Wasted water at Loose Bay
A mechanical problem at the Loose Bay campground for itinerant farm workers has resulted in an apparent over-use of water provided free by the Town of Oliver.
Chief Financial Officer David Svetlichny told council that the water used at Loose Bay could have resulted in about $4300 in revenue to the town if water fees had not been waived. At current consumption rates, the amount would go up to $4670 for 2015.
Mayor Ron Hovanes said that there is apparently a mechanical problem in the water system at Loose Bay, resulting in a sprinkler running continuously.
Water Councillor Andre Miller told council: “We should tell them we’ll charge the full rate and they’ll fix it.”
The matter was deferred for two weeks, when a representative of Loose Bay will appear before council.
Library WiFi too popular
The Oliver library’s free access to the internet has proved so popular that the library is being forced to limit the service.
Councillor Maureen Doerr reported that people loitering around the library have become a problem, particularly for some seniors who are avoiding the facility because of the crowds.
As a result, she said, the library has decided to turn off the free WiFi at 9 p.m., to make access password protected and to post no loitering signs near the library.
Mayor Ron Hovanes, who pointed to the many advantages of free internet access to the community and tourists, asked town staff to explore the possibility of introducing “WiFi hubs” around town.
Burning restrictions broadened
Council decided Monday to increase the minimum size, from half an acre to two acres, of agricultural land on which burning of pruning waste will be allowed.
Smaller properties will have to mulch such material or take it to the landfill, where it may be dropped off free of charge.
Mayor Ron Hovanes pointed out that burning of trimmings is becoming less of a problem and that even larger farms are opting for more air-friendly means of disposal.
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Roy Wood is a contract writer for OsoyoosDailyNews
(Former Edmonton Journal deputy editor)