August 2018 update:
In addition to the usual summer workload, the Public Works staff have been kept extra busy removing trees, branches and storm debris with approximately 150 loads hauled to the burn pile by District staff alone. Due to ongoing ratepayer and contractor demand, the Emma Lake landfill will remain open seven days a week until the end of September.
Staff and Council reports / discussion included:
- While a permit is required for community events and parades, the fee will be waived for non-profit events.
- Administration will establish a District Facebook page for the purpose of communicating timely information related to work/activities taking place throughout the area.
- Consideration, based on financial and human resources, will be given to drainage work on portions of Jacobson Drive and Street in 2018. Otherwise the work will be deferred until next year.
- Cameras have been installed at recycle bin depots throughout the District, however, garbage and other non-recyclable items continue to be dropped off. When the offenders can be identified, they are subject to fines and charges.
- Protective Services staff have been utilizing the new license plate reader throughout the area identifying unregistered vehicles and drivers.
- Boat patrols have been taking place on Christopher and Emma Lakes in co-operation with the Ministry of Environment (Conservation Officers).
- There was considerable discussion regarding the unauthorized use of all terrain vehicles including golf carts throughout the District. It was noted that SGI approves the use of municipal bylaws related to golf carts, and that a primary restriction is the limit of transport only to and from a golf course using the most direct route.
- The usual summer increase of development permits dealt with decks, additions, tree cutting and movement, buildings, gravel and sand.
- 2018 Citizen of the Year, Marcia Bergman, will be honoured at a community event on Saturday, September 29 at the Christopher Lake Legion.
- CPL Recreation has been recognized with the 2018 SPRA (Saskatchewan Parks & Recreation Association) Award of Merit. The award is being presented in recognition of demonstrated creativity through the promotion of healthy lifestyles and the creation of new programs and services. A wonderful acknowledgement of the partnership which exists between the Villages of Christopher Lake and Paddockwood, the RM of Paddockwood, and the District of Lakeland.
- Work continues on the Emma Lake Nutrient Study. Several members of the Environmental Advisory Committee have spent considerable hours working with the SK Polytechnic student and staff gathering data – follow them on Facebook (Emma Lake Environmental Stewardship Program).
The request from the Bell’s Beach Lagoon Community Dock Association to replace a retaining wall and to remove a sand bar at the entrance to the lagoon will be determined following further consultation with the Water Security Agency, Contractor, Administrator and Public Works Manager.
The Sunnyside Co-op Dock Owners Committee application for an additional permit (from 16 to 17) was approved.
The PARCS (Provincial Association of Resort Communities of SK) newsletter contained information regarding their 2018 convention in Saskatoon on October 19 and 20. For more information, contact PARCS via email – parcs@sasktel.net – or visit their website www.skparcs.com.
At the Organized Hamlet of Elk Ridge’s annual general meeting on July 29, Morris Sawchuk was elected to the hamlet board. Copies of the report on activities, 2019 budget, the process and financial projections related to a transition to village status, and AGM minutes were received.
The November Council meeting is set for Monday, November 19, due to consideration of the timing of Remembrance Day this year.
Ratepayer concerns related primarily to trees and skunks. Where applicable, ratepayers are contacted directly by District staff to deal with the matter raised.
Community BBQ – the second annual District of Lakeland BBQ held on July 27 at the Lions Park was well received with about 160 burgers served. It was a beautiful day in a great setting. Staff were thanked for making the arrangements, and all the work done to host the event.
Check to ensure you have received your 2018 tax notices. Ratepayers have until August 31, 2018 to pay their property taxes without incurring a penalty. The tax notices included an informational brochure, and a publication prepared by the District’s Environmental Advisory Committee.
As mentioned in every update, while the contact information for Council Members is on the website and/or available through the District office, we encourage you to contact the District office if you have a concern or require municipal services so that it can be addressed in a timely manner. Saying thank you is always a good reason for a phone call as well, and greatly appreciated by our Staff and Council.
Cheryl Bauer Hyde
Reeve
Note to residents of Anglin and McPhee Lakes and the Organized Hamlet of Elk Ridge only: the McPhee Lake landfill will be open from 12noon – 4pm, Saturdays August 25 and September 8 to receive compostable material. Please be prepared to provide proof of District of Lakeland residency as it may be required.