There is labour peace in Armstrong.
The city and the Canadian Union of Public Employees have hammered out a new contract that covers from 2016 to 2018.
“It’s a fair and equitable contract for both sides given where we are with the economy,” said Coun. Shirley Fowler.
There is a wage increase of 1.65 per cent each year for the eight unionized staff and a 0.2 per cent hike for benefits.
“The city is a good place to be employed and the employees appear to be content working for the city and that helps with the feeling of fair negotiations.”
Budget process underway
Armstrong officials are starting to look at dollars and cents.
Development of the 2016 budget is getting underway as staff pulls together the necessary figures and documents.
“By the end of March, we will have a budget workshop, a public meeting in April and final adoption of the budget in May,” said Mayor Chris Pieper.
Pieper wouldn’t speculate on a possible tax increase.
“We want to be conservative but if you want the same services, it can’t be zero,” he said.
Trails society keeps busy
The Armstrong-Spallumcheen Trais Society has a lot on its plate.
Coun. Paul Britton presented an update on the society’s activities to Armstrong council.
“They’ve had two meetings and they’re trying to get an inventory of all of the trails and parks in the area,” he said.
One of the parks being looked at is the Thomas Hayes Reserve, including renewing a lease with the provincial government.
Other issues being pursued by the society are signage, grants and fundraising.
Off to the Emerald Isle
Armstrong residents will explore the birthplace of pioneer Catherine Schubert.
In the fall, there will be a 10-day trip of local residents to Ireland and then a five-day journey to Northern Ireland, including Rathfriland, Schubert’s hometown.
“This is open to anyone who wants to go. Some of the Schubert family are going,” said Mayor Chris Pieper.
“It is a self-funded otur and not paid for by taxpayers.”
Armstrong and Rathfriland recently became sister cities.