Eric Gagnon

The council discussed the results of recent drinking water quality tests and reviewed various committee reports, including updates on job openings, snow removal operations, and fire and police department activities. The meeting also addressed challenges regarding paramedic services and ambulance response times. Furthermore, council members highlighted community development activities such as heritage celebrations and upcoming events. Economic development updates included tourism promotion efforts and reminders regarding building permit processes. The council also formally adopted a by-law amendment concerning the Saint-André Rural Plan, which included the imposition of fifteen specific conditions related to land use, security, noise monitoring, and environmental protection. Finally, the mayor encouraged community support for the local food bank, promoted the new public transit service, and acknowledged awareness months for inclusive education and suicide prevention.

The meeting agenda includes discussions on drinking water issues, the review of the 2025 financial statement prepared by Nadeau Picard & Associates, and governance matters including the appointment of a full-time constable. Additionally, the board will consider tenders for a fire tanker unit, street asphalt patching, and a diesel tandem truck, as well as the implementation of a policy regarding the use of funds from the accommodation tax.

The council discussed various municipal topics, including reports on drinking water quality and upcoming committee activities. Several new policies were adopted regarding workplace harassment, smoking and vaping bans, and background checks, while two older policies concerning break times were repealed. The council received updates on community services, infrastructure maintenance such as pothole repairs, and economic development, including tourism promotion and housing plans. The meeting also included tributes to community members, recognition for public safety and school sports achievements, announcements regarding upcoming municipal elections, and a public feedback session on municipal communication and engagement practices.

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence in memory of a long-time employee. Key discussions included the approval of the agenda and the adoption of the previous meeting's minutes. Routine business included receiving and classifying drinking water analyses which were all acceptable. The Governance axis noted three open positions. The terms of two members of the Toponymy Committee were renewed until December 31, 2028. The Council requested authorization to borrow a maximum of $2,090,000 for the General Fund, covering transportation, planning, recreational, cultural, and protective services projects, and a maximum of $1,475,000 for the Water and Sewerage Fund for infrastructure improvements. A new Emergency Plan for the Regional Municipality of Grand-Sault 2026 was adopted, repealing previous municipal plans. Eric Dufresne was appointed as a mandatory training cadet. Camilla Leclerc and Karen Smock were appointed as commissioners for the Grand Falls Regional Library for a 3-year term. Community Development updates covered recreation facilities, nominations for the Sports Hall of Fame, mental health workshops, and upcoming festivals. Economic Development noted the opening of reservations for Camping Chutes et Gorge and reminded citizens about necessary permits for construction. Several by-laws were given second and third readings for amendments to the Municipal Plan and Zoning By-law. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a public hearing regarding the proposed zoning amendment (By-law 8-2016, Modification 2025-23) to reclassify properties for a rail transshipment facility, which generated strong opposition from nearby residents citing concerns over noise, traffic, safety, and agricultural impact, leading to the scheduling of a special meeting for a decision. New Business included recognizing Community Grandioses award recipients, announcing a postponement of the Flex Go transportation service launch, marking the 50th anniversary of Drummond Building Supplies, and noting upcoming municipal elections.

The special meeting addressed the Saint-André Rural Plan (By-law 8-2016, Amendment 2025-23). Following a public hearing and expiration of the written comment period, the Municipality received 11 letters of opposition, one petition, and 87 letters of support. Council resolved to direct the Director of Planning to review all received correspondence to ascertain if the previous planning recommendation remains valid. The final decision on the by-law readings was postponed until the next public meeting scheduled for February 18, 2026.