Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Barrington Municipal Council held in the Council Chambers, in the Administrative Centre, in Barrington, N.S., on Wednesday, February 12, 2003.
The meeting was called to order by the Warden at 7:03 p.m. with the following members present:
- Warden Sterling Belliveau
- Deputy Warden Eddie Nickerson
- Councillor Angus Atkinson
- Councillor Fred Bower
- Councillor Louise Halliday
- Councillor Dwayne Hunt
- Councillor Wayne Smith
- Brian Holland, Municipal Clerk
- Lesa Rossetti, Deputy Clerk
ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
It was agreed that the following items be added to the agenda:
- Closed Session of Council - Personnel Matter.
- Approval of Minutes of Special Meeting of Council held February 10,
2003.
- Dr. Jocelyn Hagaman has cancelled her interview for this evening.
- Response from Minister of Education Re: B.M.H.S.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by A. Atkinson that the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting held January 22, 2003, and minutes of the Special Council Meeting held February 10, 2003 be approved as circulated.
Motion carried.
MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
Centreville Church Preservation Society
At the request of Council, the By-Law Enforcement Officer has carried out an investigation into the condition of the steeple of the Centreville Church. Concern has been expressed regarding the condition of the steeple as a result of it being struck by lightning last fall.
Steps are being taken to have repairs carried out this spring.
The steeple appears to be secure and, therefore, the By-Law Enforcement
Officer does not feel that this would fall under the definition of “Dangerous
and Unsightly”. It is his recommendation that no further action be
taken.
Page 2, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Surplus Federal Property - The Hawk
The Clerk provided a brief update on the surplus federal property located
at The Hawk. Notification has been received from Public Works and
Government Services Canada that in October 2002 a Phase I Environmental
Site Assessment was completed on the property. It was determined
that Parcel A-1 likely does not have any environmental contamination concerns,
however, the consultant did locate a drilled well on the site which must
be properly abandoned prior to the property being conveyed to the Municipality.
The Department will keep us up to date on the status of this matter.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mary Ann Watson Bursary
A request has been received for a contribution to the Mary Ann Watson Bursary for students enrolled in the Yarmouth - Dalhousie Bachelor of Science Nursing Program.
Resolution C030202
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by A. Atkinson that the request for a contribution to the Mary Ann Watson Bursary be referred to the budget process.
Motion carried.
Arena Fundraising Request
A letter has been received from the Arena Fundraising Committee for an interest free loan to assist with the purchase of a compressor. Such a compressor would maintain quality ice during warm weather, such as September and October. The Committee currently has $40,000.00 in their bank account and a quote has been received from Cimco for the compressor in the amount of $85,511.00. The Committee is at this time requesting an interest free loan to cover the balance and are prepared to repay the loan within three (3) years.
During discussion of this matter, it was questioned whether the Municipality was prepared to open the Arena early each year and whether or not it was feasible to do so.
Resolution C030203
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by W. Smith that Paula Hatfield, Chairman of the Arena Fundraising Committee, be invited to attend the next meeting of the Finance Committee, which is scheduled to be held on Monday, February 17, 2003, to further discuss this matter.
Motion carried.
Nova Scotia Power Good Neighbor Energy Fund
The Clerk informed members that information has been received from Nova
Scotia Power regarding their Good Neighbor Energy Fund. Information
on this program has been copied and circulated to members.
Page 3, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
BARRINGTON REGIONAL CURLING CLUB
Brenda Maxwell, on behalf of Richard Nickerson, appeared before the meeting representing the Barrington Regional Curling Club. She informed members that she would like to take this opportunity to provide an update of the Curling Club status as of December 31, 2002, and to also provide a brief overview of activities to date, as well as those planned for the near future.
During Mrs. Maxwell’s presentation it was reported that the actual mortgage payments “principle and interest” for the years 2001 and 2002, were $137,349.20. This resulted in a repayment total shortfall, by the Barrington Regional Curling Club, of $36,692.13.
At the conclusion of her presentation, she requested the Municipality to amend Section 5 “Rent” of the lease as follows:
“The tenant shall pay a fixed annual rental to the landlord of $1.00 per annun which shall be due and payable on or before the first day of each and every year during the term of the lease, commencing the first day of November 2000. In addition the tenant shall pay and be responsible for the principle portion of the mortgage which the landlord has taken out on the premises to finance the construction of the curling rink.”
It is the opinion of BRCC that this initiative would be in keeping with similar interest free loans made available by Council to other sporting activities and organizations within the Municipality of Barrington.
It is felt by the Club that the amendment to the lease agreement will afford the BRCC the opportunity to continue to operate a fully functional curling facility, and continue to make available a fully functional multi-purpose facility to the residents of the Municipality of Barrington, in a prudent business-like manner. It was suggested that should surplus funds become available to the BRCC, the Board of Directors would look into forwarding such funds to the Municipality, to assist with the yearly payment of the interest portion of the mortgage.
Resolution C030204
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by F. Bower that representatives of the Barrington Regional Curling Club be invited to meet with the Clerk-Treasurer to discuss and prepare a proposal to be brought back to Council for consideration.
Motion carried.
A copy of the presentation made by Brenda Maxwell is attached and forms part of the official proceedings of the minutes.
BRCC Request for Patio/BBQ Area
It was reported that a request has been received from the Barrington
Regional Curling Club for permission to construct a Patio/BBQ area adjacent
to the rear exit of the Barrington Regional Curling Club. As per
the lease agreement, the approval of Council is required before the Curling
Club can proceed with this project.
Page 4, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Resolution C030205
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by F. Bower that the Barrington Regional Curling Club be permitted to construct a Patio/BBQ area near the rear exit of the Club.
Motion carried.
INTERVIEW LUUK GEERLIGS - UPPER CLYDE RIVER ROAD COMMITTEE
Mr. Luuk Geerligs, representative of the Upper Clyde River Road Committee, appeared before Council and once again expressed concern regarding the condition of the Upper Clyde River Road. Mr. Geerligs is requesting Council to write letters to the MLA and the Department of Transportation supporting the Committee’s efforts to have the Upper Clyde River Road paved.
Resolution C030206
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by F. Bower that a letter be written to the Minister of Transportation, and Cecil O’Donnell, MLA for Shelburne County, supporting the efforts of the Upper Clyde River Road Committee to have their road paved and request that the Upper Clyde River Road be given top priority for paving projects to be carried out in Shelburne County.
Motion carried.
The presentation made by Mr. Luuk Geerligs is attached and forms part
of the official proceedings of the minutes.
CONTINUATION OF CORRESPONDENCE
Kyoto Protocol
The Clerk informed members that a copy of the “Climate Change Plan for Canada: Achieving our Commitments Together”, has been received from Environment Canada. Anyone wishing to review this document may do so by contacting the office.
Birding Brochure
The Clerk informed members that the South Shore Tourism Association is in the process of preparing a new birding brochure. The brochure will be for the entire South Shore. The Municipality can sponsor the publication by contributing $500.00 to have our crest contained in the brochure, or by contributing $200.00 to have our name mentioned in the brochure.
Resolution C030207
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by F. Bower that the Municipality sponsor the new birding brochure by contributing $500.00 to have the Municipal crest contained in the brochure and funds will be paid from the District 7 Community Grant Fund.
Motion carried.
Page 5, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Letter of Thanks
It was reported that a letter has been received from Judith Ryan expressing her thanks for Council’s assistance in selling her property on Militia Island last summer.
Response from Minister of Education Re: B.M.H.S.
It was reported that a letter had been received by the Warden, from the Minister, in response to our letter requesting him to meet with us to discuss the issues concerning Barrington Municipal High School. The letter advised that he visited the Barrington Municipal High School on January 8, 2003 and discussed the health and safety issues with school and municipal officials. At that time he gave an update on the progress of the capital project to upgrade the school. He is recommending that the Municipality continue to communicate with the South West Regional School Board concerning updates on the progress of the project.
Request for Community Grant - ERMES Support Group
It was reported that a request has been received from the Evelyn Richardson Memorial Elementary School Support Group for a community grant in the amount of $2,000.00 to assist with the purchase of a new PA system for their gymnasium. The total cost of the system is $4,000.00. During discussion of this matter, Council Halliday and Warden Belliveau both indicated a willingness to contribute $500.00 from their district grants funds.
Resolution C030208
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that the request from ERMES Support Group for a Community Grant in the amount of $2,000.00 be referred to the Finance Committee for further consideration.
Motion carried.
SECOND READING - BY-LAW NO. 33 “SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL BY-LAW
The Clerk reported that second reading of By-Law No. 33 “Snow and Ice Removal By-Law” was advertised in the Coast Guard Newspaper on January 28, 2003. It was reported that the by-law being considered requires every owner or occupant of any property adjoining the sidewalk in Barrington Passage, to remove snow from the sidewalk within twelve (12) hours after any snowfall. Under this proposed by-law, if the sidewalk should become slippery, it shall be the responsibility of the owner or occupant of adjoining property to apply salt or some other material so as to completely cover or remove any slippery area.
The Warden invited comments from the public on this matter. No comments were forthcoming.
Councillor Hunt informed members that opposition to the by-law was expressed to him by a number of residents.
Resolution C030209
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by D. Hunt that By-Law No. 33 “Snow and Ice Removal By-Law” be referred to the Finance and Administration Committee for further consideration.
Motion carried.
Page 6, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
SOUTH WEST SHORE SENIORS RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PROJECT
It was reported that a letter has been received from the South West Shore Development Authority requesting a letter of support from Council for the South West Shore Seniors Residential Repairs Project. The project will target the senior citizens in Shelburne and Yarmouth Counties particularly those who have developed some difficulties with the challenges of living in their own homes.
Resolution C030210
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that a letter be forwarded to the South West Shore Development Authority in support of the South West Shore Seniors Residential Repairs Project.
Motion carried.
REPORT OF WARDEN
The Warden provided a brief update on his activities since the last
meeting of Council.
REPORT OF CLERK-TREASURER
The Clerk informed members that his report will be presented at the
next meeting of Council.
SOUTH WEST SHORE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY NOMINATION
By memo, dated January 30, 2003, members were requested to forward names
of individuals to be considered for membership on the South West Shore
Development Authority. No nominations were forthcoming.
COMMITTEE AND BOARD REPORTS
Finance and Administration Committee
Wood’s Harbour Sewer System Monitoring
Resolution C030211
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by L. Halliday that the Municipality accept the revised quotation from Dorey’s Security Systems for the installation of an electronic monitoring system on the Wood’s Harbour Sewer System.
Motion carried.
Page 7, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Barrington Consolidated School Demolition
Resolution C030212
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that in the best interest of the Municipality, the requirements of the Purchasing Policy for tendering of this project be waived, and the Municipality invite five (5) major contractors in the Municipality to submit bids for the demolition of the Barrington Consolidated School and for the subsequent site preparation for future use.
Resolution C030213
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by A. Atkinson that the above motion be amended by replacing the second “Municipality” with “South West Shore Development Authority”.
Motion carried.
The original motion as amended was then put to a vote and carried.
Visitor Information Centre
Resolution C030214
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by A. Atkinson that the South West Shore Development Authority have a design for the Visitor Information Centre prepared subject to the approval of Barrington Municipal Council.
Motion carried.
Public Works and Property Committee
Sea Cadet Corps.
Moved by A. Atkinson that Mr. Alan Brannen check the electrical system at the Recreation Centre on Sherose Island and report to Council on Wednesday, February 12, 2003, regarding its condition.
Motion withdrawn
It was reported at this time that an inspection had been carried out by Brannen’s Electric Service Ltd., which advised that there were no major electrical problems found at the Recreation Centre. All electrical panels are safe and dry. All panels and switch gear were checked in the building. A number of outlets were checked and were found to be O.K. No moisture or signs of moisture noted.
As a result of Mr. Brannen’s inspection, it was his opinion that the
electrical system in the building is safe.
Page 8, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Resolution C030215
Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by W. Smith that based on the findings of Brannen’s Electrical Service Ltd. that the Municipality continue with normal use of the Recreation Centre in the interim, until a report has been received from Jacques Whitford on their inspection of the property.
Motion carried.
During discussion of this matter the Warden turned his chair over to the Deputy Warden in order that he could speak on the matter.
After making his comments, the Warden then resumed the chair.
Visitor Information Centre
Resolution C030216
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality demolish the old Visitor Information Centre and have it removed from the site as it is no longer a usable building.
Motion carried.
Resolution C030217
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by W. Smith that the Municipality temporarily locate a Visitor Information Centre in the Old Court House building with the appropriate signage for the coming season until a new Visitor Information Centre can be completed.
Motion carried.
Station Road Property
Resolution C030218
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by D. Hunt that the purchase of property at Station Road be included in budget discussions for 2003/2004.
Motion carried.
Resolution C030219
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by F. Bower that Municipal staff contact the province to request that an environmental assessment be done on the property at Station Road, at provincial expense, prior to any further appraisal or survey of the property being done.
Motion carried.
Page 9, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Resolution C030220
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by W. Smith that a letter be sent to the Marina Committee asking if it is their intention to pay for any costs incurred in purchasing the property at Station Road.
(Motion carried, see below)
Councillor Halliday made reference to a motion passed by Council at their meeting held November 28, 2001, at which time a decision was made for the Municipality to acquire the property. Councillor Halliday informed members that it is, therefore, her opinion that the current motion is unnecessary.
Councillor Bower then called Point of Order since he felt this motion had been dealt with by Council at their meeting held November 28, 2001.
The Warden ruled that the motion was out of order since the matter had already been dealt with by Council on November 28, 2001.
Much discussion took place as to whether or not the motion was in order.
The Warden agreed to allow a division on the Point of Order.
As a result of the division, the Warden’s decision was not sustained.
Consequently, a division was taken on the previous motion and the motion was carried.
C & D Landfill Site
Resolution C030221
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by W. Smith that the hours of operation at the Construction and Demolition Debris Landfill Site be changed, to and including Tuesday to Saturday weekly, 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m., and that the site be staffed with two (2) Municipal employees, effective April 1, 2003.
Motion carried.
INTERVIEW SHAUN HATFIELD, CHAIRMAN, SAFE AND QUALITY SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Mr. Shaun Hatfield, Chairman, Safe and Quality School Association, appeared before the meeting. Mr. Hatfield informed members that in light of the recent decision of Council to endorse a letter of support for a new school, he would now like to request Council to consider offering the Department of Education a piece of land to construct a new school on.
At 9:05 p.m. Deputy Warden Eddie Nickerson received a call and excused
himself from the meeting.
Page 10, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Resolution C030222
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by A. Atkinson that the Barrington Municipal Council send a letter to the MLA for Shelburne County, the Minister of Education, and the Southwest Regional School Board, indicating that Council is willing to consider providing a piece of Municipal land for the site of a new school, if a site on municipal property is found to be suitable.
Motion carried.
INTERVIEW SERGEANT LEIGHTON
Sergeant Leighton of the Barrington R.C.M.P. Detachment appeared before the meeting. He briefly informed members of recent arrests made relating to the possession of crack cocaine, and break and enters.
He informed members that all municipal councils in Shelburne County have now agreed to support the Family Violence Program. Sergeant Leighton is now requesting Barrington Municipal Council to take the lead role in putting this program in place.
Resolution C030223
Moved by D. Hunt and seconded by W. Smith that a letter be sent to the other municipal units in Shelburne County requesting them to meet with us to discuss this matter.
Motion carried.
CONTINUATION OF COMMITTEE AND BOARD REPORTS
Archelaus Smith Historical Society
Councillor Atkinson informed members that he recently received a letter from the Archelaus Smith Historical Society thanking Council for help with their signs, and for providing a grant in the amount of $2,000.00 to assist with the operation of the museum.
Community Health Care Advisory Committee
Dental Equipment
Resolution C030224
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by D. Hunt that the dental equipment now owned by the Municipality be sold.
Motion carried.
Page 11, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Recreation and Facilities Management Committee
Volunteer Night
Resolution C030225
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality subsidize the cost of Volunteer Night as has been done in past years.
ERMES Home and School Group Request
Resolution C030226
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by W. Smith that staff contact the Southwest Regional School Board in order to determine if the playground equipment located at the former Barrington Consolidated School can be used at ERMES.
Motion carried.
Barrington Developmental Residence
It was reported that a request has been received from the Barrington Developmental Residence requesting one hour of ice time at the Arena to accommodate individuals who are physically and mentally challenged. The use of one hour ice time at the Arena would provide an opportunity for activity for these people that would have a significant impact on their quality of life in a very positive way.
Resolution C030227
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by W. Smith that the Recreation and Facilities Manager determine the appropriate time and price to accommodate the request of the Barrington Developmental Residence.
Motion carried.
Barrington Karate Club
It was reported that a request has been received from the Barrington Karate Club for funding of the purchase of equipment.
Resolution C030228
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by D. Hunt that the Municipality contact the Barrington Karate Club and inform them that no money has been allocated for this type of project in the current budget and, therefore, their request cannot be approved at this time.
Motion carried.
Page 12, Regular Meeting of Council, February 12, 2003
Resolution C030229
Moved by A. Atkinson and seconded by L. Halliday that a grant in the amount of $500.00 be provided from the District 6 Community Grant Fund to the Barrington Karate Club to assist with the purchase of equipment.
Motion carried.
Recreation Department Restructuring
Resolution C030230
Moved by L. Halliday and seconded by F. Bower that Municipal staff draft a proposed structure for the future Recreation Department which would include the separation of recreation activities from Facilities Management, and that this proposed structure include job descriptions of the Recreation Coordinator and the Facilities Manager, and that it be presented to the Recreation and Facilities Management Committee for their review.
Motion carried.
Friends of the Library
The Clerk informed members that a brief meeting was held with a representative
of the Friends of the Library and various sites are currently being explored
in the Barrington Passage area. Council will be provided with an
update at a later date.
CLOSED SESSION OF COUNCIL
At this time a Closed Session of Council was held to deal with a legal matter and a personnel matter.
The Regular Council Meeting was then called back to order.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by F. Bower that the meeting adjourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:08 p.m.
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