Economic stimulus
ERIN – Council here supported a motion put forward by councillor Cathy Aylard to allocate $40,000 from the town’s economic development reserve “over and above” the regular economic development budget to support economic development activities.
Aylard spoke of “extreme construction fatigue” during a May 9 discussion on her motion.
The money can go toward promoting economic development, stimulating local businesses and enhancing prosperity within the community, Aylard said.
“Especially during construction,” she added, referring to ongoing construction in Erin’s downtown cores, related to the town’s new wastewater treatment plant.
“Construction fatigue in Hillsburgh is an even bigger concern,” Mayor Michael Dehn suggested.
“I think Hillsburgh has to be looked at, at the same time.
Aylard received unanimous support for her motion, and directed staff to deliver a progress report on projects funded by the reserve dollars six months from now.
Car theft prevention seminar May 23
Resident David Spencer spoke about concerns with crime in town at council’s May 9 meeting.
Spencer mentioned three car break-ins within his neighbourhood, and hopes OPP community safety officers will bring statistics to an Erin Residents’ Association car theft prevention seminar this week.
The seminar is to be held at 7pm on May 23 at Centre 2000.
New alcohol policy
ERIN – A new municipal policy is reducing restrictions on serving alcohol at public events.
The new policy, which has no restrictions on parks or facilities, should result in quicker approval for events where organizers want to serve alcohol.
Whereas the previous policy restricts who can host certain events, the new policy is set to reduce those restrictions.
Updated language within the policy is “straightforward” according to staff, offering clearer guidance for event organizers.
Staff suggested event organizers apply for permits to serve alcohol at events directly to town clerk Nina Lecicin the interest of speeding up the approval process.
Councillor Cathy Aylard expressed interest in continuing to hear organizers delegate before council.
The new policy was passed on May 9.
