio information as requested by Committee. At the same meeting, Committee further directed Administration “to bring a proposed partnership agreement for the operation of the disc golf course, drafted in collaboration with the Hinton Disc Golf Association, to a future meeting for further discussion and direction.” The intent is that the addition of disc golf as a recognized Town service area would be delivered in partnership with the HDGA. It was moved that Council approve the permanent addition of disc golf to be included in the Parks & Recreation service area portfolio commencing in 2021. This motion carried.

4. Recreation Parking Capacity Expansion At Robb Road
On November 19, 2019, a delegation from the Hinton Mountain Bike Association (HMBA) and Hinton Disc Golf Association (HDGA) presented a concept design and requested funding support for a parking lot along Robb Road to address the increased parking demand and safety concerns in that recreation area. During the 2020-2024 Capital Budget process in the fall and winter of 2019/2020, Council considered funding this request. Upon final budget approval on March 17, 2020, the project did not receive financial support from Council. On February 25, 2020, Council directed Administration to bring a report to Standing Committee regarding the HDGA’s funding request for parking lot construction prior to June 30, 2020. On May 22, 2020, considering the funding request did not receive financial support, Administration sought confirmation of this request and further clarification from Standing Committee. Confirmation was expressed, clarification was provided (to specifically include a project overview, limitations, opportunities, budget impacts and recommendations), and an extension was granted for the report presentation from June 30 to September 30, 2020. Subsequently, at the September 8, 2020 Standing Committee Meeting, Administration presented a report regarding recreation parking capacity expansion at Robb Road. Consensus direction was achieved by Committee recommending that Council approve an allocation of $100,000 from the Town of Hinton / Trans Mountain Pipeline Memorandum of Understanding to be utilized by the Town to design and construct additional recreational parking at Robb Road. This recommendation is now before Council for decision. It was moved that Council approve an allocation of $100,000 from the Town of Hinton / Trans Mountain Pipeline Memorandum of Understanding to be utilized by the Town to design and construct additional recreational parking at Robb Road. This motion carried.

In Camera

In-camera is a legal term meaning in private; When a Council goes in-camera, it means the Council meeting is closed to the public. In general terms, the exceptions include matters where disclosures could be harmful to personal privacy, individual or public safety, law enforcement, intergovernmental relations, or economic or other interests; reveal confidential evaluations, local public body confidence, or advice from officials; or disclose information that is subject to legal privilege.

Following the return from in camera, the following motions were made:

That Council direct Administration to seek internal legal Council as discussed In Camera on September 15, 2020.

This motion carried.

Administrative Inquiries

If Councillors have queries they would like to submit to admin, this will be the time at which they do. This is in accordance with Council's procedural bylaw.

Councillor Maguhn provided the following Administrative Inquiry:

Why, as a Town, did Hinton not receive any of the grant funding recently announced? If more information on other upcoming grant applications is available, he requested the information be shared with Council.

CAO Olsen provided Council with an update, elaborating on correspondence shared previously via email directly to Council detailing the missed opportunity, currently pursued opportunities, and commitment to pursue future funding opportunities.

Notice of Motion

If Councillors have motions they wish to lodge, this will be the time at which they do. This is in accordance with Council's procedural bylaw.

There were no notice of motion.

Information Items

1. Economic Development Status Update

Find more information here.

Councillor Ryan Maguhn: Councillor Maguhn reported an upcoming Golf Society meeting whereat a vote will be held – the results of the vote and details pertaining to are expected to come before Council from Administration shortly as well as through reporting period follow up.

Councillor JoAnn Race: Councillor Race detailed a meeting with community members regarding the Scout Hall, saying area residents have a want for the facility and its upkeep to be a part of the Towns Recreation assets.

Councillor Trevor Haas: Councillor Haas had little to report, with no meetings held recently although less formal conversations are ongoing at the library board regarding opening the facility wider to allow for general patron use.

Councillor Albert Ostashek: Councillor Ostashek had nothing to report.

Councillor Dewly Nelson: Councillor Nelson nothing to report.

Councillor Tyler Waugh: Councillor Waugh reported a recent CEAC meeting where an update on the groups status was provided, and an upcoming CFWY meeting.

Mayor Marcel Michaels: Mayor Michaels reported a Policing Advisory Committee meeting having occurred while Protective Services Manager Martens was away from office that involved discussion around domestic violence statistics and grouping decisions made previously to more holistically tabulate instances and reports of domestic violence.

CAO Emily Olsen: CAO Olsen reminded Council of the Women in Politics Sessions, beginning tomorrow (Wednesday) at lunch funded through a grant from FCM achieved by Community Futures West Yellowhead and the Town of Hinton. Olsen then informed Council of the Pool opening which occurred on Monday, and reminded to review biweekly ComServ Publications for more information.

Town of Hinton Newsflash

Facility Opening Plans

For residents convenience, the Town of Hinton has prepared, and updated, the above image representing open statuses and plans for many core facilities.

For further reference on Community Services' statuses and updates, please view Friday's edition of ComServ (more information below).

Reopened

Athabasca Riverfront Park
Spray Park/Change Rooms
All Outhouses
Protective Services Building (RCMP)
Infrastructure Services Building
Government Centre
West Fraser Guild
Emergency Services Building

Reopened (Consult ComServ for Details)

Peoples Centre
Arenas
Pool
Courts/Other Indoor Facilities
Bouldering Wall will remain closed until precautionary measures are in place.
Hinton Municipal Library
- Phase 3 Now in Effect

In Progress

Kinsmen Park Public Washroom Facilities

Minute with Council Access

Early in the Town Response to COVID-19, Town Council meetings were moved to remote environments, closed to the public, and streamed online to allow for easy access by residents. However, one aspect of our Council meetings that was lost in this necessary response was Minute with Council.

Traditionally, Residents have been welcomed to speak to Council about issues, events, celebrations or concerns during Minute with Council. At the beginning of each Council Meeting, the chair of the meeting opens the floor to the public to speak and share with Council members, administration and meeting observers.

As we determine the "new normal" in this pandemic response, the Town of Hinton has established a procedure to take part in Minute with Council remotely, temporarily, as we prepare for further steps in our reopening plans.

This process is being established to avoid risks of public meeting teleconferencing, such as inappropriate or abusive interjections by anonymous or false identities.

We appreciate your understanding should this cause any inconvenience for you.

Please use this form to receive an invite code to join our proceedings remotely.
Should you encounter difficulty using the form, please call 780-865-6072.

Learn more here.

West River Road Work Scheduled

September 16, 2020

The Town of Hinton wishes to notify residents of West River Road, and area travelers, that a contractor will be replacing culverts that are damaged and smaller than required to handle the freeze thaw cycles observed over previous years. Work will start once the School Busses have passed in the morning, and will be stopped in the afternoon long enough to allow safe passage.

Residents and travelers are asked to anticipate some delay during this construction of the replacement culverts, and are instructed to obey the direction of flag persons working in the area for your own safety.

The work will begin on September 17, 2020, and is anticipated to be finished by September 25th, 2020, weather permitting. Work will continue through the weekend.

lf you have any questions regarding this construction work, please feel free to call 780-865-2634

Have a Say in the Decisions that Change Your Community

September 16, 2020

We have a committee that needs someone like you!

HINTON GRANT FUNDING ADVISORY COMMITTEE
With a mandate to provide recommendations in matters relating to the awarding of municipal funds under the Community Grant Program, this important committee see's members help evaluate, and where appropriate designate funds for, community programs.

LENGTH OF TERM: 1 year
MEETINGS: Approximately 4 per year

To apply, contact 780-740-8059 or Mfaiaz@hinton.ca

Applications are due by Friday, October 16, 2020

Learn more and apply online at Hinton.ca/Committees

Introducing Hinton Success Stories

September 15, 2020
#HintonFirst is back, bringing to Hinton it's first official podcast from the Town of Hinton Economic Development and Strategic Services departments. Aiming for a once a month frequency, Hinton Success Stories will bring residents a unique insight into what makes a business in our community successful, and information about the Town of Hinton's support available to both residents and businesses.

Our first episode is available now, featuring an interview with Jason Griffiths of Griffiths Ford, the Overlander Mountain Lodge, and Folding Mountain Tap Room. Also on the pod are interview Mir Faiaz, and Economic Development Officer Scott Kovatch speaking about supports offered to the business community.

Never listen to a podcast before? Stream the pod here.

Podcast Pro? Here's links to us on some of your favourite platforms:

Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Google Podcasts
Podcast Addict

Alexa user? We're listed in Audible and Alexa too! (currently awaiting verification from Audible)

Find the podcast website, with embedded streaming client, and where we'll soon be posting additional media like photos and transcripts, here.

Community Grant Program Applications

The Town of Hinton is now accepting Community Grant Program Applications for the October 16, 2020 Intake Deadline.

The CGP provides for:

One-time projects and initiatives;
Operating expenses of organizations in their development stage once per fiscal year for up to three years (within the first five years);
Events that are primarily designed and delivered for the general public that attract visitors, significantly contribute to the local economy, and promote volunteerism.

Required documents include:

Financial Statements
List of Executives/Board Members
Last Filed Annual General Return
Only Applicable to Non-Registered Groups
a motion from eligible groups board indicating approval to sponsor ineligible group

Late/incomplete submissions will not be accepted

Visit hinton.ca/CGP to learn more.

Farewell to our Community Development Coordinator

Our wonderful Community Development Coordinator, Joan Melvin, has made the decision to start an exciting new chapter into retirement after 12 years with the FCSS Department. During that time, she played a key role on our FCSS team, leading community programs such as Hello Hinton to welcome newcomers, Interagency to connect non-profit agencies, Board Development to help non-profit boards thrive, and the Community Dinner Program to build community and connection.

Throughout her time with FCSS, Joan’s commitment to making Hinton a great place to call home has made her an invaluable part of the FCSS team. As a long-time Hintonite, she brought a knowledge and understanding of this community and a connection to community members. These insights, along with her expertise in community development, has helped shape our FCSS services for the past 12 years. As Joan starts this new part of her life, she plans to continue to call Hinton home and she is looking forward to this exciting new chapter.

Joan will be greatly missed by her FCSS Family, and we wish her all the best on this wonderful new adventure. Joan’s last day at FCSS will be Thursday, September 17. If anyone is looking for support with Community Development, please call the FCSS Office at 780-865-6036.

ComServ Issue #9 Available Friday

Download the PDF here. Subscribe here.

ComServ is the Community Services Status Guide, a new product of Community Services and Strategic Services at the Town of Hinton to provide an all encompassing update on our Pandemic Status.

The Town of Hinton is on Facebook!

As close to 2500 people have already figured out - The Town of Hinton has a corporate Facebook page! This new service adds another resource to the communications toolbelt, and will house information on many different areas; some days, you’ll see information on bylaws, others recreation programs, others information about council decisions or highlights from Council meetings. We will, however, endeavour to ensure that we are sharing content relevant to the widest possible audience. Like us today by clicking here!

You can view the entire agenda package here.

The next Regular Council meeting will be held October 6, 2020,
at 4pm via Zoom, in the Committee Room, and streamed via YouYube.