Council gives advanced approval to six capital projects

Ahead of the regular budget debate of capital projects, Merritt City Council has given advanced approval to six capital projects.

“Department managers have identified 5 projects that require approval before that point in order to proceed in an effective matter. All five projects are to be funded through the City’s reserve and surplus accounts in 2021,” wrote Deputy Finance Director Sean Strang.

One additional project was added during the debate.

“The pedestrian bridge project that we are hoping is going to be entirely grant funding, heard news today that that may require the full authorization process that would require DFO approval as well. In the interest of us not being successful in that conversation, I think that getting early approval on the project is something we need to have any chance of hitting the fish window,” said CAO Sean Smith.

DFO only allows work around the river during specific times to ensure no harm is done to the fish habitat.

The five projects;
– Firehall network switch ($8,000)
– Firehall furnishings ($25,000)
– Cemetery expansion ($282,500)
– Middlesboro bridge/ Coldwater trail repairs ($200,000)
– SCADA Computer ($10,545)
– Pedestrian Bridge ($81,000)

Both of the Firehall projects are tied into the ongoing constructions of the Firehall expansion which is nearing completion.

“To ensure the City does not run out of plots to sell in 2021 and earthworks for this project should begin as soon as possible,” said Strang of the cemetery.

“This project will require DFO and FLNRO approval which has recently been a time-intensive process, and in order to hit the construction window of July and August, the project needs to be started now,” added Strang for the Middlesboro bridge project.

The SCADA computer is a legislative requirement and needs to be installed as soon as possible.