By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice
EMPRESS – The Village of Empress council decided against a child crosswalk plan but approved school zone signs for the community. The resolution was passed at the Oct. 21 regular meeting of council.
Councillors read a report on crosswalk signage and paint scheme presented by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Carrie Loose, who noted staff wanted council’s input on possible placement of signs and crosswalks.
It was noted during discussion this item was originally brought forward by Coun. Amber Kennedy.
Loose provided councillors with some drawings and maps proposing certain locations.
Mayor Dawna Martin stated that she wanted to ensure any RCMP and provincial government input for this project was considered. Staff noted that in a previous discussion it was noted councillors might consider school zone signs and a crosswalk between 3rd Ave. and Centre St. to calm traffic in an area where children walk to the library.
Coun. Mike Anguish, looking at the proposed sign locations, suggested moving at least one sign to increase visibility.
Councillors discussed whether “end school zone” signs were needed and if so where they should be located.
It was noted at the meeting “end school zone” signs are priced differently because they display a different message.
Councillors also discussed the placement of school zone times to notify motorists they were entering such a zone and to obey the posted speed limit; they also discussed whether the signs should contain 24-hour or 12-hour numerals to denote timing.
Moving back to the crosswalk, councillors wondered whether village staff would be doing the actual painting work.
The mayor wondered if all kids would use the child crosswalk if it meant going out of their way to use it and making their walk home longer.
The mayor asked some members of the public present at the council meeting what their opinions of a crosswalk were; the members of the public responded with winter approaching, the crosswalk would just be covered by snow anyway and end up being scraped off the street as town staff clear snow from roads.
Coun. Anguish observed kids are escorted across the street anyway, so a crosswalk might not be necessary. However, he noted signage to alert motorists seemed like a good idea.
Councillors unanimously passed a resolution to decline the crosswalk plan presented by staff but to approve the purchase and installation of school zone signs, including on 1st St. W.