Tax rates bylaw nearing adoption

Council is set to adopt its tax rates bylaw.

The average Oliver residence, based on an assessed value of $282,857, will see municipal taxes increase by $11.71. But this will be offset by a reduction in garbage/recycling fees of $10. Therefore, the overall tax increase is $1.71.

The average Oliver residence will also see the following increases on their tax notices when compared to 2013: regional district ($19.38), library ($3.49), hospital ($4.30), school ($5.77), and police ($1.79).

 

Town to replace dump truck

Council approved increasing its dump truck replacement budget by an extra $18,000.

It also awarded the replacement tender to Premium Truck and Trailer Inc. for a total of $182,911.

Councillor Jack Bennest commented that this is a “huge amount of money” for a dump truck.

Director of Operations Shawn Goodsell said the truck comes with snow-clearing equipment.

It was also noted that these trucks have a lifespan of 20 years, and basically “pay for themselves.”

 

Wizard of Oz students commended

Members of council commended the SOSS drama students for their recent Wizard of Oz performance.

Councillor Larry Schwartzenberger said it was a great act that showcased the students’ talents.

Fellow Councillor Jack Bennest said it was amazing how the students memorized three hours of script. He offered drama teacher Alison Podmorow kudos for bringing the performance to the new Frank Venables Theatre.

 

Firemen busy

Oliver firefighters responded to nine calls for service in March.

These included a grass fire, a brush fire, three alarm activations, two smoke in residence calls, a structure fire and one ambulance assist.

The fire department reminds residents to use extreme caution with fire this time of year.

 

Windows/doors contract awarded

Council has approved a windows and doors upgrading project for the CPR building.

The Town is increasing the budget by $6,000 and awarding the contract to CLS Construction in the amount of $57,656 plus GST.

The windows and doors are being replaced to improve energy efficiency and lower overall costs.