Tony Rotherham, LJI
All members of council were present except L. Allen; ten residents were in the audience.
The mayor announced that the new triennial roll of property value assessment for the period 2024 – 2026 had been received from the evaluators and the MRC. The average increase in value of properties in West Bolton is 84%. He also stated that the tax rate would be reduced significantly.
Questions covered the following points: Perhaps the MRC and municipalities should consider changing the procedure for funding the SQ. There are two formulas used; a set amount per house/or population and a percentage of the total assessed value of properties in the municipality.
Residents are anxious to see the report and recommendations for renovation or replacement of the town hall. The committee is reviewing the following points: the need for additional space for meetings, offices and storage, the purchase of additional land adjacent to the town hall to permit expansion and renovation of the existing building and installation of a well and septic system. There is also the possibility that a new site will be found and a new town hall built. There are lots of complications involved including approval by CPTAQ if land adjacent to the present town hall is purchased.
When will new speed limits be established on West Bolton roads? A review of present limits followed by a new regulation and installation of signs is required.
Town Planning – Eight permits were issued with a value of $73,000. Thomas Duperee has been appointed to the CCU for a period of two years. A minor derogation to build a house on a lot on de la Tour Road was refused. The demolition bylaw was adopted with two additions – consideration of environmental impacts of the demolition and heritage values. Councillors Richer, Asselin and Whitcher were appointed to the committee to evaluate requests for demolition and issue permits at $350 each.
Council meetings will be held on Monday at 7:30 p.m. during 2024, but not always on the first Monday of the month, see new schedule on municipal website.
Roads and infrastructure – Contracts were approved for snow clearing at the town hall, a dry hydrant on Summit Road and Foster Mt. parking lot as well as emergency replacement of a culvert on Spicer Road.
Environment – It was recommended that residents conduct a test for radon if this has not yet been done. It is not expensive and may provide important information.
Next Meeting: Monday, December 4th