Lumsden Council Meeting: September 15 Highlights
We’re introducing something new: a written breakdown of Lumsden Town Council meetings, highlighting some of the key issues discussed and decisions made around the council table. We’ll also continue sharing more details through the River Valley Podcast. Here’s a look at some of what happened during the September 15 meeting.
E-Scooters
Council discussed a proposed bylaw that would establish rules allowing e-scooters to be legally operated in Lumsden. Enforcement became a major part of the conversation, including whether the RCMP would actually enforce a municipal e-scooter bylaw.
Council discussed bringing the RCMP into the conversation before moving much further with the proposal.
Mixed-Use and Residential Development
Council continued working through proposed zoning changes that could allow residential and mixed-use development in Lumsden’s commercial areas. The discussion touched on where residential development would be permitted, building heights and what future mixed-use projects could look like downtown.
Downtown Parking
Parking became a substantial part of the development discussion. Council questioned whether existing commercial parking requirements are realistic for Lumsden’s downtown and discussed the difference between parking requirements for businesses and residential units. Administration was asked to do additional work on the proposed parking regulations.
Sign Regulations
Planning and Development presented proposed changes to Lumsden’s sign regulations following a complaint about a large private-property sign. Council discussed sign size, permits, location and the Town’s ability to regulate signs that may create safety or nuisance concerns.
South Park Washroom
Council approved connecting the South Park washroom to municipal water and sewer rather than relying on water and septic holding tanks. The permanent connection would cost more initially, but long-term servicing was part of the discussion.
South Park Development
Questions from residents about development taking place in the South Park area were also raised during council reports, with one councillor describing it as an issue generating considerable public interest.
Scarecrow Festival Street Closure
Council formally approved the street closure required for the upcoming Scarecrow Festival. Although the festival is an annual event, council noted that a street closure still requires a formal council motion.
School Overcrowding
Growing enrolment at Lumsden’s schools was raised, with council hearing that approximately 650 students are now attending the elementary school and approximately 475 are at Lumsden High School. Council was also told Saskatchewan’s Minister of Education is expected to visit later in September to see the situation firsthand.
Railway Crossings and Road Work
Council received an update on railway crossing work and paving around town. While improvements had been made, some work remained unfinished, along with additional road patching expected around the community.
Water Accumulation
Water accumulation near Lake Street and Beth Avenue was brought forward, with the issue being referred for further discussion and consideration of possible solutions.
Assessment Appeal
Council received an update on an assessment appeal that had previously been successful before the local Board of Revision. SAMA has appealed that decision, with another hearing expected later this year.
Infrastructure Grant
Administration provided an update on a significant grant application involving a retaining-wall project intended to provide stabilization and climate-risk mitigation. The Town is seeking substantial outside funding toward the project.
Tax Arrears
Council reviewed its annual list of properties with tax arrears as part of the municipality’s regular tax-enforcement process.
Council Appointments
Lumsden High School student Piper Norton was appointed as Council’s new Youth Member. Council also dealt with the appointment of a new municipal weed inspector following the retirement of the previous appointee.
That’s the quick rundown, but several of these discussions went considerably deeper than the highlights above.
Want the full story?
For the complete breakdown of the September 15 Lumsden Town Council meeting, including more on the proposed e-scooter bylaw, downtown parking, mixed-use development, signage and the other issues discussed around the council table, listen to Episode 40 of the River Valley Podcast.
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