Recreation projects outlined for 2018

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By Trevor Busch
Taber Times
tbusch@tabertimes.com

Improving the exterior aesthetics of the Taber Community Centre is among a battery of recreational projects planned for the community in 2018.

The department’s proposed budget was under council’s microscope at their Nov. 14 regular meeting.

In the recreation department, total revenues in the proposed 2018 operating budget are shown as $977,655 with total expenses of $3,834,532. Total departmental revenues in the proposed 2019 operating budget are $927,373 with total expenses of $3,995,827. For 2020, revenues are shown at $925,761, with expenses of $4,185,772.

Changes reflected in the 2018 budget include the addition of a full time recreation operator, additional maintenance due to legislative requirements, increased costs of goods and supplies, and repairs to the brickwork at the Taber Skateboard Park.
Also highlighted was equipment, infrastructure and vehicle replacements, as well as upgrades to the arena access ramp. The Southern Alberta Summer Games will need the addition of a games coordinator position on a six month contractual basis. Other changes affecting expenses and loss of revenue are related to land leases and the cemetery.

In addition to this, the department is proposing extra funding be allocated for three other projects, including signage for the trailhead area of the walking trail located near the Taber Aquafun Centre, as well as smaller signage along the trail ($10,000); the addition of security cameras for various areas ($8,000); and a Community Centre Exterior Upgrade including repair of stucco and a complete exterior paint job ($210,000).

In the health and safety department, total revenues in the proposed 2018 operating budget are shown as $28,500 with total expenses of $71,150.

Small increases in operational spending are expected to be offset by savings in other areas, according to human resources manager Dave Duske.

“Some of those increases are hoping to reduce other operating expenses, such as lowering WCB premiums, reducing employee benefit costs, reducing lost time, reducing time spent on investigations, reduction in cost to replace employees, and increased job satisfaction and productivity, and increased retention of employees.”

Total departmental revenues in the proposed 2019 operating budget is $28,500 with total expenses of $66,725. For 2020, revenues are also shown at $28,500 with expenses of $80,625.

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