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2002-12-16_Minutes 89-409 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 At a meeting of the Common Council, held at the City Hall in the City of Saint John, on Monday, the sixteenth day of December, A.D. 2002, at 7:00 o'clock p.m. present Shirley McAlary, Mayor Deputy Mayor White and Councillors Ball, Chase, Court, Desmond, Fitzgerald, Fitzpatrick, Teed, Titus and Trites - and - Messrs. 1. Totten, City Manager; J. Nugent, City Solicitor; A. Beckett, Commissioner of Finance and Commissioner of Corporate Services; P. Woods, Deputy City Manager; P. Groody, Commissioner of Municipal Operations; W. Butler, Commissioner of Community Services; J. Baird, Commissioner of Planning and Development; W. Edwards, Commissioner of Buildings and Inspection Services; B. Morrison, Director of Recreation and Parks; D. Logan, Purchasing Agent; E. LeBlanc, Insurance and Claims Officer; G. Tait, Fire Chief; R. Simonds, Deputy Fire Chief; A. Bodechon, Deputy Chief of Police; Mrs. K. Holyoke, Assistant Comptroller; Ms. S. Greer, Communications Officer; Mrs. M. Munford, Common Clerk; and Ms. C. Mosher, Assistant Common Clerk. 1. MeetinQ Called To Order - Prayer Mayor McAlary called the meeting to order, and Dr. Paul A. Brown of the Canadian Bible Society offered the opening prayer. 2. Approval Of Minutes On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting of Common Council, held on December 9, 2002, be approved. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 3. Approval of AQenda & *Added Item On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the agenda of this meeting be approved, with the addition as item 18A of a Saint John Industrial Parks Ltd. recommendation from Committee of the Whole earlier this date. Question being taken, the motion was carried. On motion of Councillor Titus Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that agenda item 23, being a letter from Councillor Titus regarding Council reduction, be brought forward for consideration as item 4D. Question being taken, the motion was lost with a majority of the Council members present voting "nay". 4{a) Municipal Plan And ZoninQ Bv-Iaw Amendments 1382 Hickev Road The Common Clerk advised that the necessary advertising was completed with regard to (a) a proposed Municipal Plan amendment to redesignate on Schedule 2-A and Section 2.4.7.15 a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road (PID Number 55007066), from 89-410 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 District Centre Commercial to Light Industrial classification as an Approved Light Industrial Development; and (b) a proposed Zoning By-law text amendment to add Special Zone #12 - "SZ#12" to the list of zones in Section 30(1) and to add its uses and standards as Section 740(12), and the proposed re-zoning of the same parcel of land at 1382 Hickey Road from "B-2" General Business to "SZ#12" Special Zone #12, to permit the development of a self-storage warehouse facility, in addition to the uses currently permitted in the "B-2" General Business zoning of the property, as requested by Dale Mott and Andrew MacDonald, and no written objections were received in this regard. 4{c) Consideration was given to a report from the Planning Advisory Committee submitting a copy of Planning staff's report considered at the Committee's December 10, 2002 meeting at which Dale Mott spoke in favour of the proposal on behalf of the applicants and expressed agreement with the staff recommendation, including the recommended Section 39 conditions, and Ronald Montyr, owner of the adjacent property to the east of the subject site, expressed concerns about the proposal; and recommending that Common Council (1) amend Schedule 2-A and Section 2.4.7.15 of the Municipal Development Plan by redesignating a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road, also identified as being PID Number 55007066, from District Centre Commercial to Light Industrial as an Approved Light Industrial Development; and (2) amend the Zoning By-law by (a) adding the following to the list of zones in Section 30(1): "special zones SZ#12"; (b) adding the following as Section 740(12): "(12) Special Zone #12 (SZ#12); (a) Uses Any land, building or structure may be used for the purpose of, and for no other purpose than, (1) the following uses: all uses permitted in Section 520(1)(a), subject to any applicable conditions contained in Section 520(2); (ii) the following uses subject to such terms and conditions as may be imposed by the Committee: a self-storage warehouse facility; all uses permitted in Section 520(1)(b), subject to any applicable conditions contained in Section 520(2); (iii) subject to Section 830, an accessory building, structure or use, incidental to a use, building or structure permitted in this zone; (b) Zone Standards Standards for development in Special Zone #12 shall be as set out in Section 520(3), and Section 810 to 910 where this zone shall be considered a "B-2" zone, a "B" zone, or a business zone, as the case may be"; and (c) re-zoning the same parcel of land at 1382 Hickey Road, as described above, from "B-2" General Business to "SZ#12" Special Zone #12 classification, subject to a resolution pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act setting out the following conditions: (i) except as indicated in condition (x)(B), the developer must pave all parking areas, vehicle manoeuvring areas and driveways with asphalt and enclose them with cast-in-place concrete curbs to protect the landscaped areas and to facilitate proper drainage; (ii) adequate site drainage facilities must be provided by the developer, including catch basins where necessary, in accordance with a detailed drainage plan, prepared by the developer and subject to the approval of the Chief City Engineer or his designate, and the approved drainage plan must be attached to any application for building permit for the development; (iii) the developer must landscape all disturbed areas of the site not occupied by buildings, driveways and walkways, parking or loading areas, including the City street right-of-way to the edge of the City sidewalk; (iv) the landscaping along the front lot line of the developed portion of the site must have a minimum width of 3 metres (10 feet), inside the front lot line, except where interrupted by a permitted driveway and except where a variance to permit a smaller landscaped area has been granted by the Planning Advisory Committee; (v) telephone and electrical wires must be installed underground from the existing overhead facilities on the street to any building on the site; (vi) the exact location of any access driveway is subject to the approval of the Chief City Engineer or his designate; (vii) the site shall not be developed except in accordance with a detailed site plan and detailed building elevation plans, prepared by the developer and subject to the approval of the Development Officer, indicating the location, design and exterior materials of all buildings, the location and treatment of parking areas, driveways, loading areas, signs, exterior lighting, landscaped areas and other site features, including those listed above, and the approved site plan and building elevation plans must be attached to any application for building permit for the development; (viii) all site improvements as shown on the approved site plan and drainage plan must be completed within one year of building permit approval; (ix) the use of the site for the operation of a car wash is subject to the following additional conditions: (A) the proponent shall only use cleaning agents which are biodegradable and approved by the N.B. Department of Environment and Local Government, and no petroleum solvents shall be used or permitted on the site; (B) no washing of engines or other articles which are, or are likely to be, contaminated with oil or grease shall take place at the site; (C) 89-411 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 the proponent shall install and maintain a wastewater treatment system within each wash bay, consisting of: (1) an asphalt or concrete surface graded to a catch basin located within this surface, followed by, (2) a sand and grit interceptor, followed by, (3) an oillwater separator, (4) and which discharges to the municipal sanitary sewer system; (D) all wash water shall be disposed of through the wastewater treatment system; (E) the proponent shall periodically clean accumulated sand and grit from the wastewater treatment system; and (F) the maximum allowable wastewater discharge concentration is: BOD 25 mgll, suspended solids 25 mgll, surfactants 5 mgll, oil and grease 15 mg/l; (x) the use of the site for the operation of a self-storage warehouse facility is subject to the following additional conditions: (A) the location of the facility is restricted to the southeast portion of the site, to the rear of the existing car wash building, and (B) the vehicular circulation area within the self-storage compound must be surfaced with asphalt or such other all-weather dust-free surface (e.g. crushed stone) of sufficient strength to carry imposed loads. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-law", by redesignating on Schedule 2-A and Section 2.4.7.15 a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road (PID Number 55007066), from District Centre Commercial to Light Industrial classification as an Approved Light Industrial Development, be read a first time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a first time the by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-law". On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-law", by redesignating on Schedule 2-A and Section 2.4.7.15 a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road (PID Number 55007066), from District Centre Commercial to Light Industrial classification as an Approved Light Industrial Development, be read a second time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a second time the by-law entitled, "A Law To Amend The Municipal Plan By-law". On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Desmond RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-607 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City Of Saint John", by adding "special zones SZ#12", to the list of zones in Section 30(1), and its uses and standards as Section 740(12), and by re-zoning a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road (PID Number 55007066), from "B-2" General Business to "SZ12" Special Zone #12, pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, be read a first time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a first time the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-607 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City Of Saint John". On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-607 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City Of Saint 89-412 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 John", by adding "special zones SZ#12", to the list of zones in Section 30(1), and its uses and standards as Section 740(12), and by re-zoning a parcel of land with an area of approximately 1.5 hectares (3.7 acres), located at 1382 Hickey Road (PID Number 55007066), from "B-2" General Business to "SZ12" Special Zone #12, pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, be read a second time. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Read a second time the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-607 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City Of Saint John". On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that the correspondence in the above regard be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 5. 2003 OperatinQ And Capital BudQets - General Fund Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager (1) seeking Council's approval of a series of recommendations that, if approved, will constitute the adoption of the Operating and Capital Budgets of the General Fund for the year 2003, (2) providing Council with staff's projection of the 2004 Operating Budget as a result of anticipated events in the next twelve months, and (3) informing Council of a series of topics that will be the subject of staff reports and recommendations early in the coming year for change and improvement as part of the ongoing Organizational Renewal Initiative which will require Council, in each case, to make policy decisions on the long- term direction to be pursued by the City in a number of service areas; and commenting on the following positive initiatives within the proposed 2003 Operating Budget of $91,615,198: (1) a stable tax rate is being maintained, (2) the expenditure reductions are sustainable, (3) a smaller, more efficient administration is being created, (4) a move to full costing of fleet expenditures, (5) a reduction in the size of the municipal fleet, (6) a move to full costing of investments in technology, (7) a "pay-as-we-go" approach to investments in technology; (8) the funding of all labour costs within the Operating Budget, (9) funds are committed to ensure the City complies with the Official Languages Act, (10) an enhanced commitment to the Emergency Measures Organization; and (11) financial management. The report includes a "big picture view" of the reconciliation of the budget process in terms of the earlier expectation of a funding shortfall of $6,763,000 and where the money has been found to cover that shortfall, as well as a summary of the impact on services to the public over time from a reduction in staff members providing management, secretarial, clerical and engineering support further to the Organizational Renewal Program which will result in 40 fewer permanent positions being funded in 2003 and with provision prior to the end of 2003 for the recruitment of not more than four positions, as follows: (1) delays in moving forward with certain municipal works initiatives stemming from a decrease in technical and surveying capabilities, (2 a decrease with respect to certain by-law enforcement issues not deemed critical, (3) a greater dependence on many of the outside workers to manage projects, programs and schedules, (4) a diminished level of support for the broader economic issues surrounding an international trade corridor, (5) a decreased involvement in Provincial initiatives related to Municipal Provincial transfer payments, (6) decreased support to management of the Police Force through the provision of a labour relations facilitator, (7) delays in responding to certain requests of Council that occur at weekly Council meetings, (8) fewer staff, coupled with the costs of translation and interpretation services, will eventually cause Council to reflect on how often it holds meetings and conducts City business, (9) efforts by the remaining City staff to have third parties provide certain services at community centres as well as to certain segments of the community, such as seniors, and (10) simply as a result of workload, remaining staff will be unable to support other agencies, groups and organizations to the same level; and outlines other proposed changes in 2003, beyond the Organizational Renewal Strategy, the most significant decision inherent in the recommendations being a major reorganization of the Fire Service; advises that, in approving the 2003 Operating Budget, the following decisions are being made: (a) Municipal employees will no longer maintain Mispec Park and the surrounding area, (b) there will be less grass cutting and maintenance on certain public areas, (c) the City will no longer be providing lifeguard 89-413 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 services at any of the public beaches, (d) ongoing discussions with the Rotary Boys & Girls Club will result in the Club taking over responsibility for daily programming of the City's South End Community Centre, (e) the Horticultural Association's services will be engaged to maintain the Public Gardens and greenhouses to traditional standards and to continue to operate the Rockwood Park Campsite with $56,000 to be provided to the Association, (f) a continuation of programs begun in 2002 related to Spring Clean-up Week, (g) providing a subsidy to the various youth associations which utilize civic arenas and pool time at the Aquatic Centre based on "registrants who are permanent residents of the City of Saint John" beginning with the fall 2003 enrolments, and (h) an effort to reduce the size of the municipal fleet, with citizens to experience occasional delays in snow clearing operations beginning in the winter of 2003/2004; and notes that both the 2003 Operating Budget and the proposed 2004 Operating Budget for the Saint John Board of Police Commissioners include an amount of $15,514,309 for the provision of policing services - $500,000 less than the actual amount requested by the Commission, and the amount of $2,234,000 for the Saint John Transit Commission, while $50,000 less than the amount requested, still represents an increase of $200,000, more than Council had finally approved for 2002; and, with regard to non-core or soft services, advising that programs to protect the heritage area and preserve local cultural initiatives are being maintained at the 2002 level, the complement of permanent staff assigned to selling the City as well as servicing the various tourism markets is being reduced, and funding for the Human Development Council is proposed at the same amount as existed in 2002. With regard to the proposed 2003 Capital Budget, the City Manager's report advises that the recommended 2003 Capital Program calls for a total investment of $9,520,000, of which $2,000,000 will be funded from the current year's revenues; comments on the funding allocated to (1) roads, streets and the storm sewer system; (2) economic development initiatives in terms of Saint John Industrial Parks Ltd., the Residential Infrastructure Assistance Program, a proposed extension of municipal services to Drury Cove, and an additional investment in the waterfront; (3) information technology, (4) the fleet, and (5) other items including an investment in the Lord Beaverbrook Rink in the start of a multi-year program intended to extend the life of the facility by another 20 to 30 years, an investment to allow the Police Commission to finalize the establishment of its Emergency Response Team, and an investment to enable the fire service to address issues surrounding fire fighters' safety; and notes the absence of any reference to (i) the acquisition of the Coast Guard site in that, while there is an expectation that the City will be able to acquire it in 2003 as a key element in the waterfront development, it is extremely difficult to anticipate the outcome of negotiations at this time; (ii) the Kennebecasis Drive I Sandy Point Road loop in that the completion of the detailed design is just about finalized and staff has been having discussions with property owners, the University and Provincial staff in order to determine if potential partners exist to rationalize the very significant investment in this project, and it is premature to speculate on the level of funding expected of the City at the current time. Included in the City Manager's report is a 2004 Operating Budget, which provides for a stable tax rate on the following assumptions: (1) a growth in the tax base by 2.25%, (2) only minor changes in revenue from all other sources, (3) wage settlements will track the rate of inflation, (4) departmental expenditure reductions made in 2003 will prove to be sustainable, (5) with regard to water for fire protection, the four year phase-in period to reach an appropriate amount as determined by the City's consultants will be continued, (6) the operational changes for the fire service for 2003 are fully implemented, (7) possible changes in tenancies at Harbour Station will result in increased funding requirements, (8) 2003 will be the last year of the City's commitment to Enterprise Saint John's growth strategy, (9) all other 2003 recommendations will be approved as presented, and (10) the provision for fleet replacement from the operation budget will be increased to $1,750,000; and addresses the issue of the very significant liability to be incurred as a result of the investment performance of the Pension Plan. Also included in the report are comments on the 2003-2004 ongoing organizational renewal, the administration to present to Council early in 2003 a series of reports dealing with the following topics: the potential for a centralized approach to PSCC dispatch services, the future direction for residential garbage pick-up services, the administration of Common Clerk and City Solicitor services, multi-year debt management I reduction program, management and operation of the City Market, regional cooperation on service delivery, options for redevelopment/location of City Hall, strategic partnering for tourism marketing and promotion, and publiclprivate partnership opportunities for recreation facilities; expresses the view that the adoption of the proposed 2003 Operating and Capital Budgets in many ways represents a new beginning in the City of Saint John and, 89-414 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 as in reality municipal governments cannot continue to provide the same level of service with the limited access to financial resources currently made available, every possible effort must continue to be made to become more efficient, to enhance the level of information available so as to make more informed decisions and to inject an added degree of financial flexibility into the entire budget process in the years to come, and the budget recommendations being placed before Council will prove to be the foundation for continued organizational renewal and ultimately better, more cost-effective service delivery to the citizens of the community; and recommends that Common Council adopt the resolution set out in the submitted Schedule I with respect to the 2003 Operating and Capital Budgets of the General Fund. Mr. Totten made a verbal presentation of the above report. (Councillor Trites withdrew from the meeting during the above presentation. ) On motion of Councillor Titus Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that the 2003 Municipal Tax Rate be set at $1.725 per $100 of assessment: AND FURTHER that the amount of $91,615,198 be adopted as the estimate required for the operation of the City of Saint John for 2003 as follows: 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 General Government Services Protective Services Transportation Services Environmental Health Services Environmental Development Services Recreation and Cultural Services Fiscal Charges $ 9,155,741 $34,104,376 $18,601,435 $ 2,850,978 $ 7,236,106 $ 5,962,888 $13,793,674 AND FURTHER that the amount of $6,477,603 be adopted as the estimate for Non-Tax Revenue for the Year 2003: AND FURTHER that the estimate required to be raised by levy on real property assessment liable to taxation under the Assessment Act within the City for the year 2003 be adopted in the amount of $66,017,405: AND FURTHER that the Commissioner of Finance be given authority to disburse funds, the time of which to be at his discretion, to the organizations mentioned in the submitted Schedule II C: AND FURTHER that the amount of $9,520,000 be adopted as the estimate of the 2003 Capital Budget for 2003 as follows: 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.8 Economic Development Initiatives Transportation Initiatives Environment Landfill Closeout Processes Supported by Technology Fleet City Buildings and Facilities Municipal-owned Facilities Protective Services $1,870,000 $2,765,000 $ 100,000 $1,000,000 $1,500,000 $ 625,000 $ 260,000 $1,400,000 AND FURTHER that the Provincial Unconditional Grant of $19,120,190 be incorporated in the 2003 Budget. (Councillor Trites re-entered the meeting.) The Council members spoke in turn in the above regard, with Councillor Court addressing his concern about reductions in funding to the Fire and Police Departments and proposing three choices rather than adopting the budget before Council at this time: (1) raising the tax rate by four cents thereby providing enough funds for Fire and Police; (2) not passing the budget and, with the MLAs support, encouraging the Provincial Government to discuss the hotel tax levy and gasoline tax rebate issues; 89-415 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 and (3) delaying the budget a month until the buy-out offer is revisited and instructing the City Manager to make a proposal to the three big civic unions - Fire, Police and Outside Workers, for a buy-out of their senior members; and Councillor Fitzpatrick questioning various items in the budget in that he would be unable to support the motion as he could not make an informed decision based on the information he had at this time and he wanted to see the whole picture of what the City administration and the business the City would be getting out of, rather than letting employees go and subsequently deciding what to do with those remaining. On motion of Councillor Court Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the above matter be laid on the table until the end of January 2003 and the City Manager be instructed to go to the three civic unions in question and seek the numbers and come back to Council with the budget. Question being taken, the tabling motion was lost with the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor and Councillors Ball, Chase, Desmond, Fitzgerald, Teed, Titus and Trites voting "nay". Question being taken, the original motion was carried with Councillors Court and Fitzpatrick voting "nay". Following a brief recess the Council meeting reconvened. 6. 2003 Establishment Of Permanent Positions On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Councillor Ball RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, (1) the 2003 Establishment of Permanent Positions, as shown in the submitted Appendix A, be approved; (2) one position of Lieutenant in Training and one position of Fire Prevention Inspector be eliminated in the Fire Department; and (3) the number of first class firefighter positions be reduced by 18 simultaneously with the future vacancy of the positions by current incumbents for any reason. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors Court and Fitzpatrick voting "nay". 7. OrQanizational Renewal StrateQV Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager advising that, further to his discussion with Council in Committee of the Whole of a personnel matter in the Community Services Department, discussions have been held with the employee concerned and a recommendation may be forthcoming on December 16,2002, and requesting that Council provide the City Manager the opportunity at that time to submit such a recommendation. Consideration was also given to a report from the City Manager (copies of which were distributed to the Council members on this date) submitting a recommendation as a result of discussions in the above regard. On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, (1) the benefits under the Organizational Renewal Strategy, Early Retirement Program adopted by Council on October 21, 2002 be offered to the Community Services Coordinator 6 in the Community Services Department; (2) Common Council approve the application of the employee shown on the submitted Appendix A under the Organizational Renewal Strategy, Early Retirement Voluntary Separation Policy adopted by Council on October 21,2002 on the basis that the approval of the application will not unduly effect ordinary operations and services; (3) the incumbent of the said position be retired upon the Order of Council; and (4) the position of Community Services Coordinator 6 be deleted from the City's Establishment of 89-416 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 permanent employees effective on the date upon which the current incumbent vacates the position as determined by the City Manager, but in no case shall the date be later than January 10, 2003. Councillor Court expressed the view that the above matter should be held off until the new year as Council was told by the City Manager that the timeframe for the Program was closed, thus this violates the timeframe as the Program was offered and the person concerned did not take the offer within the timeframe permitted. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors Court and Fitzpatrick voting "nay". 8. Voluntarv Separation ProQram Read a report from the City Manager advising that, under the terms and conditions of the City of Saint John Pension Act, an individual who has not reached the age of 55 is not entitled to receive a reduced pension and, as some of the employees who have had applications approved under the recent Voluntary Separation Program will not have reached the age of 55 at their time of retirement, they would not be entitled to receive their reduced pension; however, the Pension Act anticipates this type of circumstance and allows an exception to the age provision provided that the employees are "retired on the order of Council"; also advising that the individuals affected by this have been provided calculations of their pension entitlement should this motion be approved and, in all cases, will receive a pension that is reduced by 5% for each year they are retiring prior to their earliest date they could have retired had they continued to be an employee of the City; and further advising that, by passing this motion, the pension entitlement of the individuals listed will not be increased as would be the case under the abolishment of office provisions as this motion simply entitles the employees to commence receiving their reduced pension prior to the age of 55. On motion of Councillor Ball Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, the following individuals are to be retired on the order of Council on a date to be set by the City Manager but in no case later than June 30, 2003: Richard Brophy, Bill Butler, Peter Cleven, Lynn Couture, Mary Hogan, Rick Jones, Ric McFarlane, Terry Sutton. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Fitzpatrick voting "nay". 9. Bv-Iaws To Be Repealed Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager advising that, as part of the process of consolidating the City's current by-laws prior to translation under the Province's Municipal By-law Translation Program, a review of the relevancy and enforceability of the by-laws was undertaken by City staff, the last major review having been undertaken in 1995, and the decision to come forward at this time being to avoid the unnecessary costs that may be associated with repealing the by-laws after January 1,2003 (i.e. Official Languages Act); commenting on the following by-laws: (1) Auctioneers, (2) Bicycle, (3 & 4) Business Licenses, (5) Community Disaster, (6) Easement Fees, (7) Exhibitions, (8) Expectorating on Sidewalks, (9) Hackney Carriages, (10-12) Harbour, (13) Kosher Meat, (14) Machinery & Equipment Depreciation Trust Fund, (15) Shooting Galleries, and (16) Voluntary Fines; and recommending that first and second readings be given to repeal the by-laws as submitted. Councillor Teed proposed a motion to table the above matter, which was not seconded, on the basis of his view that some of the above By-laws were perfectly valid, including the one prohibiting smoking in buses, and also that, if the by-laws were not translated into both official languages, they would not be effective in any event, thus Council would get the same result as if they were repealed. 89-417 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, the by-laws entitled, "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Auctioneers Licenses In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By- law To Regulate The Operation Of Bicycles In The City Of Saint John", A By-law To Repeal A By-law Relating To Business Licences In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Business Licenses, And Relating To Persons Not Being Free Citizens Doing Business In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Formulate Plans In The Event Of A Community Disaster", "A By- law To Repeal A Law Respecting The Imposition Of Easement Fees In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate And License Shows And Other Exhibitions In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Prohibit Spitting Or Expectorating On The Walks And Sidewalks Or Upon The Floors Of Other Public Places And To Prohibit Smoking In Public Conveyances In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting Hackney Carriages In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-laws Relating To The Harbour Of The City Of Saint John", "A By- law To Repeal A Law To Regulate The Sale Of Kosher Meats In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-law Number M 106 A By-law To Provide For The Payment Of Funds Into The Machinery And Equipment Depreciation Trust Fund", "A By- law To Repeal A Law To Regulate Rifle Or Shooting Galleries In The City Of Saint John", and "A By-law To Repeal A By-law Providing For The Payment Of Voluntary Fines", be read a first time. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Teed voting "nay". Read a first time the by-laws entitled, "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Auctioneers Licenses In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate The Operation Of Bicycles In The City Of Saint John", A By-law To Repeal A By-law Relating To Business Licences In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Business Licenses, And Relating To Persons Not Being Free Citizens Doing Business In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Formulate Plans In The Event Of A Community Disaster", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting The Imposition Of Easement Fees In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate And License Shows And Other Exhibitions In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Prohibit Spitting Or Expectorating On The Walks And Sidewalks Or Upon The Floors Of Other Public Places And To Prohibit Smoking In Public Conveyances In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting Hackney Carriages In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-laws Relating To The Harbour Of The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate The Sale Of Kosher Meats In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-law Number M 106 A By-law To Provide For The Payment Of Funds Into The Machinery And Equipment Depreciation Trust Fund", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate Rifle Or Shooting Galleries In The City Of Saint John", and "A By-law To Repeal A By-law Providing For The Payment Of Voluntary Fines". On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Desmond RESOLVED that the by-laws entitled, "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Auctioneers Licenses In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate The Operation Of Bicycles In The City Of Saint John", A By-law To Repeal A By-law Relating To Business Licences In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Business Licenses, And Relating To Persons Not Being Free Citizens Doing Business In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Formulate Plans In The Event Of A Community Disaster", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting The Imposition Of Easement Fees In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate And License Shows And Other Exhibitions In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Prohibit Spitting Or Expectorating On The Walks And Sidewalks Or Upon The Floors Of Other Public Places And To Prohibit Smoking In Public Conveyances In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting Hackney Carriages In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-laws Relating To The Harbour Of The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate The 89-418 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 Sale Of Kosher Meats In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-law Number M 106 A By-law To Provide For The Payment Of Funds Into The Machinery And Equipment Depreciation Trust Fund", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate Rifle Or Shooting Galleries In The City Of Saint John", and "A By-law To Repeal A By-law Providing For The Payment Of Voluntary Fines", be read a second time. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Teed voting "nay". Read a second time the by-laws entitled, "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Auctioneers Licenses In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate The Operation Of Bicycles In The City Of Saint John", A By-law To Repeal A By-law Relating To Business Licences In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Provide For The Granting Of Business Licenses, And Relating To Persons Not Being Free Citizens Doing Business In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Formulate Plans In The Event Of A Community Disaster", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting The Imposition Of Easement Fees In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A By-law To Regulate And License Shows And Other Exhibitions In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Prohibit Spitting Or Expectorating On The Walks And Sidewalks Or Upon The Floors Of Other Public Places And To Prohibit Smoking In Public Conveyances In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law Respecting Hackney Carriages In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-laws Relating To The Harbour Of The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate The Sale Of Kosher Meats In The City Of Saint John", "A By-law To Repeal By-law Number M 106 A By-law To Provide For The Payment Of Funds Into The Machinery And Equipment Depreciation Trust Fund", "A By-law To Repeal A Law To Regulate Rifle Or Shooting Galleries In The City Of Saint John", and "A By-law To Repeal A By-law Providing For The Payment Of Voluntary Fines". 10. Amendment To Residential Infrastructure Assistance ProQram Read a report from the City Manager advising that, further to Council's adoption on May 7, 2001 of the details of the Residential Infrastructure Assistance Program, of the 13 applications, 2 have not proceeded and are no longer eligible and the remaining 11 developments have resulted in approximately 50 new housing units being developed with a potential of over 250 units; however, given the Program guidelines (3 years to complete), it is anticipated that no more than 150 units would be constructed; and also advising that, as this Program has been a significant factor in these developments and it would not be reasonable to withdraw completely from providing a housing incentive program, the City has only limited financial resources and it is therefore proposed that the Program be modified to eliminate the payment when the units are built, and the subdivision cost sharing and the "topping up" to a maximum of $6,000 per lot will remain to assist developers who experience sites with servicing challenges such as rock. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Common Council amend the terms of the Residential Infrastructure Assistance Program to only provide for one payment at the time of service installation (maximum of $6,000) as previously provided and eliminate the second payment of $4,000 per unit. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 11. Section 39 AQreement - Re-ZoninQ In Drurv Cove Area Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager referring to the September 23, 2002 public hearing of the application of Blair Construction Ltd. for the re- zoning of property in the Drury Cove area, at which first and second readings were given and third reading held pending the negotiation of an agreement of a levy amount to be paid by the developer for the extension of water and sewer services, and also referring to the report from the City Manager to Council on November 12, 2002 setting out a levy amount of $2,500 per lot and other items to be addressed in a Section 39 agreement; and advising that, as Municipal Operations staff does not have the ability to simply add 89-419 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 the design and management of this project to the already-substantial capital program anticipated for the Water and Sewerage Utility in the next year, the developer has agreed to a proposal to mange the design and construction of the service extension, using City specifications and the Chief City Engineer approving all plans, with the total cost of the project to be reviewed following the call of a public tender to ensure it is within the proposed budget and all change orders to be approved by the City. The report also advises that the City will approve only invoiced amounts for design and construction and no mark-up is to be charged by the developer; however, for every dollar below the estimate that is actually saved, the developer will be able to reduce 50 cents of its $100,000 up-front contribution, such reduction not to reduce the total amount paid by the developer, but only the timing of the payment; and, if Council is supportive of the proposal as contained in the submitted agreement, third reading of the re-zoning should be given; further advises that the City Solicitor has reported separately that Council can, if it so wishes, require that covenants be placed on future lot owners preventing the use of pesticides andlor herbicides and, from a community perspective, if such an initiative were to be considered, it should be on a City-wide basis and not limited to a single development and, while the developer does not have a fundamental objection to the idea, there is a real concern as to how this will be enforced and, as the City is clearly not in a position to undertake enforcement, it is therefore not recommended in the submitted agreement; and recommends that Common Council consider third reading of the re- zoning of the Drury Cove area subject to the endorsed Section 39 agreement. On motion of Councillor Fitzgerald Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Common Council consider third reading of the re-zoning of the Drury Cove area subject to the endorsed Section 39 agreement. Question being taken, the motion was carried. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Desmond RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By- law Number C.P. 100-604 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City of Saint John", insofar as it concerns re-zoning an area of land located between Drury Cove Road and Mount Loyal Roadway, having an area of approximately 250 acres, also identified as being PID Numbers 53207 and 297572, from "RF" Rural and "RS-2" One and Two Family Suburban Residential to "RSS" One Family Serviced Suburban Residential classification, be read. Question being taken, the motion was carried. The by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-604 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City of Saint John", was read in its entirety. (Councillor Fitzpatrick withdrew from the meeting.) On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-604 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City of Saint John", insofar as it concerns re-zoning an area of land located between Drury Cove Road and Mount Loyal Roadway, having an area of approximately 250 acres, also identified as being PID Numbers 53207 and 297572, from "RF" Rural and "RS-2" One and Two Family Suburban Residential to "RSS" One Family Serviced Suburban Residential classification, be read a third time and enacted and the Corporate Common Service be affixed thereto: AND FURTHER that the said re-zoning be subject to an agreement pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 89-420 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 Read a third time the by-law entitled, "By-law Number C.P. 100-604 A Law To Amend The Zoning By-law Of The City of Saint John". On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement pursuant to Section 39 of the Community Planning Act, consistent with the terms of the submitted draft agreement between the City and Drury Cove Developments Inc. Question being taken the motion was carried. 12. Subdivision Plan For Public Street Over Portion Of Property On North Side Of University Avenue Consideration was given to a report from the City Manager referring to Common Council resolution of June 24,2002 authorizing the sale of an 11-acre portion of property located on the northern side of the former Howes Lake dumpsite - PID Number 55058986, to Property Management - Proman Ltd.; and advising that a tentative subdivision scheme has been developed, part of which proposes a second access (to the subdivision) over a portion of PID Number 469486 which is owned by the City and a remnant of the Tucker Park Trust lands and Proman Ltd.'s proposal is not to acquire the subject land but to seek permission to vest a portion of the land "public street". On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, (1) the City of Saint John authorize the filing of a subdivision application which includes a proposed "public street" over a 725 m2.:!:....portion of PID Number 469486, University Avenue, as generally shown on the submitted plan; (2) in the event both the subdivision and related re-zoning applications are approved by the Planning Advisory Committee and Common Council and in consideration for a payment of $400 plus HST, Property Management - Proman Ltd. be authorized to construct and vest (by subdivision plan) a "public street" over a 725 m2 .:!:. portion of PID Number 469486, as generally shown on the submitted plan, subject to the following: (a) Property Management - Proman Ltd. indemnify and save harmless the City of Saint John from and against all manner of action or claim that may arise from the construction of a street over PID Number 469486; (b) Property Management - Proman Ltd. name the City of Saint John co-insured in its liability insurance policy (in an amount not less that $2 million) during the period of road construction (on and over PID Number 469486) and proof of such delivered to the Commissioner of Planning and Development; (c) Property Management - Proman Ltd. prepare and pay for the appropriate subdivision plan; and (d) in the event the vesting of a public street over Tucker Park Trust land is ever challenged, Property Management - Proman Ltd. will at its sole means and expense seek the appropriate legislative change to remove the subject lands from the Trust, failing which will remove that portion of the public street crossing over PID Number 469486 and return the land to a natural state; and (3) the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the applicable documents. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 13. Dangerous & Unsightly Condition Of BuildinQ Located At 360 Ludlow Street Read a report from the City Manager advising that the building located at 360 Ludlow Street, in the Building Inspector's opinion, is ready to collapse, creating a dangerous condition and threatening to neighbouring properties and, as it is not salvageable, demolition is the only option; also advising that the owners have indicated that they are financially unable to demolish the building and offered to give the building and property to the City at no charge in order to expedite demolition and also that they acknowledge the building is not salvageable and poses a threat to neighbouring properties; and further advising that, while the normal process could be followed with respect to dangerous and unsightly properties as provided for under Section 190 of the Municipalities Act resulting in the City affecting the demolition and incurring all costs with little or no hope of ever recovering any of those costs, in the alternative the City could 89-421 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 acquire the property for $1.00, demolish the building at an estimated cost in the area of $8,000, and attempt to sell the vacant property, which would have a residual value of approximately $6,000 thereby recovering some of the costs and also would avoid additional costs and staff time associated with the Council and court process, and Saint John Non-Profit Housing has a building adjacent to this site and has shown interest in acquiring the vacant parcel for a project. On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, (1) the City of Saint John acquire the fee simple absolute interest in 360 Ludlow Street (PID Numbers 55008155 and 55062087), as generally shown on the submitted plan, from Roger and Lisa Badeau, for $1.00; (2) the City shall pay any outstanding real property taxes against the property at 360 Ludlow Street; (3) the City shall administer and pay all legal requirements related to this acquisition; and (4) upon acquisition and demolition of 360 Ludlow Street, staff be authorized to enter into negotiations for the disposition of PID Numbers 5508155 and 55062087 to Saint John Non-Profit Housing. (Councillor Fitzpatrick re-entered the meeting.) Question being taken, the motion was carried. 14. Coastal Areas Protection LeQislation Consideration was given to report from the City Manager referring to his report to Council on March 18, 2002 advising of staff's review of the Province of New Brunswick document entitled, "A Coastal Areas Protection Policy for New Brunswick" and recommended that Council indicate its general support for the approach but request that the built-up "inner harbour" area not be included, and also to the legislation introduced by the Province on December 5 to amend the Clear Water Act and Clean Environment Act which will provide for specific regulations designed to protect coastal features that are at risk; and advising that, while the latter initiative should be supported in the local context of the significant coastal features such as Saints Rest Marsh, Red Head and other beach areas, its applicability to the inner harbour should not be supported and meetings with the local MLAs and appropriate ministers should be scheduled in the new year where the issue of applicability of the proposed Coastal Policy to the inner harbour should be highlighted; and also advising that this issue is of significant concern to the Port and the Waterfront Development Partnership, considering the nature of developments being proposed for the waterfront and representatives of these groups should also be included. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Council (a) support the Provincial initiative of protecting sensitive coastal features, and (b) request that the Minister not include the inner harbour area in the regulations for protection of coastal areas. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 15. Saint John Non-Profit HousinQ SinkinQ Fund Read a report from the City Manager advising that the outstanding obligations with respect to the Rockwood Court Complex were fully retired in 1996 and, due to the returns earned by the Saint John Non-Profit Housing Sinking Fund over the years, there is a balance of $80,687 in this Fund as at December 31, 2001 and, since the obligations for which the Sinking Fund were established have been retired and the funds were originally received from the sale of the Rockwood Court Complex, it would seem appropriate to transfer the balance of this Fund to the Saint John Non-Profit Housing Future Development Fund. 89-422 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 On motion of Councillor Court Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Common Council approve the transfer of the balance of the funds in the Saint John Non-Profit Housing Sinking Fund to the Saint John Non-Profit Housing Future Development Fund, retroactive to January 1, 2002. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 16. Saint John ReQion Park & RidelBike & Walk ProQram On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the report from the City Manager advising that the Saint John Region Park & RidelBike & Walk proposal has been chosen for Stage Two of the Urban Transportation Showcase Program, Council on October 22, 2001 having approved the Stage One application prepared by the Environment Committee, and more details will be available shortly regarding the guidelines for the Phase Two detailed proposal presentation and Council will be provided with recommendations regarding the next steps, be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 17. AmendinQ Resolution - Sale Of Smythe Street Property Read a report from the City Manager advising that, due to the nature of the acquisition of the Smythe Street Lot F-6-1 0-12 from Maritime Trust Company, coupled with the time of year, it is apparent that the sale will not close on or before December 31, 2002, which was the date prescribed in the November 25, 2002 Council resolution in this regard, and recommending a one-month extension to the closing date. On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Common Council amend its resolution of November 25, 2002 to purchase the fee simple interest in Lot F-6-10-12, Smythe Street from the Maritime Trust Company, by deleting "December 31,2002", and inserting in its place "January 31, 2003", with all other elements of the resolution remaining unchanged. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 18. Insurance Renewal 2003 On motion of Deputy Mayor White Seconded by Councillor Ball RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, Council accept the 2003 insurance package offered by Frank Cowan Company Limited, and approve payments as follows: Frank Cowan Company Limited - $795,262; Huestis Insurance Limited $35,000, for a total of $830,262. Question being taken, the motion was carried. *18A. Saint John Industrial Parks Ltd. - General FreiQht Carriers Inc. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by Saint John Industrial Parks Ltd., (1) the City of Saint John acquire the fee simple interest in PID Number 470542 and a 2.5 acre :t portion of the former CPR rail spur (adjacent to PID Number 55159719), as generally shown on the submitted plan, from General Freight Carriers Inc. for $30,000 plus HST (if applicable) on or before February 28, 2003, and the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the submitted Offer of Purchase 89-423 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 and Sale; (2) the City of Saint John cost share in the extension of Galbraith Place in the Spruce Lake Industrial Park by rebating piping material costs, and General Freight Carriers Inc. be advised that the above-noted land acquisition and cost-sharing agreement do not explicitly or implicitly obligate the City of Saint John to approve the re- zoning of 11 King William Road (PID Number 55159719). Question being taken, the motion was carried. 19. Saint John Board Of Police Commissioners Request To Appear Re 2003 Police Force BudQet On motion of Councillor Ball Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that the letter from the Saint John Board of Police Commissioners requesting to appear at open session of Council on December 16, 2002 to discuss with Council the significant impact cuts will have on the operation of the Saint John Police, and expressing the opinion that the community be made aware, before any decision is made, of the impact that budget cuts will have on the level of service provided to the citizens of Saint John, be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillor Court voting "nay". 20. PlanninQ Advisorv Committee - Subdivision Drurv Cove Area On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, Common Council (a) assent to one or more subdivision plans, in one or more phases, for Phases A and B of the proposed Blair Construction Ltd. development at Drury Cove, as illustrated on the submitted plan (photo-reduced copy), with respect to the streets, land for public purposes and any required municipal services easements and public utility easements; and (b) authorize the preparation and execution of one or more Cityldeveloper subdivision agreements to ensure provision of the required work and facilities, including detailed site and drainage plans for the approval of the Chief City Engineer. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 21. Saint John Art Advisorv Board - Chairman's ResiQnation On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Ball RESOLVED that the letter from Wm. R. Fitzpatrick, Chair of the Saint John Art Advisory Board and the deep see Visual Arts Festival 2001, advising that, as the Visual Arts Festival 2001 matters have now been concluded and the final report has been presented to the City Manager, as indicated in his earlier correspondence to Council, he is hereby resigning from the Art Advisory Board effective December 13, 2002, be received and Mr. Fitzpatrick's resignation be accepted and a letter of appreciation be forwarded to him for his service on the Board. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 21A. Saint John Parking Commission - Residential ParkinQ & Snow Removal Study - Phase 2 On motion of Councillor Fitzpatrick Seconded by Councillor Trites RESOLVED that, with regard to the letter from the Saint John Parking Commission requesting an opportunity to make a presentation further to the October 21, 2002 presentation by the Commission and Municipal Operations of the Residential Parking and Snow Removal Study of the Saint 89-424 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 John Central Peninsula Phase 2 Action Plan for Implementation, the Commission be invited to make a presentation to Council. The Mayor noted that the presentation would be scheduled for January 2003. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 22. LonQ- Term Outlook For EnerQV Supplv & Demand On motion of Councillor Teed Seconded by Councillor Fitzgerald RESOLVED that the letter from Councillor Teed proposing that, if Saint John Energy is already involved in the National Energy Board's development of a long-term outlook for energy supply and demand in Canada, Council should be kept informed and, if not yet involved, Council should ask Saint John Energy if this is a subject in which it can participate or assist in any way, be referred to Saint John Energy. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 23. Council Reduction Consideration was given to a letter from Councillor Titus submitting a copy of his letter to Council on January 7, 2002 proposing a motion to reduce the size of the next Council to reflect a more modern, efficient and cost-effective civic government, which was referred to the City Manager for a report; and advising that, after reflection, it is his position that Council should deal with this issue, notwithstanding the referral; and requesting support to reduce the number of Councillors to 8 for the next municipal election. Councillor Fitzpatrick proposed a motion, which was not seconded, to table the above matter. On motion of Councillor Titus Seconded by Councillor Teed RESOLVED that the number of Councillors be reduced to eight for the next municipal election. Councillor Court expressed the view that the timing was poor and it would increase the workload for the Council members; and Councillor Desmond advised that he would support a reduction in Council if the ward system were brought in. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the above matter be laid on the table until the January 6, 2003 Council meeting. Question being taken, the tabling motion was lost with the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor and Councillors Chase, Fitzgerald, Teed and Titus voting "nay". Councillor Chase spoke in support of the original motion, suggesting that Council should decrease proportionately to the decrease in the City's population; and Councillor Fitzpatrick expressed the view that this issue should be the subject of a plebiscite and, with regard to his indication that Councillor Titus had been the major driving force behind the salary increase for the Council members, Councillor Titus raised a point of order on the basis that this was not accurate and he had, in fact, made a motion to reduce the salaries. The Mayor indicated that Councillor Fitzpatrick could continue with his comments and, when Councillor Fitzpatrick asked for Mr. Beckett to advise if any of the Council members had donated part of their salaries or per diems to the Municipality, Councillor Titus again raised a point of order on which the Mayor ruled by asking the Council members to keep their comments to the agenda item being discussed. Councillor Court made a suggestion that the Council members could at this meeting reduce their salaries by $4,000 and save the salary of two Councillors, 89-425 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 whereupon Councillor Teed raised a point of order on the basis that the issue on the floor had nothing to do with salaries. Councillor Trites advised that he was not prepared to take a position on the motion at this time, although would like to see it tabled for a valid debate at another meeting. On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the above matter be laid on the table until the January 6, 2003 Council meeting. Question being taken, the tabling motion was carried with a majority of the Council members present voting "yea". 24. Saint John Board Of Trade - One-Mile HiQhwav InterchanQe On motion of Councillor Desmond Seconded by Deputy Mayor White RESOLVED that the letter from the Saint John Board of Trade advising its support of the findings of the 2002 ADI report evaluating the options for improved access off the Throughway to the east side of Saint John, the Board of Directors having passed a motion to support this as its number one transportation priority for the Saint John road system, be received and filed and the Board of Trade be thanked for its letter. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 25. Canadian Petroleum Products Institute & Irving Oil Limited ZoninQ Bv-Iaw Text Amendment - Gasoline & Fuel Tanks On motion of Councillor Fitzpatrick Seconded by Councillor Ball RESOLVED that the application of Canadian Petroleum Products Institute and Irving Oil Limited for a Zoning By-law text amendment to delete and repeal items on dispensing of gasoline and placement and visibility of fuel tanks, 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 Monday, February 3,2003, at 7:00 o'clock p.m. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 26 (a)Saint John District Labour Council (b) Wilma Walker - 2003 Fire Department BudQet On motion of Councillor Trites Seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick RESOLVED that the letter from (a) the Saint John District Labour Council asking that Council maintain services of the Fire Department at the existing levels; (b) Wilma Walker asking that Council not take from the on-the-truck Fire Department workers, be received and filed. Question being taken, the motion was carried. 27. Post Arts Summit Steering Committee Nominees To Arts And Cultural Committee On motion of Councillor Fitzpatrick Seconded by Councillor Ball RESOLVED that the letter from the Post Arts Steering Committee referring to Common Council resolution of July 22, 2002 that an arts and cultural committee be created; and requesting Council's consideration of the individuals named in the submitted listing to be named to the Saint John Community Arts Board, following which the Committee will have completed its duties assigned to it from 89-426 COMMON COUNCIL DECEMBER 16, 2002 the Saint John Arts Summit and Visioning Session held in March 2001 and will therefore automatically dissolve as a committee, be referred to the Nominating Committee. Question being taken, the motion was carried. Adiournment The Mayor declared the meeting adjourned. Common Clerk