ESTEVAN - Estevan city council gave the green light for a sixth cannabis retailer in the community, but it wasn't without some discussion during the March 24 meeting.
In his report to council, land development services manager Richard Neufeld said the store would be located at 420 King Street, which is an undeveloped portion of the building that already houses the LB Liqor Store.
The proposal was referred to all property owners within 75 metres of the building. To date, Neufeld said the city has not received any inquiries; he noted this is the first time the city hasn't received any comments regarding a cannabis retailer.
Coun. Shelly Veroba said the Government of Saskatchewan has opened up the sale of cannabis, and there's no limit on the number of retailers for the community.
"It's all for the customers to decide whether or not Estevan has enough businesses," said Veroba.
Coun. Tom Mauss questioned if Estevan needs another such retailer. He voted against the motion.
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Council also discussed a request from the Â鶹ÊÓƵeast Saskatchewan Women of Distinction Awards committee, which was looking for sponsorship for the event, slated to happen May 2 at the Power Dodge Curling Centre.
In lieu of a cash donation, the committee was looking to have the rental of 40 round tables, 320 chairs, pipe and drapes to cover the walls of the curling rink, and a stage section of 12 feet waived. The city would have received name mentions at the event and promotional benefits, along with four tickets.
"Your donation would contribute significantly to our mission of honouring the ongoing efforts, dedication and leadership of talented and selfless women who shape our communities," the committee said in a letter.
A report from leisure services manager Erin Wilson said the base rental rate for the venue was originally $1,250, but a 50 per cent discount has been applied, bringing it to $625. The Eagle Sky Estevan Bruins' Sportsman's Dinner is slated for the following day, saving time on take-down efforts following the awards.
The additional cost for rental items requested was $1,280. A 50 per cent discount has been applied, bringing the cost to $640.
Veroba commended the work the awards committee does in the community, but she noted the city has a policy with non-profits who rent facilities, and she thought the discounts provided by the city were sufficient.
"I just caution we're doing this too often, and we have a policy to follow," Veroba said.
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Council received the annual report from city tax assessor Trina Sieben on the list of property taxes in arrears. The multi-page documents lists properties with a total amount of $648,344.
Last year there was $444,983 of land in arrears.
Property owners will have 60 days to pay the amount and costs. Afterwards, if money is still owing, a tax lien will be registered.
Any property which owes less than half a year of the previous year's levy will be removed from the list, but the outstanding property taxes owed still have to be paid.
