Discussion at the MPCA meeting on February 14, 2017 included:
Tax Tips – Thank you to Lois Lafond of the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) for sharing tax tips for singles, families and seniors on February 14.
Frosty Fun – It was an afternoon of outdoor fun in Montgomery Park on February 26. Cookies and hot chocolate were enjoyed by all.
Rink – Warm spells have ended skating on the rink in Montgomery Park. The pond will stay in operation as long as the ice holds.
National Historic Site – MPCA executive will look at improving the area around the cairn and monument in Montgomery Park in anticipation of the new sign from Historic Sites and Monuments Board Canada. Jim McAllister suggested that two flag poles be added on either side of the cairn. Extending the concrete apron, adding personalized stepping stones, building stone planters for poppies and adding benches were other ideas suggested. Grants may be available.
Chappell Yards Noise – Councillor Hilary Gough has been asked about the constant noise from the CN Intermodal Terminal. In 2001 CN closed its operation in Regina and centralized its provincial container facilities in Saskatoon at Chappell Yards. Noise and air pollution have been on the rise ever since, but recently a noticeable increase in noise has residents asking why.
Trains – Long trains continue to frustrate Montgomery Place residents. Noise and air pollution along with lengthy traffic hold-ups are routine concerns.
Streets – Some pedestrians are complaining that our roads are not safe, with speeding and inconsiderate drivers who choose not to share the road. Hilary Gough reported complaints from pedestrians that snowy and icy roads put them in jeopardy.
Drainage – Councillor Gough also reported that Public Works are assessing drainage problem areas, particularly at the east end of Caen Street.
St. Barbe Baker Forest – Residents reported aggressive behaviour from fat bike riders on the trails in the forest. Bikers are not inclined to yield to pedestrians. Saskatoon City Bylaw 6884, point 16 states “Yield Right of Way – Every person operating a bicycle in a park shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian therein.” The forest meets the definition of a park.
Deliveries – Help letter carriers and delivery people have a safe path from the street to your mailbox this winter. Keep your driveways and sidewalks clear of ice and snow.
City Councillor – To subscribe to Hilary’s regular newsletters, go to www.hilaryyxe.com
Community Consultant – MPCA reps will attend a Community Trade Show on March 11, setting up a booth with info about the successes of Montgomery Place and networking with other neighbourhoods. Élan Ballantyne will check with City staff regarding City trucks driving through Montgomery Place parks, the snow ridge that forms at the door of the Rec building when snow drops off the roof, and the state of deadfall trees and brush in Montgomery Park.
Montgomery School – Students and staff have enjoyed curling at the CN Curling Club. No school March 10. Three-way conferences are March 23, 3-7:45 pm and March 24 9-11:45 am.
St. Dominic School – Principal Jenise Vangool has been transferred to St. John Community
School. A farewell for her will be held on March 3. Current Vice Principal Jen Miller will become Acting Principal and Jen Meikle, Librarian, will be Acting VP. Sincere thanks to Jenise and to our new acting Principal and VP. On March 8, doors open at 6:15 pm for a 7 pm Night of the Arts variety performance thanks to the talents of Grades 5-8 students. No school March 13. Three-way conferences March 23-24. Easter basket draws will be made April 13.
Next MPCA Meeting – Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at 7 pm in the Montgomery School Library.