As I recently wrote, the reconstruction of Collard, Winter and Scott has not progressed as had been anticipated.  I brought it up at Council meeting on Monday; specifically I indicated that the status of the project is very disappointing and that the lack of communication on the project to both Council and residents is unacceptable.  The criticism on the communication failure was accepted and a clear apology was given.  Technical issues & challenges with the project were identified as an explanation for the delay.  Very importantly, commitment to execute the project with excellence was given; funds from the 2014 gas tax will be kept in reserve to fund it as soon as the frost is out of the ground in 2015.

Although it by no means balances the tardiness in execution there is a benefit:  as the request for proposals will be issued during the winter months we will get a better price.

During the questioning of Staff over the matter I was very pleased to learn that the Purchasing Co-ordinator is implementing a vendor/contractor performance monitoring program and data from this will be incorporated into future tender decisions. I have been questioning the degree to which previous performance is incorporated into our contract decisions; this program is much needed.

Although it by no means excuses the poor communication I do want to communicate to residents that the Engineering & Public Works staff is very stretched right now due to amount of activity and personnel departures.