The proposed new library dominated the agenda during the Region of Queens last council meeting.
As previously reported here, council voted to rescind their approval to build a new library at a site in Queens Crossing. They’ve asked for studies to determine the cost to instead build either directly beside or attached to Queens Place Emera Centre.
The March 14 meeting began with a presentation from Queens Care Building Society updating their progress on the new long-term care home to be built at Queens Crossing. The group is currently awaiting design approval before they can formally buy the land from Region of Queens.
Next, council gave second reading to a Tax Exemption bylaw to support some non-profit organizations by allowing them to forgo paying their municipal property taxes. Council passed the motion to give up $241,000 in revenue for the Region of Queens.
They also approved the naming of a new road off Shore Road in Western Head as Serenity Now Lane. Council then rescinded library approval before awarding a community grant of $2,800 to this station, QCCR to update some broadcasting equipment. Approval was granted to conduct an HVAC investigation at the Town Hall Arts and Cultural Centre.
Council agreed to provide $10,975 to DUMAC Energy to complete a comprehensive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning assessment to determine the needs and find solutions to the heating and cooling systems in the building which houses the Astor Theatre.
During the discussion portion of the meeting council talked about creating a tiered support system for low-income property tax relief. Anyone with an annual household income up to $20,000 will receive $400 in relief, from there up to $25,000 will get $350 and between $25,000 and $30,000 will enjoy $300 in property tax relief. Council will vote on that proposal in an upcoming meeting.
Added discussion items included how to reduce the amount the Region’s fire services are paying for insurance.
Council decided they will go with a lower cost insurance provider and pay the higher deductible for any of the five departments as there have been very few claims.
The next council meeting will be held Tuesday March 28 in council chambers beginning at 6 p.m.
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