1990-09-04_Minutes
82-534
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
At a meeting of the Common Council, held at the City Hall in the City of
Saint John, on Tuesday, the fourth day of September, 1990, at 7:00 o'clock p.m.
present
Elsie E. Wayne, Mayor
Councillors Coughlan, Davis, Fitzpatrick, Flewwelling, Gould,
Knibb, Landers and Rogers
- and -
Messrs. G. Taylor, City Manager; F. Rodgers, City Solicitor; D.
Wilson, Commissioner of Finance; C. Robichaud, Assistant City
Manager - Operations; J. Brown, Assistant City Manager-
Development; J. C. MacKinnon, Commissioner of Infrastructure
and Environment Services; P. Groody, Commissioner of Human
Resources; S. Armstrong, Director of Engineering; S. Bedford,
Director of Community Planning; W. D. Todd, Director of Housing
and Property Management; S. Galbraith, Director of Supply and
Services; W. Edwards, Acting Director of Works; P. Hanlon,
Operations Engineer; D. Harvey, Superintendent of Sanitation; J.
Baird, Planner; G. Tait, Deputy Fire Chief; A Bodechon,
Assistant Deputy Chief of Police; B. Steeves, Deputy Building
Inspector; Mrs. M. Munford, Common Clerk; and Ms. C. Joyce,
Assistant Common Clerk.
Her Worship the Mayor offered the opening prayer.
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that minutes of the meeting of
Common Council, held on August 20, 1990, be approved.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Her Worship the Mayor proclaimed September 1990 to be Big
Brothers/Big Sisters month in the City of Saint John; and noted that the Eastern
Canadian Ladies Intermediate Softball Championship games are being held in Saint
John during this week.
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that an item regarding
the hiring of the Director of Parks (which was considered in Committee of the Whole
earlier this date) be added to the agenda for consideration at this meeting.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Fitzpatrick
voting "nay".
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the 1989 Annual Report
of the Saint John Harbour Bridge Authority (copies of which were forwarded to Council
members as an information item) be added to the agenda for consideration at this
meeting.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
82-535
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
On motion of Councillor Coughlan
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that the Common Council of
the City of Saint John extend congratulations to Nancy Teed on her appointment to the
Canadian Senate.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
The Common Clerk advised that the necessary advertising was
completed with respect to the proposed re-zoning of (1) an approximate 90-acre area
of land on Likely Road, having L.R.I.S. Numbers 331033 (part), 421727, 328039,
328088, 328070 (part), 328062, 329169, 55048375 (part), 55049383 and 55048359,
from the existing "RS-1", "RS-2" and "RS-1 M" Suburban Residential zones to "R-2"
One- and Two-Family Residential classification; and (2) an approximate 2-acre portion
of L.R.I.S. Number 331033 adjacent to Loch Lomond Road, from "RS-1" One- and
Two-Family Suburban Residential to "B-1" Local Business classification, to permit the
development of the area as a serviced residential subdivision with approximately 240
lots and a small area for local commercial uses, as requested by J. C. Gabriel for
037042 N.B. Inc. and Across The Street Ltd., and that no written objections were
received in this regard.
Consideration was given to a letter from the Planning Advisory
Committee submitting copies of the Planning staff report, two letters in support of and
one letter in opposition to the above-proposed re-zoning, which were considered by the
Committee on August 28 at which two individuals made presentations expressing
concerns, and the applicant's representative spoke on behalf of the proposal; advising
that the Committee felt that the issue of cost sharing must be resolved prior to the
subdivision and re-zoning issues and that it would make a recommendation to Council
on the re-zoning when cost sharing has been determined; and recommending that the
decision on the re-zoning be tabled pending a decision by Council of cost sharing as
part of the capital budgeting process on the basis that the Committee feels it would be
better able to deal with the re-zoning after Council deals with the matter of
extraordinary cost sharing.
Mr. D. Nesbit of 2137 Loch Lomond Road expressed opposition to the
above-proposed re-zoning for reasons relating to (1) the question of justification for a
"B-1" re-zoning on the basis of the existence within a ten-minute drive of three
convenience stores, two major malls including supermarkets, and two major hardware
stores; (2) the number of details lacking with respect to the proposal; (3) an increase in
traffic in an already-congested area; (4) the uncertainty of the owners about the use of
the land in question; and (5) the effect on his existing well if the City water and
sewerage services are extended to the site and the expectation that he and other Loch
Lomond Road residents may be required to connect to the City services at a cost, as
well as an expected resultant increase in property taxes and an increase in noise.
The benefit to other potential subdivisions of the extension of City
services was questioned in view of the total estimated cost of $625,000 of the trunk
sewer extension, the cost of piping materials of approximately $200,000 which can only
be considered as cost sharing with Council approval, and an additional cost sharing of
approximately $600,000 for individual lot services which also would require specific
Council approval, and the question of whether or not the above applicants are
requesting from the City cost sharing different from the normal City policy was asked,
and Mr. Robichaud explained that, while the City does not have to cost share in any
trunk service extension, it is the City's tradition to cost share to the extent of the cost of
the materials. The reason why the Planning Advisory Committee would be concerned
about cost sharing arrangements, rather than only the re-zoning of the property, was
questioned to which Mr. Bedford replied that the Committee, in dealing with the
application, tabled the matter on the basis of the staff recommendation and explained
that, in this particular case with the size of the subdivision, it is staff's concern that the
major decision with respect to the development of the land is, in fact, extending the
services to the site and, therefore, staff believes that such a decision should be
considered by Council prior to considering the re-zoning.
82-536
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
Planning Advisory Committee, the application of J. C. Gabriel for 037042 N.B. Inc. and
Across The Street Ltd. for the re-zoning of property in the Likely Road area off Loch
Lomond Road be laid on the table pending a decision by Council of cost sharing as part
of the capital budgeting process.
Question being taken, the tabling motion was carried.
The Common Clerk advised that the necessary advertising was
completed with regard to the proposed amendment to Common Council resolution of
October 7, 1985 as amended on June 13, 1988, pursuant to Section 39 of the
Community Planning Act, as it applies to the "1-1" Light Industrial zoning of 660 Brown
Street, so as to add a bottle exchange to the list of permitted uses in the existing
building as the applicant wishes to establish a bottle exchange in the existing building,
as requested by Diesel Power Services Ltd., and that no written objections were
received in this regard. No person was present with respect to the proposed
amendment.
Consideration was given to a letter from the Planning Advisory
Committee recommending that the Section 39 conditions adopted on October 7, 1985
be amended to permit the establishment of a bottle exchange in the existing building.
On motion of Councillor Fitzpatrick
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that as recommended by
the Planning Advisory Committee, the Section 39 conditions adopted on October 7,
1985, with regard to 660 Brown Street, be amended to permit the establishment of a
bottle exchange in the existing building.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick
RESOLVED that the letter from the
Planning Advisory Committee concerning the above amendment be received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the letter from
Mayor Wayne advising that Mr. Roland B. Urquhart, Sales Representative for the
Shriners' Yearbook & Masonic Directory, has inquired as to whether the submitted letter
of greeting from the Mayor and Council could be placed in the 1990 Yearbook and
Masonic Directory -- be received and filed and the letter of greeting be placed in the
1990 Yearbook and Masonic Directory.
Councillor Fitzpatrick expressed the opinion that, rather than the Mayor's
photograph, the City's Coat of Arms and skyline should be used in City greetings of the
above nature.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, authority be granted for payment of the following invoice, namely:-
82-537
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
Standard PavinQ Maritime Limited - supply of asphalt August 15-21, 1990
$72,875.27.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that as recommended by
the City Manager, a purchase order be issued for approximately $65,000 to The Power
Commission of The City of Saint John to provide for relocation of power lines to
accommodate the widening of McAllister Drive.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager referring to
Common Council resolution of August 7 authorizing the rescinding of the tender award
for a track dozer to Wallace Equipment Ltd. and retention of its bid deposit and the
award of the tender to Lounsbury Industrial Ltd., and to the letter on the agenda of this
meeting from Wallace Equipment Ltd. requesting the return of its tender deposit of
$3,915.30, and setting out the chronology of events from June 18 when the tender was
awarded to August 10 when the Purchasing Agent spoke with Mr. Robert Wallace and
expressed the City's concerns and in response received faxes from Wallace and Caron
Compactor Co., the manufacturer of the shoes, to the effect that the 17" shoes would
be a standard Caron product and replacements would be available on the same basis
as any other product manufactured by it. The report suggests that it appears that
Wallace Equipment Ltd., either as a result of its own mistake or that of the shoe
manufacturer, made a commitment to supply a machine with a 17" shoe and, when it
was found it was not possible to provide it, accepted the fact that the order would be
cancelled; however, when advised of the City's intention to seize the tender deposit,
Wallace contacted the shoe manufacturer who agreed to add the 17" shoe to its list of
products; and further that it is most unfortunate that Wallace Equipment Ltd. did not
attempt to resolve the matter until Mr. Hanlon informed it on August 8 that the deposit
would be seized; notes that the terms of the tender documents as submitted are very
clear that this would be the consequence of not complying; and recommends that the
City proceed with the order to Lounsbury Industrial Ltd. and advise Wallace Equipment
Ltd. that its offer is too late to be considered.
Consideration was also given to the above-mentioned letter from
Wallace Equipment Ltd. requesting that the City of Saint John return its tender deposit
in the amount of $3,915.30 related to the tender for Motorized Equipment III - Bid #90-
7024T for one track dozer in view of the extenuating, unique circumstances over which
it had no control; and explaining the situation in this regard.
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Gould
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, the City proceed with the order of a track dozer to Lounsbury Industrial
Ltd. and advise Wallace Equipment Ltd. that its offer is too late to be considered:
AND FURTHER that the bid deposit of Wallace Equipment Ltd. be
returned.
During discussion Mr. Robichaud explained that, while any type of
bulldozer could have been tendered and that a 15" shoe is standard for the type of
dozer in question, the City specified 17" tracks due to the fact that the dozer would float
better while working on the soft material at the dumpsite; and with regard to Councillor
Coughlan's concern that the return of the bid deposit could set a precedent based on
Mr. Wilson's explanation that one of the main purposes of a bid deposit is to ensure the
integrity of the bid in that, not only has a company taken the time to submit a bid but is
prepared to live up to the bid, in the event a company does not live up to its bid, the
City has the right to withhold the deposit, and the fact that the City has a City Manager
form of government to handle operational matters and has followed the procedure in
82-538
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
this instance, and Wallace Equipment Ltd. understood the procedure from the
beginning and did not attempt to do anything about the situation until August when
reminded that its deposit would be seized. The Mayor advised that the return of the bid
deposit in this case would not be setting a precedent as Council has done so many
times before in the past.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors Coughlan
and Davis voting "nay".
Read a report from the City Manager advising that, with regard to the
tender for a pipe saw for the Water and Sewerage Department which was tabled at
Council's last meeting, there were thirteen items in the City's specifications of which the
low bidder included eight in its bid and, of the remaining five items, the low bidder
indicated that one was not available and the other four would be at an extra cost but
this cost was not stated, and that it was not possible for staff to do a comparative
evaluation of prices given the manner in which the tender was submitted; and
recommending that the report on tenders for supply of a pipe saw be taken from the
table and the recommendation contained therein be adopted.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that the above matter be
taken from the table:
AND FURTHER that as recommended by the City Manager, the tender
of Justram Equipment Inc., in the amount of $20,315, plus tax, F.O.B. Aurora, Ontario,
be accepted for a pipe saw for the Water and Sewerage Department.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick
RESOLVED that as recommended by
the City Manager, contract 90-18, McAllister Drive-Lakewood Avenue 40 mm
watermain, be awarded to the low tenderer, Hank E. Merchant Ltd., at the tendered
price of $359,763.49, and that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to execute
the necessary contract documents.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Landers
RESOLVED that the report from the City
Manager advising that staff members have spoken to Mrs. Joan Parfitt regarding her
concerns about housing development in the South End since Council's receipt of her
letter on April 23; commenting on her concerns in this regard, and recommending that,
in receiving and filing this report, a copy be forwarded to Mrs. Parfitt -- be received and
filed and the recommendation adopted.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Read a letter from the City Manager submitting a copy of an application
summary for funding under the Housing Through Infill Development Program relative to
a project at 269 Princess Street, and advising that, before construction can proceed,
the proposed project will require the approval of the Planning Advisory Committee of a
number of variances.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, Housing Through Infill Development funding estimated at $19,200 be
82-539
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
approved in favour of D. W. Construction Co. Ltd. relative to the construction of a four-
unit apartment building at 269 Princess Street, subject to compliance with any and all
conditions which may be imposed by the Planning Advisory Committee.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Consideration was given to a letter from the City Manager submitting an
application summary for funding under the Housing Through Infill Development
Program relative to construction of a single-family home on City Line West, east of
Woodville Road.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, a Housing Through Infill Development grant estimated at $9,000 be
approved in favour of Mr. Robert MacKinnon relative to the construction of a single-
family home on City Line West, subject to the submission of satisfactory plans,
including appropriate site works.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Notice had been given to Marie I. Rowley, Owner, to appear at this
meeting of the Common Council to show cause, if any, why the building located at 187-
189 Main Street (L.R.I.S. Number 378752), in the City and County of Saint John,
should not be removed or destroyed as a dangerous or dilapidated building. No person
was present to speak either in opposition to or in favour of the recommended
demolition.
Mr. Steeves displayed photographs of the above-mentioned two-storey
woodframe building, of which an interior inspection has revealed that it is dilapidated
and not suitable for occupancy and further that it is coming apart, with one addition
leaning significantly towards the adjacent property, the foundation wall on that side
being badly deteriorated and noticeably more dangerous in the past year, and further is
dilapidated and cannot be economically repaired. Mr. Steeves expressed the opinion
that the subject building, under the 1925 Act, is dangerous and dilapidated and
recommended that Common Council adopt the submitted resolution by virtue of the
Saint John Building Act of 1925.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that notice having been
given to Marie I. Rowley, Owner, as appears by the records of the Registrar of Deeds
for the County of Saint John, of the building located at civic number 187-189 Main
Street (L.R.I.S. Number 378752) in the City of Saint John, requesting that the said
owner appear before this meeting of the Common Council to show cause why the said
building should not be removed or destroyed as a dangerous or dilapidated building,
and having considered the report of the Building Inspector, the Common Council
hereby deems and declares the said building located at 187-189 Main Street in the said
City to be dilapidated and dangerous:
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the said Marie I. Rowley, Owner,
is hereby required to remove or destroy the said building situate at civic number 187-
189 Main Street in the City of Saint John, within ten days after receiving notice to do so
by the Building Inspector:
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon failure of the said Marie I.
Rowley, Owner, to remove or destroy the said building situate at 187-189 Main Street in
the City of Saint John, in compliance with the request of such notice that the Building
Inspector cause such work to be done and the cost thereof recovered from the said
Marie I. Rowley, Owner.
82-540
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
Mr. Steeves, in response to Council queries, advised that the City had no
direct response from the owner of the above building other than the building was kept
boarded up and that he unaware of how long the building has been for sale.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Read a letter from the City Manager advising that the Provincial
Department of the Environment requires that the City execute an agreement with
respect to the funding for the reconstruction of the Lancaster wastewater treatment
plant and that the submitted agreement represents the negotiations that took place
respecting this project.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that as recommended by
the City Manager, the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to execute the
submitted agreement respecting funding of the Lancaster wastewater treatment plant
reconstruction.
The Mayor advised that the City Manager assured her earlier this date
that the City Solicitor has reviewed the above agreement as to legality and form and it
is in order.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager regarding the
proposed Paul Chase Subdivision at 881 Sand Cove Road, which was the subject of a
letter from Mosher Chedore, solicitors, at Council's last meeting; noting that Council has
not made a final decision on the August 10, 1989 Planning Advisory Committee
recommendation to approve a ten-lot subdivision, such matter having been tabled on
December 18, 1989; advising that the Legal Department has advised that, if Council
wishes, it may lift the item from the table and make a decision to approve the proposal
as recommended by the Committee or to refer the matter back to the Planning Advisory
Committee for further public input, and that little has changed since the Committee's
consideration of the proposal in August 1989, and the recommendation is still valid and
the views of the various parties have been presented in the past; and recommending
that (1) the Planning Advisory Committee's recommendation contained in the submitted
correspondence of August 10, 1989 be removed from the table and (2) the Planning
Advisory Committee's recommendation be adopted.
On motion of Councillor Coughlan
Seconded by Councillor Davis
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, the Planning Advisory Committee's recommendation contained in its
correspondence of August 10, 1989, be taken from the table:
AND FURTHER that as recommended by the City Manager, Council
adopt the recommendation of the Planning Advisory Committee that (1) Council assent
to one or more subdivision plans of the Paul Chase Subdivision at 881 Sand Cove
Road prepared in accordance with Proposal "A" showing the widening of Keans Road,
land for public purposes and municipal services easement; (2) Council authorize the
preparation and execution of a City/Developer subdivision agreement to ensure
provision of the required services; and (3) the subdivision agreement include a clause
requiring the Development Officer's approval of a detailed site plan and driveway
location for each dwelling:
AND FURTHER that authorization be given for the subdivision
agreement to provide for cost sharing outside of the subdivision in the same manner as
provided for inside the subdivision for a 1,140 foot extension to the sanitary and storm
sewer and 835 feet of concrete curb.
Councillor Knibb noted the presence in the Council Chamber of Mr. Brian
Mosher, solicitor, and Dr. Paul Chase and suggested that Council should request them
to address this matter because of the number of proposals for the property in question
82-541
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
and the fact that the local residents objected to the above proposal and preferred larger
size lots, and that Council rejected the proposal agreed to by the residents.
On motion of Councillor Gould
Seconded by Councillor Landers
RESOLVED that Mr. Brian Mosher and
Dr. Paul Chase be invited to address Council at this time.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Mr. Brian Mosher appeared before Council and advised that, with regard
to discussion with area residents, the developer agreed to apply for a five-lot
subdivision and, if unsuccessful, would subsequently request that the above proposal
for a ten-lot subdivision based on the Planning Advisory Committee's recommendation
be brought forward for a decision by Council and that, having discussed the matter with
staff, there appears to be agreement.
During discussion Councillor Landers asked if the safety factor related to
traffic has been addressed to which Mr. Mosher replied in the affirmative on the basis
that the City Engineering staff did a study and a report to the effect that traffic is not a
problem and that the eight lots will access onto Sand Cove Road; and Councillor
Rogers, with regard to Mr. Bedford's indication that he is not aware of area residents
having been notified that the proposed Paul Chase subdivision was to be considered at
this meeting, expressed concern that, in view of the amount of debate and discussion
over the past six months in this regard, area residents were not notified or updated of
the status of this matter.
Question being taken, the original motion was carried with Councillors
Flewwelling, Landers and Rogers voting "nay".
Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager regarding the
request of Thorcor Holdings Ltd. for a core area designation for its development
proposal for land on Chesley Drive as it is the policy of the Province to support the
central core of New Brunswick cities and towns by leasing space in the core area;
noting that the Goals for Saint John identified the need to continue the emphasis on
revitalization of the central business district as a key economic development goal, and
the Municipal Development Plan also recognizes the importance of the central business
district and contains a separate central area designation in the hierarchy of commercial
designations; and advising that the Thorcor Holdings Ltd. proposal is located in an area
which is designated Medium Density Residential in the Municipal Development Plan,
with the portion of the site fronting on Douglas Avenue zoned "RM-1" Three-Storey
Multiple Residential and the remaining portion zoned "ID" Integrated Development to
implement the North End Urban Renewal Scheme, the latter envisioning a mixture of
residential and commercial uses. The report also advises that the only process
available to Common Council to designate lands "core area" is through an amendment
to the Municipal Development Plan and that the Planning Department, while not in a
position to make a final recommendation on an amendment to designate the site in
question Central Area, is hesitant to offer encouragement to such a proposal based on
the information available; and recommends that Thorcor Holdings Ltd. be informed that
core area designation can only be considered as an amendment to the Municipal
Development Plan.
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the above matter be
referred to the City Manager for an indepth report to Council.
Question being taken, the referral motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that the status report from
82-542
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
the City Manager advising that, with regard to discussions with Gore & Storrie Ltd.
concerning engineering services related to water quality and treatment, which was
discussed at Council's last meeting, the City's preliminary budget for the provision of
specialized engineering services is in line with the consultants' estimated fees and staff
has indicated to Gore & Storrie Ltd. that, upon reaching a satisfactory agreement, the
City wishes to proceed immediately on fluoridation of the City's water supply and that
Gore & Storrie Ltd. is able to comply with the City's request to provide technical support
relative to chemical and water quality parameters so that fluoridation may be properly
implemented and also provide a technical review of engineering work produced by City
staff who will provide civil and mechanical engineering support for the project and
produce plans and contract documents; proposing a tentative schedule for
implementation of fluoridation of the Loch Lomond water supply, with the Spruce Lake
system requiring more detailed study for aggressiveness control which will also be part
of the services provide by Gore & Storrie Ltd.; and commenting on the need for proper
training for the operation and maintenance of fluoridation facilities -- be received and
filed.
Mr. Robichaud, in response to Council queries, commented on the
submitted tentative schedule; advised that, with respect to sending City staff to
Moncton to study its fluoridation system rather than have staff travel to Atlanta, Georgia
for training, Moncton is probably not recognized for training purposes while the Centers
for Disease Control in Atlanta are recognized for certification purposes; and estimated
that the cost of consulting services in the first year at $20,000 to $30,000 which will be
qualified when staff meets with the consultants following which a further report could be
submitted to Council on cost details.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with the Mayor and
Councillors Flewwelling and Gould voting "nay".
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the 1989 Annual
Report of The Power Commission of The City of Saint John be received and filed with
appreciation.
Messrs. W. Nase, Chairman; R. Burpee, General Manager; and N.
Wittrien, Manager of Finance and Administration, were present in the Council Chamber,
and Mr. Burpee explained that, in anticipation of the Federal Goods and Services Tax,
the Commission reduced its rates by ten per cent so that customers would not be
paying a GST on the discount, keeping in mind that the majority of customers do take
advantage of the discount, and that customers who take advantage of the discount will
not be paying any more as a result of this change; however, due to increased costs
since the last rate increase in 1985, rates have been modified in all classifications, with
the net effect being that the average residential customer will be paying approximately
$2.50 per month more for power. Mr. Burpee also explained that, as a result of the
GST, the Commission has had to discontinue its ten per cent discount, otherwise
customers would be paying seven per cent on the 10 per cent or .7 to .8 per cent more
on their power bills than those in other parts in Canada; and Councillor Coughlan asked
that Council members be provided with information on previous discussions with NB
Power about the possibility of liquidating or selling the City's Power Commission in view
of the attractiveness of its assets, and concerning the benefit of the Power Commission
to the citizens of Saint John, and the Mayor advised that there has been discussion
with NB Power in the past and it was found that it is far more beneficial to the citizens
to leave it just as it is today.
(Councillor Fitzpatrick withdrew from the meeting during the above
remarks.)
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Read a letter from the City Manager submitting a Notice of Motion
prepared as a first step in the permanent financing of certain capital projects, such
motion, while not committing the City to any further action, placing the City in a position
to take action after the expiry of 30 days at such time as bond market conditions and
82-543
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
opportunities permit; and advising that, at this stage, it is not necessary to set limits with
respect to the coupon rate or the terms for which bonds are to be issued and that these
will be established at a later date and will be related to the market conditions at that
time.
Her Worship the Mayor gave the following Notice of Motion:-
"I do hereby give Notice that I will, at a meeting of Common Council held
after the expiration of thirty days from this day, move or cause to moved, the following
resolution, namely:-
RESOLVED that occasion having arisen in the public interest of the
following Public Civic Works and needed Civic Improvements, that is to say:
GENERAL FUND
Transportation Services
Sproule Road $3,127; Churchill Boulevard $15,572; Landfill Site $210,793; Operations
Complex $762,584; Reinstatements $81,235; Westmorland Road $907,276; Ash Street
$13,905; Ashburn Lake Road $41,856; Ashgrove Crescent $51,172; Asphalt Planing
$37,888; Beaconsfield Avenue $78,760; Churchland Road $41,578; Clarendon Street
$37,892; Clark Road $14,022; Cliff Street $72,574; Coster Street $16,512; Courtenay
Avenue $99,388; Crackfilling $29,046; Daniel Avenue $11,556; Dever Road $$88,547;
Douglas Avenue $33,654; Dresden Avenue $11,977; Duke Street West $30,739; First
Street $44,339; Garden Street $23,635; Grandview Avenue $20,134; Hazen Street
$39,177; Hemlock Street $11,494; Highfield Avenue $33,180; Horsfield Street $40,077;
Johnston Road $21,761; Latimer Lake Road $67,483; Leinster Street $44,999; Morna
Drive $3,607; Neptune Drive $3,941, Old Black River Road $87,379; Partelow Street
$30,303; Pitt Street $37,531; Ragged Point Road $54,540; Richmond Street $31,301;
Riley Drive $77,262; Ritchie Street $18,786; Rodney Street $42,057; Sand Cove Road
$9,699; Seely Street $70,962; Sproule Road $39,809; Spruce Street $66,604; St.
Andrews Street $34,898; Thomas Road $7,152; Topeka Street $74,693; Tower Street
$71,753; Wilton Street $63,092; Union Street $70,194; Canterbury Street $29,638; City
Road $36,867 -- $4,000,000
Protective Services
Protective Services Information System $25,000; Fire Station Improvements $100,000-
- $125,000
Environmental Development
Greater Residential Incentive Program (GRIP) $196,000
Recreation
Adelaide Street $153,767; Lancaster Arena $65,719; Rockwood Park $9,514--
$229,000
Public Transit -- $525,000
Total General Fund $5,075,000
WATER AND SEWERAGE UTILITY
Water System
Glen Falls $42,346; Operations Complex $461,521; Sherbrooke Street $38,888;
Charlotte Street West $159,111; Manners Sutton Road $27,246; Sand Cove Road
$231,153; Instrumentation $106,171; West Side Pressure Reducing Valve $14,965;
Service Box Renewal $168,599; Ward Street $25,000 -- $1,275,000
Sewer System
82-544
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
Kingsville Road $13,008; Operations Complex $444,632; Milford Randolph Lift Stations
$74,800; Monte Cristo Sub Sewerage Treatment Plant $60,263; Instrumentation
$86,260; Dever Road $304,889; Dexter Drive/Clover Court $87,513; Local Drainage
$52,390; Manners Sutton Road $29,767; Daniel Avenue $41,093; Lancaster Sewerage
Treatment Plant $67,709; Hazen Creek Sewerage Treatment Plant $150,035; Lakeview
Drive $37,641 -- $1,450,000
Total Water and Sewerage Utility $2,725,000
Total for all purposes $7,800,000
THEREFORE RESOLVED that debentures be issued under provisions
of the Acts of Assembly 52, Victoria, Chapter 27, Section 29 and amendments thereto,
to the amount of $7,800,000.".
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the above report
from the City Manager be received and filed.
(Councillor Fitzpatrick re-entered the meeting.)
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Davis
RESOLVED that as recommended by the
City Manager, Bernard J. Morrison be appointed to the position of Director of Parks at a
salary of $55,646, and that section 74 of the Municipalities Act is not applicable to this
appointment.
Councillor Fitzpatrick expressed opposition to the above motion as he
feels that Saint John residents are tired of the City hiring so many persons from outside
the City, and that he considers it demoralizing to City staff to be continually overlooked
for promotion. In response to Councillor Coughlan, Mr. Rodgers explained that section
74 of the Municipalities Act deals with the appointment of officers by Council with
provisions for later dismissal, if necessary, for cause which requires a two thirds vote of
the whole Council, and that Council can choose to make an appointment or not to
make an appointment under that section and, if it does not and the matter of dismissal
arises in the future, Council would not be governed by section 74 with respect to
dismissal, and the Mayor added that a majority vote of Council would be required for
dismissal. Councillor Landers advised her intent to oppose the above motion,
particularly because she feels that the City has persons on staff who can do the job
and that the City has hired persons from outside the City with the apparent expertise
only to subsequently hire other persons with expertise to tell them what to do. The
Mayor asked for assurance that, upon Mr. Morrison's engagement, training courses will
be provided for City staff so that in the future there will be staff trained for such
positions.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors
Fitzpatrick, Gould, Knibb and Landers voting "nay".
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the 1989 Annual
Report of the Saint John Harbour Bridge Authority be received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Read a letter from the Common Clerk advising that, following the
procedure for amendments to the Municipal Plan, the necessary advertising and public
82-545
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
presentation regarding the submitted application of Mr. Claude F. Savoie have been
completed and that the required waiting period for objections expired on August 22,
with no written objections having been received.
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the application of Mr.
Claude F. Savoie for a Municipal Plan amendment and re-zoning of property at 1382
Hickey Road be referred to the Planning Advisory Committee for a report and
recommendation and that the necessary advertising be authorized in this regard, with
the public hearing to be held on October 15, 1990.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Read report of the Committee of the Whole
(as follows)
To the COMMON COUNCIL of the City of Saint John
The Committee of the Whole
reports
Your Committee begs leave to report that it sat on August 20, 1990,
when there were present Mayor Wayne and Councillors Coughlan, Davis, Fitzpatrick,
Flewwelling, Gould, Knibb, Landers, Rogers, A Vincent and M. Vincent, and your
Committee submits the following recommendations, namely:-
1. That as recommended by the City Manager (1) staff meet with Dominion
Refuse, and other companies interested in providing a recycling service, and submit
recommendations to Council, and that the Works Department advertise a call for
proposals from the private sector to solicit interest from other companies; (2) the Works
Department include in its 1991 budget sufficient funds to purchase an additional 60
home composters and the Department closely monitor and evaluate the success of the
home composting program and chart a schedule for its expansion, and that the Works
Department immediately distribute the 40 existing composters to interested persons on
a "first-come first serve" basis, at a cost of $15.00; (3) the Works Department plan for
specific bans on recyclable material at the Spruce Lake landfill, such as truck loads of
corrugated cardboard, and implement same, and that, prior to implementation,
commercial waste generators would be advised of where they could dispose of their
waste; (4) the City of Saint John specify in its supply agreements the use of recycled
material, where possible; and (5) the City continue its support for "Keep Saint John
Beautiful" and its efforts toward public education in recycling.
2. That with regard to the request of the Labatt Sultans Ball Hockey Team
for Council to waive the rental fee of the Lily Lake Pavilion on August 18 at which time
the Team is holding a fundraising event to assist it in competing in the Canadian Ball
Hockey Championships in St. John's, Newfoundland on August 28 to September 3, a
grant to a maximum of $300.00 be approved, provided such group has not received
additional financial assistance from the City to participate in such Championships.
August 27, 1990,
Saint John, N.B.
Respectfully submitted,
(sgd.) Elsie E. Wayne,
C h air man.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that section 1 of the above
report be adopted.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
82-546
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that section 2 of the above
report be adopted.
Councillor Fitzpatrick asked if the City Manager has had an opportunity
to determine whether or not the Labatt Sultans Team has received any additional
financial assistance from the City, to which Mr. Taylor replied that, based on a review of
minutes and discussion with members of Recreation staff and the Major Tournament
Committee, to his knowledge no other grants have been given to given to this group.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Gould
RESOLVED that section 3 of the above
report be withdrawn from the agenda.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the letter from The
Honourable Roland Beaulieu, Minister of Tourism, Recreation & Heritage, responding
to Common Council resolution of July 23 concerning a special grant of assistance for
the Digby-Saint John Ferry tourist information service provided by the City, and
advising that such assistance does not, nor is it intended to, indicate continuing or
expanded responsibility by the Province for such services and that any future
involvement by the Province would be subject to specific consideration at that time -- be
received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the letter from the
Lancaster Kiwanis Golden "K" Club going on record as favouring the Environmental
Consultation Committee report in general, and requesting that the Mayor and Council
and the Minister of the Environment take early action on the recommendations included
in the report -- be received and filed and the Club be thanked for its interest.
The Mayor advised that the above matter will be dealt with at the next tri-
level meeting of the three levels of government on September 17 at which The
Honourable Vaughn Blaney, Minister of the Environment, and City representatives will
be in attendance. Mr. Taylor advised Councillor Landers that the report is presently
being reviewed through the Executive Committee process and he anticipates that a
report will be submitted to Council in the near future.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Rogers
RESOLVED that the letter from Susan
Wall requesting the opportunity to try one of the forty compost systems the City has in
storage -- be referred to the City Manager.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Flewwelling
RESOLVED that the letter from Mrs.
82-547
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
Wendy Robichaud advising that she has spoken to the Traffic Engineering Department
and the Traffic Inspector about the parking problem on Cranston Avenue and that the
only parking alternative on First Street cannot possibly hold the volume of vehicles,
especially in the winter; and submitting a petition from area residents requesting to
have
at least one side of Cranston Avenue available for parking between Rockland Road
and Second Street -- be referred to the City Manager.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Flewwelling
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the letter from the 1990
New Brunswick Western Heritage Team requesting assistance with respect to its
participation in the 5th Annual Eastern Canadian Heritage Championships to be held in
Quebec City on August 31-September 2 -- be received and filed.
The initial motion was to lend the above group a City flag and provide it
with City pins and brochures subsequent to which Mr. Taylor suggested that this matter
should be referred to staff to determine what the group expects in the way of
sponsorship; and, in view of the observation that the Championships have already
occurred, the Mayor called for a motion to receive and file the above letter.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Consideration was given to two notices from the Liquor Licensing Board,
one regarding an application for a license for premises at 204 King Street, the other an
application for a license regarding premises at 144 Union Street.
It was noted that Council is to consider at this meeting a letter from Mr.
Ronald L. Galbraith concerning the 204 King Street application.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Landers
RESOLVED that the notice from the
Liquor Licensing Board advising that the hearing of the application of M.B.M. Club Ltd.
for a beverage room and entertainment license for premises at 204 King Street will be
held on September 6 -- be received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Flewwelling
voting "nay".
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick
RESOLVED that the notice from the
Liquor Licensing Board advising that the hearing of the application of Gene's Country
Palace Ltd. for a lounge and entertainment license for premises at 144 Union Street will
be held on September 6 -- be received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Flewwelling
voting "nay".
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Knibb
RESOLVED that the letter from a group of
concerned business people expressing support to the proposed Deans Hill
development -- be received and filed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
82-548
COMMON COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 4, 1990
On motion of Councillor Rogers
Seconded by Councillor Coughlan
RESOLVED that the letter from Mr.
Ronald L. Galbraith submitting a copy of his letter to the Liquor Licensing Board
objecting to the issuance of a beverage room and entertainment license to M.B.M. Club
Ltd., Sam's Pub, at 204 King Street West; explaining his reasons for objecting, and
requesting Council's efforts in preventing the issuance of the license -- be immediately
referred to the Liquor Licensing Board and to the Police Department.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Knibb
Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick
RESOLVED that this meeting be
adjourned.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
Common Clerk