The Chief Administrative Officer reported to Council about the Essential Service Directory, now available on the Town of Fox Creek website. The directory was established in partnership with the Fox Creek Chamber of Commerce and will provide the public with current information regarding local businesses, including hours of operations, cleaning practices and modes of service delivery. Also reported is the new Fox Creek Economic Development Facebook page which is designed to help get all necessary information out to the business community.
Council gave first reading to two Development Incentive Bylaws that were brought forward. Bylaw 832-2020 Land – Vacant Commercial/Industrial will provide a two (2) year tax exemption on land purchased from the Town that is actively being developed and serviced for the purpose of resale. While Bylaw 833-2020 – Building on Vacant Commercial/Industrial Land will provide a tax rebate for the first year, followed by a series of rebates for the next three (3) years for any new building constructed on existing vacant commercial/industrial land. Both are subject to conditions but are geared to promote Fox Creek as an ideal location for continued and future development.
Administration also brought forward to Council an amendment to the Façade Improvement Grant Program Policy. Amendments included general cleaning up of details to ensure the policy fits the current organizational structure. This amendment comes with specific consideration to the local business community during the COVID-19 crisis to help them rebuild or revamp their facades if they so choose.
After some discussion, Council motioned for Administration to draft a new Animal Control Bylaw that includes sections on cats at large and an urban hen program as well as an update to the penalties and procedures. Administration is also to develop plans for an Off-Leash Park and a Feral Cat Program for implementation in the 2021 operating budget.
The community can still look forward to Canada Day festivities, albeit under the recommendations of COVID-19 public health restrictions. Some ideas for this year’s celebration include Backyard Party Bags, Chalk Your Walk, Brown Bag Breakfast Drive-thru, and an Outdoor Drive-in Movie. More information will be gathered to ensure that all Alberta Health Services guidelines are followed. Look for more information to come.
Council has proclaimed May 17-23, 2020 Public Works Week in the Town of Fox Creek. To acknowledge the work our Public Works department does, the week will include a lot of fun facts, getting to know the Public Works team, and a “Spot the Truck” contest, all brought to the community via social media.