New Paper Predictions for 2009

Mayor Garth Harris predictions for the new year

Mayor Garth Harris of Preeceville gave his predictions for the new year in an interview on Monday.

“I am a strong believer in working on building a stronger and better community with better communication between the public and town councillors,” said Mayor Harris.

“All of the town council regular meetings are open to the public anyone can attend those meetings.

“The councillors and myself are currently working on finishing things off that required attention before the January 21 meeting which will see the budget come out,” said Harris.

“This year will see a major change in the way of election of a new town mayor and councillors. Our three year mandate is up this 2009 season and will see voters going to the polls. I am not sure at this point of I will be running again this year and there will be a change in councillors as at least two, maybe four of the six councillors have already indicated that they will not be seeking election this election. We as council would like to turn over the community better than we found it. We would like to see the new council keep proceeding and  making improvements to the town,” mayor Harris.

“This year we will be working closely with the Parkland Regional Waste Authority with regards in recycling and the possibility of a new dump site. Last year we saw the process an completion of the first stage of the new Preeceville and District Health Facility. This year will see the continuance of fundraising for the hospital but with municipal commitment shares portion coming due along with major donations that we have received, we should be able to see the building share funded by 2010. I firmly believe we have a world class facility that it is truly hard to believe that we have something of that magnitude right here in Preeceville. With the first stage completed we are anticipating the next stage which will be to see the completion of the renovations to the old hospital will be done by June 2009. After that we can see the residents from the Lions Hostel moving into the new building” said Harris.

“We are currently looking into optional uses for the old Lions Hostel building and are working together with the Sunrise Health Region exploring all possibilities. This year will also see council doing an inventory of all assets which will be accountable in the 2010 tax season.  Last year saw the local improvement of pressured fresh chlorinated water to the east side of town with the replacement upgrade of water lines. In 2009, the main water supply line will start to be replaced which is part of a bigger picture of beginning to replace an aging water system. This is made possible through a grant and monies saved for this purpose through water and sewer resources,” said Harris.

“The Preecville Volunteer Fire Department is still upgrading so we are looking at replacing and purchasing another two new suits as well as looking at the life of the fire engine which may need to be upgraded soon. We are also working closely with Emergency Measures Plan with helping to upgrade the system as well as the possibility of setting up a mock disaster scenario this year. We will also be purchasing another new loader this fall  through the trade up for a  buck program. There is no plans in place for repaving any streets but something will have to be done with the 7^th Street NE, leading up to the hospital,” said mayor Harris.

“As far as the business sector we are holding our own here in Preeceville.I think that the large promotional events like Rockin at  the River and the oil exploration in the area is drawing people to our town. I am also hopful that  we can expand on an industrial park previously known as the Shuya property. There is some interested parties in the purchasing the land but definite plans are not available. For the first time in numerous years this year we saw new homes being built in Preecville.  I think it has a lot to do with the lack of availably of present homes on the market. It is all part of that move where people  are making the move back home. We have alot to offer right here in Preeceville. We are close to  a major shopping centre, we offer a health care facility, recreation for all ages, a great school who is on top of leading technology and  the  sense  and security of small town living. We have a wealth of organizations that are very prosperous. A far as policing matters we are incorporating  a Citizens on Patrol program and hope to move forward with it,” said Harris.

“No one likes the thought of tax increase but reality is that there will be a cost of living increase in taxes. The town will once again participate in Communities in Bloom friends program. We will taking this opportunity to rebuild the committee.  There is no current plans for any expansion of  town property,” said Harris.

“I in hopefully that this year will se another community growth year and I am extremely happy with the dedicated administrative and maintenance staff we have employed and with the councillors. The service groups we have here in Preeceville are second to none and have become more sufficient. The school plays  large role in our community, with the numerous opportunities available to students and the leading edge the school has on technology. There is also a possibility of purchasing a community sign with the help of other organizations in the community,” said Harris

“I look forward to serving the community for what is left of my term and am hopefully that the community welcomes my successor and  the new councillors,” concluded Harris.