David Whitlock

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.

Key discussions during the meeting included reviewing committee reports from the Wellness Centre, Planning Board, EMO Committee, and Finance & Infrastructure Committee. The Finance and Wellness Centre reports highlighted a $14,000 profit from the Legends hockey game and good wellness revenues. Council approved applications for the Celebrate Canada and Canada Summer Jobs funding for 2026, and approved the 2026 Regular Council Meeting Schedule, changing the standard time to 6:30 PM. New business involved a Council Remuneration Review, which requires a third-party review, and the annual update of Council Disclosure Forms. The Council also discussed the potential for ATV use on Town roads once provincial regulations are finalized. Furthermore, a six-month extension was granted for the construction completion deadline for Lot 15 Autumn Lane.

The agenda included a variety of topics such as the Wellness Centre GM and CAO reports, committee reports from the Sewer and Water Utility Board, Planning Board, Rec & Events Committee, Wellness Centre Advisory Committee, EMO Committee, and Finance & Infrastructure Committee. New business items included shredding event donation letters, the FPEIM semi-annual meeting, and an Irving Letter. Discussions involved an MSC Funding Application for the Sewer and Water Utility, a variance request for Lot 16 Autumn Lane, a recommendation for a public meeting for rezoning, and approval of the 2024-2025 Audited Financial Statements. Reports were presented from the Wellness Centre Advisory Committee, EMO & OHS Committee, and Fundraising Committee.

The council meeting addressed several key areas including the approval of applying for Jobs for Youth Funding, and the approval of the Capital Investment Plan for the Simon Drive Water and Wastewater Extension. The council discussed the appointment of an interim development officer, and gave preliminary approval to the Edgewater Estates subdivision application with conditions. There were discussions regarding the Hauling In Day event, green space consolidation within the Edgewater Estates development, and setting the date for a special meeting for budget approval. The council also approved an increase in engineering services and project management for CBCL and a change order for the Boardwalk Project. Additionally, the council reviewed legal advice and decided to remove signage with religious references, and moved to no longer accept credit card payments.

The public meeting addressed proposed amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning and Subdivision Control Bylaw. Discussions focused on a proposal to rezone property for a residential subdivision, including concerns about underground power, sewer and water impacts, and traffic implications. Residents voiced concerns about traffic congestion, the quality and style of construction, and the potential for short-term rentals. Other topics included retention ponds, restrictive covenants, green space, and the town's vision for recreation and community values. The meeting also touched on emergency access, traffic calming measures, and the need for updated standards to address urbanization.