The meeting is set for 6 p.m. at the Don Ross Centre Chamber and is open to the public both in person and online. The photo was taken at a previous meeting on March 10, 2025. (Kenneth Cheung/ battlefordsNOW staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

MEETING PREVIEW

City council to discuss tax enforcement, budget shortfall, higher fines

Mar 24, 2025 | 12:28 PM

The City of North Battleford council will tackle a range of issues at its meeting tonight, including a proposed tax enforcement policy, funding for a water system upgrade and changes to the city’s traffic bylaw.

Tax enforcement policy up for approval

Council is expected to vote on a new tax enforcement policy, which would establish procedures for collecting overdue property taxes.

The policy outlines how the city can place liens on properties with significant arrears and, if necessary, take ownership through the provincial mediation process.

Traffic bylaw changes include higher fines

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Council will also review proposed changes to the traffic bylaw, including higher fines for parking violations, unregistered vehicles and engine retarder brake use.

The amendments would also regulate heavy vehicle testing routes and improve traffic flow near schools and hospitals.

Budget shortfall at Co-op Aquatic Centre

A budget shortfall for the Battlefords Co-op Aquatic Centre air handler replacement is also on the agenda. The project, originally budgeted at $730,000, now requires an additional $71,595 due to structural issues discovered during installation.

Council will decide whether to cover the extra cost using the Canada Community Building Fund.

City seeking federal funds for water system upgrades

The city is also applying for federal funding through the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF). If approved, North Battleford would receive up to $18.3 million for water system upgrades, with the city responsible for the remaining costs.

The project includes a new water treatment system, an expanded reservoir and a new waterline.

Public hearing on development bylaw changes

In addition, council will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to its Official Community Plan that could allow more residential and commercial development in certain zoning districts.

The amendments would clarify that residential units can be permitted within commercial and industrial zones, remove restrictions on major office developments outside the downtown, and introduce incentives for downtown redevelopment.

The city says the changes respond to increasing interest from developers seeking greater flexibility in zoning regulations. Any future zoning bylaw amendments would require separate public engagement.

The meeting is set for 6 p.m. at the Don Ross Centre Chamber and is open to the public both in person and online.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com