Water and sewer rates
Council passed the 2018 water and sewer rates at its March 20 meeting.
“It is unfortunate that the prices are going up but there’s no other way,” said Councillor Paul Skippen.
“I’m not supporting it because they’re too low,” said Councillor Melissa Peters, “given the amount of capital projects that have to be done and they’re nearing their end of life.”
Councillor Bill Koehler said he would support it this time, but “something has to be done, maybe some support for Sheg.”
Councillor Dawn Orr said she didn’t want to support the raise, but had no choice, urging staff to begin petitioning the government for support again.
In a recorded vote, Councillors Michael Erskine, Paul Skippen, Bruce Wood, Marcel Gauthier, Bill Koehler, Dawn Orr and Mayor Al MacNevin voted in favour of the rate hike while Councillors Laurie Cook and Melissa Peters voted against. The motion was carried.
Little Current’s quarterly rate is at $107 while Sheguiandah’s is $317.
Fish and Game donation
Council reviewed a letter from Little Current Fish and Game Club president Bill Strain asking council to consider a donation to its education program, which will assist the club in its purchase of fishing rods and reels for all visiting students.
Council approved a $200 donation.
Ashley Drain
Council passed a levy bylaw to send out invoices to all parties affected by the Ashley Drain. Mr. Williamson explained that $277,000 ended up being the actual cost of the drain. The increase was due to environmental concerns that were a raised followed by a Blanding’s turtle being found which amounted to another $15,000
“Someone also appealed to the Drainage Tribunal, which cost more again,” he added.
Until now, NEMI has been acting as a banker, Mr. Williamson explained.
Councillor Skippen asked what the Northeast Town’s total cost was. “About $122,000,” was the reply.
Councillor Koehler asked how long residents have to pay their bills.
“Normally we give them 60-90 days, and if it’s not paid then, it’s added to their taxes,” Mr. Williamson said.
Great Lakes Gardening Community Fund
The Northeast Town received word that it had been granted $13,040 from the Great Lakes Gardening Community Fund for a shoreline cleanup of Bay of Islands and McGregor Bay.
With this funding, the Northeast Town will provide two garbage bins and pickup for a two-week period while volunteers work to clean the shorelines.
Councillor Skippen suggested it would also be a good time for the volunteers to document any invasive species they might encounter.
“I’m really pleased with this,” said Councillor Cook, noting that Styrofoam and plastics are one of the biggest contributors to pollution in the area.
Cup and Saucer funds
Council received acknowledgment that FedNor will be providing support for the new entrance to the Cup and Saucer in the amount of $60,000. Mr. Williamson reminded council that the municipality took care of the parking lot, culverts and the traffic study.
“Council graciously bankrolled it to ensure the Cup and Saucer Trails stayed open,” the mayor said. “We did try and solicit funds from other municipalities, but no one stepped up. Thankfully, this council saw the value in the Cup and Saucer.”
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has given the Northeast Town an extension on the entrance ‘apron’ until next year when paving crews will be in the area, thereby, hopefully, lessening the cost.
Age-friendly recognition
The Northeast Town received a 2018 Ontario Age-Friendly Community Recognition Award, celebrating its work in striving to become age-friendly and to showcase promising practices across the province.
Councillor Cook suggested that when the mayor goes to receive the award, he note the land that was donated to the municipality by centenarian Lily Fielding for the purpose of seniors housing.
