Dave E., resident, asked if the mosquito control provided by the District did anything to the bird population and if there have been any research or thoughts into the effects from the mosquito control on peripheral species of plants and animals? Terry Ostash, Superintendent of Public Works, replied that we would have to look into that and get back to him.
Dave E., asked if when speaking of water infrastructure if that included all of Mackenzie or just Mackenzie outside of the Trailer Parks? Mr. Ostash replied that it would be the entire District of Mackenzie.
Dave E., asked if there were plans to update the washrooms at Second Beach? Mr. Ostash replied that he could look into that.
Janice Nelson, Publisher of the Macktown Buzzette, asked if there were any other initiatives budgeted for accessibility planned for 2024? Mayor Atkinson replied that the Accessibility Committee would be responsible for bringing anything forward. Kerri Borne, Chief Financial Officer, added that this is just the provisional budget and future initiatives can still be brought forward.
Ms. Nelson asked for clarification on the provisional budget and if it would be finalized in April? Ms. Borne replied that this would be the initial approval for the budget and and revisions would be finalized in the final budget brought forward in April.
Ms. Nelson asked if there will be another opportunity for final comment or public input for the property tax rates? Ms. Borne replied that the property tax rates are not finalized and that another open session will occur before the April 22nd meeting where residents can ask questions or provide comments.
Ms. Nelson asked for clarification on the budget change of $21,000 for telephone, internet and software. Ms. Borne replied that the expenses were allocated to a different budget line previously and she would get back to Ms. Nelson with further clarification.
Ms. Nelson asked for clarification of what water user fees are? Ms. Borne replied that the fees are charged to commercial users for water use and it also includes residential water fees on property taxes.