Town adopts ombudsman’s recommendations

As the Town of NOTL is looking to hire a new chief administrative officer, town council approved 15 recommendations from the provincial ombudsman’s report Monday night to ensure transparency and “high ethical standards” during CAO’s recruitment process. Town staff will also report back on the progress of implementing the recommendations.

Zalepa, region invited to speak about garbage changes

Regional Coun. Gary Zalepa and regional staff have been invited to speak to town council about the region’s move to biweekly waste collection. Councillors said having regional officials speak in a public forum will allow the public to learn more about the every-other-week garbage collection, which was approved by Niagara Region in October.

Report will outline possible hotel tax options

Town staff need to prepare a detailed report regarding a possible hotel room tax, town councillors decided Monday. The report will provide options to council regarding the possible implementation of the municipal accommodation tax. No decision on instituting such a levy has been made yet.

Nominate homes, businesses for holiday decor awards

Residents are being encouraged to nominate the best-decorated home or business in NOTL. Volunteer judges from the town’s Communities in Bloom organization will be giving out Holiday Decoration Display Awards and local winners will be announced in the local newspapers. The contest will include daytime and nighttime decorations and will run until Dec. 15. To nominate, go to the town’s Join The Conversation webpage.