Brad Paugh

The council meeting addressed several operational and financial matters. Key items included the approval of a special liquor license for the Rustico Mustangs and the upcoming Snoopy Cup Tournament. Departmental reports were presented regarding the Wellness Centre, CAO updates, and various committee activities, including sewer and water infrastructure, planning, and recreation. The council approved the appointment of an auditor for the 2025-2026 financial audit and scheduled a public budget meeting for March 2026. Additionally, the council approved a consulting quote for the Seawalk Park pathway replacement project.

The public meeting focused on a rezoning application for a portion of a property identified by PID 237347, which is currently zoned R2, to R3 for multifamily residential use. Key discussion topics included concerns regarding land subdivision and PID numbering, the potential impact on neighborhood character, the necessity for a detailed development agreement, and existing infrastructure limitations related to water pressure on Simon Drive. The meeting provided a forum for residents to voice their feedback on potential density, setback requirements, and the necessity for council to impose conditions on any future development permits to ensure alignment with original proposals.

The council conducted a special meeting primarily to address the appointment of a new Fire Chief. The council formally appointed Douglas Burridge as the Fire Chief for a two-year term, succeeding the outgoing Chief Dan Gallant, and recognized the contributions of both individuals to the fire company.

The Official Plan for the Town of North Rustico provides a formalized statement of goals, objectives, policies, and actions to guide land use and development until 2029. Its core focus areas include preserving the town's unique identity and cultural traditions, enhancing its role as a regional service center, fostering social well-being, promoting sustainable economic development (including fishing and agriculture), managing physical infrastructure, and protecting the environment, particularly groundwater and surface water resources, while adapting to climate change. The plan aims to maintain a high quality of life, ensure appropriate development standards, expand residential and economic opportunities, and provide effective municipal services to its residents.

Key discussions included reviewing options for Wellness Centre canteen venting due to location constraints and addressing a glycol loss in the HVAC system. The CAO reported the denial of MSC funding for the Simon Dr Sewer and Water extension, with plans to re-apply, and noted the pending confirmation of CHIF funding for the Sewer and Water Capacity modelling project. Brad Paugh took over as the new Sewer and Water operator, succeeding the retiring Preston. The Planning Board is reviewing bylaws and preparing for a planning risk and liability session. The Recreation & Events Committee is planning the Canada Day theme. Finance and Infrastructure Committee reports highlighted high Sewer and Water maintenance costs, with the CAO working on an IRAC request for a rate increase, as rates have not risen since 2008/2013. The Wellness Centre continues to show revenue gains. New business involved the renewal of four maturing loans for a 5-year term at a new interest rate of 4.84%. The budget for Council's external meeting attendance was noted as being quickly depleted, leading to a discussion on establishing a policy. The Council agreed to use the existing contractor for the Park Wooden Boardwalk Replacement (Phase 2) to minimize engineering costs. The review of Council Remuneration was tabled until after the 2026 census. Correspondence prompted staff to ensure fireworks displays are advertised and messaging about unlicensed fireworks is distributed.