The meeting was called to order by the Warden at 7:00 p.m., with the following members present:
- Warden Sterling Belliveau
- Deputy Warden Eddie Nickerson
- Councillor Angus Atkinson
- Councillor Louise Halliday
- Councillor Dwayne Hunt
- Councillor Wayne Smith
- Brian Holland, Municipal Clerk
- Lesa Rossetti, Deputy Clerk
Absent was Councillor Fred Bower due to work commitments.
ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
The Warden informed members that it is necessary to add two (2) items to Item #12, Closed Session of Council. Those items will be:
- Legal Matter.
- Sale of Municipal Property.
It was reported that Item #5, Interview with Holly Smith, has been deleted from the agenda.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that the minutes of the last Regular Council Meeting held July 24, 2002, the Special Meeting of Council held July 29, 2002 and the Emergency Meeting of Council held August 8, 2002 be approved as circulated.
Motion carried.
MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
Wesleyan Church - Wood's Harbour
The Clerk reported that a response has been received from Joe Crowell, Department of Transportation, which advised that he has reviewed the signage near the Wesleyan Church, measured the stopping distance site at the church parking lot, sampled the prevailing speeds and reviewed the accident history. As a result of his investigation, he has advised staff to replace the 60 km tab on the existing "Hidden Driveway" sign east of the church with a 45 km tab. He has also instructed staff to post a "Slow" sign" east of the "Hidden Driveway" sign. His letter further advised that the Department does not normally erect church signs and this location does not meet the criteria for a flashing beacon, therefore, he is unable to recommend either of those devices.
It was agreed that a copy of this letter be forwarded to the Wesleyan Church.
Page 2, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
EL PASO CANADA PIPELINE COMPANY
Mr. Bob Otjen, Vice President of El Paso Canada Pipeline Company, appeared before the meeting. Mr. Otjen provided a brief outline of what the project will consist of. He informed members that the site selection process has identified three (3) possible sites in Shelburne County for a gas processing plant to be located. The primary site is located in East Jordan and the two alternate sites are located in Sandy Point and Blanche. During discussion, Mr. Otjen indicated that it is not likely they will be proceeding with the Blanche site since further site work has revealed a very rocky, rough ocean floor.
He informed members that a series of open houses have been held and this process will be ongoing to make sure that everyone is aware of the project and to collect comments from interested parties. A meeting will be held at the end of September to answer questions raised at the previously held public meetings.
Mr. Otjen provided members with a copy of a map showing the preliminary offshore pipeline route as well as the Blue Atlantic Offshore Bulletin which provided additional information on El Paso's Blue Atlantic Transmission Project. He also left a copy of the Scotian Shelf Gas Supply Region Report for 2002. This report will be kept at the Municipal Office and will be available for review by councillors.
Mr. Otjen was then thanked for appearing before Council and providing information on the Blue Atlantic Project.
CORRESPONDENCE
Library Funding
The Clerk reported that a response has been received from the Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, The Honourable Sheila Copps. The letter advised that although she recognizes the vibrant role that the Barrington Municipal Library plays in the community, the Department does not have any programs that could provide support for this type of endeavor.
Natural Gas Pipeline
It was reported that a letter has been received from Hugh Jones and Ms. Bruce Blakemore expressing concern regarding the proposed gas processing plant for Shelburne County.
It was agreed that Mr. Jones and Ms. Blakemore be advised that the Barrington Municipal Council has requested the province to establish a transparent review process to address the concerns of local residents, industry and municipal units regarding the affects of the construction of any proposed pipeline in our area.
It was reported that a copy of a letter addressed to Environment Canada, from Alice Lloyd of Osborne, N.S., was also received. This letter voiced her concerns against El Pasos' proposed natural gas pipeline and gas processing plant.
Page 3, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
Cape Sable Island Causeway
The Clerk reported that a letter has been received from Alan MacRae, Executive Director of the Department of Transportation and Public Works. The letter advised that his department has completed the review of the condition of the Causeway and is in the process of determining what work is required, as well as the timing of that work. The letter further advised that Mr. Roger Larkin will inform Council when the work schedule is determined.
Wheelchair Bus Service
A letter has been received from the South West Shore Development Authority advising that they are currently conducting a Needs and Resources Assessment for Inclusive Transportation in Shelburne County. This study focuses on transportation issues for seniors and others who are unable to drive their own cars. It is expected that this study will be completed in September and at that time they would be pleased to provide all municipal units with a copy.
Shelburne County Adult Workshops and Residential Services
It was reported that a letter has been received from Mrs. Joanne Bangay, Executive Director, Shelburne County Adult Workshops and Residential Services. Mrs. Bangay is requesting financial assistance for their fundraising compaign to raise the necessary funds to purchase a "good as new" accessible mini-van to assist with their goal of ensuring the residents living at the homes have the opportunity to fully participate and be involved in their community.
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that the Shelburne County Adult Workshops and Residential Services be advised that the Municipal Council is currently awaiting a copy of a Needs and Resources Assessment for Inclusive Transportation in Shelburne County, and would like to review this document before they commit finances to this project.
Motion carried.
BUILDING INSPECTOR'S ANNUAL REPORT
Andrew Goreham, Building Inspector for the Municipality, appeared before the meeting. He informed members that there were a total of 28 subdivision applications, creating 42 lots, this year which comprised of the following:
- 29 single family
- 2 commercial
- 8 non-development
- 3 industrial
This results in a 60% increase from last year.
Building permits for 2001/2002 in new residential and alternations to residential were at $4,241,400.00 which is 2 ½ times that of 2000/2001 of $1,663,400.00 and 1 ½ times above the average of $2,747,939.00 for 1993 - 2001.
Mobile Home permits were $821,600.00 which is approximately 10% - 13% higher than each of the last two years.
Page 4, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
The non-residential permits for 2001/2002 were $3,197,400.00, which is approximately 50% of each of the last two years totals but is still above the previous 6 year average of $1,534,867.00 by 200%.
The high value for residential construction can be attributed to the average cost of a new home for 2001/2002 which is $133,700.00. The average cost for 1997-2001 was $74,400.00 for a new home. The amount for repair/alter residential is also at an all time high of $14,700.00 average per permit. This total exceeds the average from 1997-2001 by 64%.
CLERK-TREASURER'S REPORT
The Clerk-Treasurer reported on activities during the month of July. Activities included the mailing of tax invoices, tax sale, sale of property, waste collection, physician recruitment, repairs to municipal buildings, etc.
SECOND READING OF BY-LAW NO. 21 "MUNICIPAL SEWERS"
The Clerk reported that second reading of By-Law No. 21 has been advertised in the Coast Guard Newspaper which advised the public that Council will be considering amendments to By-Law No. 21 "Municipal Sewers". The proposed amendment will change the sewer service charge from $125.00 to $200.00 per unit.
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that the proposed amendment be approved in second reading.
Motion carried.
CLOSED SESSION OF COUNCIL
At this time a Closed Session of Council was held to deal with three (3) matters of concern:
1. Legal Matter.
2. Sale of Municipal Property.
3. Personnel Matters.
COUNCIL RECONVENED
The Regular Council Meeting was called back to order.
LEGAL MATTER
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by W. Smith that the Municipal Council contact the Municipal Solicitor to draw up an agreement including the issues discussed with Ms. Joanna Goreham and this agreement be presented back to the next Council meeting for approval and in the interim the Municipality will be responsible for the water supplied.
Motion carried.
Page 5, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
SALE OF PROPERTY
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by D. Hunt that the offer to purchase property located at Crowell Point not be accepted.
Motion carried.
YEARLY INCREMENTS
Karl Lamrock
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that Karl Lamrock, Public Works Assistant, having received a satisfactory performance evaluation be granted his yearly increment in the amount of $545.00, effective September 2, 2002.
Motion carried.
Ricky Thorburne
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that Ricky Thorburne, Ice Maker 2, after having received a satisfactory performance evaluation be granted his increment in the amount of $0.54/hr., effective September 9, 2002.
Motion carried.
REPORT OF WARDEN
The Warden provided a brief report of his activities since the last meeting of Council. Activities included:
- Barrington and Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast
- A.A.C.N.E.M. Conference
- Yarmouth Exhibition
- RDA Meeting
- Formal Release of Skills Inventory prepared by the South West Shore Development Authority
OPENING TENDERS - COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE RENOVATIONS
The Clerk reported that tenders had been called for renovations at the Community Health Centre located in Barrington Passage. No tenders were received.
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that the invitation for tenders be re-advertised for two (2) more weeks, in the Coast Guard Newspaper and the Vanguard Newspaper.
Motion carried.
The Clerk informed members that he will advise the Community Health Care Advisory Committee that we will once again be re-advertising for the renovations to the Community Health Centre. Tenders will close at 7:00 p.m. on August 28, 2002.
Page 6, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO POLICY #44 "PAYROLL DEDUCTION POLICY"
It was reported that at the last meeting of Council, Notice of Consideration was given to amendments to the "Payroll Deduction Policy", Policy #44. The amendment makes provision on the Payroll Deduction Authorization Form to include the property number and payer number.
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that proposed amendments to Policy #44, "Payroll Deduction Policy" be approved as presented.
Motion carried.
FIRE DEPARTMENT AMALGAMATION
Guarantee Resolution
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday and carried:
WHEREAS the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department is registered with the Municipality of the District of Barrington and the Town of Clark's Harbour;
AND WHEREAS the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department has determined to borrow the aggregate principal amount of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) for the purpose of the construction of a new fire hall;
AND WHEREAS the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department has requested the Municipality of the District of Barrington to guarantee Eighty (80) percent of the said borrowing;
AND WHEREAS Section 294(6) of the Municipal Government Act provides that a municipality may grant or lend money to, or guarantee a loan for, a registered fire department for operating or capital purposes;
AND WHEREAS Section 88(3) of the Municipal Government Act provides that no guarantee of a borrowing by a municipality shall have effect unless the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations has approved of the proposed borrowing or debenture and of the proposed guarantee;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED
THAT the Municipality of the District of Barrington does hereby approve the borrowing by the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) for the purpose set out above;
THAT subject to the approval of the Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations of the guarantee, the Municipality unconditionally guarantee repayment of the principal and interest of the borrowing so made;
THAT upon the issue of the debentures, the Warden and Clerk of the Municipality do sign the guarantee attached to each of the debentures and affix thereto the corporate seal of the Municipality."
Page 7, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
Fire Department Agreement
In advance to the meeting each member was provided with a copy of an agreement between the Municipality of Barrington, the Town of Clark's Harbour and the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department. The agreement provides for firefighting services for the following areas:
just east of the Wireless Road where the brook goes under the road, to Atwood's Brook, just east of the first Bear Point Road where the brook goes under the road on the sharp turn, together with all of Cape Sable Island including the Town of Clark's Harbour.
Financing of the newly created fire department will be provided based on proportional assessment of the areas within the fire district.
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that the agreement between the Municipality of Barrington and the Town of Clark's Harbour and the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department be approved as presented and that the Clerk make arrangements for a public signing of the documents.
Motion carried.
A copy of the agreement is attached and forms part of the minutes.
NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED POLICY AMENDMENTS
The Clerk reported that as a result of a review of municipal policies, it is being recommended that various policies be repealed and amended. Notice is therefore given that Council, at their meeting to be held on August 28, 2002, will consider the following:
Council Policies to be repealed:
- Policy #2, "Homes for Special Care Policy"
- Policy #13, "Policy for the Administration and Enforcement of the On-Site Sewage Disposal Regulations and Health Act"
- Policy #15, "General Assistance - Work in Lieu of Welfare Policy"
- Policy #21, "Policy Governing Coordinated Home Care for Shelburne County"
Council Policies to be amended:
- "Personnel Policy" - Article #21 - Grievance Procedure
- Policy #8, "Annual Remuneration and Expenses for Council, Staff and Others"
- Policy #42, "Community Grants Policy"
COMMITTEE AND BOARD REPORTS
Community Grant Re: Old Centreville Church
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by W. Smith that the Municipality approve a grant in the amount of $1,000.00 from the District 6 Community Grants Fund for the replacement of a sill at the Old Centreville Church.
Motion carried.
Page 8, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
Directors and Officers Liability
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality contact the Shelburne County Sheltered Workshops requesting them to inform the Municipality what liability insurance coverage they have in place for directors and officers.
Motion carried.
Dr. Cullingworth
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by W. Smith that the Health Care Advisory Committee be informed that Dr. Cullingworth, the dentist now practicing at the Old Court House, will be retiring at the end of September 2002 and that the Community Health Care Advisory Committee be asked to address the situation in an appropriate manner.
Motion carried.
Court House Roof
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by L. Halliday that the Municipal Court Room roof be repaired and that the funds be supplied from the Special Reserve Fund Capital for this purpose.
Motion carried.
Waterfront Development Committee
The Clerk reported that a letter has been received from Mark Townsend, Economic Development Officer for the South West Shore Development Authority, requesting that funds for the Barrington Municipal Waterfront Development project be made in two (2) equal installments of $64,170.00, instead of the full amount as previously requested.
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by E. Nickerson that the Municipality pay $90,000.00 of the requested funds to the South West Shore Development Authority, and pay the balance on satisfactory completion of the project and endorsement of the Waterfront Development Committee.
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by W. Smith that the above motion be amended to pay the requested $64,170.00 instead of $90,000.00.
Motion defeated.
The original motion was then voted on and defeated.
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by W. Smith that the South West Shore Development Authority be advised that the Municipality will be considering their request when the tender for the project has been awarded.
Motion carried.
Page 9, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
Sale of Municipal Properties
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality advertise for sale in the local newspaper the following properties:
1. No. 34 Prospect Point Road.
2. Property at Lower Clark's Harbour on the South Side Road PID #80035520.
3. Property at Lower Clark's Harbour on the South Side Road PID #80035504.
Motion carried.
Property at The Hawk
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality inform the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada that the Municipality wishes to obtain all of the property at The Hawk - Wharf Road, indicated in the survey plan provided as Parcel A-1.
Motion carried.
Stoney Island Beach
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality place a toilet at the Stoney Island Beach and the Municipality be responsible for any damages to the toilet.
Motion defeated.
Wood's Harbour Sewer
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by L. Halliday that the Municipal Staff obtain an estimate for remote monitoring of Municipal Sewer Lift Stations located in both Barrington-Barrington Passage and Wood's Harbour public sewer systems.
Motion carried.
Public Works and Property Committee
Fish Waste
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality contact the RCMP and the Department of Transportation requesting that regulations requiring securing of loads of fish waste, when being transported through the Municipality, be more strictly enforced.
Motion carried.
Diversion Credits
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality request the Resource Recovery Fund Board to pay diversion credits directly to the Municipality rather than to the Regional Authority, in the absence of an any stated written policy in place to do otherwise.
Motion carried.
Page 10, Regular Meeting of Council, August 14, 2002
Arena Canteen Staff
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipal Clerk and Recreation and Facilities Manager re-hire interim staff to fill in during the fall season for Dawn Johnson at the Barrington Municipal Arena canteen.
Motion carried.
Clam Point Rest Stop
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by L. Halliday that the Tourist Rest Stop being constructed in Clam Point be name "Drinking Brook Park".
Motion carried.
Community Grants
Moved by W. Smith and seconded by E. Nickerson that a grant in the amount of $1,500.00 be approved from the District 7 Community Grants Fund to the White Lily Cemetery for the purpose of renovations.
Motion carried.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by E. Nickerson that the meeting adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
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