Ross Beddoes, chief building official, reported that 2012 was a 10-year low for construction in Creston. A total of 42 building permits were issued, with only two for new single-family residences.
Last year’s construction value was under $2 million, compared to more than $11 million in 2011.
•Jen Comer, representing the Creston Valley Food Action Coalition, reported on the growing success of the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market. The number of vendors and customers continues to grow and an economic impact report produced last year indicates that the market is a significant contributor to the local economy.
She said a permanent, year-round location is the goal for the market.
•After a long and often contentious negotiation, the town signed a five-year Arrow Creek Water Treatment and Supply Service cost-sharing agreement with the Regional District of Central Kootenay. Under the agreement, the town will pay 60 per cent of the operating costs. The RDCK is committed to installing water meters on its lateral lines to help measure water usage, which could result in a cost-sharing change in 2014.
The Town of Creston and RDCK have been sharing costs without a written agreement for four years.
•A zoning amendment application for 1333 Eighth Ave. N. will move forward to a public hearing. The amendment, similar to those of neighbouring properties that have been approved in recent years, would change the zoning of the lot from rural residential (R-5) to single family residential (R-1).
•Council planned to hold a strategic planning session with a consulting facilitator in Creston on Jan. 16 to determine its priorities for the coming fiscal year.
•A $1,000 grant for the Creston Valley Thunder Cats hockey team was approved after council learned that it faces an operating shortfall due to the loss of concession revenues. Areas A and B have also committed to helping make up the anticipated $2,500 loss in revenues.
•A $400 grant was approved to help with costs in hosting the minor hockey peewee provincial tournament.