Bow Island Council looks to unsightliness issues, playground equipment

Posted on July 6, 2023 by Ryan Dahlman

By Anna Smith
Commentator/Courier

While the typical slow-down that accompanies the summer is fast approaching, this last June 26 meeting before the height of summer proves that Bow Island town council still has plenty on their mind.

The town received a delegation from longtime resident Louise Lyons who came forward with fellow residents to cite concerns with unsightliness as they pertain to the nearby Public Works yard, as well as the regular maintenance of some of their neighbours.

Lyons is currently attempting to sell her home, and explained that the appearance of the nearby property was inhibiting her ability to do so.

Council assured that in both cases, a solution was close at hand, and would be dealt with in the near future.

A further delegation from Verge Economic Development in regard to their Building Agriculture Workforce Capacity (BAWC) work in the area was also received. Verge hopes to put together a report in regard to what can be done to attract labour to Bow Island and area in the near future.

Council moved to purchase playground equipment from Blue Imp for Jubilee Park with a total project budget amount of $43,000 to be funded from the Community Building Fund. 

It was noted that this project has been in the works for some time, and the price of the install only seemed to climb with time while they explored other options. In 2021, the swing set at Jubilee Playground was removed as it no longer met safety standards. Residents have been requesting that more playground equipment be added.

The existing slide will remain in place.

A new position is proposed for the Public Works Department with a new job description. This is a temporary/seasonal position for the purpose of assisting in the planning and coordination of various projects related to Public Works and includes costing and tracking of expenses. 

The description of the position was adopted at the Council Meeting.