CitySSMThe Port of Algoma is on Monday’s City Council agenda.  The group behind the multi-million dollar project is asking Council for an extension of their consulting agreement with KPMG/AECOM — which would allow the completion dates of the first two phases to be pushed further into the coming year.  A report to Mayor Christian Provenzano and council from Engineering and Planning Commissioner Jerry Dolcetti suggests that the consultant has made progress in their work so far, but has uncovered marine structure conditions that are in greater need of repair leading to additional assessment and a phasing of improvements.  Another reason for the extension is that discussions under the New Canada Fund will not happen until January.  While an application for submission there is being worked on, funding for implementation has been delayed due to the federal election that happened last month. Continuing talks with First Nation stakeholders are another reason for the extension request.

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Another issue on Council’s agenda on Monday night is a request to send the Ministry of Natural Resources a letter.  The MNR would be asked to review its role regarding wild animals and their response to calls about coyotes and bears.  The responsibility was downloaded to municipalities more than two years ago.  At that time, the MNR no longer assumed responsibility to respond to the public, or live trap animals, but rather to educate the public on dealing with wild animals. Right now, City Police are unable to live trap and relocate wild animals and end up using deadly force when public safety is at risk. But increased concern from residents and high costs for the city have resulted in the request for the letter being made.