Whitecourt Town Council update

Council has approved the purchase of two new transit buses to serve Whitecourt Transit. The buses have been purchased in part with funds approved from the Province’s GreenTRIP Grant Program, and are expected to arrive next spring. Council also adopted a public transportation strategic plan which was developed by the Public Transit Steering Committee. The Town has made a 10-year commitment to public transportation, and the goals and priorities outlined in the strategic plan will aim for Whitecourt Transit use to reach levels similar to a larger urban center, making public transportation a core service.

Council has adopted the 2016 20-Year Capital Plan. The annually adopted plan provides a vision for the Town of Whitecourt’s infrastructure, land development, parks, trails, buildings and recreation facilities to meet the needs of our growing community. The plan sets broad direction that helps guide decision making, promotes sustainability in the future, and enhances residents’ quality of life. The plan can be viewed on www.whitecourt.ca.

Council has passed third and final reading of Bylaw 1518 which will allow the town to borrow $1,690,000 to construct a leachate treatment system, road, and a cell to meet continuing demands for landfill services.

An energy audit was recently completed at the Allan & Jean Millar Centre and Scott Safety Centre to identify energy conservation methods that could reduce the facilities’ energy consumption, save utility costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Based on the audit, a number of projects will be undertaken which will be funded in part with a $100,000 grant from the Taking Action to Manage Energy Program.

Projects scheduled as part of Whitecourt’s annual Street Improvement Program will be completed by Knelson Rock Products Ltd. This year’s projects include a number of overlay and intersection rehabilitation projects.