Chris Clegg
South Peace News

High Prairie town council has taken a tough stand against a long-time local family despite a few councillors saying they could be in the wrong.

Wayne Konelsky attended council’s Sept. 13 meeting objecting to an $892.50 bill given to the family for unsightly premises. The town sent the family a notice saying the property had to be cleaned [grass cut] by July 29. Konelsky told council he had arranged for the property to be cleaned on that date but when his contractor arrived the town had already done the work.

Konelsky added he was paying the contractor only $130 to do the job, much less than the bill sent by the town.

“There is a considerable difference,” he said.

He also argued that he had until the end of the day on July 29 to comply with the notice.

“The town jumped the gun,” said Konelsky.

Council debated the matter again at its Sept. 27 meeting after reviewing the matter.

Councillor Donna Deynaka moved to waive the fee.

“The letter is ambiguous … and open to interpretation,” she said, referring to whether or not Konelsky had all day on July 29 to comply.
Senior peace officer Alan Bloom replied the letter sent was “a standard letter” sent in such matters.

“This the first time the letter has been questioned,” said Bloom.

Later, he added Konelsky was warned about the property, and he had at least 10-11 days to comply after receiving the letter.

Councillor Brian Panasiuk agreed with Deynaka.

“I have the same thoughts as Councillor Deynaka,” he said. “I know where he’s [Konelsky’s] coming from.”

Councillor Debbie Rose, citing her experience in real estate and legal matters, said she thought Konelsky had until the end of the day July 29 to comply.

Panasiuk also expressed concern over the huge price difference.

“We don’t go around getting quotes,” said Bloom. “I don’t think his contractor could have done the job.”

Deynaka’s motion to waive the fee was defeated; a second motion was put on the table to accept the $130 payment Konesky already made and waive the rest. It was also defeated.

“I don’t want the town to pay …” said Cox.

“There was ambiguity,” said Panasiuk.

“I have to side with Linda,” said Councillor Arlen Quartly. “He had lots of time. It has to stand.”

Because council passed no motion to waive or reduce the bill, the outstanding amount of $762.50 remains to be collected.