The Municipality of the District of
Town of Barrington
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council held in the Council Chambers, in the Administrative Centre, in Barrington, N.S., on Monday, July 10, 2006.  The meeting was called to order by the Warden at 7:00 p.m.


ROLL CALL

The Clerk reported that all councillors representing all districts of the Municipality were present with the exception of Deputy Warden Fred Bower who is on leave.  It was noted there is a vacancy in District 1 as a result of the resignation of Sterling Belliveau.

- Warden Louise Halliday
- Councillor Donna LeBlanc-Messenger
- Councillor Eddie Nickerson
- Councillor Larry Stewart
- Councillor Sean Strang

- Brian Holland, Municipal Clerk
- Lesa Rossetti, Deputy Clerk


DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

There were no declarations of conflicts of interest.


APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that the minutes of the Emergency Council Meeting held on June 19, 2006 and the minutes of the 127th Annual Council Meeting held June 26, 2006 be approved as circulated.

Motion carried unanimously.


MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

C.S.I. Causeway

In advance to the meeting each member of Council was provided with a copy of a letter from the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Loyola Hearn, which was addressed to Gerald Keddy, MP, regarding the Municipality's concern over the Cape Sable Island Causeway.  The letter advised that the Causeway is owned by both the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Public Works and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources.  The letter further advised that DFO officials would be willing to participate in any discussions with the Municipality and both provincial agencies aimed at finding potential solutions to the issues we have identified.  Environment Canada is responsible for the administration of the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act, therefore, the Minister has forwarded a copy of our concerns to the Honourable Rona Ambrose.

Much discussion took place regarding this matter since concerns have been expressed to various levels of government concerning potential environmental problems since 2002.

Page 2, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Resolution C060701

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that a letter be forwarded to the Premier asking him to advise of the name of the department responsible for the potential environmental problem which exists at the Cape Sable Island Causeway, and that all letters previously sent regarding this matter be forwarded to the Premier, and that all departments formerly contacted be sent a copy of the letter to the Premier along with the package.

Motion carried unanimously.


CORRESPONDENCE

Muscular Dystrophy Canada

The Clerk informed members that a letter has been received from Muscular Dystrophy Canada advising that the Island and Barrington Passage fire fighters have raised $1,452.00 from April 1, 2005 to March 2006.  This brings their total contributions to MDC to $5,179.00 since they joined the fight against neuromuscular disorders in 2002.

Resolution C060702

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by D. Messenger that a framed certificate be provided to the Island and Barrington Passage Fire Department in recognition of their fundraising efforts for Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

Motion carried unanimously.

Regional Tourism Development

The Clerk informed members that correspondence has been received inviting the Warden and Council, and Diane Smith, to attend the July 12th work session regarding the Development of Cooperative and Collaborative Regional Tourism Destination Strategies.  Due to the short notice provided, councillors were unavailable to attend the meeting.

Resolution C060703

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that the Municipal Clerk contact Timothy Gillespie, Chair, Discover Shelburne County Tourism Association, stating that the councillors are unavailable to attend due to prior commitments and request more advance notice of meetings in the future.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060704

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that "tourism" be added to the agenda for the next Committee of the Whole meeting and that Diane Smith be invited to attend.

Motion carried unanimously.

It was agreed that the Municipal Clerk prepare a list of tourism associations in the area for presentation at the Committee of the Whole meeting.

Page 3, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Roseway Hospital

It was reported that correspondence has been received from Arthur Blades, Chairman, Shelburne County Community Health Board, advising that it has come to his attention that the South West Nova District Health Authority has indicated that additional beds that could be used for long term care are available at Roseway Hospital if funding could be provided for them.  The letter advised that the Shelburne County Community Health Board believes that any incremental beds of any kind at Roseway Hospital should be acute care beds, and under no circumstances is the existing complement of acute care beds to be reduced.  This letter was provided for information purposes only.

Resolution C060705

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by S. Strang that a letter be forwarded to Mr. Arthur Blades, Chairman, Shelburne County Community Health Board requesting him to keep Council up to date on this matter.

Motion carried unanimously.

Shelburne County Exhibition

Correspondence has been received from the Shelburne County Agricultural Exhibition Association inviting the Warden to share in their opening ceremonies for the 2006 Shelburne County Exhibition, on Tuesday, August 8, 2006.

Resolution C060706

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by L. Stewart that expenses be paid for Warden Halliday to attend the opening ceremonies of the Shelburne Exhibition.

Motion carried unanimously.

Smoke Free Canada

In advance to the meeting each member was provided with correspondence received from the Honourable Mack Harb, Senator, advising that the motion he tabled calling for a Smoke Free Canada was unanimously passed in the Senate on June 7, 2006.  The legislation bans smoking areas in enclosed work places under federal jurisdiction.  This letter was provided for information purposes only.

Heritage Strategy Task Force and Voluntary Planning

The Clerk informed members that the Heritage Strategy Task Force and Voluntary Planning has provided two (2) copies of their interim report which makes 49 recommendations on a range of issues, opportunities and challenges affecting Nova Scotia's diverse cultural and natural heritage.  The Task Force will now consider the public response to the interim report and gather additional information before presenting its final report to government and to Nova Scotians.  The Task Force is therefore requesting comments on the interim report.

Members were informed that copies of the report may be obtained from the Municipal Office.

Page 4, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Resolution C060707

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by S. Strang that "studies" be added to the agenda for the next Committee of the Whole meeting.

Motion carried unanimously.

Tax Reduction Application

The Clerk informed members that a Tax Reduction Application has been received from David Adams indicating that his house located at 23 Prospect Point Road, Shag Harbour, was demolished on January 15, 2006, and is therefore requesting a reduction in taxes for the current year.

Resolution C060708

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by D. Messenger that taxes outstanding on Assessment Account #01810588, assessed in the name of David Adams, be adjusted accordingly.

Motion carried unanimously.

Destination South West Nova Scotia

The Clerk informed members that correspondence has been received requesting the Municipality to advertise in the 2006 South West Nova Scotia Visitor's Guide.  It was noted that the Municipality did not advertise in this publication last year.

Resolution C060709

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that this matter be referred to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion.

Motion carried unanimously.

Upper Clement's Park

The Clerk informed members that correspondence has been received from the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Heritage, in response to our letter supporting the ongoing operation of Upper Clement's Park.  The letter advised that senior staff in their tourism division are currently working with other governmental representatives to complete a thorough review and analysis of Upper Clement's Park, and the Wildlife Park, to help determine future operations.  The letter further advised that she will ensure that the Municipality's position regarding the park is included as part of their review.


REPORT OF WARDEN

The Warden gave a brief report on her activities since the last meeting of Council.


Page 5, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

B.M.H.S. Graduation Ceremonies

Resolution C060710

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by E. Nickerson that the Municipality not schedule municipal meetings to be held at the same time as the B.M.H.S. Graduation Ceremonies.

Motion carried unanimously.


COMMITTEE REPORTS

Community Health Care Advisory Committee Meeting

SABA University

Resolution C060711

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that both Town and Municipal Councils be advised to have a presentation made by Anne Smith and associates to their councils regarding SABA University and private medical schools as soon as possible, and that the MLA for the County be invited to attend these meetings.

Motion carried unanimously.

The Clerk informed members that he has a CD on the university which members may want to view.

Resolution C060712

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that members view the SABA University CD at a Committee of the Whole meeting prior to making arrangements for the group to appear before Council.

Motion carried unanimously.

Committee of the Whole Council

By-election for District 1

Resolution C060713

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that a by-election to elect a councillor for District 1 be held on Saturday, September 16, 2006.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060714

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that the Returning Officer for the by-election to be held in District 1 be paid a fee of $2,000.00.

Motion carried unanimously.

Page 6, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Resolution C060715

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that the Municipality not introduce electronic voting systems at the by-election for District 1.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060716

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by E. Nickerson that the Municipality use the most recent provincial list of electors for the purposes of the by-election in District 1.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060717

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by L. Stewart that the Municipality advertise for the position of Returning Officer, and that Municipal Staff carry out interviews and hire a Returning Officer.  If no suitable responses are received, then the Municipal Clerk will seek out a suitable candidate.

Motion carried unanimously.

Community Grant Requests

District 2

Resolution C060718

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that a grant of $900.00 be provided to the Wood's Harbour Minor Ball Association from the District 2 Community Grants Fund which was agreed to by the councillor for District 2.

Motion carried unanimously.

District 3

Resolution C060719

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that Community Grants be approved to Riverdale Cemetery in the amount of $600.00, and to the Hillside Cemetery in the amount of $600.00 from District 3 funds.

Motion carried unanimously.

District 5

Resolution C060720

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that a grant of $700.00 from District 5 funds be provided to the Atlantic Cemetery.

Motion carried unanimously.

Page 7, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

District 6

Resolution C060721

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that a grant of $1,300.00 from District 6 funds be provided to the Archelaus Smith Museum.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060722

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that a grant in the amount of $1,250.00 from District 6 funds be provided to the Newellton Community Hall.

Motion carried unanimously.

District 7

Resolution C060723

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by E. Nickerson that a grant of $800.00 from District 7 funds be provided to the White Lily Cemetery.

Motion carried unanimously.

EMO Coordinator

It was reported that Dave Kendrick, EMO Coordinator, has resigned from his position.  Mr. Kendrick has obtained a full-time job in Halifax.

Resolution C060724

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that the Town of Clark's Harbour be asked to agree to offer the position to the next alternate chosen by the committee who was interviewed for the position of EMO Coordinator.

Motion carried unanimously.

The Municipal Clerk informed members that he has been in contact with the alternate, Paula Sutherland, and she has indicated a willingness to fill the position of EMO Coordinator.

Free Trade Agreement Re: Korea

Resolution C060725

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that the Municipality not submit any letter to the government as requested by the Canadian Auto Workers Union, as Council lacks the resources, and does not have the expertise to fully evaluate the request being made by the Union in regards to this issue.

Motion carried unanimously.


Page 8, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Tax Write-Off

Resolution C060726

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that the balance of $42.80 Business Occupancy taxes on property rented from Thomas L. Swaine, in the name of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, be written off as the cost of collection would exceed the amount outstanding.

AFFIRMATIVE            NEGATIVE
Louise Halliday            Sean Strang
Donna LeBlanc-Messenger   
Eddie Nickerson
Larry Stewart

Motion carried.

Rural Caucus Meeting

Resolution C060727

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by L. Stewart that the Municipality inform the Chair of the Rural Caucus that no voluntary contribution will be made.

AFFIRMATIVE            NEGATIVE
Louise Halliday            Eddie Nickerson
Donna LeBlanc-Messenger
Larry Stewart
Sean Strang

Motion carried.

C.S.I. Sewer

Resolution C060728

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that Municipal Staff determine the cost and proposed funding for the following potential phases of the Cape Sable Island Sewer Project:

    1.    All of the western side of Cape Sable Island.
    2.    For each municipal district on Cape Sable Island.
    3.    For a $4 Million to $6 Million first phase of the project which will provide the best economic impact for Cape Sable Island.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resoluton C060728

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by E. Nickerson that the Cape Sable Island Sewer be dealt with by all councillors by adding all councillors to the C.S.I. Sewer Committee and holding meetings of that committee on the same night as Committee of the Whole Council meetings are scheduled.

Motion carried unanimously.

Page 9, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

Committee Vacancies

Resolution C060729

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that Councillor Strang be appointed to the Hiring Committee.

Motion carried unanimously.

Resolution C060730

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by E. Nickerson that Councillor Stewart be appointed to the Continuing Care Steering Committee.

Motion carried unanimously.


NEW BUSINESS

Consideration of Amendments to the Arena Policy

It was reported that notice was given at the last meeting of Council that consideration will be given to amendments to the Arena Policy to reduce the notice period required for cancellation of ice time to 24 hours from 48 hours.

Resolution C060731

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that the Arena Policy be amended to reduce the notice period required for cancellation of ice time to 24 hours.

Motion carried unanimously.

Consideration of Amendments to Policy #8 Re: Leave of Absence

The Clerk informed members that notice of consideration of amendments to Policy #8 "Re: Leave of Absence" was given at the last meeting of Council.  It is proposed that the policy be amended to provide for the following:

         A member of Council may be granted leave of absence with or without pay and benefits when he or she requests such leave for good and sufficient cause.

         If the leave of absence is granted to the Warden or Deputy Warden then Council shall elect another councillor to fill the vacancy during the leave.

         Compensation shall be paid to the newly elected Warden or Deputy Warden at the prescribed rate, and the individual taking the leave of absence, if compensated, will be paid at the rate that is normally paid to a councillor.

The Warden turned her chair over to Councillor Messenger in order that she could address the matter. 

The chair was then resumed by the Warden.

Much discussion took place regarding the proposed amendments.

Page 10, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

The Warden once again turned her chair over to Councillor Messenger in order that she could address the matter.

The Warden resumed her chair.

Resolution C060732

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by S. Strang that proposed amendments to Policy #8 "Re: Leave of absence" be referred to the July 31, 2006 meeting of the Committee of the Whole for further discussion.

Motion carried unanimously.

Owaissa Fence

Resolution C060733

Moved by E. Nickerson and seconded by S. Strang that this matter be referred to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion.

Motion carried unanimously.


CLOSED SESSION

At this time a Closed Session of Council was held to deal with sale of property and a physician agreement.

The Regular Council Meeting was then called back to order.


B.M.H.S.

Resolution C060734

Moved by S. Strang and seconded by D. Messenger that the Municipality offer the Tri-County Regional School Board a parcel of land in Oak Park formerly a part of the Glenwright Memorial Ball Field in exchange for the Annex property located next to the Barrington Municipal High School.

AFFIRMATIVE            NEGATIVE
Louise Halliday            Eddie Nickerson
Donna LeBlanc-Messenger
Larry Stewart
Sean Strang

Motion carried.


Page 11, Regular Meeting of Barrington Municipal Council, July 10, 2006

PHYSICIAN AGREEMENT

Resolution C060734

Moved by D. Messenger and seconded by S. Strang that Dr. Chaloner be informed that due to medical reasons she will not be required to share in the on-call service at the Community Health Centre in Barrington Passage, and in the on-call roster for inpatients and emergency care at Roseway Hospital, and that she will not be required to obtain and maintain admitting privileges at the Yarmouth Regional Hospital in her agreement with the Municipality, as per her request.

Motion carried unanimously.


ADJOURNMENT

Moved by S. Strang that the meeting adjourn.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:10 p.m.





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