Cassandra Carter, resident, inquired about the implications of the town switching to bi-weekly garbage collection. Mayor Atkinson responded, highlighting concerns about this approach due to bear-related issues experienced in the previous year. She reminded attendees that the Council had decided to implement weekly garbage collection for November and December of last year specifically to mitigate bear problems. Councillor Hipkiss expressed support for the bi-weekly schedule. She pointed out that such a schedule is common in most cities and could lead to budgetary savings. Ms. Carter further contributed to the discussion by noting that residents have landfill access and often incur no costs when disposing of garbage. Mayor Atkinson clarified the operational details, explaining that while the town is responsible for garbage collection, the actual disposal is managed by the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. The town, she noted, is charged tipping fees for this service.
Brad Ross, resident, raised a question about the town's water deficit, asking whether it was due to a lack of capacity to meet the community's needs and inquiring about potential solutions for increasing this capacity. Mayor Atkinson responded, explaining that addressing this issue would involve constructing an additional water reservoir. Councillor Brumovsky offered a clarification, stating that the town currently has an adequate water supply. He mentioned that the suggestion to increase capacity came as a recommendation from the town's insurance provider, not due to an immediate shortage. Mayor Atkinson further emphasized the importance of this issue, particularly in the context of potential wildfire risks. She advocated for a proactive approach in ensuring a sufficient water supply, underscoring the need to consider future challenges and the safety of the community.
Shannon Bezo, resident, raised a question regarding the recent increase in garbage rates, inquiring whether it was related to the cost of replacing numerous bins damaged by bears last year. Mayor Atkinson responded, clarifying that the rate hike was primarily due to the need to replace the commercial garbage truck, a replacement that had been overdue for two years. She noted that the town is currently renting a truck as the old one was no longer serviceable. Additionally, Mayor Atkinson mentioned that the new garbage bins being considered for implementation are designed to be bear-resistant. Kerri Borne, the Chief Financial Officer, further clarified the situation. She explained that the increased garbage rates were not a direct consequence of the costs associated with replacing bins. Instead, the rate hike is attributed to inflation. Ms. Borne also added that the town had purchased extra bins to ensure a sufficient supply for replacements as needed.