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1994-05-02_Minutes 84-622 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 At a meeting of the Common Council, held at the City Hall in the City of Saint John, on Monday, the second day of May, AD. 1994, at 4:00 o'clock p.m. present Thomas J. Higgins Councillors Chase, Coughlan, Gould, Knibb, Landers, McAlary, Rogers, Trites, A Vincent and M. Vincent - and - Messrs. 1. Totten, City Manager; F. Rodgers, City Solicitor; D. Wilson, Commissioner of Finance; C. Robichaud, Assistant City Manager-Operations; J. C. MacKinnon, Commissioner of Environment and Infrastructure; P. Groody, Commissioner of Human Resources; S. Bedford, Commissioner of Development Services; W. D. Todd, Director of Housing and Property Management; G. Tait, Fire Chief; B. Thompson, Deputy Chief of Police; AC. Martin, Assistant Deputy Chief of Police; D. Logan, Purchasing Agent; J. Mcintyre, Manager, Industrial Relations; J. Baird, Manager - Development Division, Planning; B. Steeves, Deputy Building Inspector; J. Bezanson, Heritage Planner; Mrs. M. Munford, Common Clerk; and Lorraine Linton, Secretary. 1. Call To Order - OpeninQ Prayer The Mayor called the meeting to order and Reverend Lloyd Lake, a retired Anglican Clergyman, offered the opening prayer. 2. Approval of Minutes On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that minutes of the meeting of Common Council, held on April 25, 1994, be approved. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 3. Mayor's Remarks Mayor Higgins noted that the United Way is holding its regional conference at the Saint John Hilton this week; and welcomed former Mayor Samuel Davis to the Council Chamber. Councillor Coughlan advised that on May 6 a symposium will be held by the Centracare Foundation on mental health and that various agencies will be setting up booths at Market Square. Councillor Knibb extended a message of sympathy to former Mayor Edis Flewwelling on the death of his wife, Betty. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Rogers RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of Saint John extend a message of sympathy to the family of the late Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Flewwelling. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Deputy Mayor McAlary advised that CP Rail has selected two finalists, Gilford Industries and Cantrac, to operate the line from Sherbrooke to Saint John and that the decision will be made by the end of May. 84-623 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 Councillor Trites noted that he attended an auction fund raiser in support of Randy Oldfield, a Saint John High School student injured in a hockey game, which raised $7500 to $8000 and on behalf of Council recognized the work of the organizing committee, and in particular Barry McGrath, a member of Local 18 and a valued employee of the City and suggested a letter from the Mayor on behalf of Council be forwarded to Mr. McGrath recognizing his involvement in the community. Councillor Gould extended condolences to the family of the late Dr. Norbert Grant. On motion of Councillor Gould Seconded by Councillor A. Vincent RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of Saint John extend a message of sympathy to the family of the late Dr. Norbert Grant. Question being taken, the motion was carried. * Added Item On motion of Deputy Mayor McAlary Seconded by Councillor Knibb RESOLVED that the letter from the City Manger regarding the resignation of the Building Inspector, be added to the agenda for consideration at this meeting as item 9A. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor A. Vincent voting "nay". 3A. Letter of appreciation from the Town of Sussex On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the letter from Mayor Higgins submitting a copy of a letter to Fire Chief Glen Tait from Mayor Ken Friars of the Town of Sussex expressing appreciation on behalf of Council and citizens for the valuable assistance and advice to their firefighters and Council during the Irving warehouse fire, be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 3B. Letter from Councillor A. Vincent re closure of Simonds Arena Read a letter from Councillor A. Vincent advising that it has been brought to his attention that senior City staff have attended a meeting with the East/West Suburban Hockey League and other groups regarding the closure of the Simonds Arena and requesting that any future meetings regarding the closure be made public. (Councillor Landers entered the meeting.) On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Gould RESOLVED that the above letter be received and filed. Responding to a query as to why the City is spending money for consultants when a report has already been received in this matter, Mr. Totten explained that on March 21 he brought a report to Council dealing with the condition and usage of all civic arenas, that the report was precipitated by the fact that it was, and still is common knowledge, that the Simonds Centennial Arena has fallen into what 84-624 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 might be described as a state of disrepair and needs significant capital expenditures; the report concluded that the significant capital investment could not be recommended and that the arena be closed, however, this recommendation did not receive the support of Council and after considerable discussion Council could not support the closure and the issue surrounding this arena was much more than financial, there was a commitment to a community, to the residents of East Saint John; staff was asked to develop alternatives for Council to consider and the end result was that staff have been meeting with groups and discussing the issues and it is his hope that staff have been acting on the understanding of Council and their approach was to find a way in which renovations to the facility could be phased in over two or three years and that the funding of the renovations would involve the City, users of the facility, perhaps the private sector and perhaps service clubs. He further noted that it his intention to submit a report to Council after they have the information as to how much it will cost over a period of years to bring the building up to condition, and the City has engaged consultants to provide the information; and that his response to comments that the Simonds Arena is closing is that Council has never taken a position that it is closing, in fact they have asked to find a way to keep it open. Councillor A. Vincent questioned what is wrong with the building. Councillor Trites commended Councillor A. Vincent for bringing the topic to the public agenda and suggested it is healthy to have this discussion, and that it is an issue for everyone to work together for a proper solution and if it involves the use of some of the extensive community spirit and goodwill we have in the city to continue to operate the facility, then that is what Council is here for. Councillor Coughlan advised that the City Manager has an assignment that Council unanimously gave him. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 5. Progress payment contract 93-8 Asphaltic concrete street resurfacinQ - 1993 On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, authority be granted for payment of the following construction progress certificate, namely:- 1. Progress payment contract 93-8 Asphaltic concrete street resurfacinQ - 1993 Grove Construction (1986) Inc. Original estimated value of work Total work done, Estimate Number 4 Retention Payments previously approved Sub-Total G.ST Component Sum recommended for payment, Progress Estimate Number 4, dated April 25/94 Holdback release on completed portion of contract $1,093,357.19 946,919.90 Nil 811,867.63 135,052.27 8,835.20 135,052.27 Question being taken, the motion was carried. 6. Traffic By-Law amendment - Station Street On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Chase RESOLVED that the report from City Manager advising that Harbour Station is requesting that the lay-by area in front of the building be designated a five minute parking area; that the lay-by was constructed as part of the Station Street Reconstruction project and was intended to provide a bus stop area and has been signed that way; that the operation of Harbour Station with its ticket office at the front of the building has shown the need for short term parking to accommodate many people that take only a few minutes to pick up tickets and the bus 84-625 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 lay-by at the front of the building is not required most of the time; and recommending that the submitted Traffic By-Law amendment be given first and second readings and referred to the Legal Department for appropriate action -- be received and filed and the recommendation adopted: AND FURTHER that the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto", with regard to parking on Station Street, be read a first time. Responding to a query from Councillor Chase as to whether difficulty has been experienced with cars pulling into oncoming traffic and causing dangerous situations, Mr. Robichaud stated no problems have come to his notice although someone driving over the speed limit could cause a problem. Councillor Landers referred to the "no left turn" from Sewell Street and questioned its purpose, and Mr. Robichaud advised that the reason for it is to prevent vehicles cutting across two lanes of traffic and that staff will review the matter. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a first time the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto". On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto", with regard to parking on Station Street, be read a second time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a second time the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto". 7. Traffic By-Law amendment re Golden Grove Road On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the report from the City Manager advising that at Council's meeting of April 18, 1994 the Planning Advisory Committee recommended that Common Council take the necessary steps to prohibit on-street parking on Golden Grove Road from McAllister Drive to Simpson Drive; and recommending that the submitted Traffic By-Law amendment be given first and second readings and referred to the Legal Department for appropriate action -- be received and filed and the recommendation adopted: AND FURTHER that the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto", with regard to parking on Golden Grove Road from McAllister Drive to Simpson Drive, be read a first time. Deputy Mayor McAlary asked if there is enough off-street parking to prevent problems during Exhibition Week, and was advised it was determined there would be no problems during that week. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a first time the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto". 84-626 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Coughlan RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto", with regard to parking on Golden Grove Road from McAllister Drive to Simpson Drive, be read a second time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a second time the by-law entitled, "A By-Law To Amend A By-Law Respecting Traffic On Streets In The City Of Saint John Made Under The Authority Of The Motor Vehicle Act, 1973, And Amendments Thereto". 8. Request of Kiwanis Club for Qrant Read a letter from the City Manager advising that the Kiwanis Club of Saint John has requested a grant equal to the cost of the green fees for players participating in the Kiwanis Golf Classic; that the Club has sponsored the "Kiwanis Golf Classic" for the past four years at the Rockwood Park Municipal Golf Course and raised funds which have been contributed to the Neo-natal Unit of the Saint John Regional Hospital; that Common Council gave the Club a grant of $2,500.00 in 1993 which basically covered the cost of the green fees for the participants in the event; and submitting a recommendation in this regard. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Coughlan RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, the Saint John Kiwanis Club (a) be given a grant of $1,500.00 to cover the loss in revenue at the Rockwood Park Municipal Golf Course, and (b) be informed that because of fiscal constraints that this will be the last year for them to receive a grant to waive the golf fees at the Rockwood Park Municipal Golf Course. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 9. Re tender for janitorial service. City Hall Complex Read a report from the City Manager with respect to the matter of tenders for the provision of janitorial services to areas of the City Hall building which are occupied by the City, which had been considered by Council at its meetings of April 11 and April 18; advising that as a result of Council's request and in preparation for meetings and discussions with the City Solicitor, the Purchasing Agent undertook an investigation in an attempt to determine if sufficient evidence existed to state that Phoenix Commercial Cleaning Ltd. had received the addendum to the tender; that further investigation by the Purchasing Agent revealed that neither staff of the Purchasing or Property Management Departments can recollect actually handing a copy of the addendum to a representative of Phoenix, and that it is certainly possible that Phoenix submitted the proper deposit without receiving the addendum; that staff considered the suggestion to re-issue the tender, however, there is difficulty in doing so now that the tendered prices are public; that the City Manager met with the representative of Adora Cleaning Ltd. and listened to the company's concerns and acknowledges that it is reasonable for the company to question the process, nevertheless, the fact remains that the City is unable to prove that Phoenix did in fact receive the addendum and they should not be penalized for failure to comply; and submitting a recommendation in this regard. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Chase RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, in light of the findings of the Purchasing Agent and as a result of the City 84-627 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 Solicitor's report, Common Council lift from the table the City Manager's report considered at its April 11 meeting and deem the failure of Phoenix Commercial Cleaning Ltd. to include a signed copy of the addendum with the tender an informality: AND FURTHER that the tender of Phoenix Commercial Cleaning Ltd., in the amount of $6,543.00 per month, be accepted for cleaning the City Hall Complex for a period of two years. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Responding to a query from Councillor Rogers as to whether the action outlined in the report is all that is being done or whether there will be a change to the purchasing system in that this is only one mistake that has taken place in recent weeks, there have been others, the City Manager advised the use of the word "mistake" implies that staff have done something wrong, and that there have been some difficulties, however, the Purchasing Agent has already started the practise of have people sign for addendums; and that the Purchasing Agent in conjunction with the City Solicitor has been asked to review how addendums are to be used and if there is a separate form of communication for those items that do not give perspective bidders a competitive advantage; and that his recommendation is as a result of having given thought to his original position, having read the City Solicitor's report and having met with a representative from Adora, as well as considering the option of redoing the tender. Councillor Rogers expressed the opinion that there should be a new tender and questioned whether the tender is legal considering it did not have the addendum attached to it that was required by other companies to meet the specifications. Mr. Rodgers advised that the adoption of the City Manager's recommendation makes the situation legal and puts the City in a stronger legal position than the alternative, meaning awarding it to the other party. 9A ResiQnation of John Johnson. BuildinQ Inspector Read a letter from the City Manager noting that on January 24, 1994 Council adopted a Voluntary Separation Policy, and under that policy Mr. John Johnson, the City's Building Inspector, has complied with the policy and wishes to terminate his employment with the City effective April 29, 1994; recommending that the resignation of Mr. Johnson be accepted; and advising that under the Building By-Law the Deputy Building Inspector is the Acting Building Inspector. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the resignation of John H. Johnson, the City's Building Inspector, be accepted effective April 29, 1994 and he be thanked for his service to the City. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 10...Legislation establishing the Greater Saint John Economic Development Commission Read a letter from the City Solicitor, submitting a copy of The Greater Saint John Economic Development Commission Act which received Royal Assent on April 20, 1994; advising that while there is presently a Commission in existence, created by Council under the Municipalities Act, it is now necessary for Council to comply with Section 2(2) of the Act; that Council is required to appoint six members to the Commission and that it is necessary for Council to receive the necessary recommendations from the Saint John Board of Trade, the New Brunswick Telephone Company and the Irving Group of Companies, for the names of members for appointment to the Commission by Council. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the above letter from the 84-628 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 City Solicitor be referred to the Nominating Committee. Responding to a query from Deputy Mayor McAlary as to the appointment of a Chairman, Mr. Rodgers advised that unless the legislation specifically provides for the Chairman to be appointed by Council, it will be appointed by the Commission. Councillor Chase referred to the six individuals appointed by Council to the Commission on March 1, 1993 and asked whether these names will be put forward to the Nominating Committee and was advised by Mayor Higgins that they were appointed on an interim basis and the appointments will be up to the Nominating Committee once information has been received as to who wishes to remain and those who wish to withdraw. Councillor A. Vincent suggested that representatives from labour should also be considered for appointment. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor A. Vincent voting "nay". 11. Municipal Plan Amendment 661 Dever Road Consideration was given to a letter from the Common Clerk advising that, following the procedure for amendments to the Municipal Plan, the necessary advertising and public presentation regarding the submitted application of Dr. Sean A. Keyes, concerning a parcel of land on the south side of Dever Road between the Lancaster Arena and the St. Rose Parish senior citizens' apartment complex, have been completed, and that no written objections have been received in this regard. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Landers RESOLVED that the application of Dr. Sean A. Keyes for a Municipal Plan amendment and re-zoning of a parcel of land on the south side of Dever Road between the Lancaster Arena and the St. Rose Parish senior citizens' apartment complex, 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 June 13, 1994. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 12. Municipal Plan Amendment 154 Germain Street Consideration was given to a letter from the Common Clerk advising that, following the procedure for amendments to the Municipal Plan, the necessary advertising and public presentation regarding the submitted application of Mega Enterprises Inc. concerning the former Shell Canada depot, including the City-owned lands previously leased to Shell Canada, located at 154 Germain Street West, have been completed, and that no written objections have been received in this regard. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the application of Mega Enterprises Inc. for a Municipal Plan amendment and re-zoning of the former Shell Canada depot, including the City-owned lands previously leased to Shell Canada, located at 154 Germain Street West 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 June 13, 1994. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 4. Presentation by IrvinQ Group re Loyalist Burial Ground With regard to the presentation to be made regarding the proposal to be 84-629 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 presented at this time by the Irving interests regarding the Loyalist Burial Ground, Mayor Higgins advised that following presentation of the proposal, all persons present who wished to speak for or against the project, will be afforded an opportunity to do so. Colleen Mitchell of the Irving Group introduced Mr. Alex Novell, architect, of Bristol, England, who she advised will be reviewing his conceptual design and the background as to how he arrived at them, and who will present a few slides showing the actual plans and will entertain all questions and comments. Messrs. John Wallace, solicitor and Hans Klohn, were also present representing the Irving Group. Mr. Alex Novell, Fellow of the British Landscape Institute, advised that he has been practising as a landscape architect for 22 years, he has done many historical restoration projects in Britain; that in July of 1993 the Irving Corporation asked him to look at a site which they considered appropriate for a statue to commemorate their founder, K. C. Irving. During a slide presentation Mr. Novell noted the strategic location of the Loyalist Burial Ground; referred to the restoration process taking place in King's Square with the cast iron Victorian lamp standards and work on the fountain, and advised that he has seen the consultant's report with recommendations for the Square and the overall concept is one which dovetails very neatly with the kind of proposal he has for the Burial Ground; noted that the Burial Ground is in a poor state of repair, and when he reported back to the Irvings on the site as a suitable place for a statue, integral to his report was the proposal that there should be a general refurbishment of the area; noting that the area where the Christmas tree stands is the area proposed for the monument and that the Burial Ground naturally divides itself with 60% of it lying beyond the foot path and has a great number of remaining gravestones and the remaining 40% on flatter ground and which has clearly been laid out as a park which he understands was done in about 1875; that the Burial Ground was opened in 1783 and closed in 1848 due to overcrowding and health problems; during the period 1875 to 1883 there was obviously civic amenities put on this site, pathways, deliberate tree planting along the pathways and fits in with the same sort of treatment in King's Square; that sometime after that there have been benches, a fountain in 1883 and electric lighting probably between 1910 and 1913; that as late as 1930 the Burial Ground was well cared for and a public attraction; gave his assurance that the sensitivity of the site was well recognized from the very beginning and was very obvious when he looked at the site; referring to the great number of mature trees, which he advised was one of the primary constraints, as he wanted to keep the mature tree cover, as well as make sure he kept any proposals to this area which is used primarily used as a park and not stray into the area up the hill which is primarily where the gravestones are; noting that he is trying to be sensitive to the site and only enter areas which are already part of the amenities of what is used as a public park; that the area is zoned as a park in the City plan; that the question he first asked himself is whether this is an appropriate place for the statue, a very fine bronze which is 10 feet in height and the sculptor would like it to be on a 8 foot plinth which will give it the right sort of presence for its size and noted that this is exactly the size the City recommends for monuments for King's Square; that where the flower bed is and the Christmas tree stands is a historical focus to the park and also a place where 1200 people who work for the Irving Corporation pass every day on their way to work; his conclusion was that he could fit the statue in the space without taking out important mature trees and without an overpowering presence is well contained by high tree coverage and in good relationship with the diagonal path; referring to the slide which depicts the master plan, noted the area where the gravestones still exist will have only upgrading of the footpaths, and there will be new tree planting to fill in gaps where they have been blown down along the paths; that there will have to be a very delicate approach to all construction in the area in order to preserve the tree roots; pointed out the proposal for the plaza with the statue which will be no larger than the existing area; pointed out the proposal for the fountain at the site of the existing fountain, the high quality brick footpaths edged with granite and granite crossbanding, the Victorian-style cast iron lighting, and tree and shrub planting; showed pictures of the lightstandards, and the benches which will be cast iron and hardwood with the City crest in cast iron on the ends, a tree seat at the entrance to the Golden Ball Building which will encircle a tree, the litter receptacles which will be affixed to the ground and have the City crest in black and gold, and cast iron sign posts; expressed the hope that the presentation can give an impression of the kind of quality he is talking about, the use of granite stone, solid 84-630 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 granite steps, the bronze statue on a granite plinth, low granite walls with solid granite masonry with new planting, lamp standards and park benches; that the proposal to refurbish the fountain is an example of a reflecting pool spilling over a granite lip and falling down with solid bronze beaver; advised this is a unique opportunity to provide something which is going to be a very fine asset to the City and expressed the hope that the City will accept this in the spirit it is offered as a gift from the Irving brothers in memory of their late father. Councillor Coughlan referred to the opponents of the plan and their claims of desecration and asked Mr. Novell to comment. Mr. Novell advised there will always be opposition whenever one tries to do a project in a municipal context, one of the more difficult aspects of his work is not the design work, but trying to find the balance between opinion and Council has that task this evening; that there is a historical dimension that is important, it is the old Burial Ground, therefore, it has to be treated with enormous sensitivity, but it depends on what time in history you wish to take your snapshot, is it 1848 when it was closed and had a dilapidated timber fence, probably very few trees, the odd muddy path and a great deal of insanitary and difficult conditions because of the overcrowding in the Burial Ground, or is it in 1875 or 1883 when it was laid out as a Victorian park, essentially, and that may be nearer the mark; going forward in history we find at various times it has been in a state of dilapidation or disrepair, before 1930 it was said to be dilapidated and in 1930 it was said to be very well cared for and a great attraction, but in the last decade it has fallen into an irreverent state of repair and it cannot be right to leave a great historic area like this in that sort of condition; he has tried to come forward with a proposal for restoration which is reverent, which respects the historical context and those buried there, but which also upgrades it and brings it forward into the present history and takes it forward into the future as a real asset to the City; that it is important to not only look at the historical context, but as a matter of balance to look forward to the future of this area, and that is what he has tried to do. In response to whether he has undertaken a similar project, Mr. Novell advised that all the time he deals with highly sensitive sites, the sensitivity sometimes is to do with people and their aspirations, sometimes it is nature conservation, sometimes it is mature trees, sometimes it is historic buildings and a historic character to a city or town which has to be preserved, and his job as an environmental planner is to deal with all the environmental constraints and design proposals which are considered to be sensitive and acceptable while still achieving the goals he has set out to achieve, namely, the project. He further noted that the fact the site is a burial ground there is the consideration of human remains and that he has taken great care to research the proper procedures here and has spoken with the Provincial archaeologist and he assures him there is no difficulty as long as they have the appropriate archaeological advice, and he has his own consultant and has no doubt the Provincial archaeologist will be there as an observer and every propriety will be observed as they go through the project. Responding to a query as to the price of the project, Mr. Novell advised that this project is a gift to the City and it would be improper for him to tell him the value of a gift, but it is a very substantial sum of money. Deputy Mayor McAlary questioned the depth of excavation for the plaza area, and Mr. Novell advised that he will work with the levels that exist, and the majority of pathways and plaza should be within the top foot of the soil, that there will be some foundations required for the statue and the masonry walls but they will try to keep it to the absolute minimum, and although there are no grave stones, no one knows exactly what is there; that the excavation for the fountain will have a deep base because there will be provision for the pump. Responding to a query as to who will do the maintenance on the fountain, Mr. Novell advised that it is his recommendation that the Irving Corporation take care of it because they have skilled maintenance men, and that maintenance for the benches, etc. will be a matter for detailed discussion between the City and the Irving representatives; in response to a query on the restoration of the gravestones, advised that they are not included in the proposal, however, he very much hopes that the City will be able to provide a program of restoration of the gravestones. Deputy Mayor McAlary further questioned whether there is a proposal to fence the Burial Ground and was advised that if the City in preparing its plans for the restoration of the gravestones through the use of wrought iron, his comment would be that would be appropriate, but within these proposals, there is no proposal to fence the area. Responding to a query as to whether this is the only statue of K.C. Irving in the Province, Mr. Novell advised there is one planned for Bouctouche but is in a very much more relaxed style. 84-631 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 (Mayor Higgins withdrew and Deputy Mayor McAlary assumed the chair.) Responding to a query from Councillor Rogers for clarification on his statement that no one knows exactly what is in the Burial Ground, Mr. Novell advised that nobody knows exactly what lies in that corner of the Burial Ground, that he knows it was an active burial ground and just a few years after it was closed a well on the site of the Golden Ball Building was polluted and was linked to the cholera epidemic of that period, and it was considered a health hazard, and there are letters to the effect that a number of bodies were removed and that whether or not they come across human remains they have taken precautions to make sure they will be dealt with in a proper and reverent manner; noting that new trees have been planted where the headstones are by the City and new trees require deep excavation and if that had caused any problems we would have heard; that is why he took advice from the Provincial archaeologist. Responding to a query from Councillor Rogers as to the number of trees to be removed, Mr. Novell advised possibly two or three, but he will have an arborist there to help ensure they don't damage roots and make sure the proper standard is followed and he will also advise what tree work will improve the health and lifespan of the trees. Referring to wheelchair accessibility, Mr. Novell advised that provision has been made for wheelchair access. (Mayor Higgins re-entered the meeting and re-assumed the chair.) Councillor Landers noted that she took part in a recent talk show which received twenty-two calls and there was no one opposed to the erection of the monument including the people on the forum, but what was expressed was the sensitivity of the Burial Ground. She asked if Mr. Novell and the Irving Group be willing to work with the groups that are concerned, and Mr. Novell advised the process falls into two stages, one is the principle acceptable to the City, if it is acceptable, then the City will give its approval, and then there is the practical aspect which is satisfying that the detail, the material, standards, the electrical supply, all the technical details fulfil their requirements and they will have archaeologists on site and if the City felt it was appropriate for discussion with other groups to ensure that these detailed procedures were properly carried out before that aspect of the project was actually constructed, then they would be willing to work with them on that, but that he hopes it would not affect a decision on the principle of the matter. Councillor Gould questioned the ownership of the statue, and Mr. Novell advised the City of Saint John will own it. Councillor Chase referred to statements made that work of this nature is not undertaken without a master plan, and was advised by Mr. Novell that what he has provided is a master plan, explained that it may not fill in all the detail, the important thing about a master plan is that it is an overview and what he is proposing is the upgrading of the existing pathways; that a master plan should also have an accurate survey, and there is a survey of the existing tree positions, the existing levels, such as is needed to the refurbishment; that he has not surveyed every gravestone or written every inscription and has not done exhaustive historical research as to is buried there, but that is not necessary to upgrade the amenity aspects of the park; that his master plan is based on a design concept of one focus in that part of the park, the focus is already there, a flower bed and a Christmas tree in the winter; that there is some detail filled in, as much detail as needed and we know what materials will be in the plaza, how the fountain design will look, what walls will be in, we have seen the statue, we know what tree and shrub planing, what flowers will go in; if the City comes along and fills in other detail into that master plan such as a wrought iron fence around the entire area or perhaps just the area where the gravestones are, and if there is a proposal to restore the gravestones, or to bring out the gravestones in storage and re-erect them, that all fits within the same master plan, that the master plan has to take into account all the factors, the historical factors, the amenity of the area, the aspirations of the area for the future, the quality of work and the fact that it dovetails in with the proposals for the upgrading of King's Square. Upon being given an indication of the number of persons present in the Council Chamber who wished to address Council, Mayor Higgins suggested a brief recess before proceeding. On motion of Deputy Mayor McAlary 84-632 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 Seconded by Councillor Knibb RESOLVED that this meeting be recessed for 20 minutes. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor A. Vincent voting "nay". Following the recess, the meeting resumed at 6:50 p.m. Colonel James Turnbull, speaking in opposition to the proposal, advised that his appearance is to underscore the letter he wrote to Council on November 23, 1993 and the stand he took before the Law Amendments Committee in Fredericton, noting that he is a direct descendent of the first person buried in the Loyalist Burial Ground, Conrad Hendricks, whose tombstone is dated 1784; that his objection to the erection of a monument is because the land in question has been dedicated as a burial ground and in his view monuments and tombstones should be erected only for Loyalists or those of Loyalist descent who are buried in the burial ground; no one is certain of the exact location of remains of many who have been buried there and stated he does not believe the property should be altered or disturbed or the use changed when there is plenty of other land in the immediate vicinity which could accommodate a monument to the late Mr. Irving; he stressed that he is not objecting to the erection of a monument which is being funded by a corporation, but rather objects to the proposed location in the Loyalist Burial Ground property for a use other than what was originally intended and legislated to be; and suggested that in view of the vast interest that has been shown with regard to the Loyalist Burial Ground and before Council embarks on any work in the graveyard, that a professional master plan be done to examine the history of the graveyard and to formulate actions and policies which reflect the sacredness of this hallowed ground; that a foundation or an organization be established to oversee this master plan and also to raise funds for the proper restoration of the site and the committee be composed of not only relatives of those buried there, but also the City's Heritage Planner, representatives from the St. George's, St. Andrew's and St. Patrick's Societies, the Loyalist Society, the 1.0.D.E., the black community and the Multicultural Association. Speaking in opposition to the proposal, Mr. Harold Fanjoy, President of the Saint John Branch, New Brunswick Genealogical Society, advised he appreciated the architects efforts in putting a fine design together and his mention of a historic plan, but he believes the plan and the architect is for a park, not a graveyard; that he believes the Loyalist Burial Ground is not for sale and submits that what is being considered is a sale of the right-of-way to use land and that the Irving Group made an offer to spend money if they could have the right to use the land in the graveyard, the only thing is all the land is occupied, there is no space available, it is not for sale; he noted that the City of Saint John had five historic graveyards - the ones at Lower Cove, Indiantown, city centre and Carleton are gone, only one historic graveyard is left; read the definition of "consecrated" from "The Book of Common Prayer Church of England" and advised that he was told by Bishop George Lemmon that once a graveyard is consecrated it cannot be de-consecrated; read section 3 of An Act RelatinQ To The Public Burial Ground In The City of Saint John which states in part "...it shall not be lawful for the said Mayor, Aldermen and Commonality of the said City, or any person by their direction or authority, to disturb any grave....unless at the request and desire of the legal representative of the deceased person so to be removed"; noted that in the pauper section of the graveyard there are over 1,600 graves, many of which are Blacks and Indians and this is the section where the Irving Group plans to desecrate the graves and questioned how someone can be honoured by dishonouring another man, woman or child's' grave site; explained that the government of New Brunswick passed legislation in 1848 to close the graveyard because it was full to capacity and gave the trusteeship of the Loyalist Burial Ground to the City of Saint John; suggested that the citizens would support a special fund raising such as that for the Imperial Theatre and Sports Hall of Fame and requested the City to seriously consider establishing a charitable organization for the preservation of the Burial Ground, transfer the legal responsibilities now entrusted to the City of Saint John and let the corporation protect and secure the nature of the historical burial ground and establish a long-range plan and raise the necessary funds; and suggested two alternative sites, namely, King's Square which is the most honoured location in the City and has space on the north side 84-633 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 of the Square where there is no monument and another consideration is Market Square, the location where the first Irving offices were located. Mr. Fanjoy noted that the Genealogical Society passed a motion unanimously opposing any desecration of the Loyalist Burial Grounds and asked that if his remarks have created any doubts in the minds of Council that they not approve the Irving statue at this location. Mr. Joseph Savoie, 152 Duke Street, spoke in opposition to the proposal and questioned whether Mr. Irving was a citizen. Dr. Fred Hodges, President of the Multicultural Association of Saint John, speaking in opposition to the erection of a monument to Mr. Irving in the Loyalist Burial Ground, suggested that he would be happy to see a memorial given to the members of the Black community and the unknown people who lie in the graveyard and questioned who is responsible for the bad condition, and who Council represents; and if a monument is put there for one man, questioned why there is not a monument to men, women and children who were born in Canada, lived in Canada, died in Canada, and were buried in Canada; and that the Loyalist Burial Ground is sacred ground. Mrs. Joan Pearce, Pelton Road, appearing in opposition to the proposal advised that it was exactly 21 years ago in 1973 that she stood before Council and went before the Legislature with the idea of trying to protect a burial ground; her recent experience before the Private Members Bill Committee of the New Brunswick Legislature has convinced her that the deal was done and that the hearing tonight is an exercise in futility; justified her view by outlining the process which took place before the Law Amendments Committee at which four individuals and groups appeared and outlined comprehensive objections, based on fact, very little emotion, totally different than tonight; noted that section 3 of the Act requires descendants having given permission to enter the gravesite and when representatives of the City were asked if this requirement caused them concern, their reply was no; that it appeared by the answers given by the City representatives that there was no proposal and no plan and it appeared that the strategy of the City was to answer the questions that this was enabling legislation to allow serious negotiations to proceed and definitive plans were not available at this time and she understands that to mean that this proposal tonight was not in the hands of the City at the time they went to the legislature; referred to the unusual development which took place when after the Committee reported back to the Legislature and recommended rejection of the amendment in that the proposal was repudiated by the House Leader and in a relatively rare move the legislation was presented to the Committee of the Whole; the Irving representatives made a presentation to just not the Private Members Bill Committee, but the entire Liberal caucus, and now there is a clause in the legislation which allows the K.C. Irving statue to be put in the Loyalist Burial Ground; noted that nearly all objections indicate that opponents are objecting only to the location of the statue, not the statue itself. Mrs. Pearce briefly summarized her objections as follows, it is an inappropriate use for an historical burial site, a burial ground, by its nature is a place where bodies are buried, a private place where tombstones mark the place of burial and are placed in memory of those within, it is not a public square or a public place and the fact that the City, over the years, ignored section 4 of the 1848 Act which gave it the responsibility to maintain the grounds, should not be used for justifying this plan; and the City has not yet satisfactorily outlined how section 3 of the Act will be followed; there are more appropriate locations and two are already mentioned, and her third choice is the property adjacent to the burial ground, owned by the Irvings, between their two office buildings on Union and Sydney Streets; noted that the Irvings have asked to use the burial ground on two previous occasions and in both cases Common Council upheld the spirit and letter of the law when in the late 1940s the Irving interests began construction of a bus shelter without legal permission and Council directed City Transit to stop work; questioned who will own the land after this proposal is put into place and the response given at this meeting that the City will; that the second attempt by the Irvings came in 1957 when they tried to get a legal right-of-way on the north perimeter of the graveyard to get access to their building and this was denied by Council; questioned how much input the City's Heritage Planner had on the issue before Council tonight; is the burial ground a burial ground or a park, noting that several times tonight it was called a park by the proponents of this proposal; what commitment does the City have from the Irving interests to preserve, restore and maintain the burial ground; what is the proof there are very few bodies there or that bodies have been removed and reinterred, because no where in Council minutes or any documentation that can be found has there been any indication bodies have been removed; is it sensitivity to the 84-634 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 site to have a stone plaza, an 18 foot high statue among small grave stones, brick footpaths that were not appropriate until just recently on this site; and are the improvements being placed everywhere or on just the 40% of the burial ground that is being requested. Councillor Landers suggested that Council should have had all the input from all the concerned citizens and groups before requesting an amendment to the legislation, and assured Mrs. Pearce that she has some very valid questions and has some very important information that is relevant to what is taking place and agreed there are some serious questions that have to be answered by Council as the trust that was placed in Council many years ago. Councillor Coughlan noted that assurance has been received from Mr. Novell that dignity will be maintained and questioned whether this can become a gathering place, a place of historical significance that we might all appreciate much better than the past. Mrs. Pearce responded that her opinion is that once a graveyard, always a graveyard, "desecration" means out of character and what is proposed there is out of character; that it doesn't matter to her that the graveyard looks old, after 200 years it would be expected to look old, however, what bothers her is there hasn't been any good care taken and it is desecration to her to put anything there that isn't in keeping with the burial ground. Councillor Rogers questioned when the Heritage Planner became involved in the project. Mr. Totten advised that amendments were made to the legislation that permitted City staff to meet with Irving representatives to review the proposal and it was not until last Thursday that an opportunity arose for the City staff to meet with Mr. Novell to review his proposal and in attendance at the meeting were Mr. Robichaud, Mr. Morrison, Mr. Bedford, Mr. Bezanson, Heritage Planner. During discussion, and in response to a query of Councillor Rogers regarding the degree of research presented to satisfy staff, the City Manager stated that while the degree of information and support for the position taken by staff could be debated, it was based on the presentation and discussion between the Irving interests and City staff with respect to how this project would either complete with or complement the work proposed in the adjoining King's Square, and while it was recognized that the two projects were different, staff believes that they would be complimentary. Mrs. Pearce stated she raised the timing of the involvement of the Heritage Planner in the project as it would seem to her that one of the first things Council would have done would be to ask the Heritage Planner to react to the proposal. Mr. Totten advised of an initial meeting attended by the Director of Parks after being contacted by former Mayor Wayne, and subsequently, it was his position as City Manager that City staff should not be involved in the project until such time as the legislation was amended. Deputy Mayor McAlary clarified that Council did not see the plans until a month and a half ago. Mr. Novell, in responding to points raised by opponents, advised that it has been suggested that the location is not a park but a burial ground and that it is not his intention to change the land use of this piece of ground; his historical investigations show that the park aspect was created in the period 1875 to 1883, long after the burial ground was closed, which is not something that is unusual as many cemeteries are open to the public, and have paths, trees, shrubs, flowers, benches and some have architecture associated with them and do become public amenities; in the period 1875 to 1883 those amenities were provided in the form of foot paths, a fountain, benches, flower beds and since then electric lighting and a Christmas tree at Christmas time; it is not their intention to change the use in any way but upgrade the amenity and to allow people to enjoy the area in the way they always have since that Victorian period under better environmental conditions; referring to the specific question about evidence that there had been some exhumations, it does exist in Halifax that some bodies were removed from the burial ground around 1875 or that period, where they were removed from and why is supposition, that he said at the same time there was concern about contamination of the water supply particularly in the area they are now where it is alleged there were paupers graves and it was overcrowded; referring to the definition of "desecration" which was given, he advised that in Websters Etymological Dictionary the term means to treat sacrilegiously, and it is not his intention in any way to be irreverent to the people who are buried there and pointed out they are proposing these improvements in an area where improvements have already been carried out, not only once in the Victorian period but again in 1940 and that the historical context is one of an evolution of amenity in that area. Responding to the query of whether it is only the 84-635 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 40% that would receive the treatment, he advised it is certainly the whole of the burial ground in terms of the upgrading of the paths, the provision of appropriate lighting and the new park benches. Councillor Trites noted that until the legislation was amended, which was enabling in nature, it was not appropriate for Council to be involved in discussions on the project, and that this is the first opportunity Council has had to hear presentations on the proposal. Upon Councillor A. Vincent withdrawing from his seat at the Council table to address Council from the podium, the City Solicitor stated that pursuant to Council's Procedural By-Law, members of the Common Council are required to take their regular seats at a Council meeting, whereupon Councillor A. Vincent returned to the Council table and spoke in favour of the project. (Councillor Rogers withdrew from the meeting). Mr. Stephen Hutchison, President of Uptown Saint John Inc., accompanied by several members of its Board of Directors, advised that this proposal has received unanimous support of the Board; read from the Uptown Strategy Report which states in section 6.1 titled Uptown Vision under the subtitle of Heritage and Cultural Vision "our uptown will continue to be a key contributor to our sense of self worth and pride and our cultural and physical heritage by preserving our physical heritage including buildings, vistas and places and by providing a focus for the celebration and creation of our culture". Suggesting that at present, although a sight of historical significance, the burial ground is badly in need of repair and they suggest it fails to properly represent our sense of self worth and pride in our cultural and physical heritage; that his corporation is enthusiastic about the plans to improve the walkways and lighting of the burial ground and the addition of a beautiful fountain representative of the hard work and industry of the citizens of Saint John; the proposal demonstrates a commitment to excellence and attention to detail and to the historical significance of this site of which the citizens of Saint John will be proud; K.C. Irving was a great builder of industry in this community and a builder of this community; Uptown Saint John believes it is appropriate to erect a monument to his memory in this location and in addition to endorsing this proposal Uptown Saint John calls upon the City of Saint John to respond in kind to this generous gift and to proceed to restore the gravestones in the burial ground, consistent with the master plan as described in the proposal; Uptown Saint John believes that this site can and will stand as a tremendous asset to the City and to the uptown area, it will be an attraction to tourists, visitors and citizens alike and will be a key contributor to our sense of pride in our cultural and physical heritage consistent with its vision for the uptown and calls upon Council to accept this gift on behalf of the citizens of Saint John. Mr. Martin Flewwelling, speaking in support of the proposal, advised that as a concerned property owner and tax payer Council may have an unbiased position in relation to the number of negatives that have been reflected and certainly with due respect have been represented this evening, and from his position he on examination of the architects proposal and having done a fair amount of personal work in and around the burial ground has a very strong opinion relating to the credibility of the Irving proposal and felt it was only befitting that he come forward, and without having done a vast amount of research or preparing an indepth proposal make it obvious from an individual perspective of where we are in the City and where the sense of pride that was represented just a very short time back when we were 200 years proud of our ancestors and where we will hopefully be able to maintain that sense of pride in the future; that he has a real feeling that the area needs an uplift and for the City to take that financial burden on without due regard for the overall costs of operation, and believes it is a gift, a very credible gift, one that shows no sense of disrespect and every sense of concern for the dead who are buried there and he would encourage it wholeheartedly. Mr. Reginald Wanamaker advised that he is from Loyalist stock and has lived all his life in the uptown area; recalled many years ago when families would come and enjoy the company of friends while children played around the lovely fountain; 84-636 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 advised that he has been appalled and disheartened in recent years to see the ongoing desecration of the few remaining tombstones and how few people actually enjoy this historic site; that we now have an opportunity to have this area renovated at no cost to the City and that in talking to friends in the past three weeks 80% are in favour of the proposal, as well as himself, and that he will continue to respect the memory of those buried there and he and many others will be proud to enjoy the area while honouring many Saint Johner's who arrived here in 1783 as we have been doing since the last burial there 146 years ago. He questioned what alternate plans the City has if the proposal is not approved to upgrade the Burial Ground. Mr. John Kearney, 33 Smythe Street, speaking in support of the proposal advised that the proposal is a great contribution and that Mr. Irving deserves every honour the citizens can give him. Mr. Patrick Darrah, Executive Director of the Saint John Construction Association, speaking in support of the proposal complimented the architect for the sensitivity he has shown in the presentation this evening; he has concern for the people who spoke of the desecration, but if you look at the way the project has been put together, the sensitivity has been addressed in the design and they have presented all the particular options one would have to take as a municipality in seeing that the appropriate measures were taken to see that this was done in keeping with some of the objections made this evening; expressed the opinion that this would be a great opportunity to improve and honour the people buried there. Speaking in support of the proposal, Mr. Ron Ogden advised that he views the present condition of the cemetery as a disgrace and questioned why there has been such neglect; noting the comment that the area in question is not a park, but a cemetery, advised that most cemeteries he has seen are out of bounds to the public and have gates which are locked, but the Loyalist Burial Ground is not enclosed with a gate and assumed it has always been a public place; suggested that the citizens of Saint John owe Mr. Irving a tremendous amount of respect and that the City accept the proposal. Mr. Dominick Eden, Chairperson, representing of the South Central Citizens Council, advised that his organization is comprised of 300 people all residents and families living in the central peninsula; noting that the Irving proposal has been discussed on numerous occasions by his organization and at an emergency meeting held Saturday evening they had the opportunity to view the proposal presented to Council at this meeting; noted that the history of the burial ground has been one of constant change over the years and they believe the changes demonstrate that public interaction in the burial ground has always been part of its long-term design and that the on-going changes have been part of the public design for public space; that this is also demonstrated in the late 19th century to picnic and spend a day in the burial ground; there is little dignity in the burial ground, it has become neglected, vandalized and no longer a people place; the Irving proposal is not a radical change in its present public use and proposes to rejuvenate and restore the burial ground, to respect the deceased and in the quality of its design reaffirm its significance in our local heritage. He further advised that history is always in a state of evolution, today's decisions are tomorrows historical events and with the passing of K. C. Irving, he has become part of our heritage and our history and his importance to Saint John cannot be overstated and is of no lesser importance to Saint John than our Loyalist forefathers and asked what better citizen is deserving of a memorial alongside out Loyalist descendants; and advised that as residents of the central peninsula they publicly support a world class project that all Saint John citizens can be proud of. Mr. Stephen Alexander, 21 Orange Street, advised that the Loyalist Burial Ground occupies a significant place in the City, it is important both for its physical presence and its history and provides us with a strong link with the past; and is important because it honours those who went before us and commemorates their efforts to build our city; today we are making another decision about honouring and commemorating the work of one who went before us, there is little doubt that 100 years from now the citizens of Saint John will see K.C. Irving as a great man and in many ways he displayed the same drive and determination for which we honour the Loyalists; and that he believes history will see K.C. Irving as the most significant man to come from New Brunswick and we should be honoured that he chose to establish himself in 84-637 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 Saint John and that his family wishes to commemorate him in the Loyalist Burial Ground; and urged the City to act favourably on this very modest request from the Irving family. Mr. Stephen Appleby, 3 Alexander Street, appeared before Council to speak in support of the erection of the memorial statue to Mr. Irving in the Loyalist Burial Ground; noted that he worked for the Irvings for 10 years and during that time came to understand the magnitude of his accomplishments, the remarkable continuation by his sons and his irreversible impact on the history of New Brunswick; and expressed the opinion that the vision, optimism and commitment demonstrated by the United Empire Loyalists commemorated by the existence of the Loyalist Burial Ground was shared and remarkably advanced by Mr. Kenneth Colin Irving and his family. Mr. John Mason, 188 Germain Street, suggested that the activities and lack of maintenance in the last 10 years is a far greater desecration than anyone ever deserved or conceived of and this opportunity to have a renovation and rejuvenation of the cemetery affords an opportunity to recognize those people who until perhaps six months ago didn't know very much about; suggested it would be a wonderful opportunity to place around the fountain some recognition of who is buries there, how they came to be there, when they came to be there, and thereby honour their memory; and advised he is strong in favour of the statue and that Council owes it to the community to do something with the area. (Mayor Higgins withdrew from the meeting and Deputy Mayor Shirley McAlary assumed the chair). The Honourable Jane Barry, Provincial Solicitor General, spoke in support of the proposal and suggested that it will result in a tasteful, aesthetically pleasing and historically sensitive enhancement without changing in substance the important heritage character of the burial ground, yet pay tribute to one of New Brunswick's most well known figures; and suggested that when Saint John is experiencing what she views as a renaissance in the uptown area with Harbour Station, the Imperial Theatre and now the New Brunswick Museum that this can only add to the wonderful assets we have in the city. Mr. Vijay Kawatra, Manager of the Saint John Hilton, speaking on his own behalf in support of the proposal, advised that at a meeting of Uptown Saint John he said that the City should be proud of what it is achieving, the revitalization of the city; King's Square is one of the most popular location that tourists are visiting and he understands the reverence that is to be given to those who came before and feels that the design that is proposed by the architect will bring about a major change to one of our most popular and busiest areas, and the way the area looks now there is no reverence at all, it is disreverence. Mr. Blake Armstrong suggested that the City take the opportunity offered by the Irvings and build the development to help uptown and the City of Saint John. Mr. Darryl Goyetche, General Manager of the Saint John Board of Trade, speaking in favour of the proposal, advised that the Board has every confidence that the proponents will treat the area with sensitivity and believe it will be a very positive development. (Mayor Higgins re-entered the meeting and re-assumed the chair during the foregoing presentation.) Mr. Dennis Beaudet, 272 King Street East, briefly explained why he feels Council should take this opportunity on behalf of the citizens to show their sincere appreciation of the outstanding contributions of K. C. Irving by giving their unanimous support to a once in a lifetime opportunity to honour Mr. Irving by allowing construction of a memorial statue in the Loyalist Burial Ground; suggested that the location is fitting because it is next to the Golden Ball Building, his place of business since 1928; noted that there is no question that the Burial Ground will have to be revitalized and suggested that the project under the City's and Provinces direction and the Irving's integrity will be done extremely respectfully, and that this proposal is not a desecration 84-638 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 but an enhancement and is being done in the spirit of respect by all concerned and will beautifully revitalize part of our uptown area that very much deserves it. Mr. Harry Colwell, 49 High Ridge Road, advised that the most salient comment he heard this evening was a combination of two, one was the contribution of the Loyalists and secondly the contribution of Mr. Irving and the twinning of those recognitions over time; advised that he would support this proposal based on the recommendation by Mr. Mason that recognition on the park site by the Irving family of where it is and who has predeceased him made a lot of sense and the key to promote him to make his comments in support were the valid suggestion by Mr. Mason and what appears to be a significant oversight on the part of the presentation by the Irvings. Mr. H. Brian Reid, Vice President of Construction for the Imperial Theatre, advising that the executive committee of the Theatre felt they should go on record as favouring this proposal for the reasons that the preservation of the dignity of the site, the intended future use of the facility is in keeping with its history, that people should use the burial ground and not be an area that people have lost confidence in and would like to see if restored as part of the uptown. (Councillor Trites withdrew from the meeting). Mr. Stephen Carson, General Manager of the Greater Saint John Economic Development Commission, speaking on behalf of the Commission advised that the Commission feels this is a good proposal; that it is another part of making a package which the Commission feels will be second to none to advertise to businesses across Canada and North America and another reason why Saint John would be such a great place to do business. Mrs. Diana Alexander, a business owner in uptown Saint John, advised that the Loyalist Burial Ground is an appropriate place for the erection of a memorial statue to Mr. Irving, however, it is important to show respect and honour for our forefathers; noted that the Burial Ground has deteriorated significantly and does not reflect well on the City or how we maintain our links with the past; Saint John has a proud history, a history built on the efforts of the Loyalists and others like them who created the City and that for years we have portrayed ourselves as the Loyalist City and took pride in their accomplishments; noted that if the City agrees to the very generous proposal from the Irving family to restore a part of our heritage the Loyalist Burial Ground will once again be a place of pride and a place to reflect on our past, a place to show visitors that we care where we came from and a place worthy to honour those who went before us; and strongly recommended that the City support the Irving interests and thank them for their generosity. (Councillor Trites re-entered during the foregoing presentation). Mr. Sterling Brown, 357 Maple Row, and owner of a historic business since 1822, advised he is in full support of the request by the Irving family to erect a memorial statue to Mr. K. C. Irving in the Loyalist Burial Ground which in his opinion will enhance the site and draw many visitors; noted that the contributions by the Loyalists to the City, Province and Canada have not gone unnoticed and likewise the contribution of Mr. Irving should not be forgotten and asked Council to support the proposal by the Irving family. Mr. Harold Wright, 1 Chipman Hill, advised that he cannot support the proposal at this time, yet he cannot speak against it; that he has spent an enormous amount of time over the last 14 years studying the Loyalist Burial Ground; that he has only seen the proposal this evening and asked that Council not make a decision tonight, he would like to make comments but cannot until he evaluates it based on the information he has collected. He stated there is an enormous amount of information that Council and citizens should be aware of both for and against this project, and that information should be available to Council; noted that the Burial Ground was fenced in, and is still partially fenced in to this day, up to the 1950s; while there were some few public uses of the Burial Ground, it was closed to the public most of its history and was used as just a burial spot; the mound where the Christmas tree grows was developed in the 1860s and earth was brought in and made specifically so that the spade would not have to go into the soil as the legal opinion was that any cutting into the ground would 84-639 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 be desecration; most of the paths were added in this century, there were several markers in what is considered the pauper section which is much smaller than the original pauper section; that it is possible to document who is buried there, who was removed and when, and that he is currently involved in the preparation of a master plan for several cemeteries; noted that there is a difference between a graveyard and a cemetery and that the Loyalist Burial Ground is a graveyard; advised that he does support a memorial to Mr. Irving but will not take a position on whether it should be in this particular burial ground and requested an opportunity to study the proposal for one week and bring back information to the Irvings and to Council. Responding to a query from Councillor Coughlan as to whether he would have the confidence to work with Mr. Novell and the principals involved in this project to offer his historical knowledge, if the proposal is approved tonight, Mr. Wright stated that he feels very strongly since he has an enormous amount of information available that Council, the Irvings, the supporters and detractors should be aware of before a honest, rational decision can be made and he is making an offer to provide the information to Council and to the public. No other persons were present to speak to the proposal. On motion of Deputy Mayor McAlary Seconded by Councillor Knibb RESOLVED that Common Council accept the gift from the Irving family and proceed with the project of restoring and upgrading of the Loyalist Burial Ground and the constructing of a statue of the late K.C. Irving and that the Irving interests be asked to work with City staff and that the City Manager report to Council on the progress of the project. Councillor Landers advised that she is not opposed to a memorial to K. C. Irving, that Council has had many presentations and there isn't a person in the Council Chamber that does not feel Mr. Irving should be honoured, however, Council has heard new information; and her concerns are that Council should look at all aspects and questioned how Council can in haste make a decision before it has all the information and asked if everyone could work together for a master plan for the Burial Ground, and asked that a decision be delayed for one week and suggested that it can come to a fair and reasonable solution for everyone and give respect to Mr. Irving and those buried in the Burial Ground. Councillor Coughlan advised that he is satisfied that the presentation by Mr. Novell on behalf of his principals, and that he will listen to the people who have spoken in opposition, especially Mr. Wright. Councillor Knibb stated that Council has had a first class presentation by Mr. Novell, who has answered all questions raised, and he does not think there is anything to be gained by Councilor the community delaying any further what is one of the finest offers for the improvement of our uptown area for provision of an historic statue to Mr. Kenneth Colin Irving and preservation of an historic burial ground and urged Council to be unanimous in its support. Councillor Trites advised he has no difficulty on making a decision based on the presentations Council has heard and suggested that representatives of the Irving interests may be interested in consulting with Mr. Wright. Councillor Chase stated that after hearing the presentations, he is prepared to support the project. Councillor Landers stated that she would like to make this motion unanimous and asked the decision be delayed for one week. Mayor Higgins advised he felt Council has held a very fair and open hearing on the proposal and is satisfied with the process followed. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Landers voting "nay". Following a ten-minute recess, the meeting resumed. Councillor Trites withdrew from the meeting as he was not present for the public hearings held on April 25, 1994 regarding items 13 and 14. 13. Municipal Plan & Zoning By-Law Amendment intersection of ManawaQonish Road and WestQate Drive 84-640 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 On motion of Deputy Mayor McAlary Seconded by Councillor A. Vincent RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-Law", by redesignating on Schedule 2-A, the Future Land Use Plan, a parcel of land located at the intersection of Manawagonish Road and Westgate Drive, having an area of approximately 9 acres, (NBGIC Numbers 469700 which has been further subdivided into NBGIC Numbers 55096382, 55096374, 55096336,55096390,55096408 and 55096416, and NBGIC Number 55098222), from District Centre Commercial to Low Density Residential classification, be read a third time and enacted and the Corporate Common Seal be affixed thereto. The by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-Law", was read in its entirety. Question being taken, the motion was carried. On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By-Law Number C.P. 100-339 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", insofar as it concerns re-zoning (1) a parcel of land located at the intersection of Manawagonish Road and Westgate Drive, having an area of approximately 9 acres (NBGIC Number 469700 which has been further subdivided into NBGIC Numbers 55096382,55096374,55096336,55096390,55096480 and 55096416: and NBGIC Number 55098222), from "B-2" General Business to "R-1A" and R-1 B" One-Family Residential classification; and (2) an approximately 600 square metre (6,459 square foot) parcel of land abutting Westgate Drive (NBGIC Number 21949), from "P" Park to "R-1 B" One-Family Residential classification, be read a third time and enacted and the Corporate Common Seal be affixed thereto. The by-law entitled, "By-Law Number C.P. 100-339 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", was read in its entirety. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 14. ZoninQ Bv-Law amendment - Acorn Place. WestQate Park Subdivision On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Landers RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By- Law Number C.P. 100-340 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", insofar as it concerns re-zoning (1) approximately 12 acres of land at Acorn Place, Westgate Park Subdivision (NBGIC Numbers 37911, 37192, 55090708 and portions of NBGIC Numbers 39739 and 55049365), from "RM-2" High Rise Multiple Residential, "P" Park and "RS-2" One- and Two-Family Suburban Residential to "RM-1" Three-Storey Multiple Residential classification, and that pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act, the development of any apartment buildings be prohibited; and (2) a portion of NBGIC Number 37929 from "B-1" Local Business to "P" Park classification, be read a third time and enacted and the Corporate Common Seal be affixed thereto. The by-law entitled, "By-Law Number C.P. 100-340 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", was read in its entirety. Question being taken, the motion was carried. (Councillor Trites re-entered the meeting and Mayor Higgins and Councillors Gould and Chase withdrew from the meeting as they were not present for the public hearing held on April 11, 1994 regarding item 15, and Deputy Mayor McAlary assumed the chair.) 84-641 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 15. ZoninQ Bv-Law Amendment - 25. 27 and 29 Golden Grove Road On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By- Law Number C.P. 100-341 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", insofar as it concerns re-zoning three properties located at 25, 27 and 29 Golden Grove Road (NBGIC Numbers 301598,307462 and 300988), from "R-1B" One- Family Residential to "B-2" General Business classification, be read a third time and enacted and the Corporate Common Seal be affixed thereto: AND FURTHER that pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act, the said re-zoning be subject to the following conditions: (a) the use of the properties shall be restricted to no other use than a parking lot, which may be used to provide parking facilities for the existing beverage room/lounge located at 5-19 Golden Grove Road; (b) adequate site drainage facilities shall be provided and shall meet the requirements of the Engineering Department and the requirements of the Flood Risk Area By-Law; (c) the parking area, manoeuvring area and driveway entrance shall be paved with asphalt and enclosed by continuous concrete curbs; (d) access to the parking area shall be restricted to one driveway off Golden Grove Road, the exact location of the driveway entrance shall be subject to the approval of the Engineering Department and shall include a dropped curb/sidewalk and that curbing of the driveway entrance shall extend onto the City right-of-way to connect with street curbs and that the dropped curb/sidewalk for the three existing driveway entrances from Golden Grove Road shall be removed and replaced with standard curb/sidewalk to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department; (e) all areas not occupied by the driveway entrance and parking area shall be landscaped, and the required landscaped area abutting the front lot lines shall extend onto the City street rights-of-way to the edge of the City sidewalk on Golden Grove Road and to the edge of the travelled portion of the road on Simpson Drive; (f) the individual laterals to the existing dwellings shall be bricked and grouted or removed entirely upon demolition; (g) the site shall be developed in accordance with a site plan prepared by the proponent of the development and approved by the Development Officer, indicating the location and dimensions of the parking area, driveways, landscaped areas and the manner in which the proposed parking area will be integrated with the existing parking area and no building permit for the parking lot shall be issued until an acceptable site plan is approved by the Development Officer and that such site plan shall be attached to the building permit; (h) all site work shown on the site plan shall be completed within one year of approval of the building permit for the development; and (i) a board-on-board fence shall be erected and maintained at the rear of the site between the subject property and the adjacent property located at 9 Simpson Drive. The by-law entitled, "By-Law Number C.P. 100-341 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-Law Of The City Of Saint John", was read in its entirety. Question being taken, the motion was carried. (Mayor Higgins and Councillors Chase and Gould re-entered the meeting and the Mayor re-assumed the chair.) 16. Committee of the Whole Report 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 reports that it sat on April 25, 1994, when there were present Mayor Higgins and Councillors Chase, Coughlan, Gould, Knibb, Landers, McAlary, Rogers, Trites, A. Vincent and M. Vincent, and your Committee submits the following recommendations, namely:- 84-642 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 1. That as recommended by the City Manager, (1) Common Council authorize the necessary advertising to close the portion of Partello Street and the fire lanes as shown on the submitted plan; (2) if and when closed, the lands be sold to Josephine McCormick and Audrey Mcintyre under the following terms and conditions: (2.1) the sale price to be $3,000.00; (2.2) the lands will be consolidated with their adjacent property at their expense; and (3) agreement to sell this property neither implicitly or explicitly obligates the City to complete the street closing. 2. That as recommended by the City Manager, Common Council approve the following exchange of lands with Imperial Oil Ltd.: (1) the City will receive (1.1) 183 square feet of land on the southeast corner of the McAllister Drive/Rothesay Avenue intersection, shown as Parcel "A" on the submitted plan; and (1.2) a municipal services easement, totalling approximately 549 square feet at the northwest corner of the Imperial Oil property, shown as Parcel "B" on the submitted plan; (2) Imperial Oil will receive approximately 8,127 square feet of land at the Rothesay Avenue/McAllister Drive intersection, shown as Parcel "C" on the submitted plan; (3) Imperial will pay the City the sum of $37,400.00; and (4) the City will be responsible for all surveying costs required to complete this transaction. May 2, 1994, Saint John, N. B. Respectfully submitted, (sgd.) Thomas J. Higgins, C h air man. 16(1) Closure of Partello Street and fire lanes On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that section 1 of the above report be adopted. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 16(2) Land exchanQe - McAllister Drive and Rothesav Avenue On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that section 2 of the above report be adopted. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 17. Subdivision - 1850 ManawaQonish Road. MahoQanv Place Subdivision On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Chase RESOLVED that as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, Common Council: (1) assent to one or more subdivision plans, in one or more phases, for the submitted photo-reduced subdivision plan of approximately fifteen residential lots, as well as to any required municipal services and utility easements, including a 20-metre (66-foot) future street right-of-way on proposed Lot 93-27 to provide access to the adjoining Lot 83-1 (NBGIC Number 55024152) with regard to a subdivision at 1850 Manawagonish Road; (2) amend an assent given on September 27, 1993 for Stage 2 of Westgate Park, which previously included Lots 93-5 to 93-8 along Westgate Drive, which would allow for the possibility of the development of up to six residential lots: and (3) authorize the preparation and execution of one or more subdivision agreements to ensure the provision of the required work, including any required drainage and site plans for the approval of the Engineering Department. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 18. Subdivision - Acorn Place. WestQate Park Subdivision 84-643 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, (1) Council assent to one or more subdivision plans, in one or more phases, for the submitted photo-reduced subdivision plan of approximately sixty-three residential lots and five public streets, as well as to any required municipal services and utility easements with regard to a subdivision at Acorn Place; (2) Council authorize the preparation and execution of one or more subdivision agreements to ensure the provision of the required work, including drainage and site plans for the approval of the Engineering Department, as well as the development of a 1 O-foot wide paved access from Acorn Drive to Downsview Drive; (3) Council assent to the proposed exchange of land for public purposes; (4) Council authorize the preparation and execution of an agreement pursuant to Section 101 of the Community Planning Act between the City and Ellerdale Investments Limited, which would provide for the following: (a) allow the developer to provide work within the proposed land for public purposes areas; (b) regulate the development and use of a future convenience store located within the proposed commercial lot adjacent to Downsview Drive and the Pipeline Road, which would exclude any video amusement or gambling machine; and (c) require the future developer to seek City approval for any development of townhouses within the subject area, and provide public notification and participation; (5) that all such work provided by the developer in the above-mentioned Section 101 Agreement pertaining to the development of any land for public purposes area be in accordance with a site plan approved by the Director of the Parks Department; (6) Council not approve the development of a pond within the proposed land for public purposes at the end of Sean Court, as well as not approve the construction of any water fountain within a public right-of-way or land for public purposes area; (7) Council approve the renaming of the existing public street of Acorn Place to Acorn Drive; and (8) Council request staff to consider the feasibility of using the Pipeline Road as the primary access for construction vehicles and equipment for the proposed development. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 19. City of Saint John Pension Plan Retirement of Ralph L. Currie On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that as recommended by the Board of Trustees of the City of Saint John Pension Plan, Common Council approve the retirement of Ralph L. Currie, an employee of the Police Department, in accordance with section 9(1) of the City of Saint John Pension Act, the Board having been supplied with the required medical reports as to his permanent disability. Councillor Coughlan noted there seems to be a significant number of young police officers retiring under this section and asked that Council have a report from the Police Chief or Human Resources as to the number of people who have gone out under this section relative to other Police Departments. Mr. Totten advised staff will undertake to provide the information. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 20. Public Ramp on Canterbury Street On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Coughlan RESOLVED that the letter from Public Works Canada advising that the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada is in the process of renovating the former Postal Station "A" building at 126 Prince William Street and its Annex which fronts on Canterbury Street; advising that they would like to make the entrance on Canterbury Street fully accessible for the physically challenged; that they have had an existing timber ramp for a number of years on the sidewalk at this location and requesting permission to construct a reinforced 84-644 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 concrete ramp, as indicated on the submitted plan, be referred to the City Manager. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 21. Letters requesting enabling legislation to license and reQulate pornoQraphv distribution On motion of Councillor Coughlan Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the letters from Dorothy Cook, Michael and Pamela Burtt, Gordon Dalzell, Brenda Wright, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Munroe, Jason D. Steeves, Genevieve and Mansfield Wright, Grant and Joyce Folkins, Major R. E. Janes for the Salvation Army, Rev. M. Garth Maxwell, Marion Perkins for the Elizabeth Fry Society of Saint John, and the Beta Sigma Phi City Council, requesting that Council seek enabling legislation to license and regulate pornography distribution, be received and filed. Councillor Chase clarified that his previous resolution to have Councillor Coughlan and the members of the Cities of New Brunswick Association discuss this was not to get permission from the cities for Saint John to go ahead with a by-law, it was to get input from them and find out what they are doing in their own communities; and that Saint John will ultimately be the leader on this issue. Deputy Mayor McAlary sated she believes the City should proceed to have a by-law regardless of what other municipalities are doing in this regard. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 22. The Marco Polo Project On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the letter from Barry K. Ogden of the Marco Polo Project, submitting a letter from the Shiplovers' Society of Victoria containing a schedule of events for the "Marco Polo" celebrations being held in Melbourne, Australia, be received and filed and a telegram of congratulations be forwarded to Melbourne. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 23. FCM StandinQ Committee re resolutions On motion of Councillor Knibb Seconded by Deputy Mayor McAlary RESOLVED that the letter from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities advising that the two resolutions submitted by the City of Saint John for consideration at its 1994 Annual Conference have each received the designation of Category A by the Standing Committee on Policies and Resolution and can be found in the "Policy Development Book; that resolutions under Category A and B will be debated and delegates from the City will have the opportunity to comment on their resolutions during the "Resolutions Policy Session", be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 24. PURE Citizens Action Group re appointment of Environment Committee On motion of Deputy Mayor McAlary 84-645 COMMON COUNCIL MAY 2,1994 Seconded by Councillor Landers RESOLVED that the letter from the members of the Proper Urban & Rural Expansion - Saint John (PURE Saint John) requesting that Council re-appoint and re-activate an Environment Committee for the City be referred to the Nominating Committee. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 25. Saint John North Community Action Group re "stoop and scoop" by-law On motion of Councillor Coughlan Seconded by Councillor McAlary RESOLVED that the letter from the Saint John North Community Action Group advising that its members support the implementation of a "stoop and scoop" by-law for the City, be received and referred to the City Manager. Question being taken, the motion was carried. On motion of Councillor Coughlan Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that this meeting be adjourned. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors Landers and A. Vincent voting "nay". Common Clerk