1 00:01:00,050 --> 00:01:29,790 Order, please. This meeting of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality Council will come to order for January 20th, 2026. We begin by acknowledging that we are in Magmoggy, the Ancestrum Unceded Territory, the Migma of People, guided by the Treaties, a Peace and Friendship. We also celebrate 400 plus years of African Nova Scotia descent. We strive to foster a diverse community that values everything that makes us unique. We are committed to equity, fairness, and dignity for all. At this time, 2 00:01:29,790 --> 00:01:31,190 I'd ask Lily to call the role. 3 00:01:33,420 --> 00:01:34,800 Mayor Clark, President. 4 00:01:35,200 --> 00:01:36,420 Councillor Gordon McDonough. 5 00:01:37,220 --> 00:01:38,340 Councillor McMolling. 6 00:01:39,040 --> 00:01:39,920 Councillor Marshall. 7 00:01:40,420 --> 00:01:41,740 Councillor Glass-B. 8 00:01:42,820 --> 00:01:44,160 Councillor Eldon McDonough. 9 00:01:45,080 --> 00:01:46,000 Deputy Mayor Prush. 10 00:01:46,760 --> 00:01:47,700 Councillor Parsons. 11 00:01:48,660 --> 00:01:49,540 Councillor McNeill. 12 00:01:50,580 --> 00:01:51,500 Councillor McKeegan. 13 00:01:52,360 --> 00:01:53,140 Councillor Oakley. 14 00:01:53,920 --> 00:01:55,160 Councillor Schupper Campbell. 15 00:01:57,990 --> 00:02:00,410 Thank you very much, Lily, and anticipate 16 00:02:00,850 --> 00:02:02,370 Councillor Schupper Campbell join. 17 00:02:33,140 --> 00:02:39,420 at this time for all those who are comfortable if I'd ask you to please rise for the 18 00:02:39,420 --> 00:02:51,840 You say, Porte la Cua, Tony Stua, Retune, Popeye, 19 00:02:52,380 --> 00:02:56,180 De Puebrio, De Fla, 20 00:02:58,620 --> 00:03:07,520 God, keep our land, glorious and free. 21 00:03:09,120 --> 00:03:18,260 Oh, can we stand on guard for thee? 22 00:03:20,390 --> 00:03:26,860 Oh, can we stand on guard? 23 00:03:39,390 --> 00:03:40,170 Thank you. 24 00:03:43,620 --> 00:03:46,400 Before we proceed with the business that is brought 25 00:03:46,400 --> 00:03:49,260 us gathered here today, I would like to acknowledge 26 00:03:49,260 --> 00:03:51,700 a couple of special guests. 27 00:03:51,880 --> 00:03:54,080 Everyone is welcome and special to the Chamber. 28 00:03:54,080 --> 00:04:00,340 but it's always great when you can have a former serving councillor join with you and not just one but two today 29 00:04:00,340 --> 00:04:10,000 We're very pleased to have Ivan Donkaster and may row with us who have served the citizens of the municipality and we're very pleased with your presence and we thank you 30 00:04:10,000 --> 00:04:12,800 for being here on 31 00:04:13,360 --> 00:04:21,380 behalf of council and more solemn note. I do want to convey the sympathies of council and staff to Councillor Gillespie and his wife Wendy 32 00:04:21,380 --> 00:04:38,800 on the passing of his father-in-law, John Clarke, a very dedicated and dedicated member of our community, and there'll be a more formal recognition at our next council meeting, but Steve to you and the family please pass on our deepest sympathies as well and comfort. 33 00:04:39,240 --> 00:04:39,540 Thank you. 34 00:04:39,540 --> 00:04:46,910 At this time, we have the approval of the agenda and moved by Councillor Gordon McDonald's, 35 00:04:46,990 --> 00:04:49,850 seconded by Councillor Parsons, discussion on the motion. 36 00:04:50,670 --> 00:04:53,130 Questions been called. I was in favor of signify by saying aye. 37 00:04:54,090 --> 00:04:56,830 Contrary to nay, motion is carried. 38 00:04:58,130 --> 00:05:03,450 That brings us to agenda item 2, proclamations and resolutions 2.1, Bell, let's talk today. 39 00:05:03,650 --> 00:05:04,210 Councillor McMillan. 40 00:05:06,070 --> 00:05:07,170 Thank you, Mr. Mayor. 41 00:05:07,170 --> 00:05:14,430 Belets Talk Day, whereas January 21, 2026 marks Belets Talk Day, a national day dedicated 42 00:05:14,430 --> 00:05:17,970 to raising awareness and promoting conversation about mental health. 43 00:05:18,450 --> 00:05:23,510 And whereas Belets Talk encourages meaningful dialogue about mental health, reduces stigma 44 00:05:23,510 --> 00:05:28,490 and promotes awareness, acceptance, and action to support those experiencing mental health 45 00:05:28,490 --> 00:05:28,950 challenges. 46 00:05:29,710 --> 00:05:34,590 And whereas the 2026 theme, take a moment for mental health, highlights the importance 47 00:05:34,590 --> 00:05:38,870 of pausing to reflect on mental health, checking in with ourselves and others and taking action 48 00:05:38,870 --> 00:05:43,630 to support mental well-being. And whereas the flag raising ceremony will be held on Wednesday, 49 00:05:43,850 --> 00:05:50,330 January 21st, 2026 at 10 a.m. at City Hall to recognize Bell Let's Talk Day and encourage 50 00:05:50,330 --> 00:05:55,890 all residents to share their support and actions using hashtag Bell Let's Talk and to take a moment 51 00:05:55,890 --> 00:06:01,350 for mental health and support those living with mental illness. Be it therefore resolved that CBRM 52 00:06:01,350 --> 00:06:08,970 Mayor Cecil P. Clarke and Council do hereby proclaim Wednesday, January 21st, 2026, as Bell 53 00:06:08,970 --> 00:06:12,630 let's talk today in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. And I'll move that, please. 54 00:06:12,990 --> 00:06:17,450 Moved by Councillor McMillan. Seconded by Councillor Marshall. Discussion on the motion. 55 00:06:18,710 --> 00:06:21,230 Question's been called. All is in favor of signify by saying aye. 56 00:06:21,650 --> 00:06:21,810 All right. 57 00:06:22,150 --> 00:06:28,450 Consuminate. Motion is carried. 2.2. Conversion. Therapy Awareness Month. Recognized 58 00:06:28,450 --> 00:06:29,510 Deputy Mayor Perouche. 59 00:06:30,030 --> 00:06:30,950 Thank you, Mr. Mayor. 60 00:06:32,030 --> 00:06:34,890 And whereas January is recognized as conversion therapy 61 00:06:34,890 --> 00:06:38,390 awareness month, and January 7th is recognized internationally 62 00:06:38,390 --> 00:06:40,250 as the data and conversion therapy. 63 00:06:40,930 --> 00:06:44,950 And whereas conversion therapy is based on and progates myths 64 00:06:44,950 --> 00:06:47,150 and stereotypes about sexual orientation, 65 00:06:47,990 --> 00:06:50,310 gender identity, gender expression, 66 00:06:50,630 --> 00:06:53,370 seeking to change an individual's sexual orientation 67 00:06:53,370 --> 00:06:56,090 to heterosexual, gender identity, 68 00:06:56,090 --> 00:07:02,930 and side-gender or gender expression to conform to the sex assigned at birth, causing significant 69 00:07:02,930 --> 00:07:11,630 harm, including depression, anxiety, self-rejection, social isolation, suicidal identification, 70 00:07:12,470 --> 00:07:17,750 suicide attempts, and infringing upon individuals' rights to dignity and equality, and whereas 71 00:07:17,750 --> 00:07:24,990 the government of Canada has taken decisive action to protect LGBTQS plus individuals, including 72 00:07:24,990 --> 00:07:30,170 including the unanimous passage of Bill C-4 by the Canadian Senate and the House of Commons in December 2021, 73 00:07:30,430 --> 00:07:36,250 which made conversion therapy illegal in Canada as of January 7, 2022. 74 00:07:36,730 --> 00:07:41,290 And it is therefore desirable to raise awareness of the harms caused by conversion therapy. 75 00:07:41,710 --> 00:07:48,050 Be it therefore resolved that CBR mayor Cecil P. Clarke and Council do hereby proclaim January 20, 76 00:07:48,230 --> 00:07:52,970 26 as conversion therapy awareness month in the Caprient and Rage of Mespality, and I so move. 77 00:07:53,830 --> 00:07:58,970 Moved by Deputy Mayor Peruch, a seconded by Councilor Aldermic Donald, discussion on the motion. 78 00:07:59,770 --> 00:08:01,990 Questions to call, all of the favor signify by saying aye. 79 00:08:03,450 --> 00:08:09,030 Consuminate, motion is carried 2.3 African Heritage Month, recognize Councilor Quinn. 80 00:08:09,890 --> 00:08:10,610 Thank you, Mayor. 81 00:08:11,290 --> 00:08:15,930 African Heritage Month, whereas February is recognized internationally as African Heritage Month, 82 00:08:16,370 --> 00:08:21,490 a time to recognize and salute the many contributions and ongoing achievements of people of African descent 83 00:08:21,490 --> 00:08:23,710 all over the world and here in the CBRM. 84 00:08:23,990 --> 00:08:26,050 We celebrate a time of greater understanding 85 00:08:26,050 --> 00:08:27,730 and whereas this year's theme, 86 00:08:28,290 --> 00:08:30,290 strengthen unity moving forward with purpose, 87 00:08:30,650 --> 00:08:32,030 prosperity, power, and progress. 88 00:08:32,650 --> 00:08:35,370 Recognizes unity as an active force for change. 89 00:08:35,890 --> 00:08:38,350 Honors more than 400 years of African presence in Nova Scotia 90 00:08:38,350 --> 00:08:41,130 celebrates the legacy of the province's 52 historic 91 00:08:41,130 --> 00:08:42,490 African Nova Scotia communities 92 00:08:42,910 --> 00:08:44,570 and acknowledges the vital role of elders 93 00:08:44,570 --> 00:08:47,230 as knowledge keepers, culture bearers and leaders 94 00:08:47,810 --> 00:08:50,890 who continue to guide present and future generations 95 00:08:50,890 --> 00:08:55,490 And, whereas, CBRM encourages all residents to participate in activities and events that 96 00:08:55,490 --> 00:09:00,850 honor the history, resilience, leadership, and contributions of African Nova Scotians and 97 00:09:00,850 --> 00:09:05,570 people of African descent, as we move forward together in unity with purpose, prosperity, 98 00:09:05,810 --> 00:09:06,550 power, and progress. 99 00:09:07,290 --> 00:09:11,690 Be it therefore resolved that CBRM Mayor Cecil P. Clarke and Council, to hear by proclaim 100 00:09:11,690 --> 00:09:15,930 February, 2026, as African Heritage Month in the CBRM, and I so move. 101 00:09:16,530 --> 00:09:20,710 Moved by Councillor McQuinn, seconded by Deputy Mayor Perouche, discussion on the motion. 102 00:09:21,750 --> 00:09:24,090 Questions been called. All in favour? Signify by saying aye. 103 00:09:24,990 --> 00:09:28,010 Contraint nay. Motion is carried. Thank you. 104 00:09:29,010 --> 00:09:33,890 That takes agenda item three. Presentations, we're very pleased to have a presentation today 105 00:09:33,890 --> 00:09:39,470 on the provision of a blood donation service for the CBRM. I welcome forward and McCormick, 106 00:09:39,470 --> 00:09:45,890 The anti-Kinish diocesan Catholic Women League president and with colleagues 107 00:09:45,890 --> 00:09:52,510 I'll just do leave that for any introductions and the microphone will be on shortly there and just 108 00:09:54,070 --> 00:09:54,870 I'll just 109 00:09:56,190 --> 00:10:01,990 One second it'll come on red there in a second. There you go. There it is. Welcome. Thank you 110 00:10:01,990 --> 00:10:04,370 Good afternoon, Mayor Clark 111 00:10:05,150 --> 00:10:07,910 Council members and members of the public 112 00:10:07,910 --> 00:10:17,330 My name is Ann McCormick. I am the Anakin-ish diocesan CWL President. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. 113 00:10:18,590 --> 00:10:31,490 I am joined today by Denise Forgeron, Anakin-ish diocesan CWL Social Justice Chair and Sandra O'Connell Nova Scotia Provincial CWL President. 114 00:10:31,490 --> 00:10:32,690 We 115 00:10:36,340 --> 00:10:42,400 are here today on behalf of the Anakin-ish diocesan Council of the Catholic Women's 116 00:10:42,400 --> 00:10:50,800 League of Canada, which represents 27 local councils and more than 1,300 members across 117 00:10:50,800 --> 00:11:00,340 Eastern Nova Scotia to respectfully request council support in urging Canadian blood services. 118 00:11:00,340 --> 00:11:11,320 The organization responsible for managing blood in Canada to promote a blood donation service in the Cape Retin Regional Municipality. 119 00:11:13,850 --> 00:11:25,770 Since 2015, when the blood collection clinic in Sydney was permanently closed, there has been no place to donate blood east of Port Hawksbury. 120 00:11:25,770 --> 00:11:34,450 As a result, residents of this municipality have been unable to regularly contribute 121 00:11:34,450 --> 00:11:36,510 to Canada's blood supply. 122 00:11:41,800 --> 00:11:51,780 This issue was first raised in 2022 at our Ennick-Nish diocesan CWL convention when the 123 00:11:51,780 --> 00:11:59,060 late Erlene Landry, then education and health chair, spoke about Canadian blood services 124 00:11:59,060 --> 00:12:00,980 Partners for Life program. 125 00:12:03,780 --> 00:12:07,240 The Partners for Life program is a national 126 00:12:07,240 --> 00:12:14,080 initiative of Canadian blood services which encourages organizations and 127 00:12:14,080 --> 00:12:19,960 community groups to support Canada's blood system by pledging to donate 128 00:12:19,960 --> 00:12:21,600 blood as a team. 129 00:12:24,360 --> 00:12:28,640 The Catholic Women's League across Canada committed to this 130 00:12:28,640 --> 00:12:35,920 program and Erlene encouraged our local members to participate in this worthy initiative. 131 00:12:38,350 --> 00:12:45,910 However, participation in the partners for life program is not possible in the CBRM because 132 00:12:45,910 --> 00:12:50,010 there is no local blood donation clinic available. 133 00:12:52,430 --> 00:12:59,670 Erlene challenged members to advocate for change and provision of a blood donation service. 134 00:12:59,670 --> 00:13:00,750 For 135 00:13:04,940 --> 00:13:11,620 the past three years, the Anakin-ish diocesan Council has been advocating Canadian 136 00:13:11,620 --> 00:13:17,460 blood services to restore blood donation services in the CBRM. 137 00:13:20,400 --> 00:13:27,140 CWL members throughout the diocese have written letters to Canadian blood services, municipal 138 00:13:27,140 --> 00:13:35,240 Councilers, Provincial MLAs, the Minister of Health and Wellness, and Premier Tim Houston 139 00:13:35,240 --> 00:13:37,360 asking for their support. 140 00:13:39,780 --> 00:13:45,620 An appeal for support from the public was made through two letters published in the 141 00:13:45,620 --> 00:13:52,940 Capretton Post, and members were encouraged to sign an online petition through Change.org. 142 00:13:52,940 --> 00:14:04,300 In 2024, our Diocesan Council adopted a resolution urging Canadian blood services to 143 00:14:04,300 --> 00:14:12,920 provide blood donation services in the CBRM. When this generated no action from Canadian 144 00:14:12,920 --> 00:14:21,660 blood services, the resolution was broadened in 2025 to call on our municipal and provincial 145 00:14:21,660 --> 00:14:23,600 government's for support. 146 00:14:25,880 --> 00:14:31,460 This resolution has since been adopted by our provincial CWL 147 00:14:31,460 --> 00:14:39,140 Council and shared by our National Council with all provincial councils across Canada. 148 00:14:41,850 --> 00:14:49,590 Copies of the resolution have been sent to the CEO of Canadian Blood Services and to various 149 00:14:49,590 --> 00:14:51,310 board and executive members. 150 00:14:53,310 --> 00:14:59,670 Nomers, community partners throughout the CBRM have also been asked to support this 151 00:14:59,670 --> 00:14:59,830 the nation. 152 00:15:00,000 --> 00:15:11,100 Meeting will be planned with local MLAs and MPs, the Minister of Health and Wellness and Premier Houston. 153 00:15:19,490 --> 00:15:37,370 Since 2019, Canadian Blood Services has faced significant challenges balancing blood supply and demand. Decreased donor participation because of the pandemic and cancellation of blood donation clinics due to environmental factors 154 00:15:37,370 --> 00:15:43,050 factors such as flooding, wildfires, and severe weather events have resulted in the 155 00:15:43,050 --> 00:15:45,250 smallest donor base in a decade. 156 00:15:46,190 --> 00:15:52,610 These challenges have at times prompted Canadian Blood Services to alert healthcare facilities 157 00:15:52,610 --> 00:15:56,390 across Canada of low blood inventory levels. 158 00:15:56,970 --> 00:16:01,350 At the same time, the demand for blood in Canada has never been greater. 159 00:16:01,350 --> 00:16:08,270 Canadian Blood Services had made frequent public appeals for blood donations, including 160 00:16:08,270 --> 00:16:10,210 during the recent Christmas season. 161 00:16:11,170 --> 00:16:18,590 In the past year, Canadian Blood Services described the situation of decreased donor participation 162 00:16:18,850 --> 00:16:27,030 as unsustainable, and in May 2025 announced its most ambitious recruitment campaign ever. 163 00:16:27,030 --> 00:16:31,430 one million new donors over the next five years. 164 00:16:32,350 --> 00:16:36,010 That's an increase of donors from 100,000 per year 165 00:16:36,010 --> 00:16:42,370 as requested in 2023 to approximately 200,000 per year 166 00:16:42,370 --> 00:16:43,830 in 2025. 167 00:16:47,040 --> 00:16:50,880 This 2025 goal of Canadian blood services 168 00:16:50,880 --> 00:16:53,020 is a national call to action. 169 00:16:53,940 --> 00:16:56,140 But without a local blood donation service, 170 00:16:56,140 --> 00:17:03,140 residents of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality have limited ability to respond to this appeal 171 00:17:03,440 --> 00:17:06,140 and are effectively left on the sidelines. 172 00:17:07,540 --> 00:17:13,740 Donating at the nearest clinic in Port Hawksbury involves a round trip of approximately four 173 00:17:13,740 --> 00:17:14,500 to five hours. 174 00:17:15,320 --> 00:17:22,240 For many people, seniors, students, working parents, and those without reliable transportation, 175 00:17:22,240 --> 00:17:30,320 the time, distance, and cost and tail make this impractical, costly, and inefficient. 176 00:17:32,360 --> 00:17:37,000 Research consistently shows that donor convenience matters. 177 00:17:37,980 --> 00:17:44,680 When clinics are further away, donation rates drop, donors are less likely to return, 178 00:17:45,260 --> 00:17:48,960 and long-term donor relationships are harder to build. 179 00:17:48,960 --> 00:17:58,500 This is not about unwillingness. It is about accessibility. Accessibility generates participation. 180 00:17:59,760 --> 00:18:06,820 Canadian blood services itself states in its strategic plan that everyone in this country 181 00:18:06,820 --> 00:18:11,660 should have the opportunity to contribute to Canada's lifeline. 182 00:18:11,660 --> 00:18:18,100 We believe the residents of the CBRM deserve that same opportunity. 183 00:18:27,300 --> 00:18:33,780 We believe the CBRM offers an ideal location for a blood donation clinic. 184 00:18:35,440 --> 00:18:42,760 The CBRM is the second largest municipality in Nova Scotia with a population of approximately 185 00:18:42,760 --> 00:18:50,500 109,000. It's cultural and ethnic diversity growing international and 186 00:18:50,500 --> 00:18:57,520 indigenous populations and inter-preventual migration align well with the Canadian 187 00:18:57,520 --> 00:19:05,260 Blood Services recruitment priorities of population density and diversity. A 188 00:19:05,260 --> 00:19:13,260 The 2025 letter from Catholic Canadian Blood Services states, we recognize that there is 189 00:19:13,260 --> 00:19:20,220 a growing population in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the population size 190 00:19:20,220 --> 00:19:27,020 is certainly a key factor that is considered when shaping our plans and identifying future 191 00:19:27,020 --> 00:19:27,920 possibilities. 192 00:19:29,280 --> 00:19:37,040 The large post-secondary population at Caprette University, Nova Scotia Community College, 193 00:19:37,640 --> 00:19:43,960 and the province's second medical school offers ideal opportunities to recruit the next 194 00:19:43,960 --> 00:19:46,560 generation of donors and advocates. 195 00:19:47,760 --> 00:19:54,540 Young donors are critical to the sustainability of Canada's blood system, and they are right 196 00:19:54,540 --> 00:19:54,900 here. 197 00:19:54,900 --> 00:20:01,000 In addition, these campuses provide ideal locations for mobile clinics. 198 00:20:01,660 --> 00:20:09,160 We are aware that universities and colleges across Canada have been participating in 199 00:20:09,160 --> 00:20:13,600 the Partners of Life program with Canadian Blood Services. 200 00:20:16,520 --> 00:20:24,760 Canadian Blood Services has over 4,000 mobile clinics operating successfully across Canada. 201 00:20:24,760 --> 00:20:31,380 From clinics, blood is shipped and refrigerated trucks to the nearest processing center. 202 00:20:31,960 --> 00:20:35,500 The processing center for Atlantic Canada is in Dartmouth. 203 00:20:36,460 --> 00:20:44,700 In their 2025 letter, Canadian blood services stated, when determining our plans, a number 204 00:20:44,700 --> 00:20:50,720 of factors are considered, including the number of units we may be able to collect, as well 205 00:20:50,720 --> 00:20:54,620 as the distance and access to the nearest production site. 206 00:20:56,060 --> 00:21:00,620 Yarmeth, for example, offers several mobile clinics each year. 207 00:21:01,180 --> 00:21:08,460 The distance from Yarmeth's clinic to the processing center in Dartmouth is 320 kilometers. 208 00:21:09,220 --> 00:21:14,460 The distance from Sydney to the processing center is 390 kilometers. 209 00:21:14,460 --> 00:21:22,160 from Bathurst, 460 kilometers, and from Edmondston, 400 and Navy kilometers. 210 00:21:23,000 --> 00:21:29,280 Distance has not been a barrier to successful mobile blood collection in Atlantic Canada. 211 00:21:30,100 --> 00:21:35,840 Sydney is well positioned to implement this approach, an approach that is proven practical and 212 00:21:35,840 --> 00:21:37,600 already in use elsewhere. 213 00:21:38,080 --> 00:21:44,440 And please note that the populations of these locations is considerably less than the population. 214 00:21:44,440 --> 00:21:52,660 of the CBRM. Our residents are known for their legacy of giving and dedication to supporting 215 00:21:52,660 --> 00:21:59,220 healthcare needs. The Cape Breton Regional Hospital, the main trauma center and referral 216 00:21:59,220 --> 00:22:06,160 center for Cape Breton Island, is undergoing a major multi-million dollar upgrade, but infrastructure 217 00:22:06,160 --> 00:22:12,940 alone is not enough. While modern facilities are crucial, buildings alone cannot meet patient needs 218 00:22:12,940 --> 00:22:15,700 without a stable supply of blood products. 219 00:22:16,440 --> 00:22:20,500 Healthcare infrastructure and blood supply must go hand in hand. 220 00:22:22,920 --> 00:22:30,240 Residents in our area with hemocromatosis undergo therapeutic blood removal in our local hospitals. 221 00:22:30,700 --> 00:22:34,780 Yet, this usable blood is discarded. 222 00:22:36,360 --> 00:22:41,080 Through Canadian blood services, these donations could serve not only as therapy 223 00:22:41,080 --> 00:22:44,580 be by provide life-saving blood for others. 224 00:22:52,300 --> 00:23:00,200 What we are asking that the Cape Retin Regional Municipal Council formally support our resolution 225 00:23:00,760 --> 00:23:08,960 and advocate to Canadian blood services for the provision of a blood donation clinic in the CBRM. 226 00:23:09,380 --> 00:23:12,820 We thank you for your time and attention. 227 00:23:14,520 --> 00:23:19,000 Thank you very much for that comprehensive presentation. 228 00:23:19,160 --> 00:23:20,680 I would recognize Councillor Parsons. 229 00:23:21,960 --> 00:23:32,500 Excuse my voice as I'm getting over this longstanding flu, hope nobody gets and Sandra Denise. 230 00:23:33,080 --> 00:23:34,060 Thank you for your presentation. 231 00:23:34,860 --> 00:23:36,180 This is not new, Mr. Mayor. 232 00:23:36,420 --> 00:23:41,640 I'd just like to advise a council that our former council on behalf of its members did send 233 00:23:41,640 --> 00:23:45,820 In the Minister of Health, I had a call from a resident who lives on Patnik Avenue. 234 00:23:46,340 --> 00:23:48,160 She brought this to light, which is very important. 235 00:23:48,740 --> 00:23:51,660 The service is vital, as in my opinion. 236 00:23:52,280 --> 00:23:56,420 I think anytime that we have an increase in population, that we should be honoring, 237 00:23:56,920 --> 00:23:59,180 providing for services that everyone deserves. 238 00:23:59,800 --> 00:24:03,740 I will support this, and I will put the motion to the floor if I may, Mr. Mayor. 239 00:24:03,740 --> 00:24:11,320 So it's moved by Councillor Parsons to approve the recommendation as presented, a request 240 00:24:11,320 --> 00:24:17,060 I should say as presented, seconded by Councillor Aldermic Donald, discussion on the motion, 241 00:24:17,240 --> 00:24:19,100 recognized Councillor Gordon McDonough. 242 00:24:20,160 --> 00:24:20,460 I'm sorry. 243 00:24:20,780 --> 00:24:21,360 Councillor Harris. 244 00:24:21,960 --> 00:24:23,540 Go ahead, Councillor Parsons. 245 00:24:24,140 --> 00:24:29,440 I would like to motion, to make a motion that CBR and Mayor and Council adopt the formal 246 00:24:29,440 --> 00:24:35,620 resolution, resolution, and the anti-genish women's association, and I would also suggest 247 00:24:35,620 --> 00:24:40,540 that our mayor on behalf of Council, right alliter, to the Premier and Minister of Health 248 00:24:40,540 --> 00:24:45,440 respectfully to encourage the reestablishment of a blood donor service within the boundary 249 00:24:45,440 --> 00:24:46,960 of CBRL. Thank you. 250 00:24:47,400 --> 00:24:51,200 Okay. So that's concurrence there, Councillor, yes. 251 00:24:51,760 --> 00:24:54,580 Thank you very much. Any other discussion? Yourself, Councillor Parsons? 252 00:24:54,860 --> 00:24:55,380 I'm good. Okay. 253 00:24:55,380 --> 00:24:57,120 over to Councillor Gordon Macdonald. 254 00:25:01,470 --> 00:25:06,490 Thanks, Mayor, and through you to Ann, Sandra, and Denise, thanks for your presentation. 255 00:25:06,970 --> 00:25:10,830 This resolution is very easy to support from someone like me. 256 00:25:12,250 --> 00:25:17,970 You know, I could never understand when our blood services station at the Grand Lakeville Fire Department 257 00:25:17,970 --> 00:25:20,230 was taken away back when it was removed. 258 00:25:20,850 --> 00:25:22,870 It was something that was well used. 259 00:25:23,030 --> 00:25:24,570 The numbers were off at the time. 260 00:25:24,570 --> 00:25:27,130 They had to drop a little bit because of our population levels. 261 00:25:27,130 --> 00:25:30,830 but not the point that I thought it would be taken away. 262 00:25:31,470 --> 00:25:33,750 You pointed out, this is the second largest municipality 263 00:25:34,290 --> 00:25:36,330 and only one of two cities in the province 264 00:25:36,330 --> 00:25:40,090 and all the Scotia, so which we have to start looking at 265 00:25:40,090 --> 00:25:44,510 and have these services back in their mix in this area. 266 00:25:44,990 --> 00:25:46,850 As someone who's been through the healthcare world 267 00:25:46,850 --> 00:25:49,430 and has many, many times been in there, 268 00:25:50,050 --> 00:25:52,110 I've never been able to be a blood donor simply 269 00:25:52,110 --> 00:25:53,850 because of my past conditions. 270 00:25:53,850 --> 00:25:59,190 But I had I've used the service to get some point a few times over the years. 271 00:25:59,430 --> 00:26:04,250 So this is very important to not just myself, but many, many others in the CVRM. 272 00:26:04,610 --> 00:26:10,590 And you pointed out there's a huge cancer center being re-modified over in the CVRM. 273 00:26:10,890 --> 00:26:16,990 The amount of patients in that facility that require these services on a daily basis, 274 00:26:16,990 --> 00:26:22,930 whether it be just, it doesn't have to be because their blood just is going away because of the conditions 275 00:26:22,930 --> 00:26:48,730 that they're dealing with and I think it's very important that we push this agenda and I think we need to push it hard to be able to bring this service back because many of people that I've known over the years have lots of opportunities to make those goal contributions to, you know, the hundreds donation or the 50th or, you know, some of them are even larger than that so they missed out on those opportunities after this close so this one is an easy support and I'll be supporting it fully. Thank you very much. 276 00:26:49,730 --> 00:26:51,370 Councillor, recognize, Councillor Marshall. 277 00:26:52,990 --> 00:26:58,150 It's good to have it back in Cape Creek, and like, my brother is a big donor, but he said, 278 00:26:58,190 --> 00:26:58,730 what happened? 279 00:26:59,770 --> 00:27:00,670 Where can I go? 280 00:27:00,870 --> 00:27:01,590 He said, Port Hoxford. 281 00:27:01,770 --> 00:27:07,750 He said, like, people like travel a lot, but that's far for us, right, to travel that far. 282 00:27:08,330 --> 00:27:14,110 And how many people have no cards or, you know, and he said, if that comes back, I'll be back. 283 00:27:14,110 --> 00:27:23,370 And I'll donate more if they want more, you know, and the first nation community wants more up there like everywhere like fresh cancer, right? 284 00:27:24,030 --> 00:27:30,310 Mobile, they're mobile everywhere. I hope they can do that with that too with the same thing, right? Mobile, your stations, right? 285 00:27:31,130 --> 00:27:37,390 And that'll be nice to know what to go here, just community here and just get donations for blood. 286 00:27:37,390 --> 00:27:42,690 But it's very important, like I lost two people with that kind of stuff. 287 00:27:42,690 --> 00:27:50,090 My even my sister, she needed blood, but I wish we can do it and I'll support it. 288 00:27:50,830 --> 00:27:51,190 Thank you. 289 00:27:51,630 --> 00:27:54,590 Thank you, Councillor Gillespie. 290 00:27:56,690 --> 00:28:01,970 Thank you, Mayor Clark, and through you to the presenters, thank you very much for the presentation. 291 00:28:02,650 --> 00:28:05,270 And it was a pleasure to speak with you before we even started. 292 00:28:05,270 --> 00:28:18,070 If there's anything I can do, please don't hesitate to reach out, whether that's connecting you to another group organization or another level of government, I would be happy to help. 293 00:28:18,830 --> 00:28:31,330 As a member of a family that suffers from hemacromatosis, I was unaware that the blood that is taken from the phlebotomies is discarded. 294 00:28:32,030 --> 00:28:37,050 I was completely unaware of that, and knowing how big my family is, and how many times 295 00:28:37,050 --> 00:28:42,490 they're up at the hospital, and knowing how prevalent hemicromatosis is in Cape 296 00:28:42,490 --> 00:28:47,670 Breton Island, that imagine there is quite a bit of blood that is going unused. 297 00:28:48,030 --> 00:28:51,270 So, I wasn't aware of that, and I'm glad you brought that forward, so thank you very much. 298 00:28:53,030 --> 00:28:54,350 Thank you very much, Councillor. 299 00:28:54,650 --> 00:28:56,550 Any other discussion on the motion? 300 00:28:56,550 --> 00:28:56,910 Questions? 301 00:28:57,670 --> 00:28:58,110 Questions? 302 00:28:58,110 --> 00:28:58,790 The question has been called. 303 00:28:58,970 --> 00:28:59,410 All's in favor. 304 00:28:59,610 --> 00:29:00,570 Signify for saying aye. 305 00:29:01,550 --> 00:29:01,990 Consuminate. 306 00:29:03,010 --> 00:29:04,170 Motion is carried. 307 00:29:04,450 --> 00:29:05,490 So thank you very much. 308 00:29:05,690 --> 00:29:06,910 And we appreciate your advocacy. 309 00:29:07,110 --> 00:29:10,870 And more important, your compassion with fellow citizens in the health care system. 310 00:29:11,410 --> 00:29:15,670 So to all members of the Catholic women, we thank you for, again, making yourself available 311 00:29:15,670 --> 00:29:16,090 today. 312 00:29:16,630 --> 00:29:20,530 And hopefully this will be an opportunity for us to do the advocacy and write the letter. 313 00:29:20,530 --> 00:29:27,590 And I will note to counsel upon the briefing by the CWL, I did reach out to the Canadian 314 00:29:27,590 --> 00:29:33,970 Blood Service, and they responded back that there were no plans to go past Port-Oxperian. 315 00:29:34,310 --> 00:29:38,530 So again, this advocacy is very important to get it back in our region. 316 00:29:38,690 --> 00:29:39,990 So again, thank you so much, Ann. 317 00:29:40,270 --> 00:29:41,010 May I make a comment? 318 00:29:41,270 --> 00:29:41,670 Are you sure, Ann? 319 00:29:41,710 --> 00:29:47,030 We are aware that Canadian Blood Services makes their plans in the spring, likely in April. 320 00:29:47,030 --> 00:29:51,090 So we feel this is a very timely issue to put it before Canadian blood services. 321 00:29:52,010 --> 00:29:54,430 Thanks so much, and thank you again, very much appreciate it. 322 00:29:54,430 --> 00:29:55,370 Thank you, thank you. 323 00:29:57,120 --> 00:29:59,060 The moves is to agenda item four. 324 00:30:00,000 --> 00:30:05,020 0.1 municipal property development would recognize our chief administrative officer, CEO. 325 00:30:07,460 --> 00:30:32,000 Thank you, Mayor. The purpose of this report is to simply provide council with an update regarding the status of the property that was previously the subject of two separate requests for proposals. The property is off Welton Street. It's a five-acre lot known as the jail field site. The site's zone to accommodate high density residential uses as well as a mix of 326 00:30:32,000 --> 00:30:33,360 sales and service development. 327 00:30:34,120 --> 00:30:37,220 In 2023, an expression of interest was released 328 00:30:38,010 --> 00:30:40,340 to seek development opportunities for the site. 329 00:30:40,820 --> 00:30:42,300 There was a successful submission, 330 00:30:42,740 --> 00:30:44,780 however, through their due diligence process, 331 00:30:45,020 --> 00:30:47,620 they determined they weren't going ahead with the development. 332 00:30:48,700 --> 00:30:51,540 Last year, in the effort to try to continue 333 00:30:51,540 --> 00:30:54,920 to facilitate development, staff issued two RFPs, 334 00:30:55,640 --> 00:30:59,020 one for a commercial portion and one for residential 335 00:30:59,020 --> 00:31:08,660 their set out in attachment B and yellow for the commercial and blue for the residential. 336 00:31:09,460 --> 00:31:12,620 No formal submissions were received at that time. 337 00:31:13,540 --> 00:31:19,240 So given the lack of market response, municipal staff are now pursuing options for site redevelopment. 338 00:31:19,840 --> 00:31:23,160 If funding is available, the use of the funds would be consistent with and 339 00:31:23,160 --> 00:31:28,020 supported of the Municipalities Land Banking Initiative, which seeks to proactively prepare 340 00:31:28,020 --> 00:31:31,920 surplus or underutilize lands for future housing development. 341 00:31:32,820 --> 00:31:37,240 Cost associated with the initiative may be funded through the Housing Accelerator Fund. 342 00:31:38,540 --> 00:31:45,900 So right now, staff will be meeting, we will be coming back to council with an updated proposal. 343 00:31:46,480 --> 00:31:46,800 Thank you. 344 00:31:47,100 --> 00:31:48,180 Thank you, CAO. 345 00:31:48,380 --> 00:31:51,300 Any questions or comments on the presentation? 346 00:31:51,980 --> 00:31:54,300 I'd recognize Councillor Shepper Campbell. 347 00:31:55,260 --> 00:31:55,780 Thank you, Mayor. 348 00:31:56,340 --> 00:32:03,320 Through you to the CAO, I was just wondering where it said to proactively prepare 349 00:32:03,320 --> 00:32:06,200 surplus under you to utilize lands. 350 00:32:06,500 --> 00:32:08,740 What does that involve for us to prepare? 351 00:32:09,340 --> 00:32:12,100 Well, that could be a number of things. 352 00:32:12,260 --> 00:32:15,960 It could be on the municipality preparing the site, putting in infrastructure. 353 00:32:15,960 --> 00:32:23,340 and then recovering those costs through the sale of the property, and if one school 354 00:32:23,340 --> 00:32:28,380 of thought is that if the infrastructure was already in, it's less on risk for 355 00:32:28,380 --> 00:32:32,240 developers to pursue that, so that is one thing we'd be looking at. 356 00:32:32,500 --> 00:32:35,420 Okay, thank you, Councilor Peruch. 357 00:32:37,040 --> 00:32:45,260 Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and through you to the CAO, in consultation with staff when we're 358 00:32:45,260 --> 00:32:51,760 We're looking at this and the way that it's laid out right now, where we have it as a high density. 359 00:32:51,940 --> 00:33:14,740 I'm wondering if it would be beneficial if we looked at this just as you alluded to about infrastructure to potentially tying this into the existing plans that we have within the city that are, I won't call them prefab, but are plans that are already earmarked to potentially make this residential, maybe not high density or at least have staff look at the at the variables 360 00:33:14,740 --> 00:33:19,840 between the two. That certainly will be part of the discussions. We're not set on one specific path, 361 00:33:20,080 --> 00:33:24,720 so staff will be meeting the various departments and we'll be coming back with options. Perfect. 362 00:33:24,980 --> 00:33:29,240 Thank you, sir. Councillor, any other questions or comments for the CAO? 363 00:33:30,360 --> 00:33:35,060 There being none, thank you. We look forward to the feedback and recommendation and options in 364 00:33:35,060 --> 00:33:35,700 the near future. 365 00:33:38,380 --> 00:33:43,540 Now we move to agenda item five. Business arising from creating the whole 5.1 is 366 00:33:43,540 --> 00:33:48,860 community transportation solutions, more connected, inclusive, and mobile, CBRM. 367 00:33:49,680 --> 00:33:52,800 That's page 27 and 368 00:33:56,290 --> 00:33:58,510 28. 369 00:34:00,190 --> 00:34:01,630 So the 27, sorry. 370 00:34:05,420 --> 00:34:08,440 So it's to move that to the budget process, the request is what it is. 371 00:34:13,210 --> 00:34:14,470 I don't think there's any further action. 372 00:34:14,670 --> 00:34:15,070 It's information. 373 00:34:15,590 --> 00:34:17,890 I mean, it would be for any comment or questions on that. 374 00:34:20,070 --> 00:34:22,930 No, it's already, it's just been directed to budget just for information. 375 00:34:22,930 --> 00:34:25,790 if there's any other follow-up discussion, that can be held at that time. 376 00:34:26,090 --> 00:34:26,190 Okay. 377 00:34:26,750 --> 00:34:27,470 Thank you. 378 00:34:28,170 --> 00:34:32,690 Move to 5.2, appointment of special constables and assignment of duties. 379 00:34:32,970 --> 00:34:36,670 We have our director of planning and development, Tyson Sims, welcome director. 380 00:34:42,740 --> 00:34:45,060 Thank you Mayor Clarek and members of council. 381 00:34:45,740 --> 00:34:50,300 On January 13th, the committee of the whole recommended that CBRM council approve the appointments. 382 00:34:51,080 --> 00:34:54,700 An amendments set out in the staff report dated January 6th, 2026. 383 00:34:54,700 --> 00:35:05,900 The proposed amendments identify staff for designation of special constables and provide for amendments to the roles and responsibilities of existing staff currently serving as special constables for the municipality. 384 00:35:07,020 --> 00:35:14,120 Staff therefore recommend that CBRM Council approve the appointments and amendments as outlined in the staff report, thank you. 385 00:35:14,120 --> 00:35:14,840 Thank you. 386 00:35:16,260 --> 00:35:21,520 Moved by Councillor Mcdonald, second by Deputy Mayor Perouche to approve as a presented 387 00:35:21,520 --> 00:35:23,080 discussion on the motion. 388 00:35:24,220 --> 00:35:25,200 Questions been called. 389 00:35:25,400 --> 00:35:26,860 All is in favor of signify by saying aye. 390 00:35:28,480 --> 00:35:30,240 Consuminate, motion is carried. 391 00:35:30,400 --> 00:35:30,980 Thank you, director. 392 00:35:31,760 --> 00:35:34,300 5.3, property transfer to CBRM. 393 00:35:34,640 --> 00:35:39,360 With regards to Simpson Lane and Glase Bay, we have Robert Nearing, our manager of Public Works 394 00:35:39,360 --> 00:35:40,220 East Division. 395 00:35:40,340 --> 00:35:41,320 Welcome back, Robert. 396 00:35:41,320 --> 00:35:43,820 Thank you, Mr. Mayor. 397 00:35:44,140 --> 00:35:45,660 Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. 398 00:35:46,960 --> 00:36:02,940 On January 13th, during the Committee of the Whole Meeting, there was a recommendation from the Committee for Council to pass a motion to authorize the acquisition property by CBRM from Mr. Ryan Yates as identified in the subdivision plan. 399 00:36:03,740 --> 00:36:07,700 This is located between page 32 and 35 of your agenda package. 400 00:36:08,200 --> 00:36:14,860 And it's shown outlined as loss 2025-R1 on the attached plan. 401 00:36:15,960 --> 00:36:17,960 And it's at no cost to the municipality. 402 00:36:18,420 --> 00:36:20,840 So I'm here today to seek a motion for that. 403 00:36:23,360 --> 00:36:23,900 Thank you. 404 00:36:24,520 --> 00:36:30,880 Move by Deputy Mayor Cruz, seconded by Councillor Eldemic Donald to approve the recommendation as presented. 405 00:36:31,520 --> 00:36:32,860 discussion on the motion. 406 00:36:34,060 --> 00:36:34,500 Question? 407 00:36:34,660 --> 00:36:34,920 You called. 408 00:36:35,160 --> 00:36:36,660 I was in favor of, oh, sorry. 409 00:36:36,800 --> 00:36:37,420 Councillor Parson. 410 00:36:37,660 --> 00:36:38,400 Thank you, Mr. Mayor. 411 00:36:39,120 --> 00:36:40,040 Thank you, Mr. Daring. 412 00:36:40,420 --> 00:36:41,320 Just one question. 413 00:36:41,820 --> 00:36:46,600 As far as the subdivision goes, do we know how many building lots will be within that subdivision? 414 00:36:46,880 --> 00:36:47,160 Proposed? 415 00:36:48,080 --> 00:36:51,260 There's definitely some, through you, Mr. Mayor of the Councillor. 416 00:36:51,740 --> 00:36:56,020 There's definitely some potential for future development, but at this time, the property owner 417 00:36:56,020 --> 00:36:57,100 doesn't wish to subdivide. 418 00:36:57,440 --> 00:36:57,720 Okay. 419 00:36:58,020 --> 00:36:58,220 Thank you. 420 00:36:58,220 --> 00:37:02,160 Good. Thank you. Any other discussion? 421 00:37:03,020 --> 00:37:06,060 Questions been called. All in favor signify by saying aye. 422 00:37:06,980 --> 00:37:10,640 Contraryant nay, motion is carried. Thank you very much. 423 00:37:13,420 --> 00:37:19,540 Next, we have 5.4. Community litter update would recognize Councilor Steven McNeill. 424 00:37:20,160 --> 00:37:25,400 Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and would it be prudent to reread the Council agenda request? 425 00:37:25,400 --> 00:37:27,280 That's your program, go ahead. 426 00:37:27,620 --> 00:37:27,780 Sure. 427 00:37:29,180 --> 00:37:31,500 Motion for Council to consider. 428 00:37:32,080 --> 00:37:39,660 The CBRM and Council requested an update from our CAO and staff on the review of our by-laws, policies and resources, 429 00:37:40,680 --> 00:37:47,420 requirements to improve enforcement and enhance anti-litering policies and by-laws within the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. 430 00:37:47,420 --> 00:37:52,800 Rationel, constituents within the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and District 431 00:37:52,800 --> 00:37:56,860 Gate have been requesting an update since Council moved the previous request 432 00:37:56,860 --> 00:38:02,520 forward on May 13th, 2005. The intent is to ensure adequate commercial waste 433 00:38:02,520 --> 00:38:07,580 facilities, prevent illegal dumping, and strengthen anti-littering policies and 434 00:38:07,580 --> 00:38:12,940 by-laws. O comes sought, staff to report back to Council with recommendations for 435 00:38:12,940 --> 00:38:17,400 updated by-laws and policies to improve enforcement of litter regulations. 436 00:38:17,780 --> 00:38:22,580 If additional time is required, finaling the initial update, Staffshell report back 437 00:38:22,580 --> 00:38:26,800 to Mayor and Council within eight months of this request and ISO move. 438 00:38:27,400 --> 00:38:30,140 Moved by Councillor McNeill, seconded. 439 00:38:31,160 --> 00:38:34,420 The Councilor McNeill, discussion on the motion. 440 00:38:36,140 --> 00:38:36,460 Questions? 441 00:38:36,780 --> 00:38:37,760 No, Councilor Gillespie. 442 00:38:40,360 --> 00:38:46,460 Thank you, Mayor Clark, just a clarification regarding the update. 443 00:38:48,800 --> 00:38:53,920 We've been having these conversations for a little while now, probably of the last number of years. 444 00:38:54,700 --> 00:39:07,160 And one of the things that we seem to move away from is the costs involved in what we would like to see in this update. 445 00:39:07,160 --> 00:39:22,240 I've had conversations with recreation and solid waste and public works about additional garbage cans and better use of areas that would require receptacles. 446 00:39:22,840 --> 00:39:36,160 So hopefully that will come back with this and maybe a priority list of where these problem areas are and what we can do to facilitate that type of elimination 447 00:39:36,160 --> 00:39:39,460 elimination of the litter issue, so I just want to make sure that's that could happen. 448 00:39:39,960 --> 00:39:45,420 Yeah, and I can confirm that our Director of Public Works in terms of the downtown areas is part of the inventory. 449 00:39:45,640 --> 00:39:50,940 Their building up was extra waste receptacles and and the like as well as the community cleanup initiatives. 450 00:39:50,940 --> 00:39:57,400 But also the clerk has it noted for next month to have a full presentation by the director of and 451 00:39:57,400 --> 00:40:03,560 his team for solid waste and all the various components in terms of waste collection management. 452 00:40:03,560 --> 00:40:06,580 and the EPR and the community-based initiatives. 453 00:40:07,220 --> 00:40:10,040 Yes, and thank you for that, that's terrific. 454 00:40:10,300 --> 00:40:24,700 The other part of this, of course, is, you know, whose responsibility internally it's going to be because the conversations that we have with every department, they say, well, that's not necessarily our place to do that. 455 00:40:24,700 --> 00:40:33,260 So, if we're going to put up new receptacles at the bus stops or the shelters specifically, 456 00:40:33,840 --> 00:40:39,900 we'd like to make sure that, you know, they're on somebody's route, which department will be responsible for them, that kind of stuff. 457 00:40:40,240 --> 00:40:41,060 Okay, thank you. 458 00:40:41,060 --> 00:40:41,320 Thank you. 459 00:40:42,040 --> 00:40:43,440 Recognize Councillor Eldo McDonald. 460 00:40:44,940 --> 00:40:46,200 Thanks very much, Mr. Mayor. 461 00:40:46,400 --> 00:40:49,300 And just for further clarity on that, I mentioned this to our committee, the whole meeting. 462 00:40:49,800 --> 00:40:54,320 I also hope that staff will include in that the difference between litter and 463 00:40:54,320 --> 00:40:58,400 There are illegal dumping in garbage that happens around that that creates a litter problem 464 00:40:58,400 --> 00:40:59,080 in our community. 465 00:40:59,700 --> 00:41:03,640 There's many things that happen in regards to illegal dumping, bags can broken open, 466 00:41:03,820 --> 00:41:07,100 bag, the stuff contained in the bag, it's blown around. 467 00:41:07,840 --> 00:41:10,820 That's more an illegal dumping issue than it is a litter issue. 468 00:41:11,240 --> 00:41:15,240 We see along our highways where there's signs that say there's fines, I believe it might 469 00:41:15,240 --> 00:41:15,880 be $250. 470 00:41:16,380 --> 00:41:19,440 I understand to be correct on that, along our highways for littering. 471 00:41:19,440 --> 00:41:26,480 Who's responsible for that signage, those fines, and any information that I stated here to be accurate and correct. 472 00:41:26,780 --> 00:41:34,900 So if that information could be brought back to also, that way we're able to define exactly who's responsible for those initiatives. 473 00:41:35,360 --> 00:41:35,600 Thank you. 474 00:41:36,180 --> 00:41:36,920 Thank you. 475 00:41:37,720 --> 00:41:39,700 Any other discussion on the motion? 476 00:41:40,920 --> 00:41:41,840 Questions were called. 477 00:41:42,080 --> 00:41:43,600 All is in favor of signify by saying aye. 478 00:41:45,160 --> 00:41:46,920 Consuminate, motion is carried. 479 00:41:47,200 --> 00:41:47,500 Thank you. 480 00:41:49,440 --> 00:41:56,460 That moves us to agenda item 6, Corporate Services Issues 6.1, we welcome back our Director of Planning and Development, Tyson Sims. 481 00:42:02,220 --> 00:42:04,880 An updated presentation has been circulated to Council. 482 00:42:06,160 --> 00:42:07,200 Welcome back, Director. 483 00:42:17,710 --> 00:42:20,350 Thank you again, Mayor Clark, Members of Council. 484 00:42:21,730 --> 00:42:27,830 Planning and development staff recently prepared an information report regarding building and development activity in the municipality. 485 00:42:27,830 --> 00:42:33,810 and for reference a copy of the report is provided in your agenda package starting on page 44. 486 00:42:38,460 --> 00:42:41,620 So the following presentation provides an overview of our report. 487 00:42:42,620 --> 00:42:47,220 On the following slides, I will provide an overview of recent building and development activity in the municipality. 488 00:42:47,600 --> 00:42:50,900 Our progress under the Housing Accelerator Fund Program 489 00:42:52,140 --> 00:42:59,760 and a high level overview of how recent growth trends align with council's planning and growth management objectives. 490 00:43:00,620 --> 00:43:04,120 This presentation is being provided for Council's information. 491 00:43:04,860 --> 00:43:08,980 There's no decisions or directions that are being sought today. 492 00:43:14,560 --> 00:43:23,680 So Council will recall that the municipality committed to delivering 1,010 new residential units under the Housing Accelerator Fund by the end of 2026. 493 00:43:25,680 --> 00:43:32,080 updated data collected this month confirms that as of the end of 2025 a total of 494 00:43:32,080 --> 00:43:38,960 906 residential units have been approved. Of those 536 were approved in 2025 495 00:43:38,960 --> 00:43:45,320 alone. Meaning the municipality is now close to meeting 90% of its housing 496 00:43:45,320 --> 00:43:48,760 accelerator fund target with one year remaining in the program. 497 00:43:53,310 --> 00:43:54,010 Looking more 498 00:43:54,010 --> 00:44:00,470 For broadly a development activity, the municipality has experienced consistent year over year growth since 2022. 499 00:44:01,530 --> 00:44:05,370 Permit volumes have increased by approximately 13%. 500 00:44:05,710 --> 00:44:18,070 Estimated construction values have more than doubled, and net housing production has nearly tripled increasing from 187 units in 2022 to 536 units in 2025. 501 00:44:19,110 --> 00:44:24,930 The most significant increase is occurred in 2024 and in 2025. 502 00:44:30,200 --> 00:44:32,640 So what is driving the increase in development activity? 503 00:44:33,120 --> 00:44:38,920 One observation is that it is closely aligned with the adoption of CBRAM Ford in the summer 504 00:44:38,920 --> 00:44:39,700 of 2023. 505 00:44:40,720 --> 00:44:45,740 The updated planning framework has expanded as of right permissions for higher-density residential 506 00:44:45,740 --> 00:44:47,100 development in service areas. 507 00:44:47,100 --> 00:44:56,240 It has reduced reliance on rezoning and discretionary approvals of council and has provided greater certainty for applicants. 508 00:44:56,240 --> 00:44:59,980 As a result, approval timelines have been re- 509 00:45:00,000 --> 00:45:03,480 And more projects are able to proceed more quickly. 510 00:45:07,680 --> 00:45:33,400 Council may also notice higher dwelling losses in 2022 and in 2023. And these losses are largely linked to Hurricane Fiona in September of 22, which resulted in a significant number of demolitions of unsafe and severely damaged structures. These figures provide in a report reflect post disaster recovery activity rather than typical redevelopment or market driven demolition. 511 00:45:39,390 --> 00:45:44,290 construction values reported through the permitting process are primarily based on information 512 00:45:44,290 --> 00:45:46,950 provided by applicants when they submit an application. 513 00:45:47,790 --> 00:45:52,830 In limited circumstances, our current permitting software generates an estimated construction 514 00:45:52,830 --> 00:45:54,870 value based on application type. 515 00:45:55,590 --> 00:46:01,010 However, these calculations rely on per-square meter rates that have not been really updated 516 00:46:01,010 --> 00:46:02,650 since the early 2000s. 517 00:46:02,650 --> 00:46:07,510 Now, as a result, the estimated construction value for many projects may be understated. 518 00:46:08,390 --> 00:46:29,530 The significant increase of construction value in 2025 is driven mainly by a larger and more complex projects that we're seeing in the municipality, including multi-unit residential development and institutional developments, such as the CBU Medical Campus, and they knew Maple Hill Manor long-term care facility, just as examples. 519 00:46:29,530 --> 00:46:30,730 In 520 00:46:34,510 --> 00:46:39,090 addition to residential growth, non-residential development activity has remained strong. 521 00:46:39,830 --> 00:46:46,110 In 2025, the municipality issued a 155 non-residential permits representing approximately $70 million 522 00:46:46,110 --> 00:46:47,910 in estimated construction value. 523 00:46:48,470 --> 00:46:54,070 This reflects increased investment in institutional, commercial, and employment-generating projects. 524 00:47:00,290 --> 00:47:06,330 A review of permit data also shows that growth is increasingly concentrated within the service area boundary, 525 00:47:06,330 --> 00:47:11,330 where municipal water, waste water, and other urban services currently exist. 526 00:47:11,730 --> 00:47:17,150 In 2025, approximately 78% of all new dwellings were constructed within service areas. 527 00:47:17,990 --> 00:47:23,330 This shift reflects both the adoption of new planning policies and increased market demand, 528 00:47:24,070 --> 00:47:26,970 for serviced higher density forms of housing. 529 00:47:27,610 --> 00:47:31,810 These results also reflect the direction of the municipality's growth management strategy, 530 00:47:31,810 --> 00:47:36,170 which encourages increased development within the existing service boundary. 531 00:47:41,740 --> 00:47:49,220 This pattern of growth and development inside the service boundary also closely aligns with the municipality's taxation and infrastructure base. 532 00:47:50,020 --> 00:47:55,580 Approximately 74% of municipal tax revenue is generated from properties within the service area boundary. 533 00:47:56,700 --> 00:48:04,160 Directing the majority of new growth to these areas supports long-term financial sustainability of municipal infrastructure and services. 534 00:48:04,160 --> 00:48:10,260 This alignment between growth, infrastructure, and taxation reflects council's planning 535 00:48:10,260 --> 00:48:15,200 and growth management objectives, and is consistent with the guiding principles of 536 00:48:15,200 --> 00:48:16,680 our municipal planning strategy. 537 00:48:21,720 --> 00:48:26,940 In summary, recent planning and regulatory changes with the adoption of new planning documents 538 00:48:26,940 --> 00:48:30,720 under CBRM forward are producing measurable results. 539 00:48:31,640 --> 00:48:37,120 Housing supplies increasing, growth is occurring in service and physically sustainable locations, 540 00:48:37,120 --> 00:48:41,800 and the municipality is well positioned to meet its housing accelerator fund commitments. 541 00:48:42,660 --> 00:48:49,020 Staff will continue to monitor development activity and may bring forward a review of our permit valuation process, 542 00:48:49,220 --> 00:48:51,280 including some suggested improvements. 543 00:48:51,960 --> 00:48:56,120 And staff will also work to bring forward potential initiatives for 544 00:48:56,120 --> 00:49:00,720 council's consideration to continue encouraging all forms of development in the municipality. 545 00:49:01,760 --> 00:49:02,260 Thank you. 546 00:49:05,040 --> 00:49:06,520 Thank you, Director Sims. 547 00:49:07,360 --> 00:49:08,500 Recognized council persons. 548 00:49:08,500 --> 00:49:09,640 Thank you, Mr. Mayor. 549 00:49:10,180 --> 00:49:11,700 Thank you, Tyson, for your presentation. 550 00:49:12,400 --> 00:49:13,080 Just one question. 551 00:49:13,680 --> 00:49:16,840 I know we broke it down in and outside of our service area. 552 00:49:17,360 --> 00:49:18,660 Would we be able to get by district? 553 00:49:19,020 --> 00:49:21,460 I'd like to see exactly what new bills are happening 554 00:49:21,460 --> 00:49:22,520 in my district possible. 555 00:49:22,780 --> 00:49:23,120 Thank you. 556 00:49:25,420 --> 00:49:28,400 Through you, Mayor, to the Councillor, I'm sure we could break that down 557 00:49:28,400 --> 00:49:29,620 for your Councillor and provide that. 558 00:49:30,800 --> 00:49:31,780 Thank you very much. 559 00:49:32,320 --> 00:49:33,740 Recognize Councillor Shepard Campbell. 560 00:49:35,020 --> 00:49:35,980 Thank you, Mayor. 561 00:49:36,280 --> 00:49:40,660 Through you, two Director Simms, Director, I was just wondering. 562 00:49:40,940 --> 00:49:44,520 Out of those that we have accounted for, are they actual bills? 563 00:49:44,900 --> 00:49:46,760 Or are they the permits to build? 564 00:49:47,140 --> 00:49:50,220 Or are they in progress or are they finished? 565 00:49:52,380 --> 00:49:54,580 Thank you, Mr. Mayor, through you to the Council. 566 00:49:54,820 --> 00:49:57,740 So what we've identified is the number of permits that have been issued. 567 00:49:58,040 --> 00:50:00,660 That does not reflect everything that's been built on the ground. 568 00:50:03,080 --> 00:50:10,040 But my understanding is the total net dwelling units that are approved, those are in process. 569 00:50:11,160 --> 00:50:15,380 So as of this time, I can't equate what has been constructed on the ground. 570 00:50:15,600 --> 00:50:21,480 But we have received approvals and process approvals for the numbers we provide you today. 571 00:50:22,000 --> 00:50:23,940 Okay, great, looks like it's going along good. 572 00:50:24,660 --> 00:50:29,560 And one other thing I was wondering, are any of them out of any of them? 573 00:50:29,560 --> 00:50:32,340 Are there low-income, do you know? 574 00:50:34,900 --> 00:50:41,800 Mr. Mayor, through the Councillors, so what I can communicate is that through our commitments 575 00:50:41,800 --> 00:50:50,620 to CMHC under the housing accelerator fund, one of the targets, I'll call it sort of a sub-target, 576 00:50:51,240 --> 00:50:56,900 of that 1,010 figure that we promised over three years, is that we are also dedicated to 577 00:50:56,900 --> 00:51:09,540 providing 114 affordable units and as of today what we're seeing is that we've approved 115 so we've met our targets and we still have a year remaining in the program. 578 00:51:10,080 --> 00:51:11,860 Okay, good work. Thank you very much. 579 00:51:12,460 --> 00:51:14,480 Thank you Councillor, recognize Councillor Gillespie. 580 00:51:16,400 --> 00:51:18,860 Thank you, Mayor Clark and through you to the director. 581 00:51:18,860 --> 00:51:31,380 I just wanted to check on something when it comes to the total number of dwellings in units created versus total number of dwellings lost, and then your net dwelling units. 582 00:51:32,320 --> 00:51:42,940 What looks like to me is that although there is a significant number, you know, you're looking at 2022, 91 lost in 2025, 55. 583 00:51:44,040 --> 00:51:48,020 There's a better than average chance that although something has been torn down, 584 00:51:48,240 --> 00:51:50,840 something is being rebuilt in exactly the same spot. 585 00:51:51,540 --> 00:51:59,260 So although you're saying it's a net, it really is a change in that area. 586 00:52:01,040 --> 00:52:11,760 Mr. Mayor, through you to the Councillor, so I can't qualify whether or not where the sites where we've experienced demolition if we have new builds on those sites directly. 587 00:52:11,760 --> 00:52:25,180 We could look at the data and see what correlation there is there, but really what we're doing is a rough calculation of all demolition permits that we've issued for each year, and then just looking equate and measuring that against what we've approved. 588 00:52:25,660 --> 00:52:25,760 Yeah. 589 00:52:26,040 --> 00:52:26,180 Yeah. 590 00:52:26,600 --> 00:52:34,100 There are several in my district that came down and in within the next year, there's another hostway on it, so it's nice to see that. 591 00:52:34,260 --> 00:52:39,200 I just don't want people to think that we're losing dwellings, even if there is a net gain. 592 00:52:39,200 --> 00:52:41,100 Good, thank you. 593 00:52:41,120 --> 00:52:42,580 Thank you, Councillor McKiggan. 594 00:52:44,060 --> 00:52:46,220 Thank you, Aaron, through you to the director. 595 00:52:47,120 --> 00:52:49,140 Does this include the provincial bills? 596 00:52:49,580 --> 00:52:55,280 Like it would in Glace Bay, they're building a multi-unit building on steering road, I believe. 597 00:52:56,440 --> 00:52:56,740 Director. 598 00:52:57,700 --> 00:52:59,660 Thank you, Mr. Mayor, through you to the Councillor. 599 00:53:00,120 --> 00:53:03,600 So what we're counting are permits that have been issued by the municipality. 600 00:53:03,600 --> 00:53:08,900 If there's an instance where the province has built something without the issuance of a permit, 601 00:53:08,900 --> 00:53:10,080 But it wouldn't capture that. 602 00:53:10,280 --> 00:53:17,260 However, when I spoke earlier to Councilor Shepard Campbell's question regarding affordable 603 00:53:17,260 --> 00:53:23,880 units and low income units, that would comprise of units that the province has also been 604 00:53:23,880 --> 00:53:25,000 constructing in the area. 605 00:53:25,520 --> 00:53:26,520 So that would be part of that. 606 00:53:26,900 --> 00:53:29,560 Okay, so they do get permits that we would know of? 607 00:53:29,780 --> 00:53:36,600 In most cases, the province will get permits for development, but there are times in which 608 00:53:36,600 --> 00:53:40,920 which they may waive their ability to do that. 609 00:53:41,540 --> 00:53:43,900 Typically they will communicate that to us, 610 00:53:43,900 --> 00:53:46,540 either directly through the minister or department, 611 00:53:46,640 --> 00:53:48,520 will identify when that is occurring. 612 00:53:49,460 --> 00:53:50,640 It's not overly common. 613 00:53:51,580 --> 00:53:52,120 Okay, thank you. 614 00:53:52,980 --> 00:53:53,640 Thank you. 615 00:53:54,680 --> 00:53:56,680 Any other questions for the director? 616 00:53:57,240 --> 00:53:57,900 It's for information. 617 00:53:58,120 --> 00:53:59,640 Thank you very much, Director Sims, again. 618 00:54:00,860 --> 00:54:02,220 That moves us to 6.2. 619 00:54:02,400 --> 00:54:03,300 Contract approval. 620 00:54:03,760 --> 00:54:05,940 Recognize our municipal clerk and director 621 00:54:05,940 --> 00:54:07,680 of corporate information services. 622 00:54:08,680 --> 00:54:11,060 Thank you, Mayor Clark, through you to Council. 623 00:54:12,160 --> 00:54:17,760 On page 49 of your agenda package, you will find a report with a recommendation that 624 00:54:17,760 --> 00:54:22,660 Council approve a three-year contract with the current provider for the IT help desk. 625 00:54:23,340 --> 00:54:28,380 The contract has been yearly, however, the company recently moved to a three-year contract 626 00:54:28,380 --> 00:54:28,900 model. 627 00:54:29,480 --> 00:54:33,840 Although Council provided budget approval for these services, additional authorization 628 00:54:33,840 --> 00:54:37,220 is needed for a multi-year commitment to enter into the agreement. 629 00:54:37,880 --> 00:54:42,680 The cost to maintain the agreement is 2,912 and is paid annually. 630 00:54:44,020 --> 00:54:51,780 The proposed contract locks in set rates for licensing from January 20th, 2026 to January 20th, 2029. 631 00:54:52,600 --> 00:54:56,520 This arrangement ensures predictable costs and reduces the need for frequent renewals. 632 00:54:56,940 --> 00:54:57,380 Thank you. 633 00:54:59,340 --> 00:54:59,920 Thank you. 634 00:54:59,920 --> 00:55:05,400 Okay, moved by Councillor Aldermic Donald, seconded by Councillor Gordon McDonald to prove the contract 635 00:55:05,400 --> 00:55:10,880 recommendation is presented. Discussion on the motion? Questions of the call. All is a favor, 636 00:55:11,060 --> 00:55:15,860 signify by saying aye. Contrary to aye. Motion is carried. Thank you. 637 00:55:16,400 --> 00:55:22,620 That takes us to agenda item 7. Council agenda request 7.1, Transportation Committee, would recognize Councillor Gillespie. 638 00:55:22,620 --> 00:55:23,640 Thank 639 00:55:26,360 --> 00:55:26,920 you, Mayor Clark. 640 00:55:29,220 --> 00:55:34,440 So today I have a council agenda request for information that 641 00:55:34,440 --> 00:55:39,980 came up at our committee of the whole meeting and this is regarding the Transportation 642 00:55:39,980 --> 00:55:46,840 Committee recommendation. So my motion is for Council to request the CAO to direct staff 643 00:55:46,840 --> 00:55:55,040 to explore the creation of a CBRM-led Transportation Committee. The reason for this is during our 644 00:55:55,040 --> 00:56:00,140 Our last committee of the whole meeting, on Tuesday, January 13th, we discussed the 645 00:56:00,140 --> 00:56:03,680 challenges and future of transit and transportation in the CVRM. 646 00:56:04,780 --> 00:56:07,460 We're going to change the way we pay for transit. 647 00:56:07,780 --> 00:56:12,480 If we're going to change the way we pay for transit, partner with community organizations, 648 00:56:13,080 --> 00:56:16,760 increase service and provide multi-level transportation options. 649 00:56:17,460 --> 00:56:24,540 We must have community consultations and dialogue with residents if these types of policy and 650 00:56:24,540 --> 00:56:26,200 taxis and changes will occur. 651 00:56:27,220 --> 00:56:32,220 The outcome sought will be recommendations on the creation of a transportation committee 652 00:56:32,460 --> 00:56:38,520 to advise mayor and council on related issues and all forms of transportation operating 653 00:56:38,520 --> 00:56:39,780 within the CBRM. 654 00:56:40,340 --> 00:56:47,880 This should include but not limited to transit capretten, handy trans, taxi industry, ride 655 00:56:47,880 --> 00:56:54,740 share e-scooters, shuttle services, provincial and federal government initiatives, and their 656 00:56:54,740 --> 00:56:56,820 partners, such as the United Way. 657 00:56:57,400 --> 00:57:03,560 In addition to the recommendations, I would suggest the makeup of the committee include 658 00:57:03,560 --> 00:57:08,820 a set number of Councillors, a set number of residents from the general public, users, 659 00:57:09,460 --> 00:57:16,100 stakeholders, senior staff, transit staff, and marginalized or underrepresented groups. 660 00:57:16,100 --> 00:57:22,640 I would also suggest the committee operates similar to other CBRM committees, such as 661 00:57:22,640 --> 00:57:28,940 Police Commission, Library, Audit, which are outside the scope of the Committee of the 662 00:57:28,940 --> 00:57:35,000 whole. But as always, I am open to the Council discussion on this matter. Thank you. 663 00:57:37,000 --> 00:57:41,380 Thank you. Moved by Councillor Gillespie and Seconded by Councillor Parsons. 664 00:57:42,020 --> 00:57:45,320 Discussion on the motion? Councillor Gillespie. 665 00:57:45,320 --> 00:58:02,760 If I may, and just so that we're not looking at a specific timeline, a lot of the discussion that we have to have will probably work itself into a time frame after budget consultations for this year, so I would just add that. 666 00:58:02,960 --> 00:58:04,100 Good point. 667 00:58:04,740 --> 00:58:06,240 Other discussion on the motion? 668 00:58:07,040 --> 00:58:07,960 Questions I'm called. 669 00:58:08,440 --> 00:58:10,140 All is in favor of the seat and the five are saying aye. 670 00:58:10,140 --> 00:58:10,200 Aye. 671 00:58:10,540 --> 00:58:10,680 Aye. 672 00:58:11,160 --> 00:58:13,700 Constraint A. Motion is carried. 673 00:58:13,880 --> 00:58:14,420 Thank you, Councillor. 674 00:58:15,680 --> 00:58:18,900 We next have agenda made financial statements. 675 00:58:19,360 --> 00:58:24,520 To November 30th, 2025, we have our chief financial officer with us. 676 00:58:25,560 --> 00:58:29,380 Any questions for the CFO would recognize Councillor Parsons? 677 00:58:29,680 --> 00:58:30,460 Thank you, Mr. Chair. 678 00:58:39,210 --> 00:58:44,590 The CAO put together timeline with some of the items but just we come back. 679 00:58:44,690 --> 00:58:47,550 I know we have dates in March set up. 680 00:58:47,550 --> 00:58:56,690 I believe that was circulated CO, so the intended week is the last week of March, I believe 681 00:58:56,690 --> 00:58:57,590 CFO. 682 00:58:59,170 --> 00:58:59,530 Yeah. 683 00:59:00,690 --> 00:59:06,030 So the actual budget deliberations themselves officially would be following the March 684 00:59:06,030 --> 00:59:11,790 break and before the month ends so we have it done before the commencement of the new fiscal 685 00:59:11,790 --> 00:59:12,150 year. 686 00:59:14,480 --> 00:59:15,200 Good, thanks. 687 00:59:16,060 --> 00:59:18,100 And Councillor McNeill, see them. 688 00:59:18,520 --> 00:59:19,080 Well, thank you. 689 00:59:19,200 --> 00:59:22,900 I just had a couple questions for our director Dove. 690 00:59:26,420 --> 00:59:27,720 Thank you, director Dove. 691 00:59:28,040 --> 00:59:28,680 Welcome to the party. 692 00:59:30,240 --> 00:59:32,100 I just had a few questions for you. 693 00:59:32,520 --> 00:59:36,080 I was wondering if we could go to page 52 in our agenda. 694 00:59:36,680 --> 00:59:41,460 And I was just curious what the total extraordinary revenue was. 695 00:59:41,880 --> 00:59:42,460 What it was from. 696 00:59:52,700 --> 00:59:53,340 Just a second there. 697 00:59:54,980 --> 00:59:55,620 There you go. 698 00:59:55,620 --> 00:59:56,380 Okay. 699 00:59:56,540 --> 00:59:58,840 Through Mayor Clark to Councillor. 700 01:00:00,000 --> 01:00:14,500 Yes, actually that represents recoveries that we have received to date regarding some of the storm disasters. So that's basically due to the recoveries we received from the province. 701 01:00:16,940 --> 01:00:19,860 I'm sorry, I had a few other questions, let me clip through my notes here. 702 01:00:24,700 --> 01:00:35,400 And then on page 59, line 6040, professional membership's last dues, I just noticed it was over budget. 703 01:00:35,620 --> 01:00:37,560 I was just wondering if you could provide some clarity. 704 01:00:42,360 --> 01:00:44,820 So is this the municipal clerk budget that you're looking at? 705 01:00:45,040 --> 01:00:45,640 I am, yes. 706 01:00:47,200 --> 01:00:52,380 Yes, actually, there was an expenditure that was put through, that I don't think was part of 707 01:00:52,380 --> 01:00:58,560 the current budget or could be something that we need to transfer to another budget I'm 708 01:00:58,560 --> 01:01:06,200 not 100% sure yet but it was referring to an AI prototype agent or I believe regarding 709 01:01:06,200 --> 01:01:08,800 the policy modernization program. 710 01:01:09,560 --> 01:01:10,900 Let's go to the clerk. 711 01:01:11,500 --> 01:01:11,580 Chair. 712 01:01:12,180 --> 01:01:12,720 Hi. 713 01:01:12,980 --> 01:01:13,180 Thank you. 714 01:01:13,940 --> 01:01:15,780 Mayor clerk, through you to Councillor. 715 01:01:16,580 --> 01:01:21,700 Councillor, there were a series of miscoding when we separated out the budget last year for 716 01:01:21,700 --> 01:01:26,040 the communication center and we're still working through actually realigning those. 717 01:01:26,480 --> 01:01:30,040 So that should be reflected by this coming one or the next one. 718 01:01:30,480 --> 01:01:31,760 All right, thank you so much. 719 01:01:32,400 --> 01:01:40,340 And then if we could turn to page 60 line 9 for 2-0 appropriation to capital fund. 720 01:01:40,920 --> 01:01:48,060 I was just curious what was appropriated and I might have missed it from our budget binder there, but 721 01:01:48,060 --> 01:01:49,340 I just wasn't sure what it was for. 722 01:01:49,340 --> 01:02:14,220 Yes, actually, in the 2526 budget, that line item, excuse me, represents some reserves that we set aside, there was like a million dollars set aside to offset potential impacts regarding if the tariff item or issue were to transpire. 723 01:02:14,220 --> 01:02:29,100 and there was 90,000 that was set aside to address contracts and agreements and then there was another 750 that was set aside for to assist with solid waste capital projects. 724 01:02:29,760 --> 01:02:31,980 So that kind of makes up the 1.8 million that you're seeing there. 725 01:02:32,180 --> 01:02:32,860 It is, okay. 726 01:02:33,220 --> 01:02:34,120 Thank you so much. 727 01:02:34,120 --> 01:02:49,420 And my last question, if we go to page 63, into Fire Services line 6,000, I noticed that our eight month budget variance was over, I was just wondering for some clarification, you know, are we over budget in wages? 728 01:02:51,380 --> 01:03:03,480 I did look into this very briefly, but I haven't spoken to Fire Services directly, just sort of speaking with my own staff and it appears to be some overtime that was there due to some staffing. 729 01:03:04,640 --> 01:03:11,480 And as you know, the collective agreement hasn't been put in motion or anything at this point for that department. 730 01:03:12,280 --> 01:03:18,060 So that's kind of making up of that piece and my understanding is that it's not going to transpire much more than what you see there. 731 01:03:18,540 --> 01:03:21,060 Okay, lovely. Well, thank you so much for your time today. 732 01:03:21,980 --> 01:03:22,420 Thank you. 733 01:03:22,840 --> 01:03:24,540 Thank you. Recognized Councillor Gillespie? 734 01:03:26,800 --> 01:03:42,440 Thank you, Mayor Clark, and the question is regarding the technology budget, and I guess it's it is a kind of question to you, but also to the clerk, the motion that we just made a couple of minutes ago regarding a new system. 735 01:03:43,360 --> 01:03:50,220 Will that take care of the glitches and the problems that we've been having internally here within our council chamber? 736 01:03:50,220 --> 01:03:55,300 and clerk. Thank you, Mayor Clerk. Through you to the Councillor, the motion that you 737 01:03:55,300 --> 01:04:00,340 just made is related to the help desk, so that is our IT ticketing system, so that allows 738 01:04:00,340 --> 01:04:07,720 us to process your requests and track the work. With respect to the issues inside of the 739 01:04:07,720 --> 01:04:11,800 council chambers, we are working through that, and we've engaged a contractor to troubleshoot 740 01:04:12,340 --> 01:04:16,100 and rectify it. Okay, and that's the question I was asking. Thank you. 741 01:04:16,100 --> 01:04:21,060 Any other questions for the Chief Financial Officer? 742 01:04:21,800 --> 01:04:22,200 Yep, Chief. 743 01:04:22,600 --> 01:04:28,440 I'm Mayor Collack, I don't know if I can bring this up, but I was looking at my own finance budget. 744 01:04:28,720 --> 01:04:32,660 And I noticed that the tax exemption right offline is very low. 745 01:04:33,360 --> 01:04:41,520 And we offer, I think it's a $300 rebate for those who apply that qualify under the tax exemption policy. 746 01:04:41,920 --> 01:04:46,000 And I know in the past that it was currently asked to extend. 747 01:04:46,000 --> 01:04:57,000 I believe the deadline ended, I think around December 31st, so it would be nice if it could be extended to allow people to be able to take advantage of that. 748 01:04:57,220 --> 01:05:06,340 I didn't get it in in time to put it in the agenda, but I would like to be able to extend that to those that would qualify because the budget line is there to support it. 749 01:05:06,340 --> 01:05:07,320 Okay, 750 01:05:09,910 --> 01:05:15,070 moved by Councillor Gillespie seconded by Deputy Mayor Perouche to allow for the 751 01:05:15,070 --> 01:05:20,190 extension as recommended by the chief financial officer. Discussion on the motion? 752 01:05:21,530 --> 01:05:23,810 Questions from the call. All in favour? Signify by saying aye. 753 01:05:24,750 --> 01:05:28,430 Conquering at nay. Motion is carried. Thank you. 754 01:05:28,690 --> 01:05:29,370 Thank you, Mayor Clark. 755 01:05:29,710 --> 01:05:32,290 Councillor, Deputy Mayor Perouche. 756 01:05:34,050 --> 01:05:40,970 Through you, Mr. Mayor, to the CFO, just a follow-up question to Councilor McNeil's, 757 01:05:41,570 --> 01:05:43,390 both the extraordinary revenue. 758 01:05:43,590 --> 01:05:48,130 When you talk about the province where we were paid for outstanding bills, I'm just 759 01:05:48,130 --> 01:05:52,070 wondering, if you have a number, is there anything left outstanding with the province, 760 01:05:52,070 --> 01:05:57,430 whether it comes back to the 2016 flood or Fiona or Snowmageddon, just wondering what is 761 01:05:57,430 --> 01:06:00,670 left outstanding that we should be anticipated receiving? 762 01:06:01,350 --> 01:06:17,910 There's actually a large balance still anticipated and that does stand back to 2016 and we have had a meeting with DFAA already and it was a very positive meeting and I just received a call today for a follow-up on that. 763 01:06:18,270 --> 01:06:27,830 So I should have some more information to pass along but it was a good conversation and it looks like they are willing to work with us to get all this resolved. 764 01:06:27,830 --> 01:06:42,330 We are going to have a couple of smaller ones resolved before March 31st, some of the larger ones, which could range anywhere between 13 million, could be what we do know will be after that should be able to resolve that in the 26-27 fiscal year. 765 01:06:42,870 --> 01:06:48,110 Perfect. Thank you so much. Thank you, Councillor O'Quinn. Thank you, Mayor. And a question 766 01:06:48,110 --> 01:06:52,890 for the CFO. We need to talk about extending the deadline. Is there a date that you have in mind? 767 01:06:53,030 --> 01:06:57,870 Yes, sorry about that. It would be March 31st. It would have to be with our year end. 768 01:06:58,350 --> 01:07:02,910 Perfect. Thank you. Thank you, Councillor. Any other questions for the CFO? 769 01:07:04,370 --> 01:07:06,150 There have been none. Thank you very much. Thank you. 770 01:07:06,150 --> 01:07:12,870 appreciate that. Correspondence is included with regards to the Regional Fire 771 01:07:12,870 --> 01:07:18,930 Chiefs Association correspondence and with that we will transition out to 772 01:07:18,930 --> 01:07:20,930 in camera, so we'll take a moment to break.