Mayor George Fontaine spoke to the Chamber of Commerce yesterday on issues now being dealt with by council.  He said council has been looking at the long term survival of the community and how to build it.  He said they are working on infrastructure noting the heart and lungs have been dealt with with the new sewage and water treatments plants and now are working on the arteries replacing pipes that have been in the ground for decades.

Fontaine said they are demolishing buildings including the Willowpark Curling Rink which is no longer used but the cement pad will be staying and that can be used for recreation.  He also reported they recently met with provincial ministers and asked for all crown lands within the city limits to be turned over to the city without having for pay for them so they can take control of developing them when needed.

Fontaine said talks continue with cottage areas, Creighton and Denare Beach on recreation cost sharing as well as with cottage areas on sharing the cost of fire services.

He also said the city is open to economic development and will look at any ideas that will benefit the community.  He added look forward to announcements on affordable housing within the next six months.