The city and territory are closer to signing off on an updated agreement governing the use of schools and their fields by local groups or city facilities like the Canada Games Centre.

At Monday’s council meeting, members were unanimous in approving the first two readings of an updated proposed three-year agreement.

The territory would continue to provide the city with $30,000 annually for administration of the agreement.

The city’s facility booking officer oversees the scheduling under the agreement for the use of schools outside of individual school and Department of Education activities and city facilities outside of regularly scheduled recreation activities there.

The city and territory have had joint use agreements in place for many years.

Coun. Jocelyn Curteanu had expressed concerns last week about the $30,000 provided by the territory – the same amount is in place under the current agreement.

She wondered whether it would be enough to cover the costs that come with increased bookings the city has seen in recent years.

At Monday’s meeting, Curteanu said that after speaking with administration, she is comfortable with the amount.

She did note, though, that she has concerns about some bookings she learned are made, but then are not being used.

She pointed out this can impact other groups which may have been looking to use the space but can’t because it’s already booked.

Third reading of the bylaw for the agreement will come forward next month.

Coun. Rob Fendrick attended Monday’s meeting by conference call.