Mayor Taylor supports Glacier Discovery Walk

The office of Mayor Glenn Taylor sent a letter on Nov. 23 to Greg Fenton, superintendent of Jasper National Park, stating his supportive position on the proposed Glacier Discovery Walk.

Taylor informed Fenton: “I am voicing my support on behalf of Hinton for this initiative as it aligns with our regional strategic plan and am asking for your support for this project in your capacity as superintendent for Jasper National Park.”

15-year capital plan presented

Council was presented with the details of a 15-year capital plan prepared by city administration after consultation with the public.

“This $80-million plan ensures that current municipal infrastructure is maintained for future generations and accommodates growth,” stated Dan Pagely, director of community, corporate and protective services.

Some results of public consultation over the plan include:

• 50 per cent of survey respondents are in favour of an annual tax increase of $100 - $200.

• Many comments regarding a new rec centre vs. a renovated rec centre were along the lines of: “take the money and put it toward a new facility.”

• Paving Robb Road is unnecessary as the road is used by industry, not by residents.  

• Culture is not represented in the capital plan.

• A standalone theatre is important - could it be incorporated into the rec centre?

• Seniors’ housing needs to be addressed.

• There is no bus stop in front of Pine Valley Lodge and residents need to cross the road to access a bus stop.

• A pedestrian overpass is needed for Highway 16.

Luger appointed to Hinton Policing Committee

An application to serve on the Hinton Policing Committee was received from Marjorie Luger on Nov. 21.  

Rhonda West, legislative and administrative services co-ordinator, presented council with a request to appoint Luger, a long-time local resident, to the committee.

West explains that the Hinton Policing Committee membership is comprised of five citizens residing within the Town of Hinton or Yellowhead County and two council representatives.

Coun. Dale Currie moved that Luger be appointed to serve on the committee and the motion was carried.

Hinton asked to join fight for vital Medevac service

The mayor’s office in Hinton received a letter from Mayor Peter Kirylchuk of the Lac La Biche County requesting support in lobbying for retention of the Medevac service standards that currently exist via the City Centre Airport.

Mayor Kirylchuk informed Taylor that, with the City of Edmonton deciding to close the airport, this will negatively impact Medevac service and therefore the health and safety of patients from northern Alberta.

Kirylchuk stated: “Transfer times from the International Airport to the Royal Alexandra or University of Alberta hospital are expected to be more than double the amount of time from the City Centre Airport (45 minutes vs. 15 to 20 minutes). This is expected to lower the response standard from one of the best in Canada to one of the worst.”

Kirylchuk added several other points :

• The Medevac service standards for northern communities must be maintained as lives depend on it.

• Keeping the City Centre Airport open is the best option for maintaining the Medevac service standard.

• The province must find a suitable alternative before allowing the City Centre Airport to close.

Council received the letter for information. A decision will be made at a later date.