The Municipality of Wawa's seeking public input, as Council considers next year's capital projects.
In a recent meeting, staff presented Council with a draft 2022 Capital Budget, which actually outlines not just projects for next year but for the next four years, many "highly dependent" on outside funding, intended to align with the municipality's strategic plan and infrastructure needs.
In total, it proposes $160,785 from taxation, $885,125 from reserves, and $317,000 from grants to fund a total of $1,363,000 in new recommended projects, bringing the total for 2022's capital - with previous commitments - to $4,725,614, though there is a focus on maximizing outside funding while matching the asset management plan, regulatory requirements, and other needs.
Projects outlined include: a study of Town Hall expansion, which could see it redesigned to meet accessibility standards; a Community Fire Risk Assessment and subsequent Fire Service Review; improvements for the Michipicoten Memorial Community Centre; Marina washrooms; a Building Condition Assessment; a Community Improvement Plan; Airport Lighting; the Landfill and Cemetery expansions; ongoing School Zone rehabilitation; sidewalk rehabilitation and pavement preservation; hydrant conversions; benches and receptacles on Mission Road; banners and lights on Broadway Avenue; and tourism billboards on highways.
The presentation can be viewed on the Municipality's YouTube channel - plans are to accept public input into January 14th, in hopes Council will approve the capital budget February 1st, though plans are to present the draft operating budget January 18th, for approval March 1st.