This summary is a snapshot of the decisions made by City of Kenora Council at the July 19, 2022 meeting. Please review the minutes for an official record of the meeting proceedings.
Council approves insurance renewal
Council supported a staff recommendation to renew an insurance policy proposal from Westland Insurance Group Ltd. and Intact Public entities for $531,257 (plus taxes). This is a 19.3% increase over last year. Council also supported exploring Cyber Insurance.
Council approves budget amendment for kiosk technology
Council approved a $33,075 (plus HST) to upgrade card reader technology at the City’s parking kiosks to continue accepting credit card payments. The technology upgrade also allows the meters to accept Interac Flash payment and other contactless payment schemes such as Visa payWave, Mastercard PayPass, Apple Pay and Google Pay. This upgrade provides increased security and supports improving our customers’ experience.
Council supports Blue Box service
As the Province looks to implement a full producer-based Blue Box recycling program, Council supported the continuation of providing recycling curbside services within City services. Rather than opting for an external contractor to provide recycling services, signing this agreement keeps both garbage and recycling curbside collection services operating together. This agreement provides continuous recycle service for single-family residences, multi-family residences, long–term care, homes, retirement homes and schools in Kenora.
Council approves budget amendment for Art Centre purchase
With significant financial support from the private sector, Council approved the purchase of Walter J. Philips Watercolour “Norman Bay, 1922” for the Douglas Family Arts Centre for $112,040. This purchase is outside of the 2022 operational budget; however, has now been included through the budget amendment which includes the donated funds for the purchase. This addition to our Art Centre enhances the Walter J. Phillips collection and is vital to its growth and national reputation.
Council approves agreement by-laws
Council approved by-laws to finalize project and service agreements for:
- Behr Integrated Solutions Inc. for a Fire Master Plan and Community Risk Assessment - $63,790
- Ontario Business Improvement Area Association for the Northwest Business Centre -$53,060
- Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for Norman Park Playground - $860,000
The projects and services had been put out for tender and accepted previously by Council. The final approval is for administrative purposes.
Recruitment announcement
Charlotte Edie, Director of Finance, is retiring in early 2023, and a new Director of Finance, Ryan Marsh, has been appointed to fill that position.