Willa Thorpe

The council discussed community concerns, including a statement regarding property tax and water rate increases from a local resident, with a clarification provided regarding the water utility's solvency and available rebate programs. Additionally, a local resident requested clarification on a bylaw concerning maintenance of beaches and boat launches. The Liverpool Curling Centre gave a presentation on their facility's revitalization and future community-use plans, expressing interest in hosting activities such as pickleball or lawn bowling to better serve the community. The council also initiated a review of staff reports regarding year-end financial matters, including uncollectible accounts.

The Council discussed several key items during the meeting. Key topics included a proposed increase in the deed transfer tax rate from 1% to 1.5%, the authorization of grant funding for the Liverpool Championship Host Society, and an amendment to an existing development agreement to permit a self-storage business at 85 Hillside Road in Brooklyn. Additionally, the Council appointed a new member to the Diversity and Inclusion Action Team before moving into an in-camera session.

The council discussed various operational and infrastructure projects. Topics included an HVAC investigation for the local business development center, a review of annual tipping fees for the solid waste management facility, and an infrastructure application for water and sewer upgrades on Lower Waterloo Street. Additionally, the council moved to reject all tenders for the Hillsview Acres renovations project due to bid prices significantly exceeding the approved budget.

The council discussed the VON community transportation program, emphasizing the role of volunteers and nursing staff. The meeting included a public question segment addressing concerns about a proposed noise bylaw, leading to the creation of an ad hoc committee to further review community feedback and propose amendments. The council also voted to rename the business development center at 54 Harley Humphrey Drive to the Liverpool Business Development Center, moving away from its previous designation as a call center.

The council meeting addressed several public and administrative items. During the public comment session, individuals raised concerns regarding employment issues and a longstanding culvert drainage matter. Council reviewed and approved a request for the Salvation Army to utilize the Liverpool waterfront parking lot for weekly church services. Financial discussions included the authorization of account write-offs, the approval of a valuation allowance for fiscal 2020 accounts receivable, and a temporary borrowing resolution for the Brooklyn sewer and water project.