Elector Response Forms or Withdrawal Forms to be returned by 4:30 p.m. MT, Monday October 31

The alternative approval process (AAP) deadline for the proposed $10 million in borrowing for next year’s City of Cranbrook’s capital roads program is Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31.

“For many residents, $10 million is considered a lot of money and it is. But the city faces an overall infrastructure deficit or shortfall of nearly $100 million. Borrowing $10 million will allow for an extensive road resurfacing and rehabilitation program while also addressing priority water and sewer infrastructure throughout Cranbrook,” the city noted in a media release.

The funds would be used to resurface or reconstruct sections of over 20 arterial and local roads in residential, commercial and industrial areas, as well as a full reconstruction of 2nd Street South from Highway 3 through to 10th Avenue South with repaving from 10th Avenue South through to 14th Avenue South.

“This funding would greatly improve many things, primarily, improving overall road safety and accessibility and mobility for the entire community as well as reducing the number of public disruptions and repair costs associated with water main leaks that are occurring throughout the city. Additional work will also include a significant maintenance program on existing roads to expand their lifespan and protect past roadwork investments. Over time that will both save the city money and allow our roads to be brought up to and maintained at a higher standard throughout the city,” the city release outlined.

“But the bigger picture is that around our economic competitiveness. When companies and businesses look at building or investing in a community, the state of its infrastructure – especially its roads speaks volumes. We are actively pursuing new industries to create jobs here and pay taxes here, reducing everyone’s tax load,” said Mayor Lee Pratt. “But if those industries see a huge infrastructure deficit and nothing being done, they won’t come because they see big tax bills coming in order to fix it.”

If you completed an elector response form and feel that you were pressured or mislead into signing one, you can revoke your elector response form by completing a withdrawal form at www.cranbrook.ca/aap . It must be submitted by Monday, October 31, at 4:30 p.m. MT.

A public information webpage is available to help residents understand the importance of the proposed borrowing and the potential impact the borrowing could have on their taxes. An information package and an elector response form are available for review and pick up either at Cranbrook City Hall or for download at www.cranbrook.ca/aap. You only need to complete an elector response form if you are against the borrowing.

If you have any additional questions, please contact Charlene Courtney, Deputy Director of Finance and Computer Services at 250-489-0203 or by email at [email protected].

e-KNOW

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