Annually, the Northern Rockies Regional Hospital District (NRRHD) is presented with a provisional budget based on the Northern Health (NH), capital budget for Fort Nelson General Hospital, as well as contributions to regional projects.

Representatives of NH attended the meeting and provided an update on the proposed CT Scanner project, communicating that final project cost estimates are anticipated for February 2024, taking into account the increase in scope to include the X-Ray replacement, which was not originally anticipated for a few more years to come. Given the co-location of the X-Ray and CT Scanner equipment, efficiencies and cost savings were expected by combining the projects.

It was reported from the InCamera Regional Hospital District Meeting that Northern Health is currently unwilling to fund any of the CT Scanner project costs given a CT Scanner is not part of the long-term service plan for the Fort Nelson General Hospital at this time.

Bylaw Report #81/23 | Video Recording

More progress has been made from the Nov. 27th Regional Council Meeting on the Animal Control Bylaw. This update provided a Draft Animal Responsibility Bylaw for Council's review. Staff provided a section-by-section analysis of changes and notes to consider but the conversation focused most on fostering limits, the expansion of fees of nuisance, aggressive and dangerous dogs, as well as definitions related to chickens and beekeeping. The community can expect to see public engagement in the New Year relating to the bylaw before final adoption.

Admin Report #16/23 | Video Recording

Improved seating in the Secondary Arena is well underway! Following the October 10th meeting, staff continued work on a bleacher design with consultants. The newest design includes an accessible raised platform for the bleachers and walkway. This is designed to allow for accessible viewing of the events on the rink, including viewing from a wheelchair.

The project also includes looking at adding additional heat and larger burners to the viewing area. As an interim solution, the installed heaters have been lowered to increase the warmth. Staff have heard that this has made a notably big difference to the public. The grant application has been submitted for review with the Northern Development Initiative Trust along with letters of support from the user groups and community members. With the inclusion of both items, it is anticipated that the full amount of funding available in the grant will be maximized.

Admin Report #69/23 | Video Recording

Council supported staff to work with the Northern Rockies Accessibility and Inclusion Committee to identify temporary on-street accessible parking through downtown areas. They also agreed that permanent on-street accessible parking be established in Spring 2024 following engagement with business owners. Council questioned the definition of "inclusion", wondering if it expanded to those with young children and seniors. This point will be noted in the planning of the permanent parking signs.

Council agreed to support the continued participation in the North East Accessibility Committee in the New Year.

Admin Report #70/23 | Video Recording

Closing date: December 15, 2023

Closing date: Until Filled

Job Posting No. 2023.01

Closing date: December 31, 2023

Closing date: Until Filled

RFQ-2023-36

Closing date: November 30, 2023

The Leisure Guide 2024 is ready with lots of exciting programs and events running January - March 2024.

Register online at nrrm.perfectmind.com, in person or by phone