Jeff Silliker

The council discussed the addition of several new committees, including human resources, infrastructure and finance, and health services. A section for other business was added to the agenda. The council also received a report from the Intact Insurance risk management review, which identified several fire safety and electrical compliance issues at various municipal buildings, including the need for a lockable box for bid submissions and an extension for certain safety repairs.

The Council discussed the relocation of the Community Gardens to 165 Main Street and approved a request to allow the organization to store items at the current site until the fall. Additionally, the Council deliberated on the funding proposal for the Character Matters outdoor drama presentation, reaching a consensus to honor previous verbal agreements regarding budget support while ensuring future arrangements are formalized in writing, and exploring potential grant funding opportunities.

The special council meeting included a presentation of the auditor's financial statement. The auditor reviewed the 2024 budget, actual revenue and expenditures, and compared them to 2023. Key discussion points included property tax warrants, funding and equalization grants, fire protection services, transportation services, building permits, and additional grants. The auditor also discussed the general government services, protective services, transportation services, environmental health services, environmental development services, recreation and culture, and fiscal services.

The council discussed and approved the purchase of a tractor, accepted an insurance quote, and appointed By-Law Enforcement Officers. They also accepted a tender for animal control services, set fire service costs for the City of Miramichi, and decided to proceed with the cleanup of an unsightly property. A lease agreement with Snow Goers was discussed, and the council addressed the need for a policy regarding wellness checks during power outages. Additionally, they approved adding lettering to the municipal building.

The by-law establishes the remuneration for the council of Miramichi River Valley. It sets the annual salary for the mayor at $27,000, the deputy mayor at $15,000, and each councillor at $11,000, all payable in equal installments. The enactment of this by-law repeals Bylaw #81 of the Village of Blackville.