Scott Feener

The council meeting included discussions on Canada Day event planning, the grand opening of the Small World Learning Centre, and the 150th anniversary of the Bridgewater Bulletin. Members acknowledged the community's response to a recent fire incident and thanked first responders. Other topics included the schedule for 'Music on the Riverbank' and student presentations on scientific projects concerning microplastics in water sources and the use of ferrofluid for oil spill cleanup.

The Council meeting featured the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian Volunteer Fire Service Association and an official stamp cancellation ceremony commemorating the town's 125th anniversary. The Council also reviewed Remembrance Day announcements, discussed the implementation of EDI and accessibility training for committee members and staff, and received a presentation on the results of the 2025 survey regarding community energy needs, housing, and well-being.

The council discussed various community events, including recent Pride celebrations and Canada Day activities. Delegations addressed two specific concerns: a request regarding a dangerous or unsightly tree on Queen Street located on private property, and a proposal to implement restrictions on food trucks at Shipyards Landing due to parking congestion and view obstruction. The council clarified that tree removal on private property is a civil matter and noted that input from delegations regarding food trucks would be taken under advisement for future policy considerations.

The meeting included a presentation on the 2026-2027 capital budget process. A member of the public raised concerns regarding the John Howard Society and Cedar Place, advocating for their immediate shutdown. Correspondence was addressed regarding procedural concerns at a local rescue mission. The council reviewed the town profile and financial indicators report for 2023-2024, discussing asset depreciation and uncollected tax efforts. Additionally, an update was provided on the hemlock woolly adelgid project, detailing ongoing treatment efforts using pesticides and the establishment of buffer zones in collaboration with provincial studies.

The council received several community announcements, including the 150th anniversary of the local fire service, the 80th anniversary of the co-op, and updates on local events such as an additive manufacturing showcase, a startup pitch competition, and an AI training workshop. Additionally, the meeting included a delegation presentation regarding the inequities within the Capped Assessment Program for property taxes, with recommendations to implement tax ceilings to ensure a more equitable tax structure.