City Council recap

The following decisions were made at yesterday’s regular City Council meeting.

Strategic Plan Quarterly Report – July to September (for information):

• Administration presented the Q3 Report Card, which highlighted the progress towards the outcomes in the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. It showcased specific activities related to seven outcomes, including significant upgrades to municipal infrastructure that contribute to a thriving city.

Annual Policing Plan and Crime Stats update (for information):

• Inspector Linaker with the Red Deer RCMP provided an update on the progress of the Annual Policing Plan and on Red Deer’s second quarter crime statistics.
  
  
• Highlights included the outcome of the Enhanced Summer Visibility Program, which resulted in 236 foot patrols conducted along city trails, increased police presence at downtown events, and making connections with a wide range of community members, including, youth, Indigenous communities and Canadian newcomers.
  
  
• Stats also showed a three per cent decrease in property crimes, led by a 10 per cent drop in break and enters, 18 per cent decrease in mischief and 31 per cent decrease to damage to property.

Downtown Business Association (DBA) 2024 Budget (approved):

• The DBA presented its 2024 budget for Council’s consideration. The DBA’s Board of Directors is responsible for the management of the Business Improvement Area (BIA), including preparation and administration of its budget. The City of Red Deer collects the BIA taxes on behalf of the DBA to fund its budget. Although the board operates autonomously, The City of Red Deer is linked through:
• Council appointing the board, and has a member on the board;
• A liaison with the DBA that ensures we are cooperating on initiatives, addressing opportunities, and leveraging resources;
• Council approving the DBA’s budget; and
• Making any changes to the BIA Bylaw, including its boundaries, must be approved by Council.
• City Council approved the annual budget of the Downtown Business Association that includes a five per cent levy increase.
• For more information: Council approves 2024 DBA budget, increased investment in events

Land Use Bylaw Amendment Rezoning from P1 Park and Recreation to R2 Residential (Public Hearing & second and third reading):

• A public hearing was held, and City Council approved second and third reading of a Land Use Bylaw Amendment to rezone an area from P1 Park and Recreation to R2 Residential in the Eastview area.

Monday’s City Council meeting was recessed until Monday, December 11 at 10:30 a.m. This includes the Regular City Council Meeting and Public Hearing of Land Use Bylaw 3357/P-2023.