Todd D. Dempsey

The board meeting began with the oath of office ceremony for the newly elected mayor and council members, followed by a regular council meeting. Key agenda items included adopting the agenda, discussing municipal governance training for both council and administrative staff, establishing signing authorities for municipal checks, and authorizing the destruction of the previous signing officer's signature stamp. Council members also provided opening remarks regarding future community goals, structural financial challenges, and the importance of transparency and accountability.

The council meeting included a presentation of the 2025 audited financial statements by an external auditor, which revealed a deficit for the year. The council appointed an auditor for the upcoming year and awarded the South Curve Project contract to the lowest bidder. Additionally, the council discussed and processed administrative reports, including bank balance updates, and addressed a failed motion regarding a social and environmental grant for a local school.

The meeting agenda includes discussions on various municipal matters such as an amalgamation presentation, Route 134, unsightly premises, the village recycling program, snowplow services, and DTI communications. Additionally, the agenda covers the scheduling of a townhall, updates from the Chaleur Regional Service Commission, and an upcoming meeting with the Minister.

The council discussed various community matters, including an acknowledgement of treaties and indigenous peoples, a moment of reflection, and the adoption of the agenda. A council member raised a procedural concern regarding the misuse of tabling motions. The Royal Canadian Legion delivered a presentation highlighting their community contributions and upcoming 100th anniversary. Additionally, the council acknowledged the training achievements of the local fire department and the success of a local gentlemen's hockey tournament. Other items included the approval of grants, review of financial reports, and the third reading of a bylaw amendment regarding the rural plan.

The council held a special meeting to discuss and propose three municipal infrastructure projects for the year, including a Main Street upgrade, a storm drain culvert upgrade on Curry Drive, and the installation of concrete curbs on the south side of Main Street. The discussions centered on project scopes, construction timelines, potential traffic impacts such as lane closures, and truck traffic bylaws. Consultants presented construction designs, estimated costs, and options for street paving, while the council considered funding sources and communication strategies for affected residents and local businesses.