The following are brief reports of items discussed at the Aug. 14 meeting of Highlands East council.

Following in the footsteps of neighbouring municipalities, Highlands East has decided to take the first step in a cultural planning initiative.
Members of council passed a resolution that they would apply for funding from the Creative Communities Prosperity Fund, to use towards cultural planning.
The idea was brought forth by Councillor Steven Kauffeldt, on behalf of the recreation and culture committee, a committee of council.
Kauffeldt said he had been discussing the idea with consultant Jim Blake, who encouraged the councillor to apply for funding.
The municipalities of Dysart, Minden Hills and Algonquin Highlands have all undertaken cultural planning projects.
Online business
directory encouraged
Members of council are hoping local businesses will take advantage of an online tool offered through their website.
The Highlands East website includes a business directory that can be used by anyone, free of charge.
People can simply input their information and it will appear on the site, said chief administrative officer Sharon Stoughton-Craig.
“I want to get the word out that this service exists and people should take advantage of it,” said Stoughton-Craig.
Deputy-reeve Suzanne Partridge said she had recently come across the directory and used it to advertise her own personal business.
Stoughton-Craig emphasized that businesses listed in the directory are not endorsed by the municipality, but that they were simply providing a service. The directory can be found by visiting www.highlandseast.ca and clicking on Discover.

Snack bar tender awarded
A tender for the snack bar at the Keith Tallman Memorial Arena has been awarded to South Algonquin Cookhouse & Diner.
The chosen tender was one of two submissions council received.
South Algonquin Cookhouse & Diner submitted a tender for $2,700 plus HST, while Karen Hutt submitted one for $2,010 plus HST.
The tenders represent the rent amounts each bidder is willing to pay. Councillor Joan Barton told council there is no reason why the highest bidder should not be awarded the tender by the municipality. Council unanimously agreed to award the one-year contract to South Algonquin Cookhouse & Diner, two restaurants located in Highlands East.