2006-07-17_Minutes--Procès-verbal
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COMMON COUNCIUCONSEIL COMMUNAL
JULY 17, 2006/LE 17 JUILLET 2006
COMMON COUNCIL MEETING - THE CITY OF SAINT JOHN
CITY HALL - JULY 17,2006 - 6:30 P.M.
present
Norman McFarlane, Mayor
Deputy Mayor Hooton and Councillors Chang, Chase, Court,
Farren, Ferguson, McGuire, Tait, Titus and White
- and -
P. Woods, Common Clerk and Deputy City Manager; J. Nugent,
City Solicitor; A. Beckett, Deputy City Manager of Programs and
Priorities and Acting Treasurer; P. Groody, Commissioner of
Municipal Operations; J. Baird, Commissioner of Planning and
Development; W. Edwards, Commissioner of Buildings and
Inspection Services; R. Simonds, Fire Chief; A. Bodechon, Chief
of Police; and Jackie Ferrar, Administrative Assistant
REUNION DU CONSEIL COMMUNAL DE THE CITY OF SAINT JOHN
TENUE A L'HOTEL DE VILLE, LE 17 JUILLET 2006 A 18 H 30
Sont presents:
Norman McFarlane, maire
la mairesse suppleante Hooton et les conseillers Chang, Chase,
Court, Farren, Ferguson, McGuire, Tait, Titus et White
et
P. Woods, greffier communal et directeur general adjoint;
J. Nugent, avocat municipal; A. Beckett, directeur general adjoint,
programmes et priorites et tresorier par interim; P. Groody,
commissaire aux operations municipales; J. Baird, commissaire a
I'urbanisme et au developpement; W. Edwards, commissaire aux
services d'inspection et des batiments; R. Simonds, chef du
service d'incendie; A. Bodechon, chef de police; et Jackie Ferrar,
adjointe administrative.
1. Call To Order - Prayer
Mayor McFarlane called the meeting to order and Pastor Clayton Misner
of Saint John Four Square Church offered the opening prayer.
1. Ouverture de la reunion, suivie de la priere
La seance est ouverte par Ie maire McFarlane et Ie pasteur Clayton
Misner, de I'eglise Four Square, a Saint John, offre la priere d'ouverture.
2 Approval of Minutes
On motion of Councillor Titus
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Hooton
RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting of
Common Council held on July 4, 2006, be approved.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
2 Approbation du proces-verbal de la derniere reunion
Proposition du conseiller Titus
Appuyee par la mairesse suppleante Hooton
RESOLU que Ie proces-verbal de la reunion du
conseil communal tenue Ie 4 juillet 2006 so it approuve.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
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3 Approval of Agenda
On motion of Councillor White
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Hooton
RESOLVED that the agenda of this meeting be
approved.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Court
Seconded by Councillor White
RESOLVED that items 14.1,14.2,15.1,15.2, and
15.3, which were not considered by Council at the July 4th meeting, be moved forward
for consideration on the agenda, and Council adopt this procedure for all items that are
carried forward from a previous meeting.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
3 Adoption de I'ordre du jour
Proposition du conseiller White
Appuyee par la mairesse suppleante Hooton
RESOLU que I'ordre du jour de la presente reunion
so it adopte.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
Proposition du conseiller Court
Appuyee par Ie conseiller White
RESOLU que les points 14.1,14.2,15.1,15.2 et
15.3, qui n'ont pas ete abordes par Ie conseillors de la reunion du 4 juillet dernier, soient
examines des maintenant, et que Ie conseil adopte cette procedure pour tous les points
reportes d'une reunion precedente.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
4. Disclosures of Conflict of Interest
4. Divulgations de conflits d'interets
5. Adoption of Consent Agenda
5.1 Human Development Council - Official City Status for Saint John Youth
Cabinet
That the letter from the Human Development Council requesting that Council
establish by resolution a Saint John Youth Cabinet, be referred to the City Manager.
5.2 Saint John Transit Commission - 2006 Operating Budget Status
That the letter from the Saint John Transit Commission advising that it is
currently operating on budget, be received for information.
5.3 Request from Anglo Society of NB for City to Fly its Flag September 18,
2006
That the request from the Anglo Society of NB for the City to fly its flag on Anglo
Day, September 18, 2006, be referred to the City Manager.
5.4 NB Historical Society - Re-naming Of Streets
That the letter from the NB Historical Society voicing concerns regarding the re-
naming of City streets from a historical perspective, be referred to the City Manager.
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5.5 Request to Present to Council from Milk for Mom's Inc
That the request from Milk for Mom's Inc. to present to Council, be referred to the
Common Clerk to schedule a presentation.
5.6 Request to Present from Partnerships Saint John
That the request of Partnerships Saint John to present to Council, be referred to
the Common Clerk to schedule a presentation.
5.7 Eric Teed Regarding Cigarette Butt Receptacles
That the letter from Eric Teed regarding the placement of cigarette butt
receptacles in front of uptown businesses, be referred to the City Manager.
5.8 Request to Present to Council from Saint John Waterfront Development
Partnership
That the letter from Bill MacMackin requesting to present to Council with an
update on the Water Street Precinct and Cruise Terminal, be referred to the Common
Clerk to schedule a presentation on July 31, 2006.
On motion of Deputy Mayor Hooton
Seconded by Councillor White
RESOLVED that the Consent Agenda be approved.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
5. Adoption de I'ordre du jour relatif aux questions soumises a I'approbation
du conseil
5.1 Conseil de perfectionnement social - Statut officiel de la ville en ce qui a
trait au Youth Cabinet (cabinet des jeunes) de Saint John
Que la lettre du Conseil de perfectionnement social demandant que Ie conseil
etablisse par resolution un Youth Cabinet (cabinet des jeunes) de Saint John so it
transmise au directeur general.
5.2 Etat du budget d'exploitation de 2006 de la Commission de transport de
Saint John
Que la lettre de la Commission de transport de Saint John indiquant qu'elle
respecte son budget d'exploitation soit acceptee a titre informatif.
5.3 Demande de la Anglo Society of NB en vue de faire hisser son drapeau Ie
18 septembre 2006
Que la demande de la Anglo Society of NB pour que la ville hisse son drapeau a
I'occasion du Anglo Day, Ie 18 septembre 2006, soit transmise au directeur general.
5.4 Societe historique du Nouveau-Brunswick - Changement de noms de rues
Que la lettre de la Societe historique du Nouveau-Brunswick exprimant des
inquietudes concernant Ie changement de nom de rues de la ville d'un point de vue
historique so it transmise au directeur general.
5.5 Demande de presentation de la part de Milk for Mom's Inc.
QUE la demande de Milk for Mom's Inc. visant a faire une presentation devant Ie
conseil so it transmise au greffier communal pour qu'il fixe une date de presentation.
5.6 Demande de presentation de la part de Partenariats de Saint John
Que la demande de Partnerships Saint John visant a faire une presentation
devant Ie conseil soit transmise au greffier communal pour qu'il fixe une date de
presentation.
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5.7 Lettre d'Eric Teed concernant les recipients de megots de cigarettes
Que la lettre d'Eric Teed concernant la disposition de recipients de megots de
cigarettes a I'avant des entreprises du quartier Uptown soit transmise au directeur
general.
5.8 Demande de presentation devant Ie conseil de la part de Partenariat
d'amenagement du secteur riverain de Saint John
Que la lettre de Bill MacMackin demandant de faire une presentation devant Ie
conseil, accompagnee d'une mise a jour sur Ie poste de police et Ie terminal de croisiere
de la rue Water, soit transmise au greffier communal pour qu'il fixe une presentation Ie
31 juillet 2006.
Proposition de la mairesse suppleante Hooton
Appuyee par Ie conseiller White
RESOLU que I'ordre du jour relatif aux questions
soumises a I'approbation du conseil so it adopte.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
6. Members Comments
Council members commented on various community events.
Mayor McFarlane advised that Mr. Totten is in Halifax this evening representing the City
at a meeting with all levels of government regarding the Bay Ferry issue. He explained
they have agreed through ACOA to hire a company to develop a needs assessment and
economic development assessment study on the service. When this study is completed
it will be submitted to the committee set up by the Hon. Peter MacKay.
On motion of Councillor Titus
Seconded by Councillor McGuire
RESOLVED that item 11.2 - Response Regarding Pension
Plan Deficit, be brought forward for consideration.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
6. Commentaires presentes par les membres
Les membres du conseil s'expriment sur diverses activites communautaires.
Le maire McFarlane informe que M. Totten est a Halifax ce soir pour representer la ville
a une reunion regroupant tous les paliers de gouvernement concernant la question de
Bay Ferry. II explique que les intervenants ont accepte, par I'entremise de I'APECA,
d'engager une entreprise pour elaborer une etude d'evaluation des besoins et
d'evaluation du developpement economique a I'egard du service. Lorsque cette etude
sera terminee, elle sera soumise au comite etabli par I'Honorable Peter MacKay.
Proposition du conseiller Titus
Appuyee par Ie conseiller McGuire
RESOLU que Ie point 11.2 intitule Reponse concernant Ie
deficit du regime de retraite soit examine des maintenant.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
7. Proclamation
7. Proclamation
11.2 Response Regarding Pension Plan Deficit
Referring to his submitted presentation, Councillor Ferguson provided Council with a
detailed review advising that the information which he has been ordered to provide to
Council is already in their possession. Councillor Ferguson expressed the view this
information has been buried in erroneous and incomplete response packages noting that
it is selective information, organized and presented to Council by staff as though it was a
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seamlessly persuasive document. Councillor Ferguson continued with his presentation
raising questions with regard to what is alleged, what are the financial impacts on the
Pension Plan, what the impact is on the taxpayer, and what the cost is to the
organization. He noted Council's obligations, the different stories and piecing together of
information, and the financial statement irregularities. He concluded his presentation
commenting with regard to conflict of interest and governance advising that he wants to
make certain we are prudent and yet fair to our employees pointing out that he wants to
stop the City of Saint John's taxes from increasing and proposed recommendations as
outlined in his report.
Mayor McFarlane questioned Councillor Ferguson if his report contains all the
documentation and information that he has; to which he confirmed it is all that he has
which relates to his comments at previous Council meetings. Mr. Nugent commented
with regard to the characterization of his June 28, 2006 letter to Council as a political
document, stating that there should be no misunderstanding that this document is a
written legal opinion from the City Solicitor to Council, the purpose being to advise
Council of their legal duty, in his view, to seek from Councillor Ferguson a full disclosure
of any information that he had which would support his comments which implied
improper and inappropriate or misleading behaviour that bore adversley upon the City's
well being particularly with regard to the responsibility of the unfunded liability of the
Pension Plan. Referring to the claim by Councillor Ferguson that access to legal advice
was denied, Mr. Nugent referred to a meeting with Councillor Ferguson and the City
Manager at which time there was no clear formulation of the issue or questions that
would be put to outside legal counsel and as a result he was not prepared under these
circumstances to retain outside counsel. He expressed the opinion that he would not be
acting responsibly if he was to retain someone when the issue with which they were to
deal with was not clearly set out. Mr. Nugent advised that he has repeatedly written to
Council encouraging them to seek outside legal advice and explained that this advice
was taken and extensive opinions were received from an expert in this area. Mr. Nugent
stated that the suggestion by Councillor Ferguson that in light of Council's decision to
accept his advice on matters relating to the pension, notwithstanding his declared
conflict of interest, Council has somehow accepted responsibility for this advice is not
accurate. He spoke concerning his two disclosures of interest that were filed with respect
to pension matters, the first being based upon his membership in the Pension Plan and
secondly his membership on the Board of Trustees for the Pension Plan. He further
explained that his professional obligation to Council as City Solicitor is in no way
diminished or eliminated because Council has determined that, notwithstanding his filed
declarations of interest, they want him to provide them with advice; noting that it must be
clear that the obligation he has is the same obligation that he has always had, which is
to provide Council with advice to the best of his ability.
Commenting with regard to Councillor Ferguson's presentation, Mr. Beckett expressed
the view that there are numerous issues which require a response from staff and
responded to the following remarks by Councillor Ferguson - (1) debt payment was not
made in the amount of $600,000 - Mr. Beckett reminded Council that this was a budget
error made during the preparation of the 2004 budget advising that all debt payments
were made in accordance with the requirements of these debt issuances, all debt
payments were properly recorded in the financial statements and at no time has there
been any debt payments not included in the financial statements of the City; (2) costs
associated with the early retirement/voluntary separation program that were included in
the notes to the financial statements - Mr. Beckett explained in 2003 a cost of $3.4
million represented the amount that was actually paid into 2003 related to the early
retirement/voluntary separation program. Some employees had requested that the
payments be spread over a two year period, to ease tax implications, so there was a
further $400,000 paid in 2004 related to the program bringing the total cost to $3.8
million. Mr. Beckett explained this matter was discussed with the Financial Committee at
that time as well as Council and noted it is properly recorded in the financial statements.
He advised that the total cost of the program in the amount of $3.8 million is consistent
with the report that was originally given to Council at the time the packages were
approved which indicated a total cost to the municipality of $3.7 million, the difference
being due to the final calculations of the buyouts.
Referencing the comment by Councillor Ferguson that applications for disability were
approved inappropriately by the Pension Board and that this relates to a cultural problem
in the City, Mr. Beckett distributed a copy of a report to Council dated January 30, 2006,
from the Pension Board, detailing the steps in approving disability applications and the
number of individuals on disability at this time, that being 99 reduced from 103 due to
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four deaths. He informed Council that of these 99 individuals, 60% are in receipt of CPP
which means they are automatically approved for disability under the City's Plan and no
decision is required from the Pension Board. He further advised that an independent
medical opinion was required for every application which stated whether or not the
employee met the Board's definition for disability; and stated that the notion that this was
simply an agreement between a supervisor and an employee was incorrect.
Commenting with regard to staffing numbers, Mr. Beckett confirmed Councillor
Ferguson's remarks that at the time of the approval of the retirement programs there
was the indication that the management/professional staff would be reduced from 83 to
68 positions. Referring to a report, which he distributed to Council entitled
Management/Professional Staff, he explained that in 2003 the establishment went down
to 69 positions and explained that since that time positions have been added pointing
out the addition of staff is Council's authority. He continued with a review of this report
which detailed the positions that were eliminated and those that have been added during
the period 2003 to 2006. Mr. Beckett stressed in all cases positions were added only
with the approval of Council during the annual budget process and the subsequent
approval of the Establishment.
Responding to a question raised by Councillor Court, Mr. Beckett advised there were no
enhancements to any employee's pension as a result of the early retirement/voluntary
separation program noting that there were the one-time buyouts. He further explained
that during a discussion with the Plan's Actuary, it was suggested that Council review
the actuarial valuation completed in December 2003 where the financial impact of
individuals retiring earlier than assumed in the last valuation was $2.2 million. Discussion
continued with Councillor Court expressing agreement with the issues raised in
Councillor Ferguson presentation.
Councillor Chase inquired if benefits to pensioners would be reduced if Council decided
to make changes; to which Mr. Beckett advised their benefits are protected under the
Pension Benefits Act. Referring to Councillor Ferguson's comment that "Saint John's
disability pension approvals are four times the industry standard and represent 80% of
an employee's gross salary, individuals on a disability pension receive 80%", he
questioned what an employee would receive on a disability pension. Responding, Mr.
Beckett explained that the maximum disability pension that a person can receive is 60%
of their salary depending on their number of years of service and the years of service at
the time of disability. He pointed out there is a cap in the Pension Plan which prohibits a
disability pension from exceeding the years maximum pensionable earnings figure as
prescribed in the Pension Plan.
Referring to the City Solicitor's report which was considered at Council's meeting of July
4th, Councillor McGuire inquired if Councillor Ferguson had responded to all of the
questions contained in that report. Mr. Nugent responded that the report contained
statements by Councillor Ferguson at recent Council meetings that gave rise, in his
view, to a reasonable understanding that he was suggesting that something amiss had
been taking place concerning the requirement to fund the liabilities of the Pension Plan.
He explained his purpose in bringing this to Council's attention was to highlight the fact
that there were comments made that had to be based upon information, information
which had not been provided with his comments pointing out that this is a very important
issue of the City - financial integrity. He noted that, in his view, it is important for Council
to pursue from Councillor Ferguson the information upon which he based his comments.
The intention being that the information lying behind these comments would then be
available for Council to consider, discuss, pursue if necessary and then make an
informed decision.
Discussion continued with Councillor Chang raising concerns with regard to what
information Council has on this matter and Councillor White expressing the opinion that
he cannot make a decision on this matter until a response is received from staff and/or
the Pension Board with regard to the discrepancies that have been raised this evening.
Speaking in support of Councillor Ferguson's presentation, Councillor Farren raised the
issue of conflict of interest concerning a Pension Board member and stressed the
importance of having an independent review for the benefit of everyone. He advised that
he will not support any changes in pension benefits or an increase in taxes until an
independent review is carried out.
Commenting briefly Deputy Mayor Hooton advised that she does not see any illegal
activity and spoke regarding responses from various investment professionals she
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questioned concerning whether or not the buyouts impacted the pension to this extent
noting the response has always been - no.
Councillor Tait informed Council members that he requested a legal opinion, from the
City Solicitor as to whether or not he was in a conflict of interest and requested
Councillor Ferguson's response to the following questions:
1. Is your slide presentation of tonight representative of and consistent with the report
submitted to the Mayor and Council in the Council Kit on July 14, 2006 - Councillor
Ferguson responded yes.
2. Does the same report and presentation comply with the direction of Council and is it
consistent with the resolution? - Councillor Ferguson responded the information has
been completely provided and if it is not in this presentation, then it was provided before
the presentation, in the media or in some other format - you have answers to every
question.
3. Have you provided concrete examples of reliable and professional sources of factual
information to substantiate the statements that you have made as referred to by the City
Solicitor, John Nugent? Councillor Ferguson responded - these are the facts, they are
serious and there needs to be an investigation - yes.
Councillor Titus expressed agreement with Councillor White's suggestion to have this
matter referred to staff and the Pension Board for a response. Continuing, he stressed
his concerns with regard to comments made by Councillor Ferguson during his
presentation, in particular relating to disability.
On motion of Councillor Tait
Seconded by Councillor McGuire
RESOLVED that the City Solicitor, John Nugent, be
given the task of evaluating provided information with a targeted scope of reviewing his
own letter to Council which includes the resolution adopted by Council dated June 28,
2006, re duty to act in the best interest of the citizens along with Councillor Ferguson's
response, report and presentation. This resolution is made with the following inherent
provisions - during the review the City Solicitor with whatever assistance he deems
necessary, specifically address the following key components: (1) a professional ruling
on whether Councillor Ferguson has indeed complied with the resolution contained in
the City Solicitor's report to Council to act in the best interest of the citizens; (2)
evaluation or dismissal of any or all the information provided by Councillor Ferguson with
the inclusion of rationale for validation or dismissal. The scope of the review is to cover
the comments and information contained in Councillor Ferguson's report to Council and
slide presentation which constitutes his response to the resolution of Council following
the Solicitor's report to Council. Objective, factual information must be determined to
have been provided by Councillor Ferguson free of perceptions and third party
innuendos.
Deputy Mayor Hooton inquired how long it would take the City Solicitor to respond to the
above resolution. Mr. Nugent stated he did not fully understand the motion and
expressed the view that Council has been having a problem with the lack of information
that would support comments that have been made over time by Councillor Ferguson.
He noted there were issues raised in the presentation dealing with the disability
allowance administration of the Pension Plan, cost to the Pension Plan of the early
retirement/voluntary separation program, and errors in the financial statements. Mr.
Nugent stated that in order to resolve this matter Council has an obligation to look at the
information that bears upon these issues and then come to a decision whether or not
there is any merit in pursuing them further and suggested the following - the
administration of disability be referred back to the Pension Board for a response; the
cost of the early retirement/voluntary separation program be referred to the
Commissioner of Finance and the City Manager along with the matter regarding errors in
the financial statements. Upon receipt of these responses, Council will then be in a
position to determine if they have a sensible, full explanation of each of these points and
if satisfied with the responses, pass a resolution to that effect and there will be no need
to pursue it further. If the responses are not satisfactory, then the matter can be pursued.
Referring to the comment by the City Solicitor that he does not understand the proposed
resolution, Councillor Tait advised that he did not want to cause any further confusion for
Council and withdrew his motion, with the consent of the seconder.
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Mr. Woods suggested it would be appropriate to have a response to Council regarding
the concerns raised and proposed the following - cost of disability claims with regard to
approvals; the number of individuals receiving benefits; the level of those benefits and
the possibility of an insurance claim in relation to some medical opinions that mayor
may not have been received - be referred to the Pension Board for a response; the
financial impact on early retirement with regard to changes in the establishment and the
financial position of the Pension Plan when the early retirement plan was instituted in
2002 - 2003 - be referred to the City Manager and Treasurer; the difference in financial
statement notes $3.4 - $3.8 million - be referred to the City Manager for a response;
recording of the debt payment - difference between budget amount and the actual
amount recorded in the financial statements - $600,000 difference - be referred to the
City Manager.
Referencing a comment made during the presentation concerning the management
group approving its own salaries and promotions, Mr. Woods explained they are not
involved in establishing their own salaries and they do not make their own promotions.
He advised Council that the City Manager brings a salary scale recommendation to
Council for its consideration and suggested that the City Solicitor respond to the
comments concerning conflict of interest and the question of access to professional
advice. Mr. Woods informed Council members that everyone is willing and desirous to
provide any information that is required.
Mr. Woods commented briefly regarding the pension questions that have been
submitted advising that they have been forwarded to the respective pension
professionals for a response and a teach-in will be held for Council with the written
responses being submitted prior to this session.
On motion of Deputy Mayor Hooton
Seconded by Councillor White
RESOLVED that the appropriate responses be
provided to Council from the Pension Board, City Manager, Treasurer and City Solicitor
as outlined below:
1. Cost of disability claims with particular regard to; approvals; the number of
individuals receiving benefits; the level of those benefits and the possibility of an
insurance claim in relation to some medical opinions that mayor may not have been
received - be referred to the Pension Board for a response.
2. Financial impact of the early retirement with particular regard to changes in the
establishment and the financial position of the Pension Plan when the early retirement
plan was instituted in 2002 - 2003 - be referred to the City Manager and Treasurer.
3. The difference in the 2004 - 2006 financial statement notes regarding cost of
early retirement- be referred to the City Manager.
4. Recording of the debt payment - difference between budget amount and the
actual amount recorded in the financial statements - $600,000 difference - be referred to
the City Manager
5. The comment concerning conflict of interest and the question of access to
professional advice - be referred to the City Solicitor.
Councillor Ferguson expressed the opinion that the questions raised have been asked
for two years and stated the proposed recommendation does not cut it. He stated this is
a serious issue and there needs to be a full independent investigation.
Councillors Chang and Titus advised they could not support the motion stating it was a
waste of time. Councillor Chang suggested that Councillor Ferguson be given time to
submit further questions. Councillor Farren advised he did not support the motion
because it will not bring Council any further ahead and asked that an independent
review be conducted. Councillor Court stated that, in his opinion, Councillor Ferguson
believes he has responded to Council's questions and based on this information he
wants an independent review carried out.
Mayor McFarlane thanked Councillor Ferguson for his presentation noting that he
questioned him if this was his complete report, to which he confirmed.
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Question being taken, the motion was carried with Councillors Chang,
Court, Farren, Ferguson and Titus voting "nay".
(The Mayor announced a five minute recess after which Council reconvened at 9:05
p.m.)
11.2 Reponse concernant Ie deficit du regime de retraite
Se rapportant a la presentation qu'il a soumise, Ie conseiller Ferguson presente au
conseil un examen detaille, indiquant que les renseignements qu'on lui a ordonnes de
fournir au conseil se trouvent deja en sa possession. Le conseiller Ferguson est d'avis
que ces renseignements ont ete enfouis dans un ensemble de reponses erronees et
incompletes, notant qu'il s'agit de renseignements selectifs, organises et presentes au
conseil par Ie personnel comme si c'etait un document homogene convaincant. Le
conseiller Ferguson continue sa presentation en soulevant des questions concernant les
faits allegues, les repercussions financieres sur Ie regime de retraite, les repercussions
sur les contribuables et les couts pour I'organisation. II souligne les obligations du
conseil, les differentes histoires et I'assemblage de renseignements, et les irregularites
dans les etats financiers. II conclut sa presentation en abordant la question des conflits
d'interet et de la gouvernance, indiquant qu'il veut s'assurer que nous fassions preuve
de prudence sans toutefois etre injuste envers nos employes, soulignant qu'il veut que
cesse la hausse de taxe de The City of Saint John et propose des recommandations,
comme I'indique son rapport.
Le maire McFarlane interroge Ie conseiller Ferguson, a savoir si son rapport renferme
toute la documentation et I'information qu'il possede; il confirme que c'est tout ce qu'il
possede concernant les commentaires qu'il a obtenus durant les reunions precedentes
du conseil. M. Nugent discute de I'interpretation de sa lettre du 28 juin 2006 presentee
au conseil a titre de document politique, indiquant qu'il faut bien comprendre que ce
document constitue un avis juridique ecrit de I'avocat municipal au conseil visant, selon
lui, a informer Ie conseil de son obligation juridique de tenter d'obtenir du conseiller
Ferguson une divulgation complete de tout renseignement dont il dispose qui appuierait
ses commentaires qui supposent un comportement deplace et inapproprie ou un
comportement trompeur qui nuit au bien-etre de la ville, particulierement en ce qui a trait
a la responsabilite du pass if non capitalise du regime de retraite. Se rapportant a la
demande faite par Ie conseiller Ferguson pour que I'acces a un avis juridique soit refuse,
M. Nugent fait allusion a une reunion avec Ie conseiller Ferguson et Ie directeur general
durant laquelle il n'y avait aucune formulation claire du probleme ou des questions qui
seraient presentes a un avocat externe et, donc, il n'etait pas pret, dans ces
circonstances, a retenir les services d'un avocat externe. II est d'avis qu'il n'agirait pas
de maniere responsable s'il devait retenir les services d'un professionnellorsque Ie
probleme dont les membres allaient traiter n'etait pas clairement enonce. M. Nugent
indique avoir ecrit a maintes reprises au conseil pour I'encourager a obtenir un avis
juridique et explique que ce conseil a ete suivi et que beaucoup d'opinions ont ete
fournies par un expert dans ce domaine. M. Nugent declare que la suggestion du
conseiller Ferguson selon laquelle, compte tenu de la decision du conseil visant a
accepter son avis sur les questions relatives a la retraite, malgre son conflit d'interet
avoue, Ie conseil a, en quelque sorte, accepte la responsabilite a I'effet que cet avis
n'etait pas exact. II parle de ses deux divulgations d'interet qui ont ete presentees a
I'egard des questions de retraite, la premiere fondee sur sa participation au regime de
retraite et la deuxieme, sur sa participation au conseil d'administration du regime de
retraite. De plus, il explique que son obligation professionnelle a I'endroit du conseil a
titre d'avocat municipal n'est reduite ou eliminee d'aucune fa~on, car Ie conseil a decide
que, malgre ses divulgations d'interet presentees, il voulait recevoir des conseils de sa
part; indiquant qu'il doit etre clair que I'obligation qu'il a est identique a celie qu'il a
toujours eue, soit d'offrir au conseil des avis au meilleur de ses competences.
Discutant de la presentation du conseiller Ferguson, M. Beckett indique que, selon lui,
on compte un grand nombre de problemes necessitant une reponse du personnel et
repond aux remarques suivantes du conseiller Ferguson: 1) Ie montant de
remboursement de la dette ne montait pas a 600 000 $ - M. Beckett rappelle au conseil
qu'il s'agit d'une erreur budgetaire survenue durant la preparation du budget 2004,
indiquant que tous les montants de remboursement de la dette ont ete verses
conformement aux exigences relatives a I'emission de ces titres de creance, tous les
montants de remboursement de la dette etaient bien inscrits dans les etats financiers et
qu'il n'y a jamais eu de montants de remboursement de la dette non inclus dans les
etats financiers de la ville; 2) les couts associes au programme de retraite anticipee et
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de depart volontaire qui ont ete inclus dans les notes afferentes aux etats financiers -
M. Becket explique qu'en 2003, un montant de 3,4 millions de dollars representait un
montant qui, en realite, a ete paye en 2003 relativement au programme de retraite
anticipee et de depart volontaire. Certains employes ont demande que les paiements
soient repartis sur une periode de deux ans afin de reduire les repercussions fiscales,
resultant en un autre montant de 400 000 $ verse en 2004 en rapport avec Ie
programme, pour un cout total de 3,8 millions de dollars. M. Beckett explique que cette
question a fait I'objet de discussions aupres du comite des finances et du conseil a ce
moment et note que Ie montant est bien inscrit dans les etats financiers. II informe que Ie
cout total du programme au montant de 3,8 millions de dollars est conforme au rapport
presente a I'origine au conseil au moment ou les forfaits ont ete approuves, indiquant un
cout total de 3,7 millions de dollars pour la municipalite, la difference decoulant des
calculs finaux des indemnites pour depart volontaire.
Se rapportant aux commentaires du conseiller Ferguson a I'effet que les demandes
d'invalidite ont ete approuvees de maniere inappropriee par la commission des pensions
et qu'il s'agit d'un probleme culturel dans la ville, M. Beckett distribue une copie d'un
rapport de la commission des pensions au conseil date du 30 janvier 2006 qui presente
en detailles etapes suivies pour approuver les demandes d'invalidite et Ie nombre de
personnes invalides a ce moment, qui sont passees de 103 a 99 en raison de quatre
deces. II informe Ie conseil que parmi ces 99 personnes, 60 % re~oivent des prestations
du RPC, ce qui signifie qu'elles sont automatiquement approuvees aux fins d'invalidite
en vertu du regime de la ville et que la commission des pensions n'a pas a rendre de
decision. De plus, il avise que chaque demande exigeait une opinion medicale
independante qui indiquait si I'employe repondait a la definition de la commission en
matiere d'invalidite; et declare que la notion selon laquelle il ne s'agissait que d'une
entente entre un superviseur et un employe etait erronee.
Discutant du nombre d'employes, M. Beckett confirme les remarques du conseiller
Ferguson selon lesquelles, au moment d'approuver les programmes de retraite, il etait
justifie de croire que Ie nombre de gestionnaires et de professionnels allait diminuer,
passant de 83 a 68. Se rapportant a un rapport qu'il a distribue au conseil intitule
Management/Professional Staff, il explique qu'en 2003, I'effectif a decline et qu'on
comptait 69 postes. II affirme que depuis ce temps, des postes ont ete ajoutes,
soulignant que I'ajout de personnel releve du conseil. II poursuit par un examen de ce
rapport qui presente en detailles postes qui ont ete elimines et ceux qui ont ete ajoutes
durant la periode 2003 a 2006. M. Beckett insiste sur Ie fait que dans tous les cas, des
postes n'ont ete ajoutes que sur I'approbation du conseil durant Ie processus budgetaire
annuel et I'approbation subsequente de I'effectif.
En reponse a une question sou levee par Ie conseiller Court, M. Beckett informe
qu'aucune amelioration n'a ete apportee a la rente de retraite des employes en raison du
programme de retraite anticipee et de depart volontaire, soulignant I'existence des
indemnites pour depart volontaire uniques. De plus, il explique qu'au cours d'une
discussion avec I'actuaire du regime, on a suggere que Ie conseil passe en revue
I'evaluation actuarielle realisee en decembre 2003 ou les repercussions financieres
d'employes prenant leur retraite plus tot que prevu dans la derniere evaluation
s'etablissaient a 2,2 millions de dollars. La discussion se poursuit et Ie conseiller Court
exprime son accord avec les points souleves dans la presentation du conseiller
Ferguson.
Le conseiller Chase demande si les avantages des retraites seront reduits si Ie conseil
decide d'apporter des changements; sur ce, M. Beckett repond que leurs avantages sont
proteges en vertu de la Loi sur les prestations de pension. Se rapportant au
commentaire du conseiller Ferguson a I'effet que << les approbations relatives aux rentes
d'invalidite de Saint John sont quatre fois plus elevees que les normes de I'industrie et
que ces rentes equivalent a 80 % du salaire brut d'un employe, les prestataires d'une
rente d'invalidite re~oivent 80 % de leur salaire >>, il demande quel serait Ie montant que
recevrait un employe prestataire d'une rente d'invalidite. En reponse, M. Beckett
explique que la rente d'invalidite maximale qu'une personne peut recevoir equivaut a
60 % de son salaire en fonction du nombre d'annees de service et des annees de
service au moment de I'invalidite. II souligne que Ie regime de retraite fixe un plafond qui
empeche une rente d'invalidite de depasser Ie montant correspondant au maximum des
gains annuels ouvrant droit a pension, comme Ie prevoit Ie regime de retraite.
Se rapportant au rapport de I'avocat municipal qui a ete etudie a la reunion du conseil du
4 juillet, Ie conseiller McGuire demande si Ie conseiller Ferguson a repondu a toutes les
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questions que renferme ce rapport. M. Nugent repond que Ie rapport renferme des
declarations du conseiller Ferguson tenues lors de recentes reunions du conseil qui
permettent, selon lui, de bien comprendre qu'il suggerait que quelque chose n'allait pas
concernant I'exigence visant a financer Ie passif du regime de retraite. II explique qu'en
portant cette situation a I'attention du conseil, il voulait souligner Ie fait qu'il y a eu des
commentaires exprimes qui devaient reposer sur des renseignements, lesquels
n'avaient pas ete fournis avec ses commentaires, soulignant qu'il s'agit d'un enjeu tres
important de la ville, so it I'integrite financiere. II a note que, selon lui, il est important pour
Ie conseil que Ie conseiller Ferguson approfondisse les renseignements sur lesquels il
appuie ses commentaires. L'intention vise a mettre les renseignements qui se cachent
derriere ces commentaires a la disposition du conseil pour qu'illes examine, en discute
et les approfondisse, au besoin, afin de prendre une decision eclairee.
La discussion se poursuit et Ie conseiller Chang fait part de ses inquietudes concernant
les renseignements dont dispose Ie conseil sur cette question et Ie conseiller White est
d'avis qu'il ne peut prendre de decision sur cette question avant de recevoir une reponse
du personnel ou de la commission des pensions en ce qui concerne les contradictions
qui ont ete exprimees ce soir. Parlant en faveur de la presentation du conseiller
Ferguson, Ie conseiller Farren souleve la question du conflit d'interet concernant un
membre de la commission des pensions et insiste sur I'importance de mener un examen
independant pour Ie bien de tous. II avise qu'il n'appuiera aucun changement apporte
aux prestations de retraite ou une hausse de taxes jusqu'a ce qu'un examen
independant soit realise.
La mairesse suppleante Hooton mentionne brievement qu'elle ne voit aucune activite
illegale et s'exprime au sujet des reponses fournies par divers professionnels en
placement qu'elle a questionnes, a savoir si les indemnites pour depart volontaire ont
des repercussions sur la rente de retraite a cet egard, indiquant que la reponse a
toujours ete non.
Le conseiller Tait informe les membres du conseil qu'il a demande un avis juridique a
I'avocat municipal quant a savoir s'il etait en conflit d'interet et a exige que Ie conseiller
Ferguson reponde aux questions suivantes :
1. Votre presentation de diapositives de ce soir est-elle representative du rapport
presente au maire et au conseil dans la trousse de documents presentee au conseille
14 juillet 2006 et conforme a ce rapport? - Le conseiller Ferguson a repondu oui.
2. Le rapport et la presentation susmentionnes respectent-ils I'orientation du conseil et
sont-ils conformes a la resolution? - Le conseiller Ferguson repond que les
renseignements ont ete entierement fournis et que s'ils ne figurent pas dans cette
presentation, ils ont alors ete fournis avant la presentation, dans les medias ou sous un
autre format - vous avez les reponses a toutes les questions.
3. A vez-vous fourni des exemples concrets de sources professionnelles et fiables de
renseignements concrets pour appuyer les declarations que vous avez faites, comme Ie
mentionne I'avocat municipal, John Nugent? Le conseiller Ferguson repond que ce sont
les faits, qu'ils sont graves et qu'il faut tenir une enquete - oui.
Le conseiller Titus s'exprime en faveur de la suggestion du conseiller White pour que
cette question soit transmise au personnel et a la commission des pensions afin
d'obtenir une reponse. Ensuite, il insiste sur ses preoccupations relatives aux
commentaires qu'a exprime Ie conseiller Ferguson au cours de sa presentation,
particulierement en ce qui concerne la question de I'invalidite.
Proposition du conseiller Tait
Appuyee par Ie conseiller McGuire
RESOLU que I'avocat municipal, John Nugent, soit
charge d'evaluer les renseignements fournis en ayant pour objectif d'examiner sa propre
lettre presentee au conseil qui comprend la resolution adoptee par Ie conseil, datee du
28 juin 2006, concernant Ie devoir d'agir dans Ie meilleur interet des citoyens,
accompagnee de la reponse, du rapport et de la presentation du conseiller Ferguson.
Cette resolution est adoptee et com porte les dispositions inherentes suivantes - durant
I'examen, I'avocat municipal, qui dispose de toute I'aide qu'il juge necessaire, traitera
precisement des elements cles suivants : 1) une decision rendue par un professionnel
quant a savoir si Ie conseiller Ferguson s'est, en effet, conforme a la resolution enoncee
dans Ie rapport de I'avocat municipal presente au conseil visant a agir dans Ie meilleur
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interet des citoyens; 2) la validation ou Ie rejet, en tout ou en partie, des renseignements
fournis par Ie conseiller Ferguson, dont I'inclusion de motifs justifiant la validation ou Ie
rejet. L'etendue de I'examen vise a couvrir les commentaires et les renseignements
contenus dans Ie rapport du conseiller Ferguson presente au conseil et la presentation
de diapositives qui constitue sa reponse a la resolution du conseil a la suite de la
presentation du rapport de I'avocat au conseil. II faut etablir que Ie conseiller Ferguson a
fourni des renseignements objectifs et concrets denues de to ute perception et
insinuation par des tiers.
La mairesse suppleante Hooton demande combien de temps il faudrait a I'avocat
municipal pour repondre a la resolution susmentionnee. M. Nugent declare ne pas
comprendre entierement la motion et affirme, selon lui, que Ie conseil connait des
difficultes avec Ie manque de renseignements qui appuieraient les commentaires qui ont
ete exprimes par Ie conseiller Ferguson au fil du temps. II a indique que des questions
ont ete sou levees dans la presentation concernant I'administration des allocations
d'invalidite du regime de retraite, Ie cout du programme de retraite anticipe et de depart
volontaire pour Ie regime de retraite et les erreurs dans les etats financiers. M. Nugent
affirme que pour regler ce probleme, Ie conseil est tenu d'examiner les renseignements
qui se rapportent a ces questions pour en prendre ensuite une decision, a savoir s'il vaut
la peine ou non de les poursuivre, et fait la suggestion suivante : I'administration de
I'invalidite soit retournee a la commission des pensions afin d'obtenir une reponse; Ie
cout du programme de retraite anticipe et de depart volontaire soit transfere au
commissaire aux finances et au directeur general, de meme que la question des erreurs
dans les etats financiers. Sur reception de ces reponses, Ie conseil pourra alors
determiner s'il dispose d'une explication complete et sensee pour chacun de ces points
et s'il est satisfait des reponses, il passera une resolution a cet effet et il ne sera pas
necessaire de poursuivre la question. Si les reponses ne sont pas satisfaisantes, il sera
alors possible de poursuivre la question.
Se rapportant aux commentaires de I'avocat municipal selon lesquels il ne comprend
pas la resolution proposee, Ie conseiller Tait informe qu'il ne veut pas causer davantage
de confusion au conseil et retire sa proposition, avec Ie consentement de la personne
qui I'a appuyee.
M. Woods suggere qu'il serait bon d'obtenir une reponse du conseil relativement aux
inquietudes sou levees et fait la proposition suivante : que Ie cout des indemnites pour
invalidite en ce qui concerne les approbations; Ie nombre de personnes qui re~oivent
des prestations; Ie montant de ces prestations et la possibilite qu'une reclamation
d'assurance en rapport avec certaines opinions medicales ait ete re~ue ou non soit
transmis a la commission des pensions afin d'obtenir une reponse; que les
repercussions financieres sur la retraite anticipee relativement aux modifications
apportees a I'effectif et a la situation financiere du regime de retraite au moment ou Ie
regime de retraite anticipe a cree en 2002 - 2003 soient transmises au directeur general
et au tresorier; que la difference figurant dans les notes afferentes aux etats financiers
de I'ordre de 3,4 - 3,8 millions de dollars soit transmise au directeur afin d'obtenir une
reponse; que I'inscription du montant de remboursement de la dette (difference entre Ie
montant prevu au budget et Ie montant actuel figurant dans les etats financiers - une
difference de 600 000 $) so it transmise au directeur general.
Se rapportant a un commentaire exprime durant la presentation concernant Ie fait que Ie
groupe de gestion approuve ses propres salaires et promotions, M. Woods explique que
les membres du groupe ne procedent pas a I'etablissement de leur propre salaire et ils
n'etablissent pas leur propre promotion. II informe Ie conseil que Ie directeur general
recommande au conseil d'examiner la possibilite de recourir a une echelle salariale et
suggere que I'avocat municipal reponde aux commentaires relatifs aux conflits d'interet
et a la question de I'acces a des conseils d'experts. M. Woods informe les membres du
conseil que tous sont prets et desireux d'offrir les renseignements exiges.
M. Woods s'exprime brievement sur les questions de pension qui ont ete presentees,
indiquant qu'elles ont ete transmises aux professionnels respectifs des questions de
pension afin d'obtenir une reponse et un seminaire sera donne au conseil, accompagne
des reponses ecrites qui ont ete presentees avant la presente seance.
Proposition de la mairesse suppleante Hooton
Appuyee par Ie conseiller White
RESOLU que les reponses appropriees de la part
de la commission des pensions, du directeur general, du tresorier et de I'avocat
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municipal soient fournies au conseil comme suit:
1. Le cout des indemnites pour invalidite, particulierement en ce qui concerne les
autorisations, Ie nombre de personnes qui re~oivent des prestations, Ie montant de ces
prestations et la possibilite qu'une reclamation d'assurance en rapport avec certaines
opinions medicales ait ete re~ue ou non so it transmis a la commission des pensions afin
d'obtenir une reponse.
2. Les repercussions financieres sur la retraite anticipee, particulierement en ce qui
concerne les modifications apportees a I'effectif et a la situation financiere du regime de
retraite au moment ou Ie regime de retraite anticipe a ete cree en 2002 - 2003 soient
transmises au directeur general et au tresorier.
3. La difference figurant dans les notes afferentes aux etats financiers 2004 - 2006
concernant Ie cout des retraites anticipees so it transmise au directeur general.
4. L'inscription du montant de remboursement de la dette (difference entre Ie
montant prevu au budget et Ie montant actuel figurant dans les etats financiers - une
difference de 600 000 $) so it transmise au directeur general.
5. Le commentaire relatif au conflit d'interet et a la question de I'acces a des
conseils d'experts so it transmis a I'avocat municipal.
Le conseiller Ferguson est d'avis que les questions sou levees sont posees depuis deux
ans et declare que la recommandation proposee est insuffisante. II affirme qu'il s'agit
d'une question serieuse et qu'il faut tenir une enquete approfondie et independante.
Les conseillers Chang et Titus indiquent qu'ils ne peuvent appuyer la proposition,
affirmant que c'est une perte de temps. Le conseiller Chang suggere qu'on donne plus
de temps au conseiller Ferguson pour qu'il presente d'autres questions. Le conseiller
Farren indique qu'il n'appuiera pas la proposition, car elle ne fera pas avancer Ie conseil
et demande qu'on mene un examen independant. Le conseiller Court declare que, selon
lui, Ie conseiller Ferguson croit avoir repondu aux questions du conseil et, d'apres ces
renseignements, il veut qu'un examen independant so it effectue.
Le maire McFarlane remercie Ie conseiller Ferguson pour sa presentation, notant qu'illui
a demande s'il s'agissait de son rapport complet, ce qu'il a confirme.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee, les conseillers Chang, Court,
Farren, Ferguson et Titus ayant vote contre la proposition.
(Le maire annonce une pause de cinq minutes, apres quoi la reunion du conseil reprend
a 21 h 05).
14.1 Michael Haynes - Condition of Sidewalk - Manawagonish Road
On motion of Councillor Court
Seconded by Councillor Farren
RESOLVED that the letter from Michael Haynes
expressing concern with regard to the condition of the sidewalk at 1852 Manawagonish
Road, be received for information.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
14.1 Michael Haynes - Etat du trottoir du chemin Manawagonish
Proposition du conseiller Court
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Farren
RESOLU que la lettre de Michael Haynes
exprimant ses inquietudes relatives a I'etat du trottoir situe au 1852, chemin
Manawagonish soit acceptee a titre informatif.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
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14.2 Paul Russell re Condition of Intersections - Loch Lomond Road
On motion of Councillor Court
Seconded by Councillor Farren
RESOLVED that the letter from Paul Russell
regarding the condition of intersections on Loch Lomond Road, be received for
information.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
14.2 Paul Russell - Etat des intersections du chemin Loch Lomond
Proposition du conseiller Court
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Farren
RESOLU que la lettre de Paul Russell relative a
I'etat des intersections du chemin Loch Lomond soit acceptee a titre informatif.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
15. General Correspondence
15.1 Saint John West Business Association Inc. - Invitation to Parade
On motion of Councillor Titus
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Hooton
RESOLVED that the letter from Saint John West
Business Association Inc. inviting Council members to attend the N.B. Day Parade on
August 7, 2006, be received for information.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
15. Correspondance generale
15.1 nvitation de la Saint John West Business Association Inc. a la parade
Proposition du conseiller Titus
Appuyee par la mairesse suppleante Hooton
QUE la lettre de la Saint John West Business
Association invitant les membres du conseil a assister au defile du jour du Nouveau-
Brunswick Ie 7 aout 2006 soit acceptee a titre informatif.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
15.2 NB Conservation Council Request for Signage at Tucker Park Beach
On motion of Councillor White
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Hooton
RESOLVED that the letter from the NB
Conservation Council requesting that the signage at Tucker Park Beach be replaced on
the road and beach, be referred to the City Manager.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
15.2 Demande du Conseil de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick relative a la
signalisation a la plage du parc Tucker
Proposition du conseiller White
Appuyee par la mairesse suppleante Hooton
RESOLU que la lettre du Conseil de conservation
du Nouveau-Brunswick demandant que la signalisation a la plage du parc Tucker soit
remplacee sur la route et a la plage soit transmise au directeur general.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
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15.3 NB Historical Society re Expansion of Martello Tower
On motion of Councillor Titus
Seconded by Deputy Mayor Hooton
RESOLVED that Council send a letter of
appreciation to the Federal Government for providing for the enhancement of one of
Canada's National Historic Sites - Martello Tower.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Chase
Seconded by Councillor Titus
RESOLVED that item 12.0 - Lease negotiations for
the City Hall Building be brought forward for consideration at this time.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
15.3 Societe historique du Nouveau-Brunswick - Agrandissement de la tour
Martello
Proposition du conseiller Titus
Appuyee par la mairesse suppleante Hooton
RESOLU que Ie conseil envoie une lettre de
remerciements au gouvernement federal pour avoir permis I'agrandissement d'un des
lieux historiques nationaux du Canada - la tour Martello.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
Proposition du conseiller Chase
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Titus
RESOLU que Ie point nO 12.0 - Negociations
relatives au bail de I'edifice de l'h6tel de ville soit examine des maintenant.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
12. Business Matters - Municipal Officers
12.0 Lease Negotiations City Hall
On motion of Councillor Chase
Seconded by Councillor White
RESOLVED that as recommended by the City
Manager, the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the submitted LOI with
the Se-Fish Associates Limited and 058854 N.B. Ltd. with respect to the City of Saint
John's tenancy in what is commonly referred to as "The City Hall Building".
A brief discussion followed with Paul Moore of CB Richard Ellis responding to questions
concerning the lease negotiations.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
On motion of Councillor Titus
Seconded by Councillor McGuire
RESOLVED that the City Manager be authorized to carry
out required renovations to the Red Room on the 8th Floor.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
12. Affaires municipales evoquees par les fonctionnaires municipaux
12.0 Negociations relatives au bail conclu avec l'h6tel de ville
Proposition du conseiller Chase
Appuyee par Ie conseiller White
RESOLU que, comme Ie recommande Ie directeur
general, Ie maire et Ie greffier communal soient autorises a signer la lettre d'intention
presentee a Se-Fish Associates Limited et a 058854 N.B. Ltd. concernant la location de
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The City of Saint John de ce qu'on appelle communement << I'edifice de l'h6tel de ville >>.
Une breve discussion s'ensuit et Paul Moore de CB Richard Ellis repond aux questions
concernant les negociations relatives au bail.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
Proposition du conseiller Titus
Appuyee par Ie conseiller McGuire
RESOLU que Ie directeur general so it autorise a effectuer
les renovations necessaires a la salle rouge au 8e etage.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
8. DelegationslPresentations
8.1 Active Transportation Saint John
Referring to his submitted presentation, James McMillin, of Active Transportation Saint
John, explained they are a non-profit un-incorporated group which advocates the
development of urban cycling routes and multi-use pathways within the City of Saint
John. Referring to the proposed land route for the LNG pipeline, he commented on how
this route offers the City an opportunity to develop trail infrastructure that will move the
City ahead making it a Trail Destination.
Mr. McMillin responded to questions regarding his presentation and during the
discussion Councillor Chang proposed a motion that this matter be referred to the
Recreation Advisory Committee. Following a suggestion by Mayor McFarlane that staff
should review this issue, Councillor Chang withdrew his motion.
On motion of Councillor Farren
Seconded by Councillor Chang
RESOLVED that the presentation by Active
Transportation Saint John, be referred to the City Manager.
Councillor Chase noted this is not an endorsement of the northern route above
Rockwood Park, but rather if an opportunity permits as the pipeline is constructed the
City can look for opportunities to include bicycle trails.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
A motion was proposed that the meeting proceed past 10:00 p.m. to consider the
following agenda items, 8.2, 12.4, 12.5, 12.6, 12.7, 12.8 and 12.12. After a brief
discussion it was agreed to consider items 8.2 and 12.8 only this evening, past 10:00
p.m. and the remaining agenda items would be considered when Council reconvened on
Tuesday evening, July 18th at 4:30 p.m.
On motion of Councillor Court
Seconded by Councillor Farren
RESOLVED that the Council meeting proceed past
10:00 p.m. to consider item 8.2 - Presentation by Patricia Higgins regarding Proposed
Brunswick Pipeline and 12.8 - Request to Build Cottage on Kelly Lake and Council
reconvene on Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. to consider the remaining agenda
items.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
8. Delegations et presentations
8.1 Active Transportation Saint John
Se rapportant a la presentation qu'il a soumise, James McMillin de Active Transportation
Saint John explique qu'il represente un groupe a but non lucratif sans personnalite
morale qui preconise I'amenagement de pistes cyclables urbaines et de voies d'acces a
usages multiples dans The City of Saint John. Se rapportant au trace terrestre propose
du pipeline de gaz naturelliquefie, il parle de I'occasion que ce trace offre a la Ville
d'amenager une infrastructure de sentiers qui permettrait a la ville de prosperer pour en
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faire une destination sentiers.
M. McMillin repond aux questions concernant sa presentation et durant la discussion, Ie
conseiller Chang presente une proposition pour que cette question soit transmise au
Comite consultatif des loisirs. A la suite d'une suggestion du maire McFarlane selon
laquelle Ie personnel devrait examiner cette question, Ie conseiller Chang a retire sa
proposition.
Proposition du conseiller Farren
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Chang
RESOLU que la presentation de Active
Transportation Saint John so it transmise au directeur general.
Le conseiller Chase souligne qu'il ne s'agit pas d'un appui consenti a la route nord
au-dela du parc Rockwood, mais plut6t d'une reconnaissance que si les circonstances Ie
permettent, la ville peut explorer les occasions d'inclure des pistes cyclables a mesure
que sera amenage Ie pipeline.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
Une proposition est presentee pour que la reunion se poursuive apres 22 h afin
d'examiner les points 8.2, 12.4, 12.5, 12.6, 12.7, 12.8 et 12.12 a I'ordre du jour. Apres
une breve discussion, les membres conviennent de n'examiner que les points 8.2 et
12.8 ce soir, apres 22 h et les points qui restent a I'ordre du jour seront examines
lorsque la reunion du conseil reprendra mardi soir, Ie 18 juillet a 16 h 30.
Proposition du conseiller Court
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Farren
RESOLU que la reunion du conseil se poursuive
apres 22 h afin d'examiner les points 8.2 - Presentation de Patricia Higgins concernant
Ie projet de gazoduc Brunswick et Ie point 12.8 - Demande de construction d'un chalet
au lac Kelly et que la reunion du conseil reprenne Ie mardi 18 juillet 2006 a 16 h 30 pour
examiner les points qui restent a I'ordre du jour.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
8.2 Patricia Higgins - Proposed (Emera) Brunswick Pipeline
Referring to her submitted presentation, Ms. Higgins of 80 Daniel Avenue, reviewed her
concerns with regard to the proposed Brunswick Pipeline. She concluded her
presentation citing numerous reasons why City staff should become involved in this
matter.
(Mayor McFarlane withdrew from the meeting and Deputy Mayor Hooton
assumed the Chair.)
8.2 Patricia Higgins sur Ie projet de gazoduc (Emera) Brunswick
Se rapportant a la presentation qu'elle a soumise, Mme Higgins, residant au 80, avenue
Daniel, passe en revue ses inquietudes concernant Ie projet de gazoduc Brunswick. Elle
conclut sa presentation en invoquant plusieurs raisons pour lesquelles les employes
municipaux doivent s'engager sur cette question.
(Le maire McFarlane quitte la reunion et la mairesse suppleante Hooton
assume la presidence.)
12.8 Request to Build Cottage - Kelly Lake
On motion of Councillor White
Seconded by Councillor Tait
RESOLVED that as recommended by the City
Manager, the application of Mike McGraw to build a cottage on Kelly Lake not be
approved.
Mr. Nugent explained that if this application was approved by Council, Mr. McGraw has
indicated that he would not hold the City at fault for not being able to reach his lot with
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emergency vehicles. He explained that Council needs to be aware that Mr. McGraw may
not always own the property and commented regarding potential liability if someone else
owns the site and requires emergency service.
During discussion Councillors expressed support for a referral motion to explore any
other options that may be available to protect the City and allow Mr. McGraw to build the
cottage.
On motion of Councillor Tait
Seconded by Councillor Titus
RESOLVED that the application of Mike McGraw to
build a cottage on Kelly Lake be referred to the City Solicitor to determine if there is a
way for the applicant to proceed, and to protect the City from any liability; and a policy be
developed with regard to this type of property usage if in the event the City Solicitor finds
an acceptable way to proceed.
Question being taken, the motion was carried.
(Mayor McFarlane re-entered the meeting and assumed the Chair, advising that he
withdrew from the meeting expressing the opinion that he was in a conflict of interest
with the above matter.)
12.8 Demande de construction d'un chalet au lac Kelly
Proposition du conseiller White
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Tait
RESOLU que, comme Ie recommande Ie directeur
general, la demande de Mike McGraw visant a construire un chalet au lac Kelly ne soit
pas approuvee.
M. Nugent explique que si cette demande etait approuvee par Ie conseil, M. McGraw a
indique qu'il ne tiendrait pas la ville responsable si des vehicules d'urgence n'arrivaient
pas a se rendre sur son terrain. II explique que Ie conseil do it realiser que M. McGraw ne
sera peut-etre pas toujours proprietaire du terrain et parle de la responsabilite potentielle
si une autre personne est proprietaire du site et necessite des services d'urgence.
Durant la discussion, les conseillers expriment leur appui a une motion de renvoi pour
explorer d'autres options qui pourraient s'offrir afin de proteger la ville et de permettre a
M. McGraw de construire son chalet.
Proposition du conseiller Tait
Appuyee par Ie conseiller Titus
RESOLU que la demande de Mike McGraw visant
a construire un chalet au lac Kelly soit transmise a I'avocat municipal afin de determiner
s'il existe une fa~on pour Ie requerant d'aller de I'avant et de proteger la ville de toute
responsabilite; et qu'une politique so it elaboree en ce qui a trait a ce type d'utilisation de
la propriete, advenant que I'avocat municipal trouve une fa~on acceptable de proceder.
A I'issue du vote, la proposition est adoptee.
(Le maire McFarlane se joint a nouveau a la reunion et en assume la presidence,
indiquant qu'il a quitte la reunion parce que, selon lui, il etait en conflit d'interet avec la
question susmentionnee.)
16. Adjournment
The Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m. to reconvene at
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 18, 2006.
16. Cloture de la reunion
Le maire declare que la seance est levee a 22 h 30 et qu'elle reprendra a
16 h 30 Ie mardi 18 juillet 2006.
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Mayor/maire
Common Clerk/greffier communal