Nipawin council voted to repeal 13 archaic bylaws. One, from 1949, dealt with the pasteurization of milk – something that municipalities now have no power over.
Barry Elliott, the town’s administrator, said the repeals, done at the Sept. 11 council meeting, were part of a review of the town’s bylaws, policies and procedures.
“Some of the bylaws we have on the books officially are truly not needed, they’re outdated, they’re archaic, they’re non-enforceable, they’re not even in our realm anymore.”
The 13 bylaws, which dated from 1949 to 1985, also dealt with subjects like chimney standards and paddling pools. In the meanwhile, changes to items like provincial and federal legislation, as well as items like building codes, have rendered the bylaws obsolete.
“That’s the beginning. We’re continuing to look through the remainder of the bylaws,” Elliott said. “Some of the other bylaws that are still usable, we will be working on revisions on them to update them.”
The town is also working to prevent the situation from happening again.
“We will be working on a review schedule for getting back to the bylaws to make sure that they remain current,” Elliott said.
Two properties not sold
Council also voted to decline two offers to purchase town land.
One, on 116 Peter Dr., wasn’t sold because there are some drainage issues on the property. Council voted to remove the piece of land from the list of properties for sale.
“What council has essentially decided is they’d hold off putting that one back on the market until such time the drainage matters are resolved,” Elliott said.
The other, on 105 West Spruce Ave., wasn’t sold as the offer was $2,000. The town has appraised the lot at $5,000. The town also wanted to give the town planner the chance to examine the property and make sure the services like drainage are up to snuff.
Hawks contract
The town and the Nipawin Hawks are still negotiating a contract for the use of the Centennial Arena.
Elliott said as negotiations were still underway, he couldn’t provide many details, but did say council was anxious to sort out the details.
“I have no doubt that we’re going to sort it all out and we look forward to them having another great season.”
Council also decided to make a $500 contribution for the team’s first annual Sports Gala.
Town tendering solicitor services
The town is going to the market to see what kind of price they can get for solicitor services.
Council voted to have administration prepare a request for proposal for the services over a three year term.
Municipalities have prepared similar request for proposals for services like auditing and even banking services.
