The purchase of a new Handi-Van is now one step closer after council Tuesday night.

Council approved the recommendation of the purchasing agent to award the purchase of the Handi-Van to Warner Bus Industries Ltd. at a cost of just over $95,000.00.

Jenny Krentz, the CFO for the City of Thompson, said that the bid from Warner Bus Industries Ltd. was recommended as their bus includes a second heater (for the comfort of the riders), as well as the fact that they would deliver the bus much sooner than any of the other bids. She added that the City is paying $500 per month for the use of the Juniper Centre Handi-Van.

Councillor Colleen Smook voiced her pleasure with the decision, as the bus recommended for purchase is a 2017 model year.

Although he was in support of the resolution, Councillor Duncan Wong voiced a bit of displeasure before the vote took pace.

He said he was disappointed that the School District of Mystery Lake isn't contributing funds to the purchase, as he says they represent 80% of ridership.

The cost of the Handi-Van will be split between the municipal, provincial and federal governments, and is a part of the City of Thompson's 2017 financial plan.