Terrace Bay council highlights council appointments to various committees

The meeting was called to order and the minutes of the previous council meeting were accepted. The next item up was supposed to be a report on the status of the Hydro Bay development plan. There is now a delay until the hydrogeological study is completed which will determine the feasibility of a septic system for the area.

Also on the agenda:

• A discussion for filling positions by council for the various committees. Councillors are encouraged to take a role on the various committees. Surplus land sales was the next topic on the agenda. There has been some interest in these properties being brought to market. One of the properties was the church on Selkirk that the township will purchase as part of the downtown development project. Both items were approved and the sales will go ahead.
• Records of retention is always a concern for municipalities as some information has to be available and retained for future use. Creating digital storage and filing systems is to be passed by a bylaw and is becoming a requirement.
• The treasurers report is proposing fee increases of up to 3% to help offset rising costs for municipal operations. Short term gym memberships are also being considered. Garbage collection fees might increase by 25%. The 2023 budget plan revision had been requested for acceptance and approved. Insurance costs for municipalities has been escalating over the last few years. This year will see a nearly 5% increase to the township for its insurance policy.
• Community development report featured a request for replacement ski club lift bars.
• An in-depth report from the bylaw officer was presented to council. Property inspection was a major concern as there has been an increase in violations regarding property standards.
• General disbursements for the month were approved. 
• The North Shore Harvest Food Cupboard food bank has approached the township of Terrace Bay for a donation. A $500 donation was approved.
• Finally all Bylaws presented were approved and the final council meeting of the year will take place on Monday December 19.