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Downtown patios have been requested for years
Mayor’s update June 2013
By City of Fernie Mayor Mary Giuliano
Meetings, events and more meetings seem to be the order of the day. The positive about meetings is that they result in practical decisions or so it seems to some though not so much to others. I will dive right in and comment on one decision that is a hot topic right now. You guessed it, downtown patios. This has been in the works for several years, the policy finalized last fall and several businesses immediately applied.
The complaints received have to do with lost parking spaces affecting individuals with mobility problems as well as the fear that vehicles will run into the patios. I do apologize to those with mobility problems, I understand that it is more than a matter of convenience to park close to where you want to shop but allowing patios is something that has been requested for numerous years.
This initiative will be evaluated at the end of the season as to what worked and what didn’t. At last council meeting I requested more space allocation downtown for those with mobility issues; also, the city is looking to install angle parking on First Avenue to allow for increased parking. Another way to free up more spaces would be for employees of business on Second Avenue to park on Third or First Avenue instead of downtown. I believe the atmosphere of people on the patios adds a tremendous liveliness to our downtown and once they have been decorated with greenery and flower baskets downtown will look pretty nice.
The city is forming a committee with the Cherished Memories group and other stakeholders to investigate a suitable location and monument for commemorating citizens passed on with no known place of permanent rest.
Council has also agreed to work with members of the Fernie Snowmobile Association in their quest to find a larger staging area for the ever-growing visitor traffic that contributes greatly to the economy of our town.
I attend many functions such as the grand opening of the Banner program at the Art Station. Each year it seems artists that enter works outdo themselves; the banners are very much appreciated by visitors and residents alike and many inquiries are made by other communities as to how this program is carried out. Thank you to everyone that enters this competition.
The Summer and Wednesday socials have begun. Last year they were very successful, thanks to the hard work of the Chamber of Commerce, businesses and volunteers that worked so diligently to make this happen.
I had the opportunity to host the two French immersion classes from IDES at City Hall. I provided a tour and gave each one a city pin. The kids asked great questions and it was a real pleasure to show them around the building and provide info on the politics of Fernie.
I also attended Aladdin, the dance performance and was surprised at the expertise of the production; 406 changes of gorgeous colours and fabrics making up spectacular costumes with most remarkable dancing. Principal Director Alana Rybar and her team are to be commended for the wonderful job they do of achieving such superb results from their students that are most enjoyable to see.
Council congratulates Craig Austin who recently retired from the city after 32 years of service and wish him all the best in the future and welcomes the new Chief Financial Officer Terry Holt who comes here from Canmore.
The annual municipal report for 2012 is ready and is definitely worth a read. In it you will find information regarding what Councils strategic goals are as well as municipal objectives and operational highlights from the various departments as well as 2012 grants and partnering agreements and the audited financial statements. It is a mandate of the city to maintain infrastructure and last year $3.2 million was invested in roads and the water distribution system that included the Splash Park. This year will see work on Fourth Street and Manitou Road.
The past week was busy with the flooding situation. I must commend the many volunteers who stepped up to help; I wish I could name each and every one of them for their willingness to help those in need. Staff from the city and Regional District of East Kootenay also deserves praise for being on top of the situation around the clock. It is during periods of need like this flooding event that we truly understand what it means to be a friend. My sincere thanks to everyone.
