From the January 22, 2009 Meeting of Regional Council
2009 Current Budget Approved
Regional Council approved the 2009 Current Budget for Regional Departments and Agencies, Boards and Commissions (excluding Police), at a 1.8% increase before assessment growth, assessment growth at 1.2% for a net taxpayer impact of 0.6% increase.
Regional Council also approved the following rate budgets Water 3.4%; Wastewater 3.4% and Waste Management 4.5%.
The Niagara Police Services Current and Capital Budgets were referred back to the Police Services Board for further consideration, to reach the target of 3.4%.
A Vision on Action - Employment and Economic Prosperity for Niagara
Members of Regional Council are invited to attend the Niagara Local Marketing Planning Committee's event being held at Four Points Sheraton in the City of Thorold on January 27, 2009 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Committee will be meeting with political, business and labour representatives, to apprise them of the plan, strategic actions and priorities.
Appointments of Standing Committee Co-Chairs for 2009
Regional Council approved and congratulated the Councillors who were appointed as Co-Chairs of the Standing Committee for 2009 as follows:
Niagara 2031: Growth Management Strategy
A Committee of the Whole meeting has been scheduled for January 29, 2009 at 10 a.m. in Council Chambers at Regional Headquarters to hear delegations respecting the Niagara 2031: Growth Management Strategy.
Advancing Niagara Region's Infrastructure Priorities
The Regional Chair met with the Honourable John Baird, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities on January 15, 2009. The meeting was held to discuss the advancement of Niagara Region's infrastructure priorities, which will help stimulate Niagara's economy within 120 days; create much needed jobs and attract business and industry to Niagara Region. The projects discussed could be initiated over the next 12 to 24 months to continue to propel the local economy and job creation opportunities.
Study to be Undertaken to Assess/Establish the Need for a Region-Wide Transit System
Regional Council approved the draft Terms of Reference to undertake a study to assess/establish the need for a Region-wide transit system and delivery mechanism. The study will be conducted by an independent consultant(s) based on the approved Terms of Reference.
Watch Hockey Night in Canada for the Top Five Finalists
Regional Council congratulated the Town of Lincoln for placing in the Top Ten Finalists in the "Hockeyville 2009" competition. The Top Five Finalists will be announced during Hockey Night in Canada each week beginning on January 25, 2009. The Finalist chosen will be the host community for CBC the following week, when another Top Five Finalist is announced.
Following the announcement of all Top Five Finalists, the community will again be asking for your votes, check back frequently on the CBC Hockeyville site for your opportunity to vote.
Mayor Hodgson thanked everyone for their continued support!
New Operating Agreement Between Niagara Region and Niagara Regional Housing
Regional Council approved the new Operating Agreement with Niagara Regional Housing. The new agreement includes operational efficiencies for the betterment of clients that Council wishes to seek, while leaving the governance structure of Niagara Regional Housing unchanged.