Council’s first regular meeting of 2024 on Tuesday included a state of the city address.
Mayor Peter Chirico provided an update on several issues they’re working on and highlights from the past year.
Among other things, he says their focus has been on community safety and well-being and making sure they’re spending public funds wisely.
Chirico says key projects include the operational review, with discussions to take place during the budget process and a full report expected by the end of March.
“We are a big operation,” he says. “These are significant projects and change does take time. But we are committed to doing it right and making the improvements we all want to see.”
Chirico also highlighted successful partnerships.
“Concrete examples include our work with Clean Green Beautiful to achieve a 5 bloom rating from Communities in Bloom,” he says. “Our support for Laurentian Ski Hill for its operations this season and our collaboration with the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board in securing a warming centre location for this winter.”
Chirico says they’re continuously working with social service agencies to address challenges like homelessness, mental health and addictions.
“We’re implementing our own initiatives like the peer outreach security team pilot which has had a positive impact in the downtown, waterfront and Cassells Street areas,” he adds.
With a housing action plan being implemented, Chirico says they’re on track to reach 1,000 new homes by 2031.
He says nearly 170 new dwelling units were approved for construction last year.
As for ongoing projects, Chirico says they’re taking a different direction with the new community and recreation centre, to adjust the design to stay flexible with the costs.
He also says the Main Street reconstruction is set to be completed later this year while work will begin on the new all-wheel park downtown and the Rotary Playground will open in the spring.
Overall, Chirico says they’ve “laid the groundwork for positive change” and looks forward to further collaboration with the community.
