Natalia Burduja

The council meeting addressed several operational and financial matters. Key discussions included the approval of contracts for stormwater drainage improvements, the design of digital display structures, the acquisition of Ford F150 pickup trucks, and asset evaluations for fire safety services. The council also explored the potential grouping of regional fire safety services to optimize resources. Additionally, the meeting covered land use and zoning, including minor variance requests for driveway entrances and detached signs, as well as site plan and architectural integration approvals for various properties. Agreements were signed regarding the sharing of operating costs for the Julien Bourgard Arena, and the 2025 financial report and auditor's report were presented, highlighting the city's operating surplus and financial standing.

The council held an extraordinary session primarily focused on the adoption of the 2026 budget. Key topics included a retrospective of 2025 strategic objectives—covering city center revitalization, environmental protection, economic development, community initiatives, and management modernization—and a detailed breakdown of the 2026 financial plan. The council discussed fixed cost increases (public safety, waste management, infrastructure maintenance), tax adjustments, and revenue sources. Additionally, the meeting addressed specific infrastructure projects such as water supply, sewer pipeline maintenance, and road resurfacing.

The council held an extraordinary session to address several urgent end-of-year items. Key discussions included the rejection of bids for professional engineering services for a district development project, the renewal of municipal liability and vehicle insurance contracts, and the exercise of pre-emption rights on two local properties. Furthermore, the council declared a potentially dangerous dog, appointed chair and vice-chair roles for the Urban Planning Advisory Committee, approved accounts payable, authorized progressive construction payments for the new library and community center, and adopted budget regulations for the local water treatment plant and the 2026 fiscal year tax rates.

The council meeting addressed various administrative and operational items, including the hiring of temporary employees for maintenance, horticultural assistance, and day camp coordination. Key decisions included awarding contracts for process audits, acquiring computer equipment, and approving architectural integration and minor variance requests for local properties. Additionally, the council supported the relocation process of the volunteer action centre and authorized a partnership for a community planting project. Discussions also covered financial matters such as loan settlements, budget appropriations, and the waiver of pre-emption rights on specific properties.

The council meeting addressed various administrative and municipal matters. Key topics included a citizen concern regarding pre-emption rights on property sales, the awarding of contracts for stormwater drainage corrective work and professional laboratory services, and the approval of several minor variance requests and site plans for construction projects. Additionally, the council authorized the temporary closure of a street for a local event, supported a food organization project, appointed members to advisory committees, modified committee memberships for access to information, and approved structural changes within the city's administrative positions, including the creation and abolition of specific roles.