Mélanie Savoie

The meeting began with a presentation by BearCan Group regarding their proposal to expand operations by acquiring the former Coastal Shell building. BearCan Group specializes in affordable housing components and seeks a variance to allow for the interior assembly of walls and floors, emphasizing minimal noise and no heavy industrial manufacturing. Concerns were raised by citizens regarding potential impacts, referencing past issues with the location and fearing rezoning to industrial use. Recommendations included bringing the matter before the Kent Regional Service Commission for options review and having a town representative accompany the developer. The agenda also included the adoption of the agenda and the third reading of By-Law No. 25-05 concerning solid waste collection and disposal services. A permit request for a Mediterranean food truck from Shangrilla Foods Inc. was approved. Unfinished business included updates on the ANCHOR study, the "Odyssie acodienne" monument order, the Cartier-Cunard project, Town Hall renovations, and the Emergency Response Plan. Reports were presented for information from the Kent Planning Commission, Kent Solid Waste Commission, and Water & Sewerage departments. The Public Questions period included concerns about the operation and rental fees at the Imperial Kent North Centre and the necessity of municipal vehicles assigned to specific personnel. Finally, a community concert announcement was shared.

The council discussed a presentation on community development, focusing on a submission to the television series 'Home Town Takeover Canada' and the potential reuse of the Anchor multipurpose center. A request was made to form a committee to examine the development of the Anchor property and conduct a professional study on repair costs. The council also reviewed and approved the agenda with additions, adopted minutes from previous meetings, and discussed correspondence, including a request for support from the MFR School for a disc golf course. Additionally, there were discussions on councillor reports, reserve funds, a five-year capital expenditure plan, and zoning for Coastal Shell. Reports from various commissions were presented, and the public raised questions about municipal planning and community involvement.

The council reviewed and adopted the agenda, followed by the third reading of By-law 25-04 concerning the Business Improvement Area 2026 Budget for the ward of Richibucto. The council approved the 2026 General Operating Fund budget and the 2026 Water and Sewer Fund budget. Additionally, they approved the transfer of funds to the general reserve fund for the 2026 general operating fund budget.

The council discussed various topics, including a proposal for photo sessions, which was declined due to the town's existing photo collection. They were invited to the Northern Star Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. An update was given on the language policy, which is being reworked. A meeting was scheduled to provide information about the Age-Friendly Municipalities program. The council accepted a conditional management plan for a section of the Richibucto River. Reports were presented from various commissions and departments, including the Kent Planning Commission, Solid Waste Commission, and Water & Sewerage. Public questions covered topics such as Coastal Shell zoning, repairs needed at the AquaKent Centre, and the town's slogan. Reports from council members and committees were reviewed, covering meetings, community work, and conferences. The Protective Services reported on speeding and ATV traffic, and the Recreation Department provided updates on the Kent North Imperial Centre and AquaKent Centre.

The meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding the adoption of the Municipal Land Use Plan for the Town of Beaurivage. A motion was carried to draft a zoning ordinance in consultation with the Commission/Advisory Committee to realize the plan's objectives. The council also addressed the publication of public notices related to the adoption of a zoning bylaw and a municipal plan, setting a date for the review of objections. Additionally, a resolution was passed to prohibit construction or modification of buildings in areas covered by the draft order if the activity does not comply with the order's provisions.