Town of Eston council accepts resignation of councillor McLeod

By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice

ESTON—The Town of Eston council accepted the resignation of one of its members at the regular meeting on June 23.

In a phone call with Your West Central Voice on June 29, Eston Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Jody Irwin confirmed Coun. Tim McLeod resigned from council, citing a lack of time for the role.

While a byelection is required to fill the vacant seat, Irwin noted councillors decided it would be best to wait until summer is over to get that process underway. Councillors also tweaked their committee assignments to fill McLeod’s vacant positions.

Drainage upgrades

Councillors agreed to some sidewalk work on Main Street which the CAO noted was linked to drainage issues. Irwin stated the town has some money set aside for sidewalk repairs, and the Main Street work involves making space for a covered water drain. Councillors also discussed a complaint from the public about the issue.

More sidewalk and drainage work will be done, including by the lodge and the clinic ramps, plus the sidewalk to the school. She noted the town was having trouble finding a contractor for the job but did locate one.

Canine issues

Councillors discussed a recent town hall meeting with residents to discuss bylaw enforcement, including dogs running at large. Irwin stated council, staff and peace officers discussed the issue with the public, including the idea of hiring a dog catcher. It was noted the town would also have to look at caring for such animals, along with other issues that have a substantial price tag attached. Irwin noted dog control may be discussed again at a future meeting.

Vacant properties

Irwin reported councillors briefly discussed vacant properties that are in the town’s possession.

Motocross track

Irwin observed the motocross track that is partially located in Eston is being used while the municipality has placed "use at your own risk" signs at the track. Councillors discussed the fact there is no association currently caring for the track. Councillors stated they hoped a volunteer group would step forward to care for the track. Irwin stated anyone interested in taking over the track can begin the process by phoning the town office.

Hospital lockers

The CAO stated that at a recent auction held at the defunct hospital, a member of the public saw three rows of unused storage lockers and inquired about purchasing them. Town council gave approval to the offer.

Scavenger permit

The CAO noted town council also approved a "scavenger permit" for a former restaurant in Eston. Irwin stated the permit allows a buyer to enter the property to remove items of value they wish to purchase.

However, she noted the condition of the property is starting to become a concern, so this may well be the last scavenger permit the town approves for that property. The issue will be discussed at a future meeting of council.

Lot offer

Irwin provided councillors with an offer made on a town-owned parcel. However, the CAO noted the transfer into town ownership is not quite complete and the parcel also has to be publicly advertised.

Demolition

Councillors approved a permit for demolition of a disused grain elevator on the edge of town which also sits on town property. Irwin stated it will likely be demolished in August, but no exact date is known yet. The CAO stated the town researched contractors who are qualified for this kind of work, adding demolition of the building will be quite a sight to see.