St. Andrews Town Council met on September 3, 2024, at the WC O'Neill Arena Complex to address key issues, including development, public safety, and regional economic initiatives. The meeting covered a wide range of topics, with input from both council members and concerned residents.

Zoning Amendments Take Priority

Council opened with a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment for a development at 236 Mowat Drive by Harbourtown Builders. Residents shared their views, with Glenn Harris, a nearby homeowner, expressing strong support for the project. "Harbourtown Builders have been very receptive and responsive to our concerns," Harris said.

However, parking became a point of contention, with resident Terry Eldridge suggesting changes to the layout. "Would the developers be opposed to moving these spots along the southern side into the middle?" he asked.

After hearing public input, council approved the first reading of the zoning amendment. Councillor Annette Harland assured residents that modifications could still be made, noting, "Council can make changes to the amendment up to the third and final reading."

Economic Development Sparks Debate

A proposed regional economic development agreement with St. Stephen and Eastern Charlotte dominated much of council's attention. The agreement seeks to establish a joint agency to promote growth in the region.

"The goal is to get all three communities to partner in the agreement and start the hiring process for the Economic Development Officer," said Mayor Brad Henderson. "In order for this to go through, all three municipalities would have to sign on. If one does not, it doesn't go ahead. Just to be clear, just because we approve this motion doesn't mean this is happening."

Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi expressed optimism, saying, "A unified community has the loudest voice."

Not all councillors were convinced. Councillor Mark Bennett raised concerns about financial implications, asking, "Are we going to be double charged? If we sign a three-year contract and the Regional Service Commission decides to focus on this later, what happens?"

"I have mixed feelings on this once I saw the mandate and particularly when I saw workforce development and housing," said Councillor Weare. "We've got the Regional Development Commission which has identical workforce development and housing."

Despite these reservations, the council voted 7-2 in favour of the agreement. Mayor Brad Henderson highlighted the importance of tackling housing and workforce development, remarking, "We now know that you need housing to make development possible."

Public Safety and Infrastructure Under Scrutiny

St. Andrews Town Council met on September 3, 2024, at the WC O'Neill Arena Complex to address key issues, including development, public safety, and regional economic initiatives. The meeting covered a wide range of topics, with input from both council members and concerned residents.

Zoning Amendments Take Priority

Council opened with a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment for a development at 236 Mowat Drive by Harbourtown Builders. Residents shared their views, with Glenn Harris, a nearby homeowner, expressing strong support for the project. “Harbourtown Builders have been very receptive and responsive to our concerns,” Harris said.

However, parking became a point of contention, with resident Terry Eldridge suggesting changes to the layout. “Would the developers be opposed to moving these spots along the southern side into the middle?” he asked.

After hearing public input, the council approved the first reading of the zoning amendment. Councillor Annette Harland assured residents that modifications could still be made, noting, “Council can make changes to the amendment up to the third and final reading.”

Economic Development Sparks Debate

A proposed regional economic development agreement with St. Stephen and Eastern Charlotte dominated much of the council's attention. The agreement seeks to establish a joint agency to promote growth in the region.

“The goal is to get all three communities to partner in the agreement and start the hiring process for the Economic Development Officer,” said Mayor Brad Henderson. “In order for this to go through, all three municipalities would have to sign on. If one does not, it doesn’t go ahead. Just to be clear, just because we approve this motion doesn’t mean this is happening.”

Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi expressed optimism, saying, “A unified community has the loudest voice.”

Not all councillors were convinced. Councillor Mark Bennett raised concerns about financial implications, asking, “Are we going to be double-charged? If we sign a three-year contract and the Regional Service Commission decides to focus on this later, what happens?”

“I have mixed feelings on this, especially when I saw the mandate and particularly when I saw workforce development and housing,” added Councillor Darrell Weare. “We’ve got the Regional Development Commission, which has an identical focus on workforce development and housing.”

Despite these reservations, the council voted 7-2 in favour of the agreement. Mayor Henderson emphasized the importance of addressing housing and workforce development, remarking, “We now know that you need housing to make development possible.”

Public Safety and Infrastructure Under Scrutiny

Public safety concerns also took center stage, particularly the issue of speeding on Parr Street. Councillor Lee Heenan urged action, warning that the situation posed serious risks to children walking to school. “If someone is killed on Parr Street, it would be tragic,” Heenan cautioned.

The council encouraged residents to report speeding incidents to the RCMP and acknowledged the need for immediate measures to improve safety.

Councillor Weare turned their attention to infrastructure, citing deteriorating conditions on Highway 127 and secondary roads. “Our taxes have gone up significantly, but we’re getting less service,” he said, emphasizing the need for better road maintenance.

Heritage Bylaw Balances Preservation and Progress

The council also discussed the Heritage Conservation Bylaw, aimed at protecting historical properties while allowing for development. Councillor Harland clarified that any homes listed in the bylaw would need homeowner approval before being added to or removed from the New Brunswick Registry of Historical Places. “This ensures that homeowners retain control over their properties,” Harland explained, addressing concerns about excessive restrictions.

Community Initiatives and Restoration Projects

The meeting concluded with updates on upcoming events and ongoing projects. Deputy Mayor Akagi announced the town’s participation in Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th, as well as Oktoberfest celebrations from September 18th to 22nd, welcoming new students from NBCC to the town.

The council also approved shifting the courthouse restoration project from painting to critical roof repairs. “A solid roof is far more essential for a heritage building than a fresh coat of paint,” said Mayor Henderson.