Mayor Karen Sorensen presented Banff Lake Louise Tourism with a plaque in recognition of their accreditation with the International Destination Marketing Association. To achieve accreditation, Banff Lake Louise Tourism underwent a rigorous audit of business plans, operational controls, compensation and management practices in 58 mandatory standards, plus 30 voluntary standards. Accreditation assures the partners and members, as well as the consumer, that the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) is operating efficiently and effectively, that its operations are transparent and that it is delivering a high standard of marketing service. Banff Lake Louise Tourism is one of only 13 accredited DMOs in Canada and the only one in Alberta.
Council approved an amendment to the Streets and Public Place Bylaw that will allow for outdoor merchandise displays in downtown Banff. The amendment sets parameters for the location, maintenance, management and operation of outdoor display areas. A fee schedule has also been developed, along with financial penalties for unapproved outdoor displays, and for businesses that fail to properly maintain their display area. Outdoor display permits will be available on Banff.ca.
Amendments were made to Waste Bylaw 336 to correct an omission of certain fees. Fees for non-residential and out-of-town drop-off items at the town’s operations yard had been left out of the bylaw in error, but have now been included in this update. Residential drop off for locals remains free.
The updated Uniform Qualify Management Plan for the Fire Discipline was adopted by council. Having an approved and registered Quality Management Plan is necessary to maintain accreditation in the Fire Discipline. The Town of Banff has been an accredited municipality within the Fire Discipline since 1995 and is responsible for administering parts of the Alberta Fire Code.
Council received a verbal update on the Quonset demolition at 300 Hawk Avenue. An emergency capital expenditure of approximately $10,000 was made following a partial roof collapse on March 8 due to snow and ice buildup. The building has since been demolished.