Council is considering establishing a crosswalk at the corner of Madison and Henricks Drive.
A concerned citizen brought the matter to Public Works, claiming to have seen close calls between drivers and students crossing to get to their school bus. According to Public Works, the Town would need to install a four-way stop as well, since Madison is considered to be a major road.
Council, however, would like more clarification and asked administration to check into the possibility of having the crosswalk without the four-way stop.
Councillor Lisa Constantini expressed frustration over delays and possible extra costs to complete the renovation of the upper floor of the Centennial building.
She said engineering studies should have been done before the building renovations were started three years ago. At that time, council was divided on the necessity of hiring an architect or engineer, but now the need for professional drawings has become apparent, which will likely increase the overall cost of the project.
The Town’s building inspector has informed council that a firewall needs to be installed at the bottom of the stairs, but this construction requires architectural drawings. Several architects have told the Town they would not be able to give a quote until the use of the upstairs area is established.
For instance, creation of a dance studio would require different regulations than if the area were to simply be used for storage.
Council has not yet determined what will be housed upstairs, but Town administration offices or classroom space is being considered.
Council asked administration to investigate the building requirements for making the area acceptable for any use, and to look into handicapped accessibility options.
Until more information is available, the item will be tabled.
Chief Administrative Officer Carol White informed council that Rocky View County has advised the Town that the recycling and transfer site just north of Irricana will be getting a compactor for cardboard.
The compactor will increase efficiency for collection and hauling as well as reduce the need for residents to flatten their own cardboard. Three-phase power will also be installed soon, which will allow the depot to be open during evening hours.
Deputy Mayor Andrew Carr provided an update on the Rocky View Foundation and construction progress of the new Crossfield Lodge. There is a vacant suite in Crossfield Manor, anyone interested can contact the Rocky View Foundation. Carr assured council he will keep Irricana’s desire for a senior’s facility on the table.
• The Case tractor repair is complete, bringing the snow removal equipment up to full operation.
• A broken window at the Centennial Centre cost $800 to repair.
• Both skating rinks are in good shape.
• The hydrant near the Mason Hall on main street will have to be replaced due to leakage, and the grading at the far east end of Pioneer Drive where it intersects with Madison Drive is proving to be inadequate.
A Community Needs Assessment presentation will be presented to Irricana residents on Jan. 27 in the Community Hall at 7 p.m.
The next meeting of Irricana council is Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in council chambers. The public is welcome.
