Shawn Andrews

The meeting included a presentation regarding the Property Valuation Services Corporation and updates from various municipal departments, including finance, development, public works, and recreation. Key actions taken involved approving several departmental reports, authorizing legal proceedings regarding land use by-laws, and denying a request from the Mulgrave Road Theatre for maintenance and janitorial services. Additionally, the committee recommended scheduling a public hearing for a property rezoning request in Canso.

The council meeting addressed a delegation requesting support for a humanitarian airlift initiative to Cuba. Discussions were held regarding a bylaw violation involving an illegal shipping container on private property, leading to a decision to instruct staff to review land use bylaws. The council received a presentation on a proposed Cultural Centre project for the Torbe Region, noting future plans for funding applications. Recognition was given for a long-service award in municipal management. The council approved multiple tax and water charge write-offs for inactive accounts and authorized the purchase of an aluminum boat for the Queensport Light project. Committee reports were provided covering solid waste management, emergency services, regional health, and housing issues, followed by a closed session regarding legal matters.

The Council convened for a formal public hearing to receive a presentation regarding a rezoning application submitted by Tor Bay Fisheries Ltd. in Charlos Cove.

The Council reviewed and adopted the 2026-2027 budget estimates, including capital and special initiative projects. They established tax rates for residential, commercial, and seasonal tourist businesses, and set local levies for fire protection, street lighting, and sewer maintenance. The Council also approved the transfer of funds from operating and capital reserves to the general operating revenue, authorized borrowing for operating expenses, and granted tax exemptions and municipal bursaries. Additionally, the Council approved a rezoning request for a property in Charlos Cove, authorized signing authority for a cost-sharing agreement, and approved a progress claim for the Canso Fitness Centre.

The committee reviewed and approved various reports submitted by the Warden, Chief Administrative Officer, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Development Officer, Director of Public Works, Director of Recreation, Director of Economic and Community Development, Manager of Special Initiatives and Communications, and the Executive Director of the GDBP. Additionally, the committee authorized Progress Claim #9 for the Canso Fitness Centre Project to Iron Maple Constructors Inc.