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News and notes from Tuesday’s city council meeting, the last one of the four-year term:
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Council voted not to cut a new developer a break on the fees it pays to city hall for new services in a growing city. The builder behind Eve Park, a net-zero development in the west end, had appealed the development charges it must pay to city hall, saying it took too long for planning staff to approve its project and issue the permits. City staff said the build – condos in a circular structure – was treated the same as any other project, and noted the permits were not paid and picked up in 2021 when they were first available.
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City’s triple-A credit rating source of pride
London’s triple-A credit rating was renewed for a 46th year, an accomplishment Mayor Ed Holder said is unmatched by cities across the rest of the country. That rating – the highest possible – helps city hall get the lowest possible interest rates when it takes on debt, such as for capital works. Holder even returned to the credit rating in his final remarks to close the last council meeting of the term. “I declare this city to be in exceptional hands,” he said of the incoming council that will be led by Josh Morgan. “And please, for God’s sake, keep our triple-A credit rating.”
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Time to say goodbye
Councillors spent the bulk of Tuesday’s meeting reflecting on the last term as London prepares to swear in a new city council next week in a ceremony at RBC Place. Eight members of the current council will not be returning. Councillors Michael van Holst, Mariam Hamou and John Fyfe-Millar were defeated in the Oct. 24 election, and five others opted not to seek re-election in their wards, including Mo Salih, Jesse Helmer, Maureen Cassidy, Josh Morgan – who ran successfully for mayor, instead – and Stephen Turner. Many councillors thanked their families and city staff, including the support team in the councillors’ offices. “Your achievements are many, your impact will be long-lasting, and it is our distinct pleasure to work alongside you,” city manager Lynne Livingstone told the outgoing council.
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