Adam Johnson
Northern News Services
Wednesday, July 4, 2007

YELLOWKNIFE - More money will be entering the coffers of Yellowknife groups this year, as the Yellowknife Arts Festival gives back its city funding.

The YAF's $7,000 in city funding will be split between five groups. Ecology North will receive $1,000, increasing its amount from the city to $4,000 from $3,000; with an extra $1,000 for the Philippine Cultural Society (to $4,000 from $3,000); $3,160 for the Yellowknife Gymnastics Club (to $15,160 from $12,000); $1,200 for the Fly Kid Foundation (to $4,200 from $3,400); and $640 for the Territorial Writers' Association (to $2,140 from $1,500).

New postering plan moves forward

The controversy over postering in Yellowknife took a step towards resolution this week, as council moved to have administration explore "pole wraps."

The wraps are designated sections of some poles where postering is allowed, similar to those used in cities such as Ottawa and Vancouver.

The city has four designated postering kiosks downtown, which have never pleased councillor Bob Brooks.

"I didn't think it was enough at the time (the kiosks were built) and I still don't," he said.

Councillor Shelagh Montgomery supported the move, so "postering of important community events can continue."

Councillor Paul Falvo, however, voted against the motion.

Last month, Squatterz Books and Curiosities owner Daron Letts, among others, raised concerns about the lack of legitimate postering space in Yellowknife for community events.

City administrator Max Hall did not give a timeline for the plan, as it conflicts with current bylaws.

Parking meter letter angers councillor

During member remarks, councillor Mark Heyck said he was dismayed by a letter that ran in the June 15 issue of Yellowknifer.

In the letter, Yellowknifer Patrick Kane described his anger at the state of parking enforcement in the city.

While Heyck said he appreciated concerns about broken parking meters, he took issue with the how the letter "singles out and belittles the parking officer."

Rather than targeting the writer, Heyck took aim at Yellowknifer, criticizing its decision to run the letter.

"(Yellowknifer) owes the official an apology and they owe the city an apology," he said.

"I'm not holding my breath."

Councillors pass budget 'wish list'

During the meeting, council also put out a list of recommendations for the upcoming 2008-2010 budget, which councillor David McCann derided as "almost a wish list."

"I'm not sure what assistance it is to anybody," he said.

The list includes many councillors' pet projects, such as a cardboard ban at the dump, curbside recycling, a 9-1-1 plan and more money for special grants.

Heyck countered, saying he appreciated the chance to vote on the recommendations, something that had not been done in previous years.