North commuter bridge, communications on agenda for Saskatoon city council

SASKATOON – There are a number of issues on the agenda as Saskatoon city council prepares to meet Monday evening.

Council will be asked to approve a recommendation that CIMA+ be awarded a four-million dollar contract for technical advisory services for the proposed north commuter bridge.

CIMA+ would then provide technical input and guidance, refine the conceptual design, coordinate technical components and assist with contractor procurement throughout the project.

The north arterial bridge would connect Marquis Industrial area with University Heights and will consist of 9.3 kilometres of roadways and a six-lane river bridge.

At the same time, council will be asked to approve the naming of the south bridge.

The naming advisory committee has recommended the bridge be named the Circle Drive South Bridge with naming options to be further reviewed at an appropriate time.

The committee said it had considered a naming suggestion for the bridge but is putting forward its recommendation in order to have signage prepared in time for the opening.

Council will also be asked to approve the parameters for their communications support.

Each councillor would be allocated $10,000 for the fiscal year with a further $10,000 to the city clerk’s office for administration support.

The funds could be used for advertising, general entertainment, office supplies, gifts and promotions, hospitality and meeting expenses.

The parameters would be reviewed after one year including allocations during an election year.

Also on Monday, council will be asked to authorize a letter from the city manager to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority outlining the city’s position and points of clarification on proposed amendments to the liquor regulations.

Administration will also be looking for authorization to proceed with the necessary steps to regulate strip-tease activity in the city.

That includes amendments to the adult services licensing and zoning bylaws which are currently undefined.

Officials say the changes to the liquor regulations will permit strip-tease performances in night clubs and the zoning bylaw changes would differentiate between night clubs and those that provide strip-tease as primary entertainment.