Yves M. Leger

The Extraordinary Council Meeting involved the formal opening of the session, confirmation of quorum, and adoption of the agenda and previous minutes. A key action item was the motion adopted to accept the agenda as presented. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

The Extraordinary Council Meeting, resuming deliberations from December 2, 2019, focused primarily on the 2020 budget. Key actions included the adoption of the 2020 operating budget, totaling $13,070,235, and setting the corresponding municipal tax rates for various sectors. Several fund transfers were approved, including $100,000 to the Capital Reserve Fund for economic development, $39,600 to the General Operating Reserve Fund, and $800,000 to the Capital Reserve Fund for the water utility due to an unexecuted water tower upgrade project. The Council also adopted the proposed 2020 capital budgets for the General Capital Fund ($1,401,000) and the Water Capital Fund ($730,000), detailing specific infrastructure and equipment purchases. Furthermore, the 2020 Water Utility Operating Fund budget was approved, along with the 2020 water usage fee. Finally, the first reading of By-law No. 61 regarding the reduction of single-use plastic bags in Shediac was authorized and completed.

The Regular Council Meeting addressed several key items. Public presentations included concerns from a resident regarding a drainage study, specifically questioning the removal of In-line Control Devices (ICDs) and maintenance reports on storm sewer systems. Correspondence addressed partnership proposals, financial aid requests from LJR School and the Shediac and Suburbs Community Garden, and a donation request from the Maurice Leger Foundation and the Friends of the Moncton Hospital Foundation. The council approved financial reports for October 2020 and discussed building permit reports. Decisions were made regarding zoning changes on Caissie Avenue and Richard Lane, including setting public hearing dates. Budget items included the third reading and adoption of the Downtown Shediac Inc. Budget (B-21-10), and numerous resolutions concerning budget transfers, residential incentive payouts, an update on organizational structure and salaries, approval of the municipal traffic calming policy, and the planning and consultant selection for the new Town Hall construction. Furthermore, committee nominations were made for the Old Train Station, Town Hall, and Shediac Planning Review Committee. Several special meetings were referenced or had minutes included, indicating comprehensive governance activity.

The Cultural Policy of the Town of Shediac is dedicated to celebrating arts and culture and integrating them into the town's strategic planning. The policy outlines four key focus areas: preserving heritage and history, developing the cultural landscape, supporting cultural organizations and environments, and supporting the arts and artists. The town aims to enhance community engagement, promote cultural expression, and ensure access to diverse cultural experiences for all residents, fostering a vibrant and dynamic cultural environment.

The cultural policy of the Town of Shediac focuses on celebrating arts and culture, incorporating them into strategic planning, and ensuring the development of services for citizens. It aims to preserve heritage, promote cultural expression, and support artists and cultural organizations. The policy emphasizes sustainable community development, access to diverse cultural experiences, and the importance of volunteers. It includes initiatives for heritage preservation, cultural landscape development, and support for arts and creators, with a focus on collaboration and community involvement.