ATHABASCA — Village of Boyle councillors have a full agenda ahead of them this week with two delegations, three upcoming events, and the new tax rate bylaw slated for discussion May 15.
To kick off the meeting, Portage College President Nancy Broadbent and Dr. Donna Feledichuk, vice president of academics and research, will present councillors with an update on the school’s past year, data on Boyle students, and initiatives the college hopes to implement in the future.
Councillors will then hear from Lynda Koot, Alberta Treasury Branch facilities manager north. The delegation will focus on the bank’s request to close the back door of the Boyle branch in accordance with ATB’s security policy and install an accessible parking stall for clients on 3 street.
Councillors have discussed ATB’s request at multiple meetings with a large focus on accessibility for all businesses along 3rd Street, as well as long-term concern for parking in the downtown area.
“Saying it’s a handicapped ramp puts the feelings into the whole thing,” said Mayor Colin Derko during the April 17 meeting. “I still think we need to keep the best interests of the community and the growth of the community (in mind).”
Also up for discussion is the tax rate bylaw. After the 2024 budget was approved during the March 6 meeting, Derko and adminstration said they didn't expect rates to increase, but noted the final numbers would not be available until property assessments were sent out.
Other agenda items include council’s representation at the upcoming second annual Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement Pro Rodeo running from May 24 to 26, the 2024 Athabasca County Fly-In Barbecue, and the upcoming Boyle Seniors Symposium.
The 12th annual iteration of the county’s spring lunch at the airport is slated for July 6, and the county is currently seeking sponsorships for the event.
Councillors will also decide which elected official will be making an appearance at the June 4 Boyle Seniors Symposium to speak about healthcare recruitment in the area.
Boyle’s council meetings are held in the Village of Boyle office and begin at 7 p.m. The agenda for the May 15 meeting can be found here.
