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2005-03-14_Agenda Packet_OpenCOMMON COUNCIL AGENDA - March 14, 2005 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING 1. 4:30 p.m. — Call to Order 2. 4:30 p.m. Michel Carrier Official Languages 3. Nominating Committee 10.2(4)(b) 4. Municipal Tax Regime 10.2(4)(c,f) REGULAR MEETING 1.1 6:00 p.m. - Call to Order — Prayer 1.2 Approval of Minutes (February 28, 2004) 1.3 Approval of Agenda 1.4 Members Comments PRESENTATIONS 2.1 6:15 p.m. Preservation By -law Review Committee Report 2.2 7:00 p.m. Canadian Cancer Society - Daffodil Campaign PUBLIC HEARINGS 4.1 7:00 p.m. (a) Proposed Zoning By -law Amendment of a parcel of land with an area of approximately 411 square metres, located at 233 Britain Street, also identified as being PID Number 1313, from "RM -IF" Multiple Residential Infill to "IL -1" Neighbourhood Institutional classification (b) Report from Planning Advisory Committee recommending the proposed re- zoning amendment 4.2 7:00 p.m. (a)(b) Proposed Municipal Plan & Zoning By -law Amendments of parcel of land with an area of approximately 9.8 hectares (24.2 acres), located at 2260 Loch Lomond Road, (being a portion of PID Number 00327106) and by re- designating the same parcel of land on Schedule 9A of the Plan, from Stage 2 to Unstaged classification, and by re- zoning a parcel of land with an area of approximately 33 hectares (82 acres) located at 2260 Loch Lomond Road and 475 Latimore Lake Road, also identified as being PID No. 00327106 from "RS -1" One and Two Family Suburban Residential and "RS -1 M" One and Two Family and Mobile Home Suburban Residential to "RR" One Family Rural Residential classification (c) Report from Planning Advisory Committee recommending the proposed re- zoning amendment 4.3 7:00 p.m. (a)(b) Proposed Municipal Plan & Zoning By -law Amendments by re- designating an area of land involving sixteen properties having an approximate area of 18 hectares (44.5 acres), located at 1295 -1711 Sandy Point Road, also identified as being PID Nos. 55008940, 00051375, 00051367, 00051342, 00051334, 00432781, 55019772, 00051326, 55058556, and 00051821, as well as portions of PID Nos. 00052548, 55059125, 55059091, 55059034, 55059026, and 00418129, from Open Space to Low Density Residential classification, and by re- zoning the same sixteen properties from "P" Park to "RAK One Family Residential. (c) Report from Planning Advisory Committee recommending the proposed re- zoning amendments CITY MANAGER 5.1 Contract 2004 -19 - Update on Interconnection of East & West Saint John Water Systems 5.2 Proposed Purchase of Trackless Model MT5 Sidewalk Units 5.3 Rebuild of Olympia Ice Resurfacer 5.4 Tender for Traffic Paint 5.5 Acquisition of Property - McLaren's Beach 5.6 Water & Sewerage Billings 5.7 Request to Meet with Council - March 21, 2005 5.8 Sale of PID No. 55059075 - Sandy Point Rd. 5.9 Public Hearing Date - 100 Mountain View Drive. 5.10 Sale of Stopped -up and Closed Road in the Drury Cove Area COUNCIL MEMBERS 6.1 Proposed By -law Change - Lot Size and Sewerage (Councillor Court) 6.2 Proposed Interest Free Loan Program & Request for Update on Monthly Water Payments (Councillor Court) 6.3 Proposed Admin. Assistant for Immigration Strategy (Councillor Chang) 6.4 Federation of Canadian Municipalities Meeting (Councillor White) 6.5 Inclusive Cities Canada Project - Request to Brief Council on March 29, 2005 (Councillor White) 6.6 Proposed Statue to Honor Saint John's Loyalist Heritage (Councillor Chase) 6.7 Pension Deficit Working Group Update (Councillor Farren) 6.8 Proposed Streamlining of Agenda (Councillor Titus) 6.9 Fundy Region Solid Waste - Kyoto Protocol (Councillor Titus) 6.10 Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund Submission Process (Councillor McGuire) CITY SOLICITOR 7.1 Operational Review Project - Operational Review Steering Committee COMMITTEES /COMMISSIONS 9.1 Committee of the Whole Report - Management Salaries 9.2 Planning Advisory Committee Recommending Subdivision Assent - 1965 Sandy Point Rd. GENERAL 10.1 Letter from Eric Teed Regarding Membership on Board of Governors UNBSJ 10.2 Letter from Multicultural Assoc. Regarding Atlantic Immigration Conference 10.3 Letter from Walter & Elizabeth Cann Regarding Heritage Home Designation 10.4 Letter from Jeff Sparks Proposing Paid Parking Spaces on Prince William St. 10.5 Letter from S. Bury with Questions on Water Meters 10.6 Letter from River Valley Archery Club Requesting $10,000. for Canadian National Championships 10.7 Request of CUPE Locals 18, 61, 486 and IAFF Local 771 to Present to Council on March 14/05 10.8 Request of Richard Merzetti to Present to Council 10.9 Letter from Kenneth and Barbara Johnson Objecting to Water Meters 10.10 Letter from Patricia Dashwood & Petition Objecting to Water Meters (Petition available in Clerk's Office) 10.11 Request of Fran Oliver to Present to Council Regarding Crane Mountain Landfill Operations � a REUNION DU CONSEIL COMMUNAL ORDRE DU JOUR DE LA REUNION DU 14 MARS 2005 REUNION EN COMITE PLENIER 1. 16 h 30 - Ouverture de la reunion 2. 16 h 30 Michel Carrier relativement aux langues officielles 3. Comite des candidatures 10.2(4)b) 4. Regime fiscal municipal 10.2(4)(c,f) REUNION ORDINAIRE 1.1 18 h - Ouverture de la reunion, suivie de la priere 1.2 Approbation du proces- verbal (28 fevrier 2004) 1.3 Adoption de I'ordre du jour 1.4 Commentaires presentes par les membres PRESENTATIONS 2.1 18 h 15 Presentation du rapport formule par le Comite sur 1'etude des arretes 2.2 19 h Societe canadienne du cancer relativement a la campagne des jonquilles AUDIENCES PUBLIQUES 4.1 19 h a) Modification proposee a I'arrete sur le zonage relativement a une parcelle de terrain d'une superficie d'environ 411 metres carres, situee au 233, rue Britain, portant le NID 1313, afin de faire passer la designation s'y rapportant de zone d'edification de logements multiples sur terrain intercalaire « RM -lF » a zone de quartier a vocation collective « IL -1 >>. b) Rapport du Comite consultatif d'urbanisme recommandant d'apporter la modification au zonage 4.2 19 h a)b) Modifications proposees au plan municipal et a I'arrete sur le zonage relativement a une parcelle de terrain d'une superficie d'environ 9,8 hectares (24,2 acres), situee au 2260, chemin Loch Lomond (une partie du terrain portant le NID 00327106) et modification de la designation de la meme parcelle de terrain, delimitee a I'annexe 9A du plan, afin de modifier la classification phase 2 a phase non determinee, et rezonage d'une parcelle de terrain d'une superficie d'environ 33 hectares (82 acres), situee au 2260, chemin Loch Lomond et au 475, chemin Latimore Lake, portant le NID 00327106, afin de faire passer la designation de zone residentielle de banlieue — habitations unifamiliales et bifamiliales « RS -1 » et de zone residentielle de banlieue — habitations unifamiliales, bifamiliales et maisons mobiles « RS -1 M » a zone r6sidentielle rurale — habitations unifamiliales « RR ». c) Rapport du Comite consultatif d'urbanisme recommandant d'apporter la modification au zonage 4.3 19 h a)b) Modification proposee au plan municipal et a I'arret6 sur le zonage visant a modifier la designation d'une parcelle de terrain composee de seize proprietes, d'une superficie d'environ 18 hectares (44,5 acres), situee au 1295 -1711, chemin Sandy Point, portant les NID 55008940, 00051375, 00051367, 00051342, 00051334, 00432781, 55019772, 00051326, 55058556 et 00051821 ainsi que des parties des NID 00052548, 55059125, 55059091, 55059034, 55059026 et 00418129, afin de faire passer la designation s'y rapportant de zone d'espaces libres a zone residentielle a faible densite, et le rezonage dudit terrain afin de le faire passer de zone de parc « P » a zone residentielle — habitations unifamiliales « R -1A » . c) Rapport du Comite consultatif d'urbanisme recommandant d'apporter les modifications au zonage DIRECTEUR GENERAL 5.1 Contrat no 2004 -19 — Mise a jour relative au raccordement des reseaux d'aqueduc et d'egouts des secteurs est et ouest 5.2 Acquisition prevue d'un tracteur a trottoir de marque MT Trackless MT5 5.3 Remise a neuf de la resurfaceuse Olympia 5.4 Soumission relative a la peinture routiere 5.5 Acquisition de biens -fonds situes a McLaren's Beach 5.6 Facturation du service d'aqueduc et d'egouts 5.7 Demande de presentation devant le conseil le 21 mars 2005 5.8 Vente d'une parcelle de terrain portant le NID 55059075 situee sur le chemin Sandy Point 5.9 Date d'audience publique visant le 100, promenade Mountain View 5.10 Vente d'une route fermee et barree dans la region de Drury Cove MEMBRES DU CONSEIL 6.1 Modification proposee a I'arrete relativement aux dimensions de lots et aux egouts (conseiller Court) 6.2 Proposition d'un programme relatif aux prets libres d'interet et demande de mise a jour relativement aux paiements mensuels pour les services d'eau (conseiller Court) 6.3 Proposition relative a un adjoint administratif pour la strategie d'immigration (conseiller Chang) 6.4 Reunion de la Federation canadienne des municipalites (conseiller White) 6.5 Demande d'aviser le Conseil relativement au projet visant les villes inclusives au Canada, le 29 mars 2005 (conseiller White) 6.6 Statue proposee afin d'honorer le patrimoine de nature loyaliste de Saint John (conseiller Chase) 6.7 Mise a jour du groupe de travail sur le deficit de la caisse de retraite (conseiller Farren) 6.8 Simplification proposee a I'ordre du jour (conseiller Titus) 6.9 Matieres usees solides de la region de Fundy par rapport au protocols de Kyoto (conseiller Titus) 6.10 Processus de soumission visant le fonds d'infrastructure rurale municipale (conseiller McGuire) AVOCAT MUNICIPAL 7.1 Projet de revision operationnelle, Comite directeur de 1'examen operationnel COMITES ET COMMISSIONS 9.1 Rapport du Comite plenier relativement aux salaires des gestionnaires 9.2 Comite consultatif d'urbanisme recommandant le consentement de lotissement relativement au 1965, chemin Sandy Point GENERALITES 10.1 Lettre presentee par Eric Teed relative a I'adhesion au conseil des gouverneurs de I'Universite du Nouveau - Brunswick a Saint John 10.2 Lettre reque de I'Association multiculturelle relative au congres sur l'immigration dans les provinces atlantiques 10.3 Lettre reque de Walter et Elizabeth Cann relative a la designation d'une residence en tant que site patrimonial 10.4 Lettre reque de Jeff Sparks proposant le stationnement gratuit sur la rue Prince William 10.5 Lettre reque de S. Bury soulevant des questions relatives aux compteurs d'eau 10.6 Lettre de demande de financement au montant de 10 000 $ reque du club de tir a I'arc River Valley en vue du championnat national canadien 10.7 Demandes reques des sections locales 18, 61 et 486 du SUP et 771 de I'IAFF visant a se presenter devant le conseil le 14 mars 2005 10.8 Demande reque de Richard Merzetti visant a se presenter devant le conseil 10.9 Lettre reque de Kenneth et Barbara Johnson se pronongant contre les compteurs d'eau 10.10 Lettre et petition reques de Patricia Dashwood se pronongant contre les compteurs d'eau (petition disponible au bureau du greffier communal) 10.11 Demande reque de Fran Oliver visant a se presenter devant le conseil relativement aux operations du site d'enfouissement de la montagne Crane MAR -01 —OS 11:48 FROM:CDN CAN SOCIETY NB ID:SOSS34S722 A Canadian Cancer Society March 1, 2005 Elizabeth Fax- 674 -4214 ]dear Elizabeth, Societe canadienne du cancer The Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Campaign is fast approaching_ "Volunteers are hard at work calling throughout the city taking orders for the special flower. Each year the Canadian Cancer Society, along with a cancer survivor looks forward to making a presentation of a bouquet of Daffodils to the Mayor and council at an open meeting. I would like to suggest March 14, 2005 for this presentation. The Canadian Cancer Society on behalf of all survivors thanks you for your past support. I would like to thank you in advance for this time enabling us to present to the Mayor and council_ Sincerely, Charlene Mayes Manager Southern District PAGE 2i NEW BFXNSWICI%DIVLS(ON SGUMUMN DISTRICT Affiliated with The National Cancer Inativi'm of Canada 133 Prince William St, Suite 203 P.O. Box M9 Saint John, NB E2L 3175 Tclepbotie OW) 6W.,ZT7 Fax (506) 634-6722 Cancer Information Service I- U&939.3333 cancerconnoo6on 14800.263 -6750 Smol: s Relpline 1- 877 - 513 -3333 c: -.nbFEnD.caaccr.ca www.cancer.ca Allan Pcodn.-.;Lxt, Fic3idcm Amts McTiem m- Gambk. Bxecutive Director DIVISION DU NOOVEAU- BRUNSWICK DISTRICT DE SUD Affilii 1,1AWtur national du cormw do Canada 133, ran Prince William, bureau 203 C.P. 2489 Saint John (N...'9.) F? REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL AI M & C 2005 -77 March 8, 2005 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Members of Council, SUBJECT City of Saint John Contract 2004 -19: Interconnection of the East and West Saint John Water Systems "Iftt ll�" The purpose of this report is to update Council on the status of the Interconnection of the East and West Saint John Water Systems project. BACKGROUND Construction for the Interconnection of the East and West Saint John Water Systems project was awarded to Fairville Construction Ltd. on January 17, 2005 (M &C 2005 -11). The project includes the installation of 3 new PRV stations and a new water transmission main on Main Street West and Lancaster Avenue. It is anticipated that construction will begin in April of 2005 and continue until October 2005. This is a major project that will impact the local area during construction. It is for this reason that staff have decided to hold a Public Information Session to allow local residents and other interested parties an opportunity to view project design drawings and to have representatives from the City of Saint John and the design consultant, CBCL Consulting Engineers Ltd., available to explain the project and answer any questions. M & C 2005 -77 March 8, 2005 Page 2 ANALYSIS An advertisement for the Public Information Session will be in the Saint John Telegraph Journal on Saturday March 12, 2005 and Monday March 14, 2005. A copy of the advertisement for the Public Information Session has been attached. The Public Information Session is scheduled for Wednesday March 16, 2005, from 2 -4 pm and 6 -8 pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd Hall on Manawagonish Road. Also attached is a copy of an Information Notice that will be distributed to residents and businesses in the Main Street West and Lancaster Avenue areas on Thursday March 10, 2005. This report is being provided for the information of Council and to extend an invitation for Council to attend the Public Information Session. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that this report be received and filed. ID-speek submitted, r r J. M. Paul Groody, P. Eng. Terrence L. Totten, F.C.A. Commissioner, City Manager Municipal Operations & Engineering 'fin REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C — 2005 -81 9 March 2005 His Worship Norman McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Trackless Model MT5 Sidewalk Units BACKGROUND: As a part of the Fleet Replacement Program for 2004, staff identified the need to replace an existing Trackless MT5 sidewalk unit that had reached the end of it's economically viable life. Tenders were called with only one company responding. This was not unexpected by staff as there is only one authorized dealer for this type of equipment in the Maritimes. Due to a freeze on purchases imposed by the City Manager in late 2004, staff could not bring this tender forward to Council until 2005. This was done in late January with Council awarding the tender to Saunders Equipment Ltd., in the amount of $75,000.00 plus tax. In preparation for the 2005 vehicle replacement program staff was made aware that Council had approved increasing the fleet with the addition of two more sidewalk units. This information became public knowledge and in mid February staff was presented with an unsolicited proposal which would provide the opportunity for the City to purchase as many as 4 Trackless MT5 sidewalk units at a reduced cost. The manufacturer of this equipment has been attempting to break into the European market. As a part of that initiative, the manufacturer had sent 4 units to Sweden that were to be used as demonstrators. These units, each of which has a very low reading on the hour meter, were being returned to Canada for resale. h PAGE TWO BACKGROUND... Cont'd; The manufacturer arranged, through his Ontario distributor, to take possession of the equipment upon its return to Canada and to arrange for resale. This resulted in an unsolicited proposal being made to the City of Saint John by the distributor's branch operation in Halifax. Up until now the branch operation in Halifax had not advised staff that they could bid on, nor supply used Trackless units. Staff being aware that two of these units are to be added to the fleet this year and wishing to take advantage of this opportunity, reviewed future fleet replacements and determined that two more of these units are scheduled for replacement in the near future. Staff had to react quickly, given the prices quoted, in order to have any opportunity to take advantage of this offer. Since staff do not have the authority to approve purchases over the City Managers signing authority, ie; $25,000.00, it was impossible, without Council approval to guarantee to the supplier that the City could and would take advantage of the offer. As well, staff are reluctant to accept any offer without first inspecting the equipment, these are after all 4 year old machines and as such, should not be purchased sight unseen. As your Purchasing Agent and given the conditions stated, I did all I could to ensure the City retained first right to refusal of this offer. I wrote a "Letter of Intent" to the dealer indicating the City's interest in this offer and certain conditions around acceptance of same. First I indicated that staff from the City would have to inspect the vehicles upon their arrival back in Canada, and secondly, that while their offer was favourable, we still reserved the right to negotiate price based on other factors, ie; condition, age, warranty, etc. In addition to this unsolicited proposal, staff has received a second unsolicited proposal from the authorized Maritime representative of the Trackless line of equipment. Saunders Equipment Ltd. advises that they have access to 4 short term, lease return vehicles which they are offering to sell to the City as used equipment. Unfortunately these vehicles while being newer than the demonstrator units, have more than 4 to 5 months of wear on the hour meters, and as well, but more importantly, will not be available for inspection until April, by which time the first machines offered could be gone. 0 PAGE THREE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The cost to purchase a new Trackless MT5 sidewalk tractor, base unit, as demonstrated through the tender process is $75,000.00 plus tax. The 4 year old demonstrator machines available from the Ontario Distributor of this equipment, through their Nova Scotia Branch Office, have an initial offering of $50,000.00 per unit. The 2004 model year lease return vehicles, available through Saunders Equipment ltd. have an initial offering price of $56,000.00. Funds were included in the amount of $100,000.00 in the 2005 Fleet Reserve Fund in order to purchase two additional units. If staff were to tender for these units, the cost for two would be $150,000.00, and while there are sufficient funds in the budget to cover this cost, if the City entertained either of the unsolicited offers, we could purchase three units for the price of two new ones. As well, a review of the fleet reserve funds shows that without adversely affecting the fleet replacement plan for 2005, an additional amount could be made available to purchase the forth unit. CONCLUSION: Given the implications of the two offers before the City; the fact that these offers fall outside the scope of the public tendering process and taking into consideration the restrictions set out by policy and procedures, staff — specifically your Purchasing Agent/Manager of Materials & Fleet Management, is seeking; 1) Council approval to negotiate with both dealers for the purchase of these previously owned vehicles and 2) upon successful completion of negotiations, to enter into a purchase agreement with the successful bidder. Upon acceptance of these recommendations by Council, your Purchasing Agent commits to the following, 1) to negotiate openly and fairly with each bidder, 2) to spend no more than the amounts already offered by each proponent, 3) to report to Council with the final outcome of negotiations and award of these unsolicited proposals. INPUT FROM OTHERS: Staff has discussed this opportunity with management of the Municipal Operations Department and has their full support in this initiative. i PAGE FOUR RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that Council empower the City's Purchasing Agent to; 1) enter into negotiation with two different proponents for the supply of up to 4 previously owned Trackless MT5 Sidewalk units, and 2) upon successful, completion of those negotiations, to enter into a purchase agreement for the units offered, as long as the amount to be spent does not exceed the amounts stated in the original proposals. ully ' ted vid Loan, CP Purchasing Agent Beckett, CA dof er of Finance . Totten, FCA Ci Manager REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL 1'�qc 1 M & C — 2005 -82 10 March, 2005 His Worship Norman McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Olympia Ice Resurfacer BACKGROUND: At its regularly scheduled meeting of June 30, 1997 Council adopted a staff recommendation for the initiation of a program for the remanufacturing of the City's fleet of Olympia Ice Resurfacers. The remanufacturing process involves transportation of the old unit to the factory, where it was stripped down to the power train. At this point, the engine and transmission will be completely overhauled. Once the power train has been completed, a new body with new ice cleaning and storage equipment, is assembled onto the frame. This approach provides the City with basically a new machine, complete with a new machine warranty, for a cost approximately $20,000.00 less than the cost of a new machine. Materials & Fleet Management, in consultation with the then Recreation and Parks section of Community Services, had identified a number of units, which it deemed necessary for similar service over the next 3 to 4 years, contingent on the availability of budget funding. Unfortunately due to the limited funding available, the program was postponed until 2001 when the second of these units was remanufactured at a similar cost and with a similar result. The third and fourth units were done in 2003 and 2004 respectively. PAGE TWO ANALYSIS: There is only one source for this type of rebuilding, Resurfice Corporation, of Elmira, Ontario. Resurfice has once again provided the City with a proposal and an estimate to remanufacture the last of the five Olympia Ice Resurfacers in the fleet. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The $45,000.00 price quoted by Resurfice Corp. is identical to the price paid in 2004 and is still approximately $20,000.00 less than the cost of a new machine. This is a planned expenditure and as such funds to cover the cost to remanufacture an ice machine are included in the 2005 Fleet Replacement Budget. U3 X*i13- �UDJZ1 i7V1Ti]-h11A It is recommended that City staff be authorized to send an Olympia Ice Resurfacer to Resurfice Corporation of Elmira, Ont., for a complete rebuild at a cost estimate of $45,000.00, plus tax and freight, as per their proposal. pectf lly submitte avi Logan, Purchasing Agent ance T. L. Totten, FCA Manager 4 6. REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C — 2005 -74 March 7, 2005 His Worship Norman McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Tender for Traffic Paint BACKGROUND: In previous years, the cities of Fredericton and Saint John called a j oint tender for the supply of traffic paint for the roadway surfaces. Last year the City of Edmundston was also included in the joint tender. This joint tendering process has proven to be a very cost effective approach for all cities involved. In 2003 and again last year the cities, in an effort to extend the road life of the paint used, purchased a new product identified as Premium/High Performance Traffic Line Paint. This product has proven to be superior to previous paint used and once again this year, the cities jointly requested pricing for this product. ANALYSIS: As is normally the case, two companies responded to the tender call by submitting bids. Staff from the City of Fredericton, City of Edmundston and the City of Saint John's Materials & Fleet Management Division and the Municipal Operations Department have reviewed both tenders and have found them to be complete in every regard. A summary of the tenders as they apply to the City of Saint John, is enclosed for your consideration. ti PAGE TWO FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Based on the quantities estimated and the prices quoted by the lowest bidder, the City will spend approximately $54,938.42 to purchase street marking paint in 2005. This is an annual expenditure and as such, funds are included in the annual operating budget. RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the tender for the supply of Premium/High Performance Traffic Paint be awarded to Ibis Products Ltd., as indicated on the enclosed summary of bids. Respectfully submitted, avid Log PB Purchasing Agent —�' ew Beckett, CA 0missioner of Finance . �c \ L6g� . Totten, FCA 4 Manager ti TENDER TRAFFIC PAINT CITY OF SAINT JOHN, N. B. JOINT TENDER: #T05 -33 CLOSING: March 2, 2005 APPROX. QUANTITY IBIS PRODUCTS LTD. SCARBOROUGH ON LAURENTIDE CHEMICALS RICHIBUCTO NB 2004 SAINT JOHN PRICES P /HP = PREMIUM HIGH PERFORMANCE PAINT 10,045L P/HP yellow $ 3.565/L $ 4.29/L $ 3.45/L 2,8701, P /HP white $ 3.565L $ 4.69/1, $ 3.45/L 2,380L P /HP White $ 3.738/L $ 4.47/L $ 3.565/L (20 Litre pails) le w REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C — 2004 -311 / October 5, 2004 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Acquisition of Property - McLaren's Beach City of Saint John The Province of New Brunswick in an ongoing program offers for sale to the City, lands which are surplus to their needs. These surplus offerings are circulated amongst the various city departments for perusal and consideration. The most recent surplus offerings included a small lot (232.25 square metres + ) on McLaren's Beach. Leisure Services accumulates the lands as the opportunities arise. Bernie Morrison has given direction to seek Council's support to acquire PID 395608 from the Province of New Brunswick at the appraised value of $1000.00. The City would be responsible for any registration fees and survey costs (if required). RECOMMENDATION: That The City of Saint John purchase the fee simple absolute interest in PID 395608 from the Province of New Brunswick for $1000.00 plus HST the City as part of this transaction shall: 1. Pay for any registration fees; and 2. Pay for any required survey costs; and Further that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign any documents necessary to finalize this acquisition. Respectfully submitted, Jim. R. Baird, MCIP errence Totten, F.C.A. Commissioner City Manager Planning and Development BUmmf r • Sang Co �e g 0j C4 R C4 O 051 w ,q vi d , ° �o ro0 0 3 '- 9 % Cb �, ��96L96£00 / `� �'al • M o r ton 4 ,uo AV, i r - r � / % O � � r ro CU C,, "V ro 5 cr o a e Description of Plan: Sketch indicates the location of the parcel relative to the neighborhood. PID: 395608 Address: McLaren's Beach Pan: N/A Date: Oct. 05, 2004 Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 1, 2005 P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Mr. Gary Lenehan Director, Property Management Branch Province of New Brunswick P.O. Box 6000 Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1 Dear Sir: At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, The City of Saint John purchase the fee simple absolute interest in PID Number 395608 from the Province of New Brunswick for $1000. plus HST and the City as part of this transaction, shall pay for any registration fees, any required survey costs, and further that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign any documents necessary to finalize this acquisition." Please telephone Catherine E. Daigle of the City's Legal Department at 658 -2860 to complete the details of this transaction. Yours truly, J. Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc I 1 REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL 113-9 3.Vj- *&311. M & C-2005 - 80 March 14, 2005 His Worship Mayor Norman McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: RE: Water & Sewerage Billings BACKGROUND R 7- City of Saint john Over the past week or so staff have had a number of questions raised by Council Members, and members of the public regarding the water & sewerage billing process. Of particular interest has been the issue of providing for a monthly budget billing option for our customers. Given the significant interest in this matter we felt it advisable to provide general background information to Council. ANALYSIS At the present time flat rate customers of the Water & Sewerage Utility are billed twice a year for Utility Services. The first bill is sent out in late February with a due date of March 31 and the second billing is sent out in late August with a due date of September 30. This has been the case for the past two years. It should be noted that approximately 75 -80% of the Utility's customers pay their bills by the prescribed deadline date. For customers who fail to pay by the deadline date an interest charge is applied to outstanding balances at the rate of 1.5% per month. Reminder notices are sent out and in due course if a customer does not pay the Utility can and does move to disconnect a customer's water service. In situations where a customer is unable to pay their bill on time our staff makes every attempt to work with them to make payment arrangements. This does not mean that interest owing is waived, we simply work with the customers to spread their required payments over a number of months until full payment is achieved. With regards to transitioning to monthly billing, staff has acknowledged for some time that this would be a necessity given the increasing size of the water & sewerage charges. Council members have also raised this as desirable option to offer. i `% Staff are looking at two different options with regards to the introduction of monthly budget billing: in house or contracting with a third party. In each case we have to be sure that the system chosen is cost effective and works prior to making it available to the public. In terms of the in -house option a number of actions have been taken over the past year to prepare for this change. The first efforts were directed to the introduction of bank drafting, taking money directly from a customer's bank account through an electronic transfer. This work started in June of 2004 and following analysis, computer programming and testing was introduced for our customers in October of 2004. With this initial work done attention was then given to monthly budget billing. Work to date has included looking at computer system capability to handle the billing process, staffing requirements to support the change as well as looking at options for third party provision of this service. Following assessment and testing of the options we expect to be in a position to offer this service to our customers to coincide with the next flat rate billing in August of this year. Because our flat rate billing is twice a year, we will not be able to offer budget billing until August to our flat rate customers since they need to be set up in the system before the billing. We may however be able to offer it to metered customers starting in May. It should be noted however that a condition to signing up for budget billing will be to have an up -to -date account. Therefore, budget billing is not a solution to the problem of individuals who have arrears and cannot pay their bills. This addresses only the concerns that many individuals expressed as far as paying over 11 or 12 months rather than in two lump sums. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that this report be received and filed. Respectfully submitted, An&w P. Beckett C.A. Commissioner of Finance . L. Totten F.C.A. City anager REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL March $, 2005 The City of Saint Jahn M & C # 2005 -76 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Members of Common Council: SUBJECT: REQUEST TO MEET WITH COMMON COUNCIL City staff is requesting the opportunity to meet with Council regarding a couple of matters that may have a financial consequence to the City or that may result in the failure to finalize ongoing negotiations. RECOMMENDATION: That Common Council agree to meet next Monday evening, March 21th at 5:00 p.m. in a forum as provided for under Section 10.2(4)0) and 10.2(4)(c ) of the Municipalities Act. Respectfully submitted, TERRENCE L. TOTTEN, FCA CITY MANAGER r � a AT �t Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Maber & Somerville Joint Venture 18 Secoudon Drive Saint John, NB E2K 5G5 Dear Sirs: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, The City of Saint John transfer title in PID Number 55059075 being a 17,424ft2 +/- parcel on Sandy Point Road as generally shown on the submitted plan to Maber & Somerville for $1,400. (plus HST if applicable) on or before June 31, 2005 and that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the transfer document." Please telephone Catherine E. Daigle of City's Legal Department at 658- 2860 to complete the details of this transaction. Yours truly, I. 1 Lo J. Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc 6-�' REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M& C-2005 - 73 March 9, 2005 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Sale of PID Number 55059075, Sandy Point Road BACKGROUND: City of Saint John The City of Saint John has recently sold approximately 35 acres of land along Sandy Point Road to Maber & Somerville. In the course of transferring title of PID Number 55059067 and 550590$3 to the Purchaser, it was discovered that a.4 acre +/- parcel (55059075) located along Sandy Point Road was City property and was not included in the authorized sale to Maber and Somerville. This small parcel abuts onto the back portion of four lots in Maber & Somerville's Fieldstone Estates. The developer is anxious to have the parcel transferred. Maber & Somerville are prepared to pay $1,400 (plus HST if applicable) for PID Number 55059075. This value is consistent with that unit costs of land paid for the greater parcel. RECOMMENDATION: That The City of Saint John transfer title in PID Number 55059075 being a 17,424 ft2 +/- parcel on Sandy Point Road as generally shown on the attached plan to Maber & Somerville for $1,400.00 (plus HST if applicable) on or before June 31, 2005 and that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the transfer document. Res tfully submitted, R. Baird, MCIP Commissioner Planning and Development ence Totten, F.C.A. City Manager REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C —2005 —78 March 10, 2005 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Proposed Rezoning for Forest Hills Water Storage Reservoir 100 Mountain View Drive BACKGROUND: City of Saint John Common Council, at its February 28, 2005 meeting, resolved to amend its agreement of purchase and sale with North Star Holdings Ltd. to provide for the transfer to the City of a 1.25 -acre portion of PID 315838 on Mountain View Drive as a possible site for a new municipal water storage tank for Forest Hills. The location of the subject site is illustrated on the attached map. In order to be used for this purpose, the site will require rezoning to the "US" Utility and Service zone. It would be appropriate at this time for Common Council to initiate this rezoning process. RECOMMENDATION: That Common Council initiate the rezoning process for the proposed Forest Hills water storage reservoir, 100 Mountain View Drive, and schedule the Public Hearing for April 11, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. RespecXfully submitted, :i / ,Jim R. Baird, MCIP Commissioner Planning and Development ence Totten, F.C.A. City Manager I PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT/ URBANISME ET DEVELOPPEMENT 6 __TT 120 10 r as s ,b b R124M2 M t9 b u 36 C7 0 N n U C-) n n 99 s ,0.S „s ,as 3 `d cO C O V Q C%y Subject Site -- site en question: Pid(s) /NIP(s): Part of /partie du 00315838 Location: 100 prom. Mountain Dr. Date: March 3 mars, 2005 Scale /echelle: N.T.S. ch. Mountain Rd. va. Lyn M t9 b u 36 C7 0 N n U C-) n n 99 s ,0.S „s ,as 3 `d cO C O V Q C%y Subject Site -- site en question: Pid(s) /NIP(s): Part of /partie du 00315838 Location: 100 prom. Mountain Dr. Date: March 3 mars, 2005 Scale /echelle: N.T.S. B N, A FUTURE TANK / // JN% • /_ _ °off O Kq o/j \ 15m TREED BUFFER ZONE PUMPING % STATION - yon oa+�sam UW� LM J 1,800,000 GALLON STORAGE TANK •\ F 9p� w B 20.Om WIDE ROW FOR FUTURE ROAD •\ /� CL �9F A `� NOM NO" C GfM?lD DON OOM1OV.I.V •\ AVN CCM1OV.IY M1WtY 600 RUM CA1HE °.VE MctHEE O1. SEPT. 08,04 SITE PLAN REVISED ' WA ER. LEVEL � _ _ _ _ .I I / {/ —.�•R �Ay N �J� tl, a1 � D �.+�+-r! '. � ' w 1,600,000 GALLON a FUTURE I I TANK I I .., .: , ca+r:o Ems+.+ " �°'°"' ENGOdEER1N0 Ltd. W +: • + -c + - cf e + .. o STORAGE TANK w y0.72m DIAL W j I I FOREST HILLS 75.00 z 76.00 7,L00 WATER STORAGE TANK 73.00 71X0 ° / 7.00 SITE LAYOUT 67.00 u' 66'00 DAD: TANK PROPOSAL.DGN 6766? V. 67XO u _ _ _ _ DRAWN: D.W.D. CHECKED: J,J.K. SECTION AA SECTION BB SCALE: 1:1aoo DATE: MAY 5,zooa SCALE 1:500 HORIZ. 1:250 VERT. SCALE 1:500 R RT 1:250 VE . DRAWING: 0233— lP —COl .lo Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Drury Cove Developments Inc. 61 Blair Lane Lower Greenwich, NB E5K 4V8 Dear Sirs: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that as recommended by the City Manager, The City of Saint John convey the former reserved "Public Road ", being a 1.474 hectare ± strip and traversing PID Number 53207 as generally shown on the submitted plan to Drury Cove Developments Inc. for $500. (plus HST if applicable) and advertising costs related to the ROW stop -up and closure; and further that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the transfer or any necessary document to finalize this transaction." Please telephone Catherine E. Daigle of City's Legal Department at 658- 2860 to complete the details of this transaction. Yours truly, , -cl atrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C — 2005 -70 March 9, 2005 His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Sale of Stopped -up and Closed Road in the Drury Cove Area BACKGROUND: City of Saint John In November of 2004, Common Council resolved to authorize the publishing of a notice to stop -up and close all that portion of the reserved "Public Road ", being a 1.474 hectare f strip of Right -Of -Way and traversing PID Number 53207. The "Public Road" was a reservation dating back to 1858, was never developed and served no municipal purpose. It was intended, the stopped up and closed ROW would be conveyed to Drury Cove Developments Inc., the company which owns the surrounding lands. The terms of this proposed transfer were not negotiated at the time of stop -up and closure. Subsequent discussion with the solicitor acting on behalf of the purchaser have resulted in an agreed upon, nominal price of $500 ( +HST if applicable) and advertising costs incurred relating to the stopping -up and closing of the former ROW. RECOMMENDATION: That The City of Saint John convey the former reserved "Public Road ", being a 1.474 hectare ± strip and traversing PID Number 53207 as generally shown on the attached plan to Drury Cove Developments Inc. for $500.00 (plus HST if applicable) and advertising costs related to the ROW stop -up and closure; and further that the Mayor and Common Clerk be authorized to sign the transfer or any necessary document to finalize this transaction. pectfully submitted, 1— , 1z 6 R. Baird, MCIP Planning and Development errence Totten, F.C.A. City Manager n� � 1 N N The above is an illustration of the general location and configuration of the reserved "Public road" traversing land owned by Drury Cove Development Inc. PID: 53207 Address: Drury Cove Area Pan: Date: October 21 2004 �I March 12, 2005 Mayor McFarlane and Council The City of Saint John It is now coming on to two years ago when the previous council voted to reduce lot sizes for un- serviced lots from 1'/4 acres to 1 acre in line with lot size in the outlying communities so that we would be on a level playing field and spur development of homes, and it did to some degree, but there was a slip and lot sizes remained at 1'/4 acre lots for lots off main roads and developers ran into trouble getting zoned. The roads in these developments are started from scratch and are built to city standards and in most cases are better built then most of the main roads. This 1 % acre still puts the developer at a disadvantage to other communities as their lot sizes are one acre. There was comment from planning that the province was going to increase the size of lots. This never happened and enquiries made with the Province show that this is not a fact and is not on the books to be done. The second problem is that there has to be a working document so that each developer can be handed the basic requirements as needed, not be stalled after each thing is done and keep returning to Planning. He will know what has to be done and it will be done. am sure the Mayor is aware of this because before Christmas he was talking to a developer and heard the problems that the developer was having in getting land zoned, which cost him the sale of a lot. My motion is this: The by -law be changed to reflect lot size of one acre for a self- contained home or with granny suites in all areas — and filtration sewerage field be installed. Two family homes would require 1'/4 acre or larger depending on approval of the sewerage system by the Department of Health. There should also be a land size of a half acre for one level garden homes with no more than two bedrooms in the un- serviced areas to keep seniors in the city in their own homes. The second part of my motion would be that the Planning Department develop a standard working document for procedures that developers can follow in most cases, this document to be ready for early May for spring development planning and approval by council. I believe these motions will keep this Council moving forward in development of the City. Respectfully submitted, Ivan Court COUNCILLOR www.saintjohn.ca March 7, 2005 Mayor McFarlane and Councillors Your Worship and Councillors P.O. Box/C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB/N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Over the past six weeks this Council has received information dealing with the plight of our residents. It is obvious to me that we need a residential rehabilitation housing incentive program to help those who are on fixed income or the working poor. I would like to discuss with Council the possibility of establishing an interest free or forgivable loan program in the range of $1,000 - 5,000 to help homeowners rehabilitate their homes. It is time to save homes rather than tear them down. Also, I would like staff to give us an update on the possibility of monthly water payments for citizens, and when we hope this program may start. Respectfully submitted cam-- It- Ivan Court Councillor Mayor McFarlane, Deputy Mayor Hooton, Councillors Stephen Chase, Ivan Court, John Ferguson, Peter McGuire, Glen Tait, Chris Titus, Bill Farren and Carl White Background: Mrs. Gwen McKay of Amulet Consulting in Fredericton was hired to conduct a study on behalf of Enterprise Saint John and the following facts were discovered amongst others. Immigration is an important issue within the city of Saint John, for reasons such as unfavorable demographics whereby the repopulation rate is much lower than deaths. The reality is, during the next 5 -10 years we will have a tremendous shortage in employees. This will result in decrease economic output which will damage many sectors of our community. Also, we are currently facing a brain drain with our best and brightest young people choosing the west and south in search of opportunities. They are searching for more prosperous economic areas to develop experience and higher paying employment. From my recent trip to Korea, September of 2004, there were many interested people seeking to live in a city like Saint John. If fact, Saint John indeed has universal appeal and a quality of life unparallel. In fact, attracting newcomers to our city is not an issue; many people from various countries have expressed interest in Saint John. However, the challenge is we have not yet created an integration system, a welcoming center too fully create a transparent transition. We are currently applying to ACOA for federal funding on a pilot project to develop an immigration strategy for medium to small cities, a national first. However, at this present juncture, immigration is to important an issue to wait on. Therefore, generously, the city has donated space on the 12 floor City Hall for a new immigration resource center. This center is not at full capacity and will require an Administrative Assistant before any announcements can be made. The province has sponsored a position, as well as, ESJ has allocated funds to hire Gwen Mckay to act as executive director and Aubrey Reid. These positions are on a short term basis. With an initiative as important and complex, there are still pieces of the puzzle that are without. An administrative assistant is required to enhance the chances of success. The city of Saint John realizes the importance of immigration and therefore, must take a more pro- active role in ensuring our success of our city's future. Immigration is not the only answer to our decreasing and aging population, but is one of its solutions. Therefore, I move that city staff exhausts all resources and methods for the purposes of implementing the following recommendation, 1. Prove to the citizens of Saint John the importance of immigration by seeking a short term Administrative Assistant position for the purpose of increasing capacity within the Saint John Immigration Strategy. Yours truly J - ung ang Councillor p4--gSAINT JOHN March 14, 2005 The City of saint John P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L41_1 OPEN SESSION www.saintjohn.ca Mayor Norman McFarlane and Members of Council Fellow Members: RE: FCM Board of Directors Meeting I would like to submit to Council copies of Resolutions that were passed on March 5, 2005 at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board of Director's meetings held in Whistler, B.C. I attended these meetings as a member of the Standing Committee on Social Development and the Standing Committee on Environmental Issues and Sustainable Development. I believe that the Resolutions that reflect issues regarding Social Development, attached for your review, are very important to not only all Municipalities in Canada, but given their content, they are truly important to our community. As you can see, these Resolutions address issues of Child Poverty and Housing. These issues are of great concern in our Community and I was very pleased to be part of a process that took ownership of these issues. And more importantly, adopted a positive course of action by forwarding these important Resolutions to the Federal Government. RECOMMENDATION: That this report be received and filed. Sincer ly, Carl A. White Councillor attachments Explore our past Explorez notre passo Discover your future Decouvrez votre avenir Grand Bay - Westfield • Quispamsis • Rothesay • St. Martins • Saint John w. mettre en place la propre politique d'aviation Ciel ouvert du Canada et de chercher A • la faire adopter a I'echelle mondiale par ses partenaires commerciaux. City of New Westminster, British Columbia City of Richmond, British Columbia City of North Vancouver, British Columbia DECEMBER 2004 BOARD DECISION: Category "A "; Deferred to the March 2005 meeting of the National Board of Directors MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION (March 2005): Category NA'; Concurrence MARCH 2005 BOARD DECISION: DECISION DE LA REUNION DE DECEMBRE 2004 DU CONSEIL: Categorie "A "; R &6r6e a la r6union de mars 2005 du Conseil national d'administration. INFRASTRUCTURES MUNICIPALES ET POLITIQUE DES TRANSPORTS (mars 2005) : Cat6gorie « A »; en accord DECISION DE LA REUNION DE MARS 2005 DU CONSEIL : 11 f November 12, 2004 S0005.1.01 CA // CHILD POVERTY PAUVRETE INFANTILE WHEREAS fifteen years after the House of Commons unanimously resolved to end child poverty, more than one million children, or nearly one child in six, still live in poverty in • Canada; WHEREAS Canada's child poverty rate is up for the first time in six years; WHEREAS one third of all children in Canada were exposed to poverty for at least one year since 1996; WHEREAS child poverty hits children hardest in Canada's urban centres, where child poverty rates are higher than the national average; WHEREAS child poverty rates for Aboriginal, immigrant and children in racial groups are more than double the average, while child poverty rates among children with disabilities are 27.7 percent; and WHEREAS conditions for working poor families are worsening, where almost half of all poor children in Canada have parents who worked all year and one quarter have at least one parent who worked full time for the whole year; BE IT RESOLVED that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) join Campaign 2000 calling on the federal government to develop a Social Investment for Children and Families to guide comprehensive action on child poverty over the next five years; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Social Investment Plan focus on creating more good jobs at living wages, investing in an effective child benefit system, making a universal early • r childhood education and care system a reality, expanding affordable housing and renewing Canada's social safety net through the Canada Social Transfer; • BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Plan recognize that municipal governments can and want to play a larger role in turning back the tide of poverty and social inequality that is undermining civic life in Canada's major cities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that FCM join in a national effort to drive down child poverty to a level not yet seen in this country, making Canada a proud world leader when it comes to caring for its children, and ensuring that no child lives in poverty. IL EST RESOLU QUE la Federation canadienne des municipalites (FCM) se joigne a Campagne 2000 pour demander au gouvernement federal de prevoir un investissement social pour les families et les enfants dans le but de guider une intervention globate a I'egard de la pauvrete infantile au cours des cinq prochaines annees; IL EST EN OUTRE RESOLU QUE le Plan d'investissement social cherche a creer un plus grand nombre de bons emplois au salaire minimum vital, a investir dans un regime efficace de prestations pour enfants, a mettre en place un regime universel d'education et de soins a la petite enfance, a offrir plus de logements abordables et e renouveler le filet de securite sociale du Canada par le biais du transfert social canadien; IL EST EN OUTRE RESOLU QUE ce Plan reconnaisse que les gouvernements municipaux peuvent et veulent jouer un role plus important pour renverser le mouvement de la pauvrete et I'inegalite sociale qui mine la vie civique dans les grandes villes du Canada; et IL EST EN OUTRE RESOLU QUE la FCM participe a un effort national en vue de reduire la pauvrete infantile a un niveau sans precedent dans ce pays, faisant du Canada un chef de file mondial fier lorsqu'il s'agit de s'occuper de nos enfants et nous assurer qu'aucun enfant ne vit dans la pauvrete. City of Toronto, Ontario SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT (March 2005: Category "A "; Concurrence with deletion of third Operative Clause MARCH 2005 BOARD DECISION: DEVELOPPEMENT SOCIAL (mars 2005) : Categorie ((A)); en accord, adoption des deux premieres clauses executoires. DECISION DE LA REUNION DE MARS 2005 DU CONSEIL : • A • • • November 12, 2004 S0005.1.02CA NATIONAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING ENERGY EFFICIENCY STRATEGY STRATEGIE NATIONALE POUR DES LOGEMENTS ECONERGETIQUES ABORDABLES WHEREAS Canada faces the national challenge of a growing affordable housing crisis; WHEREAS the Federation of Canadian Municipalities believes that the health and well- being of Canada's communities depend on the provision of appropriate, secure, decent, sustainable and affordable housing; WHEREAS the retention and improvement of Canada's existing affordable housing stock must be a key element of a national housing strategy, as recommended by FCM's National Housing Policy Options Team (rehabilitation of 10,000 units per year over 10 years); WHEREAS Canada also faces the national challenge of implementing the Kyoto Protocol to address global climate change; WHEREAS the federal government's climate change action plan includes the goal of retrofitting 20 percent of Canada's existing houses by 2010, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 1.5 million tones; WHEREAS energy efficient housing upgrades provide an important, cost - effective opportunity to improve affordability and sustainability by lowering energy costs — freeing wasted energy spending to address core housing needs, improving home health and indoor air quality and reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change; WHEREAS the Green Communities Association (GCA) is a national network of non - profit, community -based organizations that have delivered 150,000 home energy - performance assessments in all regions of Canada, including low- income and social housing retrofit programs; WHEREAS the GCA has demonstrated that households can reduce energy consumption an average 34 percent per year and can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 3.9 tonnes per year, by undertaking energy efficient upgrades — results which led the Government of Canada to announce a $73 million national Retrofit Incentive Program for homeowners in 2003; WHEREAS the Retrofit Incentive Program does not includes Canada's rental housing sector, where 70 percent of Canada's housing affordability problem exists; WHEREAS the GCA in partnership with its Montreal member, Equiterre, is calling for a national affordable housing energy efficiency program to help low income Canadians cut energy bills, housing costs and pollution; and WHEREAS the Toronto Community Housing Corporation recently adopted an advanced green plan which is similar to the Green Communities Association; BE IT RESOLVED that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities: a) support the Green Communities Association (GCA)'s call for a national affordable housing energy efficiency strategy; and b) agree to work with the GCA to engage stakeholders in developing this strategy. IL EST RESOLU QUE la Federation canadienne des municipalit6s : a) appuie la demande de I'Association des eco- collectivites visant I'Maboration d'une strategie nationale pour des logements abordables econergetiques. b) coopere avec I'AEC en vue d'amener les parties interessees a travailler a I'Maboration d'une telle strategie. City of Toronto, Ontario SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT (March 2005): Category « A o; Concurrence MARCH 2005 BOARD DECISION: DEVELOPPEMENT SOCIAL (mars 2005) : Categorie « A »; en accord DECISION DE LA REUNION DE MARS 2005 DU CONSEIL : January 19, 2005 S0005.1.04CA AFFORDABLE HOUSING POLICIES POLITIQUES SUR LE LOGEMENT ABORDABLE WA WHEREAS the health and quality life of individuals and families in our municipalities is fundamentally determined by the adequacy, affordability and appropriateness of housing available to each and every citizen; - WHEREAS the economic, health and social effects of not ensuring that each citizen has access to affordable and appropriate housing are most directly borne by municipalities and their citizens; WHEREAS the lack of access to capital and financing, whether public or private, is the key problem in ensuring the adequate availability of affordable housing in our communities; and WHEREAS the local level of government is unable on its own to adequately deal with the problem; BE IT RESOLVED that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities urge the federal government to increase the amount and flexibility of funding for affordable housing programs. IL EST RESOLU QUE la Federation canadienne des municipalites exhorte le gouvernement federal a augmenter les sommes affectees aux programmes de logement abordable et a assouplir les mecanismes de financement de ces programmes. City of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT (March 2005): Category "A "; Concurrence MARCH 2005 BOARD DECISION: 41 Canada ranks poorly for child poverty Unicef places nation 19th among 26 developed countries BY MARGARET PHILP Among the world's wealthiest na- tions, Canada falls near the bottom of the pack when ranked by its level of child poverty. in a Unicef report to be released today, rare for turning a lens on the rich rather than the developing world, Canada is 19th among the 26 countries ranked according to their record of child poverty, a dubious distinction that places the country behind the Czech Republic, Hunga- ry and Poland, though ahead of the United States and Britain. It is the second report by the Flor- ence -based Unicef Innocenti Re- search Centre on child poverty in countries of the Organization for Economic Co- operation and Devel- opment. It shows that the number of poor children, 14.9 per cent in Canada in 2000, barely budged in the nearly five years since the first study placed this country 17th out of 23. "We're doing extremely poorly," said Barabara Strang, a spokes- woman for Unicef Canada "I think Canadians will be quite shamed to see we're in the bottom third of OECD nations in terms of child ova " p The report regards poverty as a relative measure, calculating the percentage of poor children as those whose families' incomes fall A baby rests in a makeshift swing in an overcrowded trailer in Rapid Lake, Que- Canada's.child poverty rate has held steady at about 14.9 percent for fin years- below a line drawn at 50 per cent of the median for the country. In the eyes of the Unicef re- searchers, poverty in rich countries is the point below which children cannot afford the trappings that are considered normal and necessary to others around them. Unicef draws special attention to Canada's definitional dithering over a poverty yardstick. It says countries must set targets for elim- inating child poverty, next to im- possible while they remain stalled by endless debate over its measure- ment. "Clearly, 18 other nations in the OECD have figured out a better sys- tem for protecting their children from poverty," Ms. Strang said. For Maria Rodrigues and her four - year -old daughter Rowan, child poverty in a rich country such as Canada is not a case of starvation and ragged clothing, but rather food banks, long waiting lists for subsidized housing and scrounging for free children's recreational pro- grams. Ms. Rodrigues is a regular at her local library. Trained as a bookkeeper, she suf- fers from bipolar disorder and has endured long stints of unemploy- ment most of her life. She collects a $579 welfare cheque every month, but even second -hand clothes are a luxury she can scarcely afford. Still a preschooler, Rowan is oblivious to her poverty. "I think it probably starts when they go to school and start compar- ing themselves to other kids," said Ms. Rodrigues, a single mother who pays $235 a month for her subsid- ized apartment in Toronto. "You know how you go to the store and they say,'I want this and I want that'll just say, 'I don't have the money right now. I'll get it for you later.' And she says, 'Okay, lat- er.' I'm trying to instill a sense of limitation and not take whatever she has for granted." The Unicef report shows that the lowest rates of child poverty are in Scandinavian countries where more than 10 per cent of gross do- mestic product is devoted to social programs that have worked to re- duce so -called market poverty, the percentage of people who would be poor were there no tax breaks and other government intervention, by at least 80 per cent. The countries with the lowest rates of child poverty are Denmark, at 2.4 per cent, followed by Finland, Norway and Sweden. "We can do better as a country," said John Anderson, vice- president with the Canadian Council on So- cial Development. "We have the re- sources right now.to do better and I don't think this is acceptable to be 19th out of 26 when there are so many countries who are not as" as we are and able to do better" Bringing up the rein on the list areMeadco,withad*4 pa mate of 27.7 per cent, the Uri%$, at 21.9 percent, and Itai' st8lisr 'cent. All six of the non,F-tiropean countries on the OECD ]isKranked near the bottom. Of the 24 countries withswtisdcs dating back to the ea 199QIi --A.he report found that. Y rates climbed in all but goam pert of the story was a drop, is social spending in countries 3As..Can- ada, where the: report-sliovted that children received 12.2 per cent less in social spending. Across the globe, developed nations are spending more on health care and pensions at the expense of children. 141 fl (/0 �y p4-g'SAINT JOHN March 14, 2005 OPEN SESSION Mayor Norman McFarlane and Members of Council Fellow Members: RE: INCLUSIVE CITIES CANADA PROJECT P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L41_1 www.saintiohn.ca As Council is aware the above named project is being conducted in five Communities across the Country, including Saint John. The project has been progressing successfully and I believe that Council should be briefed as to it's current status. RECOMMENDATION: I would move that time be scheduled on the Council Meeting Agenda of March 28, 2005 to have a short briefing in regards to this Project, by Randy Hatfield, Project Co- Chair. Sincerely, Carl A. White Councillor attachments Explore our past/ Explorez notre passel Discover your future DL6couvrez votre avenir Grand Bay - Westfield - Quispamsis • Rothesay • St. Martins • Saint John I, �^U Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 5, 2005 Mr. Michael Wennberg Chairman Saint John Community Arts Board P.O. Box 1971 Saint John, NB E2L 4L1 Dear Sir: P.O. Box /C.F. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely: "RESOLVED that Council request the Greater Saint John Community Arts Board to explore and recommend to Council a statue that would depict and honor Saint John's Loyalist Heritage." Yours truly, J?atrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:sic RON A44 • /-�OW 5 h March 10, 2005 Mayor and Council City of Saint John Re: Recognizing Heritage Your Worship and Council: I request your support with regard to exploring the creation and erection of a bronze (or other suitable material) statue depicting the City of Saint John's Loyalist Heritage. This issue arises from the most public controversy over the possible replacement of the "Loyalist Man" at Reversing Falls with a sculptured fountain. While I earnestly believe that the "Loyalist Man" has famously found a place in the hearts of Saint John, I become bothered when this attachment becomes described as the "last vestiges' of Saint John's Loyalist history. Quite frankly if we depict our rich loyalist history through a plastic cartoon caricature created in the 1960's to promote a commercial establishment, one may wonder just how significant was our loyalist history. In my opinion, this is an erosion of the significance that the loyalist settlers had in the establishment of Saint John. Both the hardship and the pioneerism that the loyalist settlers experienced are unworthy of the monument we offer them now in the way of the present depiction of the loyalist man. We should truly honor the founders of this City with a proper statue. Motion: Refer to the Community Arts Board the request for them to explore and recommend to Council a Statue that would depict and honor Saint John's Loyalist Heritage. And That the necessary funds be made available to the board for this request. Stephen Chase Councillor Received via email - March 10, 2005 Page 1 of 1 Gormley, Elizabeth From: Bill Farren [wdf1 @nbnet.nb.ca] Sent: 03/10/05 10:35 AM To: Gormley, Elizabeth Subject: Item for Council meeting of March 14, 2005 March 10, 2005 Mayor Norm McFarlane and Common Council Members, Dear Colleagues, I would like to take a few minutes in the open session meeting of March 14, 2005 so I can give you a Pension Deficit Working Group update. Thanking you in advance, Bill Farren Councillor, City of Saint John 03/10/05 I le. I J/A4 , I yv rr Portion of Transcript - Minutes of March 14, 2005 l 6.7 Pension Deficit Working Group Update Councillor Farren: "Your Worship I put this forward but I am going to ask Clr. Ferguson who sits on that committee with me to speak on it first, please, if I may ?" Councillor Ferguson: "Thank you your Worship. Your Worship and other members of Common Council, thank you. I would ask it's been a long night through your Worship that the Common Clerk record this statement in its entirety. Mayor: "it will be recorded" Councillor Ferguson: "I just want to ask the Common Clerk specifically through your Worship to make sure that this is recorded in its entirety, yes, yes. I thought today I would be able to give a full update with respect to our Pension Deficit Working Group, I guess without having a better name for the people that are working together and their accomplishments. You will recall Common Council's resolution giving the working group authority to seek outside professional help. This motion was amended to include Councillor Farren. That motion relates to the working group and, Your Worship, reads as follows: 'Investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be given authority to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so'. Despite this resolution of Council, I have been denied the right by senior staff to seek outside professional assistance, even after Councillor Farren and I have tried for the past 5 to 6 weeks to obtain this outside help. As I say, it is scandalous that seeking outside professional assistance has been denied by senior staff in our attempts to resolve a 40 million dollar plus financial problem for the City of Saint John and ultimately the taxpayer. Your Worship and Councillors, Councillor Farren and I are still committed to finding a solution and meeting the obligations required of Council. Again, I would ask through your Worship that the minutes record my full statement. Thank you." City Manager: "Perhaps your Worship, I might respond that certainly it's not very often that I sit here and watch certain allegations being made, and not have the opportunity to respond, so I think it would be appropriate. The committee has met on 2 occasions. We have agreed to meet another third time in which I've asked Mr. Beckett to put together a presentation dealing specifically with the matter of Pension obligation bond, so that the two councillors, myself and Mr. Beckett would be on the same wavelength with respect to just what it is we are talking r about to make sure we're clear, and I know Mr. Beckett has done a lot of research. The issue came about, I was asked at a meeting to support a resolution that would have me signing a requisition that essentially would go outside the organization and to engage an investment lawyer or solicitor, I think the term was, and I explained to the Councillors that over the years and my experience with the City of Saint John nobody has authority in this organization to engage and seek legal advice in our organization other than Common Council and the City Solicitor's office, City Solicitor's office, and that is based on - It would be inappropriate for me as I would to have done on many occasions and gone and brought my own legal advice and left John Nugent out of the circle. I have never done that and Council is well aware and those who have worked here knows that obtaining all legal advice is gone through the City Solicitor. So what I did agree to do with the two councillors, to assist, support a motion at a meeting, we were taking motions and had a recording secretary with the two councillors, I supported a motion that said we seek John Nugent's advice to support, to seek John Nugent's support to go outside and seek some legal advice. Mr. Nugent and I, actually Mr. Ferguson and I met with Mr. Nugent and John explained the issues from his perspective. I understand - I indicated, look, if I thought that if I needed some actuarial help I would get that, if I needed some financial help beyond Mr. Beckett I would get that, when it came to legal advice, I do go on. I must say I knew Councillor Ferguson was upset at the time and I do appreciate that but to suggest and to suggest in a public forum that City staff is stalling, I guess including the work that I think has to be done in terms of whether its performance obligation bonds or other issues with respect to the whole issue of pension deficit. can tell you from City staff's point of view, I think it's inappropriate, I won't accept it and I acknowledge that if this Council wants to engage a securities lawyer than I want to make that resolution right here and right now and take Councillor Ferguson's advice as to what questions you would like to ask that lawyer because I don't know these questions and I know Mr. Nugent has had difficulties and so that's the point I am trying to make. I want to be cooperative and I think that at any time that a Councillor suggests that its unacceptable and intolerable, whatever the descriptions were, that is not the case and I know that most of you know that's not how I operate and I have got to make sure the public is aware that is not the way I react to councillors. Always in a polite and respectful manner. Councillor Ferguson Thank you your Worship. My statement that I read stands His Worship called upon Mr. Nugent) (Councillor Farren called a point or order) 2 Councillor Farren I respect the City Solicitor and you asking his opinion on that and that's fine but I don't think that's the point I'm trying to get at or Councillor Ferguson's trying to get at and the City Manager has said very clearly that the only ones who gives authorization to go out and expend money from this Council, is this Council. The point of order is ................ The Mayor pointed out Councillor Farren was making a statement and had only put his light on as a point of order. Councillor Farren Your Worship I have the floor here. On the point of order, this isn't a he said she said thing, it's going directly to what the City Manager said and we bounced to the City Manager and now we're going to the City Solicitor. Now I think the elected officials here have a little bit to say. Mayor — we've said it Councillor Ferguson — it's his item on the agenda Councillor Farren So if I may continue, the City Solicitor, the City Manager, pointed out the fact that this Council's the ones that gives the authority to hire anybody. And it was clearly stated in the motion and it was also the motion by Councillor Tait, I do believe, that said "be authorized to go out and seek outside help ". That was brought up at this meeting. I was chairing. It was brought up by Councillor Ferguson. He brought up the motion and it was changed to meet the City Manager's wish when Councillor Ferguson did that. Now I mean it's, we can sit here and argue the points and debates I don't think this is the situation to do it in. I think that if we want to get into that then it's not appropriate. The thing is, the motion was laid on this Council's table, Council made the recommendation of the working group to go out and solicit outside advice if needed and after the committee, the working group, asks for outside advice, the other half said no. I mean I think if we want to discuss this any further I think it be more appropriate in other surroundings. Mayor or City Manager - I'm prepared to discuss it right now. It's a matter of public record. Mayor — Yes Councillor Tait Councillor Tait Your Worship, something must have happened somewhere because I pretty, I don't miss too much and I recall when I make motions what my intent is and what I'm saying. There was a motion put forth by Councillor Ferguson to set up a working group of not more than three councillors and the City Manager. I forget the motion but I didn't support that motion. I didn't support that motion at all about a working group. I said that we have professional staff, that's what we pay them for and I made a motion that the professional staff, the Commissioner of 3 Finance, City Manager, look at these performance bonds and to see if it's something that was feasible that could help out our situation. The Mayor added on that Councillor Ferguson perhaps could assist and I felt what he meant was you've got information, give it to them. But we've turned this into right back to what, a motion I never supported, a working group. I supported our professional staff looking into this matter and I did say if they needed any outside assistance, the professional staff, to go get it, whatever it is, but not a working group like - - - -- ??? it's on the record Councillor Tait - Well I know what I said ? ?? it's in the minutes of the record Councillor Tait Well they're not recorded right if they don't reflect what I just said cause I know what I said. Anyway, that's enough for me and I don't think, you know, the dialogue down here shouldn't be going on down here. Councillor Titus Is there a motion of the floor? Mayor No. Councillor Ferguson read a statement that he wanted on the record. ? ?? — It's on the record I guess. I was eating crackers outside but it was on the record. Mayor — Mr. City Solicitor City Solicitor In light of the comments that have been made by Councillor Ferguson I feel it is necessary to comment because if I were to fail to comment then the natural conclusions which would be drawn from these comments would stand and I think those conclusions would be unjustified and incorrect. The responsibility of the person who holds the position of City Solicitor amongst other things is to assure that there is a coordinated delivery of legal advice to the City. And I say coordinated as opposed to haphazard and disorganized. As for that reason that all legal advice delivered to the Council passes through the City Solicitor whether it comes from me directly or for dealing with subjects with that I am not familiar or can't reasonably become familiar in the given period of time and will seek outside counsel. And never, as long as I have sat here in this position have I ever, for a moment, resisted seeking outside advice when I felt it was necessary. As the City Manager indicated, I met with the City Manager and Councillor Ferguson and discussed this issue of performance bonds and there was an interest on Councillor Ferguson's part to obtain the advice of a securities lawyer. I spoke at some length with Councillor Ferguson with the City Manager I spoke again subsequently and indicated to him both times I did not understand the nature or the focus of the advice he would be seeking from a securities lawyer was. Short of that, that may have been my shortcoming but heavens knows I tried to understand. Short of being of an understanding of what the nature and 4 focus of the advice being sought was, I would not be acting responsibly to hire a securities lawyer. I wouldn't know what to ask him to do. And that's, that's in my view of the responsibilities to the Council would be complete dereliction of those responsibilities. Now if at some point it could be explained to me what the intent of this inquiry would be then it's an inquiry that myself, nor the people in my department provide advice, than I would be only too happy to arrange for outside counsel. Now having said that, it always remains as the City Manager says, with Council, regardless what view I take for Council to authorize something to be done. Now I would tell Council, at this point, that I still and I don't know how Council could have of what an understanding of what the purpose or what the focus of that inquiry would be and not having that understanding it would seem that be at least premature perhaps even more questionable to proceed to obtain legal advice on some very ill- defined notion and that is what I believe the circumstances are currently and I would want the record to be very clear that never have I passed nor have I innocence ?? nor will I ever deny whatever Council requires in order to receive appropriate legal advice on a subject that's of significance to Council. Mayor — Councillor Farren? Councillor Farren Your Worship, I have great respect for Mr. Nugent as I'm sure Councillor Ferguson does and the rest of Council but I wasn't in attendance at that meeting but I mean it's the resolution. I'll read you part of it, the motion, "investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund ". There are the questions. From an advisor I think it's spelled out there and I don't know what the confusion is. Is, are we thinking right way down the line or not. That's the questions and whatever might evolve from that may be something else. I don't know. Maybe they're saying don't do the right thing. I don't know and we've got that from staff through a certain degree whether there's other questions out there but what you're saying, we don't know. Mayor — City Manager City Manager Your Worship, perhaps to get over this hump, there's no question that the committee has met and we had decided, and I think the Councillor's would agree, that the next focus was on, of a meeting with me to have Mr. Beckett present the pros and cons of using this type of this bonding mechanism to solve the Pension deficit issue. I did indicate at the committee meeting and I would indicate here that maybe what we should be doing is maybe having that presentation before this Council on the issue of these bonds and should Council wish to seek outside help, and you will recall I suggested that we should do this, if you decide to seek outside help or advice after hearing the presentation there shouldn't be any difficulty and that would be accounting, legal, whatever but at the point we are at 5 I just felt uncomfortable because I would be the one having to sign the authorization. So I'm suggesting to you that we schedule the presentation, we move it from the from the committee and come right to this Council and Mr. Beckett would be ready within a week to ten days to do that presentation Councillor Farren (inaudible) Mayor — The meeting it has been recorded and there's minutes on that and we can certainly ? ? ? ? ?? Inaudible) Councillor Titus ? ?? Your Worship, I'm getting lost in all of this. I'm missing so much of this now I don't think I've been around for too long. Could I please have copies of all these minutes and motions that have apparently been made so I can put them together in my own head. When I look at this short little one - liner, I had no idea where this was coming from. I'd like to have all these motions whether Council made them or the working group made them so I can look at them. Mayor I want to ask a question of the, our Legal Department. Is it common to take minutes in meetings when you have City staff and Councillors meeting when something like this happens. I'm not sure, where do these minutes, what effect do those minutes and if you passed a resolution there does that mean anything to this Council. (Background saying "no, no, no" City Solicitor That procedure having to follow to start with that's I think a relatively unique arrangement. A committee and that committee, I think as well, performs something of an information gathering and advisory ball and has no independent decision making authority and how they choose to move themselves from first grappling with the issue that's been given to them to the point where they're prepared to make that presentation to Council is entirely their own doing and is really quite informal and certainly doesn't have the binding effect of any.......... Mayor I am not suggesting it's right or wrong, I just wanted to ask you your opinion on it. I'm not suggesting right or wrong or whatever. We've got to move on Councillor Farren, 1 can hear......... Councillor Farren agree your Worship but I mean you brought up a subject..... Mayor 0 I just asked a question the same as you people have Councillor Farren No no, I realize that but the intent and I've been a number of years at this sitting down at meetings, sometimes too many but I mean I've been at years at this and I have always, always recorded everything and I mean why we would not record the minutes of and I don't know if it has to audio tape but I mean record minutes of the meeting because I mean we're dealing with 40 million plus deficit. When I come back with a recommendation to this Council to my fellow Councillor's I want to be bang on what I'm saying. That's my intent. Mayor But I never said any intent on this. I just asked a question cause I'm not familiar. I certainly have a number of meetings with City staff and do not sit down and take minutes or anything. And I just, I want to protect myself too. I'm not suggesting you did anything wrong, I'm just asked for an opinion so I would know in the future cause there's no doubt no one here that meets with City staff as much as I do so if and if I have to take minutes then I'm gonna..... Councillor Farren But this is important Mayor I know, I realize that. I just asked. There's no intent here. We've got to move on here. Councillor Court Councillor Court Your Worship, having heard this discussion I think it is important that minutes are kept because than it keeps everybody on tap and nobody can say well you said this or I said that. The minutes are there, you can go back and check the minutes and you can verify who's saying what and who said and who didn't say what. And I think it's important that minutes be kept when you're talking about 45 or 90 million dollars an issue and so I think it's very important and we don't get down here fighting if we have the minutes. You know we can argue the point this and bring the minutes. I think it's important the minutes come to us when this takes place at this table. Mayor — Yes. We have one more person here. Deputy Mayor Hooton Deputy Mayor Hooton Thank you your Worship. Just a quick question. I just want to make sure I'm clear on this. When Councillor Ferguson brought the original motion forward to set up a committee, that motion was defeated? Is that correct? Mayor — Yes Deputy Mayor Hooton 7 And then what was the resolution that gave affect to your ability or Councillor Ferguson's ability to be able to have these meetings? I just need to know... Mayor There was a motion, on a motion of Councillor Tait seconded by Councillor McGuire "Resolved that the City Manager and the Commissioner of Finance, Councillor's Ferguson and Farren on behalf of the Council, investigate of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be authorized, (which is the total group I would say, not Council not the City Manager, the total group) be authorized to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so. Deputy Mayor Hooton - As a group Mayor — As a group Deputy Mayor Hooton — So a group they weren't able to come to that.... Mayor — I don't know, I wasn't there. City Manager But authority doesn't rest with the groups and when somebody has to make a decision somebody's gonna be held accountable to the situation. ? ?? who's that? City Manager It's me or it's Council. All I suggested it was best soon as a lawyer came into the... I said we better talk to John Nugent. That we did. John expressed some concerns. That led to this letter here tonight and that's led to the allegations that we're trying to stall things. Quite the opposite. Deputy Mayor Hooton — OK thank you. I just wanted to make that clear. Mayor — Yes? Common Clerk Your Worship. I don't want to ad to the confusion here but where on these types of matters where there's been amendments, resolutions brought forward, withdrawn, whatever, we are very careful when we're recording those minutes to try and reflect accurately what the spirit and intent of the resolution is. In this case, we reviewed it. Intent, as I understood it was not to create a committee, This was ....(Mayor and Common Clerk were interrupted) Staff and a couple of councillors, one added subsequently to review and investigate a fact finding mission. If the resolution has been to strike a committee it would have said explicitly in the resolution to strike a committee as a normal process you would have referred that to Nominating Committee to appoint the 0 members. This, this is a fact finding mission. That's what it is. The committee has no authority from Council to spend money, if you will or to - -- it can't bind the Council. It could keep minutes or notes for its own working purposes but their no record, their not adopted by Council. So you have to be careful if you are indeed, if your intent is to strike a committee with a particular mandate than the record should reflect that but it should be clearly Council's intent. If the intent is to go and do some research and report back to Council, which is what I understood this to be, in the spirit and intent of it, well that's a separate interesting ?? thing. It's a fact finding mission. Mayor — So we'll allow Councillor Ferguson to propose to close this off and then that's it. (interruption) No. this is it. This will close it off. Councillor Ferguson Again, we spent five to six weeks and the motion clearly made here, Council investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be given authority to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so. That speaks clearly what our objectives were. I don't believe that we can change the ground rules of this working group simply because senior staff don't agree by the terms set by Council. Again, your Worship, as I stated in my previous stance. These are legal and personnel decisions and they should be discussed in another forum. Mayor -Thank you. Portion of Transcript - Minutes of March 14, 2005 6.7 Pension Deficit Working Group Update Councillor Farren: "Your Worship I put this forward but I am going to ask Clr. Ferguson who sits on that committee with me to speak on it first, please, if I may ?" Councillor Ferguson: "Thank you your Worship. Your Worship and other members of Common Council, thank you. I would ask it's been a long night through your Worship that the Common Clerk record this statement in its entirety. Mayor: "It will be recorded" Councillor Ferguson: "I just want to ask the Common Clerk specifically through your Worship to make sure that this is recorded in its entirety, yes, yes. I thought today I would be able to give a full update with respect to our Pension Deficit Working Group, I guess without having a better name for the people that are working together and their accomplishments. You will recall Common Council's resolution giving the working group authority to seek outside professional help. This motion was amended to include Councillor Farren. That motion relates to the working group and, Your Worship, reads as follows: 'Investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be given authority to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so'. Despite this resolution of Council, I have been denied the right by senior staff to seek outside professional assistance, even after Councillor Farren and I have tried for the past 5 to 6 weeks to obtain this outside help. As I say, it is scandalous that seeking outside professional assistance has been denied by senior staff in our attempts to resolve a 40 million dollar plus financial problem for the City of Saint John and ultimately the taxpayer. Your Worship and Councillors, Councillor Farren and I are still committed to finding a solution and meeting the obligations required of Council. Again, I would ask through your Worship that the minutes record my full statement. Thank you." City Manager: "Perhaps your Worship, I might respond that certainly it's not very often that I sit here and watch certain allegations being made, and not have the opportunity to respond, so I think it would be appropriate. The committee has met on 2 occasions. We have agreed to meet another third time in which I've asked Mr. Beckett to put together a presentation dealing specifically with the matter of Pension obligation bond, so that the two councillors, myself and Mr. Beckett would be on the same wavelength with respect to just what it is we are talking about to make sure we're clear, and I know Mr. Beckett has done a lot of research. The issue came about, I was asked at a meeting to support a resolution that would have me signing a requisition that essentially would go outside the organization and to engage an investment lawyer or solicitor, I think the term was, and l explained to the Councillors that over the years and my experience with the City of Saint John nobody has authority in this organization to engage and seek legal advice in our organization other than Common Council and the City Solicitor's office, City Solicitor's office, and that is based on - It would be inappropriate for me as I would to have done on many occasions and gone and brought my own legal advice and left John Nugent out of the circle. I have never done that and Council is well aware and those who have worked here knows that obtaining all legal advice is gone through the City Solicitor. So what I did agree to do with the two councillors, to assist, support a motion at a meeting, we were taking motions and had a recording secretary with the two councillors, I supported a motion that said we seek John Nugent's advice to support, to seek John Nugent's support to go outside and seek some legal advice. Mr. Nugent and 1, actually Mr. Ferguson and I met with Mr. Nugent and John explained the issues from his perspective. I understand - I indicated, look, if I thought that if I needed some actuarial help would get that, if I needed some financial help beyond Mr. Beckett I would get that, when it came to legal advice, I do go on. I must say I knew Councillor Ferguson was upset at the time and I do appreciate that but to suggest and to suggest in a public forum that City staff is stalling, I guess including the work that I think has to be done in terms of whether its performance obligation bonds or other issues with respect to the whole issue of pension deficit. I can tell you from City staff's point of view, I think it's inappropriate, I won't accept it and I acknowledge that if this Council wants to engage a securities lawyer than I want to make that resolution right here and right now and take Councillor Ferguson's advice as to what questions you would like to ask that lawyer because I don't know these questions and I know Mr. Nugent has had difficulties and so that's the point I am trying to make. I want to be cooperative and I think that at any time that a Councillor suggests that its unacceptable and intolerable, whatever the descriptions were, that is not the case and I know that most of you know that's not how I operate and I have got to make sure the public is aware that is not the way I react to councillors. Always in a polite and respectful manner. Councillor Ferguson Thank you your Worship. My statement that I read stands His Worship called upon Mr. Nugent) (Councillor Farren called a point or order) 4 Councillor Farren I respect the City Solicitor and you asking his opinion on that and that's fine but I don't think that's the point I'm trying to get at or Councillor Ferguson's trying to get at and the City Manager has said very clearly that the only ones who gives authorization to go out and expend money from this Council, is this Council. The point of order is ................ The Mayor pointed out Councillor Farren was making a statement and had only put his light on as a point of order. Councillor Farren Your Worship I have the floor here. On the point of order, this isn't a he said she said thing, it's going directly to what the City Manager said and we bounced to the City Manager and now we're going to the City Solicitor. Now I think the elected officials here have a little bit to say. Mayor — we've said it Councillor Ferguson — it's his item on the agenda Councillor Farren So if I may continue, the City Solicitor, the City Manager, pointed out the fact that this Council's the ones that gives the authority to hire anybody. And it was clearly stated in the motion and it was also the motion by Councillor Tait, I do believe, that said "be authorized to go out and seek outside help ". That was brought up at this meeting. I was chairing. It was brought up by Councillor Ferguson. He brought up the motion and it was changed to meet the City Manager's wish when Councillor Ferguson did that. Now I mean it's, we can sit here and argue the points and debates I don't think this is the situation to do it in. I think that if we want to get into that then it's not appropriate. The thing is, the motion was laid on this Council's table, Council made the recommendation of the working group to go out and solicit outside advice if needed and after the committee, the working group, asks for outside advice, the other half said no. I mean I think if we want to discuss this any further I think it be more appropriate in other surroundings. Mayor or City Manager - I'm prepared to discuss it right now. It's a matter of public record. Mayor — Yes Councillor Tait Councillor Tait Your Worship, something must have happened somewhere because I pretty, I don't miss too much and I recall when I make motions what my intent is and what I'm saying. There was a motion put forth by Councillor Ferguson to set up a working group of not more than three councillors and the City Manager. I forget the motion but I didn't support that motion. I didn't support that motion at all about a working group. I said that we have professional staff, that's what we pay them for and I made a motion that the professional staff, the Commissioner of 3 Finance, City Manager, look at these performance bonds and to see if it's something that was feasible that could help out our situation. The Mayor added on that Councillor Ferguson perhaps could assist and I felt what he meant was you've got information, give it to them. But we've turned this into right back to what, a motion I never supported, a working group. I supported our professional staff looking into this matter and I did say if they needed any outside assistance, the professional staff, to go get it, whatever it is, but not a working group like - - - -- ??? it's on the record Councillor Tait - Well I know what I said ? ?? it's in the minutes of the record Councillor Tait Well they're not recorded right if they don't reflect what I just said cause I know what I said. Anyway, that's enough for me and I don't think, you know, the dialogue down here shouldn't be going on down here. Councillor Titus Is there a motion of the floor? Mayor No. Councillor Ferguson read a statement that he wanted on the record. ? ?? — It's on the record I guess. I was eating crackers outside but it was on the record. Mayor — Mr. City Solicitor City Solicitor In light of the comments that have been made by Councillor Ferguson I feel it is necessary to comment because if I were to fail to comment then the natural conclusions which would be drawn from these comments would stand and I think those conclusions would be unjustified and incorrect. The responsibility of the person who holds the position of City Solicitor amongst other things is to assure that there is a coordinated delivery of legal advice to the City. And I say coordinated as opposed to haphazard and disorganized. As for that reason that all legal advice delivered to the Council passes through the City Solicitor whether it comes from me directly or for dealing with subjects with that I am not familiar or can't reasonably become familiar in the given period of time and will seek outside counsel. And never, as long as I have sat here in this position have I ever, for a moment, resisted seeking outside advice when I felt it was necessary. As the City Manager indicated, I met with the City Manager and Councillor Ferguson and discussed this issue of performance bonds and there was an interest on Councillor Ferguson's part to obtain the advice of a securities lawyer. I spoke at some length with Councillor Ferguson with the City Manager I spoke again subsequently and indicated to him both times I did not understand the nature or the focus of the advice he would be seeking from a securities lawyer was. Short of that, that may have been my shortcoming but heavens knows I tried to understand. Short of being of an understanding of what the nature and 4 focus of the advice being sought was, I would not be acting responsibly to hire a securities lawyer. I wouldn't know what to ask him to do. And that's, that's in my view of the responsibilities to the Council would be complete dereliction of those responsibilities. Now if at some point it could be explained to me what the intent of this inquiry would be then it's an inquiry that myself, nor the people in my department provide advice, than I would be only too happy to arrange for outside counsel. Now having said that, it always remains as the City Manager says, with Council, regardless what view I take for Council to authorize something to be done. Now I would tell Council, at this point, that I still and I don't know how Council could have of what an understanding of what the purpose or what the focus of that inquiry would be and not having that understanding it would seem that be at least premature perhaps even more questionable to proceed to obtain legal advice on some very ill- defined notion and that is what I believe the circumstances are currently and I would want the record to be very clear that never have I passed nor have I innocence ?? nor will I ever deny whatever Council requires in order to receive appropriate legal advice on a subject that's of significance to Council. Mayor — Councillor Farren? Councillor Farren Your Worship, I have great respect for Mr. Nugent as I'm sure Councillor Ferguson does and the rest of Council but I wasn't in attendance at that meeting but I mean it's the resolution. I'll read you part of it, the motion, "investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund ". There are the questions. From an advisor I think it's spelled out there and I don't know what the confusion is. Is, are we thinking right way down the line or not. That's the questions and whatever might evolve from that may be something else. I don't know. Maybe they're saying don't do the right thing. I don't know and we've got that from staff through a certain degree whether there's other questions out there but what you're saying, we don't know. Mayor — City Manager City Manager Your Worship, perhaps to get over this hump, there's no question that the committee has met and we had decided, and I think the Councillor's would agree, that the next focus was on, of a meeting with me to have Mr. Beckett present the pros and cons of using this type of this bonding mechanism to solve the Pension deficit issue. I did indicate at the committee meeting and I would indicate here that maybe what we should be doing is maybe having that presentation before this Council on the issue of these bonds and should Council wish to seek outside help, and you will recall I suggested that we should do this, if you decide to seek outside help or advice after hearing the presentation there shouldn't be any difficulty and that would be accounting, legal, whatever but at the point we are at • w I just felt uncomfortable because I would be the one having to sign the authorization. So I'm suggesting to you that we schedule the presentation, we move it from the from the committee and come right to this Council and Mr. Beckett would be ready within a week to ten days to do that presentation Councillor Farren (inaudible) Mayor — The meeting it has been recorded and there's minutes on that and we can certainly ? ? ? ? ?? Inaudible) Councillor Titus ? ?? Your Worship, I'm getting lost in all of this. I'm missing so much of this now I don't think I've been around for too long. Could I please have copies of all these minutes and motions that have apparently been made so I can put them together in my own head. When I look at this short little one - liner, I had no idea where this was coming from. I'd like to have all these motions whether Council made them or the working group made them so I can look at them. Mayor I want to ask a question of the, our Legal Department. Is it common to take minutes in meetings when you have City staff and Councillors meeting when something like this happens. I'm not sure, where do these minutes, what effect do those minutes and if you passed a resolution there does that mean anything to this Council. (Background saying "no, no, no" City Solicitor That procedure having to follow to start with that's I think a relatively unique arrangement. A committee and that committee, I think as well, performs something of an information gathering and advisory ball and has no independent decision making authority and how they choose to move themselves from first grappling with the issue that's been given to them to the point where they're prepared to make that presentation to Council is entirely their own doing and is really quite informal and certainly doesn't have the binding effect of any.......... Mayor I am not suggesting it's right or wrong, I just wanted to ask you your opinion on it. I'm not suggesting right or wrong or whatever. We've got to move on Councillor Farren, I can hear......... Councillor Farren I agree your Worship but I mean you brought up a subject..... Mayor C. I just asked a question the same as you people have Councillor Farren No no, I realize that but the intent and I've been a number of years at this sitting down at meetings, sometimes too many but I mean I've been at years at this and I have always, always recorded everything and I mean why we would not record the minutes of and I don't know if it has to audio tape but I mean record minutes of the meeting because I mean we're dealing with 40 million plus deficit. When I come back with a recommendation to this Council to my fellow Councillor's I want to be bang on what I'm saying. That's my intent. Mayor But I never said any intent on this. I just asked a question cause I'm not familiar. I certainly have a number of meetings with City staff and do not sit down and take minutes or anything. And I just, I want to protect myself too. I'm not suggesting you did anything wrong, I'm just asked for an opinion so I would know in the future cause there's no doubt no one here that meets with City staff as much as I do so if and if I have to take minutes then I'm gonna..... Councillor Farren But this is important Mayor I know, I realize that. I just asked. There's no intent here. We've got to move on here. Councillor Court Councillor Court Your Worship, having heard this discussion I think it is important that minutes are kept because than it keeps everybody on tap and nobody can say well you said this or I said that. The minutes are there, you can go back and check the minutes and you can verify who's saying what and who said and who didn't say what. And 1 think it's important that minutes be kept when you're talking about 45 or 90 million dollars an issue and so I think it's very important and we don't get down here fighting if we have the minutes. You know we can argue the point this and bring the minutes. I think it's important the minutes come to us when this takes place at this table. Mayor — Yes. We have one more person here. Deputy Mayor Hooton Deputy Mayor Hooton Thank you your Worship. Just a quick question. I just want to make sure I'm clear on this. When Councillor Ferguson brought the original motion forward to set up a committee, that motion was defeated? Is that correct? Mayor — Yes Deputy Mayor Hooton 7 c r And then what was the resolution that gave affect to your ability or Councillor Ferguson's ability to be able to have these meetings? I just need to know... Mayor There was a motion, on a motion of Councillor Tait seconded by Councillor McGuire "Resolved that the City Manager and the Commissioner of Finance, Councillor's Ferguson and Farren on behalf of the Council, investigate of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be authorized, (which is the total group I would say, not Council not the City Manager, the total group) be authorized to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so. Deputy Mayor Hooton - As a group Mayor — As a group Deputy Mayor Hooton — So a group they weren't able to come to that.... Mayor — I don't know, I wasn't there. City Manager But authority doesn't rest with the groups and when somebody has to make a decision somebody's gonna be held accountable to the situation. ? ?? who's that? City Manager It's me or it's Council. All I suggested it was best soon as a lawyer came into the... I said we better talk to John Nugent. That we did. John expressed some concerns. That led to this letter here tonight and that's led to the allegations that we're trying to stall things. Quite the opposite. Deputy Mayor Hooton — OK thank you. I just wanted to make that clear. Mayor — Yes? Common Clerk Your Worship. I don't want to ad to the confusion here but where on these types of matters where there's been amendments, resolutions brought forward, withdrawn, whatever, we are very careful when we're recording those minutes to try and reflect accurately what the spirit and intent of the resolution is. In this case, we reviewed it. Intent, as I understood it was not to create a committee, This was ....(Mayor and Common Clerk were interrupted) Staff and a couple of councillors, one added subsequently to review and investigate a fact finding mission. If the resolution has been to strike a committee it would have said explicitly in the resolution to strike a committee as a normal process you would have referred that to Nominating Committee to appoint the R I � members. This, this is a fact finding mission. That's what it is. The committee has no authority from Council to spend money, if you will or to - -- it can't bind the Council. It could keep minutes or notes for its own working purposes but their no record, their not adopted by Council. So you have to be careful if you are indeed, if your intent is to strike a committee with a particular mandate than the record should reflect that but it should be clearly Council's intent. If the intent is to go and do some research and report back to Council, which is what I understood this to be, in the spirit and intent of it, well that's a separate interesting ?? thing. It's a fact finding mission. Mayor — So we'll allow Councillor Ferguson to propose to close this off and then that's it. (interruption) No. this is it. This will close it off. Councillor Ferguson Again, we spent five to six weeks and the motion clearly made here, Council investigate the possibility of issuing bonds to assist with the unfunded liability of the Pension Fund and that they be given authority to seek any outside professional assistance that they deem necessary to do so. That speaks clearly what our objectives were. I don't believe that we can change the ground rules of this working group simply because senior staff don't agree by the terms set by Council. Again, your Worship, as I stated in my previous stance. These are legal and personnel decisions and they should be discussed in another forum. Mayor -Thank you. i✓ t REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL March 7, 2005 o The City of Saint John His Worship Mayor Norm McFarlane and Members of Common Council Your Worship and Members of Common Council: SUBJECT: Streamlining Our A e nda As you are aware, I have in the past expressed frustration with regards to the number of recommendations from City staff that Council must deal with at each meeting. We often state that it is Council's role to make and establish policy and it's then the City Manager's responsibility to implement and administer this policy. Unfortunately, we fail to adjust our processes to allow the Manager to move forward as intended. For example; ■ Council reviews budget submissions and ultimately approves an annual budget. This budget supposedly gives the Manager direction to proceed to provide the level of service as approved. If this is the case; "Why is it necessary for Common Council to approve every tender over $25,000 when Council has approved a budget, approved a procurement policy and have appointed a City Manager, a Treasurer and a Purchasing Agent to administer this policy? " • Council reviews and approves a Capital Program. In each annual program there are a number of projects that involve the purchase of small parcels of lands, the obtaining of easements, etc. No matter how immaterial, each transaction appears on the agenda. Therefore, "Is it possible for the City Manager and City Solicitor to propose processes that would allow staff to deal with land transactions and the granting or obtaining of easements in a value not to exceed $10, 000 or some other amount they might suggest? " Report to Common Council Subject: Streamlining Our Agenda RECOMMENDATION: That these questions be referred to the City Manager for a future report and recommendation. Respectfully submitted, C01 ILLOR CHRIS TITUs Page 2 Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Mr. Jack Keir General Manager Fundy Solid Waste Commission P.O. Box 3144, Station B Saint John, NB E2M 4X7 Dear Sir: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that the letter from Councillor Titus requesting Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission to investigate and report back to Council if there is any connection or financial benefit to composting /green house gases/ potential credits under the Kyoto Protocol that may be beneficial to The City of Saint John, be referred to the Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission." Enclosed is a copy of the above - mentioned letter. Y truly, J. Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc Enc. R 4 -Ink 4 www.saintjohn.ca March 10, 2005 Mayor McFarlane and Councillors Your Worship and Councillors: P.O. Box/C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB/N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Re: Fundy Solid Waste /Kyoto Protocol �r J I would ask Council's support to refer to Fundy Solid Waste to investigate and report back to Council if there is any connection or financial benefit to composting /green house gases /potential credits under the Kyoto Protocol that may be of benefit to The City of Saint John. Respectfully submitted, CI Chri pher T. Titus uncillor CTT /jaf www.saintjohn.ca March 10, 2005 Mayor McFarlane and Councillors Your Worship and Councillors: P.O. Box/C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB/N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Re: Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund Submission Process At our last Council meeting Mr. Groody presented to us an application update regarding the submission of four applications to the 2005 Water and Sewerage Utility Fund Capital Program. It was also communicated that preparation had begun on submission to the Province and Federal Government concerning two major projects - Water Treatment ($130 million) and Wastewater Treatment ($88 million). These two projects are critical components to the solution of the needs of The City of Saint John regarding Water and Wastewater Treatment. Upon staffs formal submission on these two major projects it is recommended that the Mayor and appropriate Councillor (based on portfolio status) personally present these submissions to the appropriate officials from the Provincial Government in Fredericton and Federal Government in Ottawa. Respectful peter McGuire Councillor 4 City Solicitor's Office Bureau de Pavocat municipal www.saintjohn.ca March 10, 2005 Common Council of The City of Saint John Your Worship and Councillors: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Re: Organizational Review Project— Operational Review Steering Committee The agreement between the City and Chartwell IRM Inc. has been duly executed pursuant to the terms of the Council resolution of January 31, 2005. The initial stage of the work to be undertaken pursuant to the contract includes the establishment and population of an Operational Review Steering Committee to be comprised of Mayor McFarlane, Deputy Mayor Hooton, Councillors Tait, Ferguson and Chase, as well as the City Manager and one senior management representative to be named by the City Manager. The City Manager has named Paul Groody in this respect. (This Committee is distinct from the adhoc Operational Review Committee created on July 19, 2004 for purposes of drafting terms of reference on a call for Expressions of Interest). The Steering Committee has ongoing responsibilities, including the review and recommendation to Council of High Opportunity Project Planning. Accordingly, it is in order for Council to adopt a resolution establishing and populating that Committee. The following is the form of the appropriate resolution: ... /2 9 1 . r Common Council City Solicitor March 10, 2005 Page 2 Re: Organizational Review Project - Operational Review Steering Committee RESOLVED that there is hereby established a committee to be known as the Operational Review Steering Committee comprised of Mayor McFarlane, Deputy Mayor Hooton, Councillors Tait, Ferguson and Chase together with Mr. Terry Totten and Mr. Paul Groody. The Committee shall exist and function in accordance with the terms of the agreement between the City of Saint John and Chartwell IRM Inc. dated as of February 2, 2005. Respectfully Submitted, � v Jo L. Nugent City Solicitor I-,,/ REPORT TO COMMON COUNCIL M & C-2005-47 His Worship Mayor Norman McFarlane And members of Common Council Your Worship and Councillors: RE: Management Salaries BACKGROUND City of Saint john Management salaries are set by Common Council through a salary administration policy. It has been Common Council's practice to review the management salary scales on an annual basis and to make an adjustments as deemed appropriate taking into account general economic conditions, most notably inflation. ANALYSIS Maintaining a competitive remuneration system is a key component in the recruitment and retention of high quality, motivated employees. In accordance with the City's salary administration policy all management positions are placed in one of 13 groupings on the basis of a job evaluation process. Attached as Appendix A is a listing of the City's current management positions showing their current placement in the salary groupings. The current salary scales or "salary grid" for management positions is structured as follows: Each salary group has six steps. The purpose of step increases or increments within a salary grouping is to recognize the learning curve that is associated with taking on a new position or responsibility. A review of relevant literature indicates this learning process takes 3 -5 years depending on the complexity and range of responsibilities of the position with the most active learning phase taking place in the initial 2 -3 years in the position. To reflect and reward this learning process the salary grid has six steps or increments. An individual would normally be hired at Step 1 or 2 of the salary range for the appropriate Group. Subject to satisfactory performance as documented by annual performance appraisals the individual would receive step increases in each of their first 4- 5 years of employment. Once at the top step of their respective salary group positions are not entitled to any further increments or step increases. On an annual basis the salary grid has been adjusted by Common Council to reflect general economic conditions and to ensure the salaries remain competitive in the general employment climate. For 2005 it is recommended that the management salary grid be increased by 2.9% effective January 1, 2005. This increase is deemed reasonable in light of local inflationary trends (CPI was 2.5% for 2004) and settlements with civic locals which have ranged from 2.5 — 4.1 %. Attached as Appendix B is the proposed salary grid for 2005 reflecting an increase of 2.9 %. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The total cost of the proposed salary increase is approximately $125,000 with approximately $90,000 in the General Operating Fund and $35,000 in the Water and Sewerage Utility. These funds were provided for in the 2005 operating budgets. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Common Council approve the 2005 salary grid for management professional employees as presented and attached as Appendix B. Respectfully submitted, J" / z 9-ht- � � � An ew P. Beckett C.A. Terry L. Totten FCA City Manager 4 CITY OF SAINT JOHN MANAGEMENT / PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS GROUP RANKINGS GROUP A No Positions GROUP B No Positions GROUP C No Positions GROUP D Design Eng. -Water & Wastewater Records Administrator GROUP E Asset Manager - Properties Communications Officer Geographic Information Systems Manager Personnel Officer (3) GROUP F Assistant Common Clerk Management Analyst Energy Manager Heritage Development Officer Manager - Building Maintenance Manager - Fleet Administration Manager - Fleet Services Ops. Mgr. -Urban & Traffic Ops. Mgr. - Transportation & Environment Planner 11 Superintendent - Recreation & Parks Superintendent - Municipal Operations Superintendent - Water & Sewerage (4) Tourism Officer GROUP G Assistant Comptroller (2) Administrative Officer - Fire Deputy Building Inspector Engineering Manager - Service & Program Management Senior Manager - Real Estate Operations Manager - Information Services & Support Systems Manager - Protective Services GROUP H Operations Manager, Public Safety Communications Cte. Manager - Organizational Effectiveness Project Engineer (3) GROUP District Chief - Fire (6) Divisional Chief - Training & Fire Prevention Investigation Manager - Water & Wastewater Planner 111 Solicitor (3) GROUPJ Comptroller Director, Emergency Measures Director, Information Services & Support Director, Recreation & Parks Manager, Human Resources Manager, Visitor & Convention Bureau Purchasing Agent/Manager, Materials Management Senior Project Engineer GROUP K Deputy Fire Chief Common Clerk Director, Works Manager, Water & Sewerage GROUP L Commissioner, Buildings & Inspections Services Commissioner, Planning & Development GROUP M .� Commissioner, Corp. Serv. & Finance City Solicitor -� Commissioner, Municipal Operations 2' Deputy City Manager G Fire Chief * r �, Appendix B City of Saint John Management/Professional Employees PROPOSED 2005 SALARY GRID Salary Steps Gouping 1 2 3 4 5 6 A 44,142 45,025 45,700 46,386 46,850 47,318 B 46,850 47,787 48,503 49,231 49,723 50,221 C 49,723 50,718 51,479 52,251 52,773 53,301 D 52,773 53,829 54,636 55,456 56,010 56,570 E 56,010 57,130 57,987 58,857 59,446 60,040 F 59,446 60,635 61,544 62,467 63,092 63,723 G 63,092 64,354 65,319 66,299 66,962 67,632 H 66,962 68,301 69,326 70,366 71,069 71,780 1 72,498 73,948 75,057 76,183 76,945 77,714 J 76,945 78,483 79,661 80,856 81,664 82,481 K 81,664 83,297 84,547 85,815 86,673 87,540 L 91,042 92,862 94,255 95,669 96,626 97,592 M 96,626 98,558 100,037 101,537 102,553 103,578 14 ya Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 5, 2005 P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 Mr. Jim Baird Municipal Development Officer Department of Planning & Development 10th Floor, City Hall P.O. Box 1971 Saint John, NB E21- 41-1 Dear Sir: RE: SUBDIVISION ASSENT —1965 SANDY POINT ROAD Enclosed is a certified copy of a resolution adopted by the Common Council on March 14, 2005, regarding the above property. rs truly, �l J. atrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc Enclosures ,r PROVINCE OF NEW BRUNSWICK COUNTY OF SAINT JOHN I, J. PATRICK WOODS, of The City of Saint John in the County of Saint John and Province of New Brunswick, DO HEREBY CERTIFY:- 1. That I am the Common Clerk of the said City of Saint John and as such have the custody of the minutes and records of the Common Council of the said City of Saint John and of the Common Seal of the said City. 2. That hereto attached and marked "A" is a copy of a resolution adopted at a meeting of the Common Council of The City of Saint John held on the fourteenth day of March, A.D. 2005. 3. That I have carefully compared the said resolution with the original and the same is a true copy thereof. A.D. 2005. D A T E D at The City of Saint John on the fifth day of April, IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I, the said Common Clerk of The City of Saint John have hereunto affixed the Common Seal of the said City the day and year first hereinbefore written. 1� J. PotNck Woods Com n Clerk "All.. "RESOLVED that as recommended by the Planning Advisory Committee, Common Council adopt the following resolution: That Common Council assent to the revised photo- reduced tentative subdivision plan of the Fieldstone Estates Subdivision, including proposed Lots 22 -25 of Block "B," and to any required municipal services or public utility easements; That Common Council authorize the preparation and execution of one or more City /Developer 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; That Common Council assent to the revised Land for Public Purposes dedication of approximately 7785 square metres, and That Common Council authorize cost - sharing outside the limits of the subdivision in accordance with Section 26 of the Subdivision By -law." Planning P.O. Box 1971 506 658 -2800 Advisory Committee Saint john New Brunswick Canada E2L 4L1 March 9, 2005 Your Worship and Councillors: SUBJECT: Fieldstone Estates Subdivision 1965 Sandy Point Road The Planning Advisory Committee considered the attached report at its March 8, 2005 meeting. City of Saint john The applicant, Mr. Richard Turner, appeared before the Committee in support of the application and staff recommendation. Mrs. Cathy Adams of 2025 Sandy Point Road and Mr. Frank MacKin of 2043 Sandy Point Road also appeared before the Committee in support of the proposed amendment to the Land for Public Purposes dedication. There were no other presentations made at the meeting regarding this matter, and no letters were received from surrounding property owners. After considering the matter the Committee resolved to adopt staff recommendation, which is set -out below for your convenience. RECOMMENDATION: 1. That Common Council assent to the revised photo- reduced tentative subdivision plan of the Fieldstone Estates Subdivision, including proposed Lots 22 -25 of Block `B," and to any required municipal services or public utility easements. 2. That Common Council authorize the preparation and execution of one or more City/Developer 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. 3. That Common Council assent to the revised Land for Public Purposes dedication of approximately 7785 square metres. 4. That Common Council authorize cost - sharing outside the limits of the subdivision in accordance with Section 26 of the Subdivision By -law. Z Fo�r mitted, Vice - Ch airman MRO /m Planning and Development P.O. Box/C.P. 1971 Urbanisme et d6veloppement Saint John, NB/N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 www.saintjohn.ca DATE: TO: FROM: FOR: SUBJECT: Name of Applicant: Name of Owner: MARCH 4, 2005 PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT MEETING OF MARCH 8, 2005 Location: PID: Municipal Plan: Millidgeville Secondary Plan: Zoning: Proposal: Mark O'Hearn Planning Officer Hughes Surveys and Consultants Inc. Maber Somerville Joint Venture Limited and City of Saint John 1965 Sandy Point Road 55059075,55168884 and 55168892 Low Density Residential Sandy Point Road (Development Area F) "RS -2" One and Two Family Suburban Residential To undertake a large fully serviced residential subdivision. Subdivision Fieldstone Estates Subdivision 1965 Sandy Point Road JURISDICTION OF COMMITTEE: Page 2� March 4, 2005 The Community Planning Act authorizes the Planning Advisory Committee to advise Common Council concerning proposed subdivision developments, including the assent of public streets, Land for Public Purposes and easements. STAFF RECOMMENDATION TO COMMITTEE: 1. That Common Council assent to the revised photo- reduced tentative subdivision plan of the Fieldstone Estates Subdivision, including proposed Lots 22 -25 of Block `B," and to any required municipal services or public utility easements. 2. That Common Council authorize the preparation and execution of one or more City/Developer 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. 3. That Common Council assent to the revised Land for Public Purposes dedication of approximately 7785 square metres. 4. That Common Council authorize cost - sharing outside the limits of the subdivision in accordance with Section 26 of the Subdivision By -law. BACKGROUND: On August 10, 2004 the Planning Advisory Committee favourably considered the originally proposed Fieldstone Estates Subdivision, and granted variances relating to double - frontage lots (Lots 3 -8 of Block `B ") and hillside lots. However, at the time the original submission was considered Lots 22 -25 of Block `B" could not be considered as it involved a triangular property owned by the City and no negotiations for the acquisition for this parcel had yet taken place. On August 16, 2004 Common Council assented to the subdivision development and authorized the necessary approvals and cost - sharing as recommended by the Committee. Since that time the Development Officer has endorsed the final subdivision plan for proposed Lots 1 -4 (Block "A ") on the south side of Sandy Point Road. , Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 3 1965 Sandy Point Road March 4, 2005 ; INPUT FROM OTHER SOURCES: Municipal Operations and Engineering has no objection to the revisions to the proposed subdivision. It has been noted that due to the steep terrain any pedestrian connection between Hearthstone Court and the proposed Land for Public Purposes would likely require the construction of a staircase. Building and Technical Services has no objection to this revised proposal. Leisure Services has been advised of this application. ANALYSIS: In August 2004 the City favourably considered a new serviced residential subdivision known as Fieldstone Estates in Millidgeville (see attachments). At the public meetings adjacent landowners at 2025 and 2043 Sandy Point Road expressed concerns with regards to the close proximity of the proposed Land for Public Purposes dedication, and requested an opportunity to explore the possibility of acquiring additional land for buffering from this L.P.P. dedication. Recently, the surveying consultant submitted a revised plan with respect to the development. Specifically, the plan would now consolidate small portions of the formerly proposed L.P.P. area to these two adjacent properties. It should be noted that only a dedication of 6400 square metres is required, and the revised plan would still provide a credit of 1385 square metres. It should also be noted that; as suggested by planning staff, a potential pedestrian access from Heathstone Court has now been provided. As mentioned in the previous report, the Millidgeville Secondary Plan supports the preservation of natural features. The Secondary Plan also encourages the eventual development of a continuous walkway system from the ferry terminal to Rockwood Park. While it was recognized that the L.P.P. area is steeply sloped, it is staff's position that the proposed L.P.P. ought to be preserved as a natural feature in the neighbourhood, as well as there was also opportunity to develop a narrow walkway through the dedication by staying parallel with the sloping terrain. The revised proposal would provide for three public access points from two streets. The revised L.P.P. configuration maintains a minimum of 10 metres (33 feet) of, width, more than sufficient for a pathway to be developed. Therefore, this revised dedication can be recommended for approval. At the time the City considered the original subdivision development a triangular parcel adjacent to Sandy Point Road was owned by the City of Saint John, but no resolution had been given by a a Fieldstone Estates Subdivision - Page 4 1965 Sandy Point Road March 4, 2005 Common Council with regards to sale of this parcel to the Developer. This area is a portion of proposed Lots 22 -25 (Block `B ") on the tentative subdivision plan. Real Estates Services has reached a tentative agreement with the Developer concerning the sale of this land. Common Council is expected to consider this real estate matter on March 14, 2005. In light of these successful negotiations, it would now be appropriate to recommend that these lots now be included in the proposed subdivision development. Obviously should Council resolve not to sell the property to the Developer these lots will be omitted from the project. The revised recommendation includes all the necessary assents and approvals relating to these mentioned changes from the original subdivision design. The variance approvals granted by the Committee would still apply to the revised subdivision proposal as those aspects of the project remain unaffected. MRO /m Project No. 04 -198 %o Id. Planning and Development P.O. Box/C.P. 1971 Urbanisme et d6veloppement Saint John, NB/N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 www.saintjohn.ca - d DATE: AUGUST 6, 2004 The City of Saint John TO: PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE FROM: PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT FOR: MEETING OF AUGUST 10, 2004 '�'�On_an,n Mark O'Heam Planning Officer SUBJECT: Name of Applicant: Hughes Surveys and Consultants Inc. Name of Owner: Maber Somerville Joint Venture Limited Location: 1965 Sandy Point Road PID: 55059083, 55059067, and 55059075 Municipal Plan: Low Density Residential Millidgeville Secondary Plan: Sandy Point Road (Development Area F) Zoning: "RS -2" One and Two Family Suburban Residential Proposal: To undertake a large fully serviced residential subdivision. Type of Application: Subdivision and Variances that would: (a) Allow for the creation of double- frontage (through) lots when such lots are normally prohibited; and (b) Allow for the creation of certain lots containing slopes of 15 percent or greater without being Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 2, , 1965 Sandy Point Road August 10, 2004 increased in area and width as prescribed by the Hillside Provisions of the Subdivision By -law. JURISDICTION OF COMMITTEE: The Community Planning Act authorizes the Planning Advisory Committee to give its views to Common Council concerning the location of public and future streets, municipal services and public utility easements, and land for public purposes dedications in conjunction with the subdivision of land. The Act also authorizes the Committee to grant reasonable variances from the requirements of the Subdivision By -law. Conditions can be imposed by the Committee. STAFF RECOMMENDATION TO COMMITTEE: 1. That Common Council assent to the submitted photo- reduced tentative subdivision plan of the Fieldstone Estates Subdivision, and to any required municipal services or public utility easements, but not assent to proposed Lots 22 -25 of Block `B," proposed Lots 1 & 2 of Block "F," and Block "G" (Fieldstone Court development area) at this time. 2. That Common Council authorize the preparation and execution of one or more City/Developer 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. 3. That Common Council assent to the proposed Land for Public Purposes dedication of approximately 9300 square metres. 4. That Common Council authorize cost - sharing outside the limits of the subdivision in accordance with Section 26 of the Subdivision By -law. 5. That the Planning Advisory Committee grant the following variances from the requirements of the Subdivision By -law that would: (a) Allow for the creation of Lots 3 -8 of Block "B," which are double - frontage lots, on the condition that vehicular access is restricted to Hearthstone Drive, and that this condition be indicated on the final subdivision plan and included in the deeds of these proposed lots; and Fieldstone Estates Subdivision 1965 Sandy Point Road Page 3 August 10, 2004 (b) Allow for the creation lots containing slopes in excess of 15 percent without being increased in area and width as prescribed by the Hillside Provisions of the Subdivision By -law, on the condition that such lots be altered in accordance with a grading plan approved by the Development Officer. 6. That the Planning Advisory Committee approve the street names "Hearthstone Drive," "Boundary Court," "Flagstone Street," and `Boulderwood Court." INPUT FROM OTHER SOURCES: Municipal Operations and Engineering has provided the following comments regarding this application: (a) The Boundary Court cul -de -sac should be constructed with a regulation diameter of 37.5 metres (124 feet). (b) The proposed double- frontage lots are acceptable though they may be more difficult to market and develop. (c) Lots containing slopes of 15 percent or great should be enlarged as required by the Subdivision By -law. (d) There is concern with regards to the proposed Land for Public Purposes dedication given the steep slopes contained in this area of the property and possible liability issues. The proposed L.P.P. dedication should not be recommended for assent. (e) Municipal sewer and water have been extended along Foster Thurston Drive to approximately the prolongation of the south sideline of Lot 1 (Block `B "). There has also been an 8 -inch water stub installed on Sandy Point Road in the area just beyond Lot 23 (Block `B ") that can accommodate the proposed residential subdivision development. (f) Natural drainage flows west along the frontage of Lots 1 -5 (Block "A ") that must be maintained. (g) At this time it would appear to be the most efficient for future homeowners if the ; sidewalk were installed along the north boundary of Sandy Point Road immediately adjacent to the lots comprising Block `B." (h) A sewage lift station would be required for the development of Fieldstone Court (Block "G "). The ideal location for such a station would be towards the bottom of Sandy Point Road with sufficient capacity to service that area of the community. Details would have to be determined with regards to exact location, capacity, and financing arrangements. Fieldstone Estates Subdivision 1965 Sandy Point Road Page 4 August 10, 2004 Building and Technical Services has no concerns regarding this subdivision development. Saint John Energy has indicated that facilities are in the area. The details and costs of the necessary service extension and provision of underground facilities can be discussed with the Developer later. Aliant Telecom has no concerns with regards to this residential subdivision development. Servicing details and costs can be discussed with the Developer when plans are submitted for . approval. Rogers has been advised of this new residential development. Leisure Services can support the proposed Land for Public Purposes dedication, which may eventually be developed as part of a walkway system in the area or remain a natural area for the enjoyment of residents. Rockwood Park and Tucker Park continue to provide significant recreational opportunities to local residents. Fire Department has expressed some concern regarding the requested reduced cul -de -sac turnaround facility. The smaller turning radius may restrict access /egress, and is of an even greater concern when migrating around stationary vehicles and/or snow accumulation. School Board has been advised of this new residential project. ANALYSIS: Subiect Site and Development Proposal The subject is situated on Sandy Point Road and Foster Thurston Drive in the Millidgeville area (see attached location map). The site is comprised of four parcels of land with a total approximate area of 24 hectares (59 acres). The main development area slopes upwards from Sandy Point Road. This area is covered by a mature mixed forest cover with rock outcropping. The remainder of the development area is situated on the south side of Sandy Point Road immediately at the intersection with Foster Thurston Drive. This area is presently being filled by surplus material from the ongoing Sandy Point reconstruction project. The development area also involves land further down on Sandy Point Road towards the Kennebecasis Bay. The Developer has acquired ownership of these former City parcels, and intends to carryout a residential subdivision development in phases consisting of approximately sixty -eight (68) lots. It must be noted that one of these parcels of land, the small triangular parcel immediately adjacent to Sandy Point Road (Lots 22 -25 of Block `B "), is still owned by City of Saint John. No resolution by Common Council has been made with regards to the'sale of this parcel of land. Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 5 1965 Sandy Point Road August 10, 2004 Therefore, this specific portion of the proposed subdivision development cannot yet be considered for approval. The attached photo - reduced Fieldstone Estates tentative subdivision plan has been recently received. Please note that the originally submitted proposal, which was circulated to the immediate neighbourhood, showed the Boulderwood Court area and proposed Lots 26 -29 (Block "B ") as two "Future Development" areas, The Developer had been considering the possibility of constructing townhouses in these areas of the development. This would have required rezoning prior to being considered. However, since that time the Developer has decided not to construct any townhouses within the proposed subdivision. Milli dgeville Secondary Plan and Requested Variances The area is designated by the Municipal Development Plan as Low Density Residential. Further, the Millidgeville Secondary Plan encourages the construction of executive style one - family housing on fully serviced suburban residential lots. The Developer is intending to undertake the subdivision in a similar manner as Kennebecasis Bay Estates, with full municipal services, concrete sidewalk and curbs, and underground public utilities. The area is zoned "RS -2 " One and Two Family Suburban Residential. The revised proposed subdivision can satisfy all the requirements of the Subdivision and Zoning By -laws with the exception of the following: (a) Reduction in the minimum cul -de -sac turnaround diameter standard from 37.5 metres 124 feet) to approximately 30 metres (100 feet) for proposed Boundary Court; (b) Allowance for the creation of double - frontage (through) lots (Lots 3 -8 of Block "B ") when such lots are normally prohibited; and (c) Allowance for the creation of certain lots containing slopes of 15 percent or greater without being increased in area and width as required by the Hillside Provisions of the Subdivision By -law. The revised proposal has avoided a previously required lot depth variance in addition to eliminating the townhouse concept. In addition, the revised design now provides opportunity to increase the turnaround facility of Boundary Court to the By -law's standard dimension. The surveying consultant has advised that there is sufficient area to create a turnaround with a diameter of 37.5 metres (124 feet), and is no longer seeking a variance for a reduced turnaround facility (tentative plan not yet revised). Lots 3 -8 (Block "B ") would have frontage onto two public streets. Such lots are referred to as through lots, and not normally permitted by the Subdivision By -law since the design of new Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 6 1965 Sandy Point Road August 10, 2004 developments is less efficient both to develop and maintain. In this particular case, however, access to these lots cannot be developed from both streets due to steep slopes. The applicant has indicated that the building sites and driveways are planned to be orientated towards the new Hearthstone Drive street. The recommendation would make this a requirement. Finally, not unlike several other recently approved subdivision developments, there are proposed lots that presently contain slopes of 15 percent or greater. The Subdivision By -law normally requires such lots to have increased areas and widths to facilitate development in such situations. These Hillside Provisions help to address slope stabilization issues, as well as ensure adequate space to develop curving driveways and possible multi -level house construction, in addition ensure adequate side yards to accommodate surface drainage. As was the case in certain other developments, the subject area is rocky and will provide for a very stable base for foundation construction. The applicant has increased the widths of the proposed lots to ensure adequate building areas for the homes. Furthermore, many of the lots are expected to be altered in order to provide acceptable slopes for building purposes. Therefore, similar to other applications, the subdivision can be supported as designed on the condition that such remaining sloped lots be altered in accordance with a grading plan approved by the Development Officer. Subdivision Work and Facilities The Subdivision By -law requires that all the new streets within the proposed subdivision be fully developed with an asphalt surface, concrete curbing and sidewalk. Full municipal services (i.e., sewer, water and storm) will be required, and public utilities will need to be installed underground. The By -law also can require the Developer to undertake improvements to the adjacent portions of the existing streets (Sandy Point Road and Foster Thurston Drive) to the same standards as within the subdivision. With regards to adjacent section of Sandy Point Road. This was part of the major sewer and water extension through this area of Millidgeville, and the street will be resurfaced by the City. The Developer will be responsible to install necessary service laterals to the proposed lots, and there appears to be a requirement to extend the mains further north along Foster Thurston Drive to service lots in Block "C." The Developer will also be required to install necessary storm sewers and sidewalk (location yet to be determined). The Fieldstone Court development area and Block "F" cannot be serviced at the present time. Municipal Operations and Engineering have indicated that a sewage lift station will be required, and such a station ought to be situated at a suitable location to service the general area to the north of the subject site. This will require further investigation, and unfortunately this part of the overall project cannot be considered until services are extended (and lift station constructed). Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 7. -` 1965 Sandy Point Road August 10,2004 The staff recommendation includes assent of the proposed new public streets (and Future Street that would provide access to the adjoining Marilyn Galbraith property), and to any necessary municipal services or public utility easements. In addition, the recommendation includes authorization for the preparation and execution of necessary City/Developer Subdivision Agreements to ensure provision of the required work and facilities. Cost - sharing for anticipated work outside the limits of the proposed subdivision is also being recommended. Land for Public Purposes The Subdivision By -law requires that when subdivision developments are undertaken a certain percentage of the land involved must be vested to the City for the possibility of eventually being developed for recreational purposes, or, alternatively, preserved in their natural state. The By -law requires a minimum L.P.P. dedication of 6400 square metres (68,891 square feet or 1.58 acres) for the overall subdivision development. A linear Land for Public Purposes dedication of 0.93 hectares (2.3 acres) is being proposed along a steeply - sloped area between Hearthstone Drive and Fieldstone Court (see attached tentative subdivision plan). Access to this dedication would occur from Sandy Point Road and Hearthstone Drive. In addition, public access should also be provided, if this dedication is accepted, from Fieldstone Court. This matter can be further discussed when that part of the development is undertaken. The Millidgeville Secondary Plan supports the preservation of natural features. The Secondary Plan also encourages the eventual development of a continuous walkway system from the ferry terminal to Rockwood Park. Furthermore, the Plan acknowledges that park space is not needed due to the close proximity of Rockwood Park. A similar sloped area was dedicated in the Kennebecasis Bay Estates Subdivision. Leisure Services has advised that the proposed linear L.P.P. dedication is acceptable, as it would retain and protect a natural sloped area of the community, and could eventually be developed as part of a walkway system in the general area. Leisure Services has also indicated that Rockwood Park and Tucker Park (among other recreational facilities in the Millidgeville area) continue to provide significant recreational opportunities for local residents. Outside of private amenity spaces, the City also has land available for park development near the Ferry Landing. This park location would be ideal for the residents in the area. Acceptance of the proposed L.P.P. dedication can be recommended. The surplus dedication of 2900 square metres (31,216 square feet) can be a credit should the Developer undertake any further subdivision development in the immediate area. E Fieldstone Estates Subdivision Page 8; 1965 Sandy Point Road August 10,2004 Street Na in The proposed street names have been carefully reviewed, and are unique in both sound and spelling from other existing names. Therefore, these requested names can be recommended for Committee approval. CONCLUSION: The applicant is seeking approval for a fully- serviced residential subdivision development in the Millidgeville area. The subdivision proposal can satisfy the Subdivision and Zoning By -laws with the exception of the noted variances, which are considered reasonable and have been recommended for approval with appropriate conditions. All the necessary assents and approvals relating to this project have also been recommended. A further staff report to Common Council will be necessary should the Developer wish to develop Lots 22 -25 (Block "B ") along Sandy Point Road. As noted in this report that parcel of land is still owned by the City. 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Teed, O.C., C.D., Q.C. 127 Prince William Street, Saint John, New Brunswick, E2L 2134 Tel: (506) 634 -7324 Fax: (506) 634 -7423 March 1, 2005 Common Council City of Saint John Saint John, N.B. Your Worship and Councillors, I learned with interest of the Mayor's appointment to portfolios of interest of various Councillors, particularly a portfolio of higher education. However this presents a potential problem. By the University of New Brunswick Act, Mayor Norman McFarlane is the representative on the City as member of the Board of Governors of the University of New Brunswick. There could be a potential conflict if Council Chase acting in his Portfolio of higher education in discussions with University staff took one position which could be contrary to the Board of Governors, on which Mayor McFarlane is the city spokesmen. A proposal was made to the previous Council which the then Mayor and Council did not pursue namely that representations be made to the Provincial Government that the University of New Brunswick Act be changed to provide that the Mayor of Saint John or an alternative appointed by Council would be the representative on the Board of Governors. This would enable the City to have representation at all times. At present the City has no representation if the Mayor is not at meeting. It has been reported that the present Mayor Norman McFarlane has been unable to attend meetings of the Board of Governors since May 2004. If so this is not a good situation. One learns the Mayor of Fredericton always attended Board Meetings. It is of further interest that the University Chancellor was a Saint John born citizen. The Board has among its members a number of leading citizens of the Province and personal contact by a City representative could be of value. This can only be done at present if the Mayor himself attends Board meetings. The University of New Brunswick in Saint John plays an important part in the City's economy and future. It was the outreach work of U.N.B.S.J. in China respecting education, which has resulted in the growing number of students from Asia, and the growth of new businesses. This has changed the face of Saint John into a cosmopolitan City. It is suggested it is important to the future of the City that the City Council have a member present at U.N.B. Board of Governors meetings. This could also avoid any potential conflict if the same person was on the Board of Governors as held the Portfolio for "higher education ", as this to a large degree involves the future of UNBSJ which is so importantto the continued development of Metro Saint John. J - '4 Mulicultural Association of Saint John, Inc. Multiculturel du Saint John, Inc. 55 Canterbury Street, Room 11 P.O. Box 6446 Station "A" Saint John, New Brunswick Saint John, New Brunswick Tel: (506) 632 -0096 E2L 4R8 Fax: (506) 634 -7423 March 1, 2005 Common Council City of Saint John Saint John, N.B. Your Worship and Councillors, The Multicultural Association of Saint John has become informed of the Atlantic Immigration Conference scheduled from May 15 to 17, 2005 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.. The conference apparently involves all of the Atlantic Provinces and as set out in the notice which is attached. We note that however Saint John is not listed as involved with immigrants as are Halifax, St. John's and Moncton. We bring this to your attention so corrective action may be taken. We would be pleased to learn what steps are being taken to have appropriate representation at this conference. Will the Mayor be attending or other appropriate representative attending if allowed? If the Multicultural Association can be of any help; with presenting problems or thoughts for discussion to the City delegate, we would be pleased to so do. Yours truly, Krista Hodgson Secretary : their is year are Id. In olding uary 7 s back of the on the cement tr New .n the e first time 1 lunar an fall he ails on of the tionally bols of er is a ;once. ebrated Lantern known :hinese - course cert on se New Pier 21 J {.� reIar'�"- "tion j 's ece Last year Statscan released its study that tracked settlement patterns over the last decade and its report indicated that while 73 per cent of all f new arrivals settled in Toronto Montreal or f Vancouver, virtually the rest made their home in other cities and not enough chose Halifax, St. John's, Moncton or any other Atlantic Canada city for those places to register on the survey. Why Immigration? tlantic Canada needs immigration to boost its economy, draw skills, diversify its industry and expand its tax base in a region that has a high ageing population. Why Outmigration? mmigrants that come to Atlantic Canada soon leave. That means our provinces have not only to draw immigrants to this region, but welcome, integrate and retain newcomers. The relative importance of familial, social, economic and other considerations in the immigrant's destination decision - making, needs to be understood. ' Nova 3anquet What can be done? i Scotia ' to 1:00 M ayor Peter Kelly, Chair of the Atlantic arotther Mayors' Congress strongly believes there ee, the is a role communities can play in welcoming, three levels of government. integrating and retaining newcomers to Eastern Canada. An effective immigration strategy needs strong partnerships and the participation of businesses, professional associations, labour, regional development authorities, community groups, religious organizations, ethnic ;. associations and all What are the conference goals? The goal of the conference is to find ways that communities across Atlantic Canada can work together to make the region more welcoming to immigrants. It will provide a forum for immigrants, settlement associations, universities, government policy makers, NGOs, researchers, businesses and employers to explore best practices. The agenda includes vignettes - newcomers tell their stories of challenge in the immigration and settlement process. Furthermore, prominent speakers from across the region will address issues connected with the challenges and opportunities that immigration presents and workshops will provide conference delegates an opportunity to engage in discussion. Call Mayor Peter Kelly's Office (902) 490 -4084. E -mail: immigration2005 @halifax.ca / � J 10. Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Walter & Elizabeth Cann 1133 Rothesay Road Saint John, NB E2H 2H9 Dear Sir and Madam: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that the letter from Walter and Elizabeth Cann wishing to apply for heritage designation for their home located at 1133 Rothesay Road be referred to the Preservation Review Board." Yours truly, '� I il- Q,-� J. Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc 1133 Rothesay Road Saint John, NB E2H 2H9 0\ February 22, 2005 Saint John City Council City of Saint John P. O. Box 1971 Saint John, NB E21, 4L1 Dear Mayor McFarlane and Council Members: RE: HERITAGE HOME DESIGNATION Some of our neighbours and we have been meeting in our home to discuss the possibility of a "pocket of heritage homes" in Brookville being recognized as a heritage area. With that in mind, we wish to apply to the Preservation Review Board to have our home considered for heritage designation. Our home was constructed of stone in 1914 by Mr. and Mrs. Drake and is of a unique architecture in the Saint John area. At the time of construction, the home became know as "Drake's Castle." Thank you for your attention to this matter. Yours truly, of, Walter & Elizabeth ann NHOr 1NIVS 30 AilO SOOZ i. o 301330 S,)1H310 NOVVVV00 Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Mr. Jeff Sparks 93 Prince William Street Saint John, NB E21- 2B2 Dear Sir: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that the letter from Jeff Sparks proposing to convert one of the three commercial vehicle loading zone parking places in front of the CompuCollege building into a paid accessible parking spot be referred to the Saint John Parking Commission and the City Solicitor." Yours truly, . A Patrick Woods Common Clerk RIN &TWIN Cc: City Solicitor R= 9 V^ PROFILES GLOBAL Insight that Delivers Results February 28, 2005 Mayor and Council, City of Saint John 15 Market Square PO Box 1971 Saint John, NB E21, 411 Dear Mayor McFarlane and Members of Council: I am writing to ask your support regarding an accessible parking matter. I am currently working as a Diversity Consultant with Profiles Global (Atlantic) Inc. and require accessible parking. My office is located in the CompuCollege building, 93 Prince William Street. I am currently parking in the old Bank of Canada garage on the corner of Prince William. However, this is only a short term solution as the new tenant will be using all the spaces as of July, 2005. I am proposing to convert one of the three commercial vehicle loading zone parking places in front of the CompuCollege building (in particular, the spot closest to Princess Street on the west side of Prince William), into a paid accessible parking spot. I would be more than willing to pay market rate for a monthly parking spot. There would be significant space for a loading zone even if one of these spaces were to be a permanent parking space. As you are aware, it is difficult with our winters to get power wheelchairs up and down our sidewalks. Having a parking place directly in front of the building would prevent me from having to miss work on snowy days. As it stands, as of July, 2005, the only alternative my attendant will have is to park in the loading zone, drop me off, and leave me unattended as he /she parks on Water Street, which is unsafe. If you could please look into this matter I would really appreciate it. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at: 642 -7722 — ext. 226; jsparks(&profilesglobal.com. Sincerely, " C Jeff Sparks 93 Prince William Street, Saint John NB E21, 2132 (506) 642 -7722 Fax: 506 -642 -7700 www.profilesglobal.com Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint John, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 jai April 4, 2005 Mrs. Stella Bury 25 Conifer Cresent Saint John, NB E2K 4T3 Dear Madam: At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that the letter from Stella Bury asking questions regarding water meters in mobile homes and mini homes, be referred to the City Manager." ours truly, ,L Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:slc Cc: City Manager sp -� � �� �j� V I i � A i CL - RECEIVED COMMON CLERK'S OFFICE MAR 0 2005 ICITY OF SAINT JOHN l _ i0 ,a r Common Clerk's Office Bureau du greffier communal www.saintjohn.ca April 4, 2005 Mr. Robert McIntyre President River Valley Archery Club 1003 Duck Cove Lane Saint John, NB E2M 3G3 Dear Sir: P.O. Box /C.P. 1971 Saint john, NB /N. -B. Canada E2L 4L1 At a meeting of the Common Council, held on March 14, 2005, the following resolution was adopted, namely:- "RESOLVED that the request from Robert McIntyre, President of the River Valley Archery Club requesting financial assistance for the Canadian National Championships to be held in Saint John from July 22 to August 1, 2005 be referred to the City Manager." urs truly, Patrick Woods Common Clerk JPW:sIc Cc: City Manager �o r' CANADIAN NATIONAL ARCHERY CHAMPIONSHIPS March 7, 2005 Mayor Norman McFarlane & Members of Common Council P.O. Box 1971 Saint John, NB E2L 4L 1 Your Worship & Members of Common Council: Robert McIntyre Chairperson 1003 Duck Cove Lane Saint John, NB E2M 3G3 (506) 647 -5766 Fax: (506) 649 -7947 Trudy Dryden Treasurer 67 Dryden Street Lower Coverdale, NB E1J 1B9 1-877- 462 -4262 The River Valley Archery Club of Saint John and the Organizing Committee and are very excited to announce that Saint John, New Brunswick has been chosen to host The 2005 Canadian National Archery Championships. Saint John is the first city to be awarded all three types of championships in one city. This nine -day sporting event will consist of the Target Championships at the Canada Games Stadium on The University of New Brunswick Saint John campus, and the 3 -D and the Field Championships at the Glen Carpenter Centre. This national sporting event begins on July 22 and runs through August 1, 2005. This is the largest archery tournament being held in Canada this year, drawing in excess of 500 competitors plus their families from all across North America. An event of this size will certainly receive television, radio, and newspaper coverage. Provincially, there are 18 archery clubs and approximately 3000 archers. Archery, as a recreational, competitive, and family sport, is gaining in popularity. It is a great family participation sport with kids as young as 5 years old and grandparents as old as 90. Many local archery clubs have very active youth programs, church groups, Scouts Canada, PRO Kids, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, etc. The volunteers, mostly parents of participating children, spend many hours supporting these groups. We strongly support archery as a family sport. r' 2 We are conducting a national advertising campaign that began in September 2004 through our national website ( http:// www.archerynb.ca/national2005 /), accessible by over 20,000 archers. Our campaign promotes Saint John and New Brunswick as a family vacation destination. We are working closely with Tourism Saint John and our provincial tourism department to compile a list of things to do and see such as working with local tour companies to arrange day tours and day adventures for non - competing spouses and children or those who wish to stay a few extra days. The economic impact of this event on Saint John is estimated to be over $1,000,000.00. We are now in the fundraising stage of our planning process and are seeking sponsors to financially assist us in hosting a successful national event of this calibre. Please find attached a copy of our operating budget. As you can see, our anticipated expenses are in the range of $123,000; therefore, we respectfully request that Saint John Common Council give consideration to making a contribution of $10,000. This support will be a worthwhile and valuable investment that will not only help to ensure success, but also, to promote Saint John as a venue for national sporting events. This national tournament will have an ongoing benefit for local provincial archery clubs. Most of the equipment used in hosting this tournament, such as used archery targets, will be contributed to New Brunswick archery clubs for their future use. This helps the continued promotion and support of archery in this province. It would be appreciated if you would kindly advise us of your interest at your earliest convenience so that we may move forward with our continued fundraising plans. We do not have a national sponsor for this event, but rely on various volunteer fundraising and corporate donations. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the undersigned. Thank you for your time and we hope you will give favorable consideration to our request to become a sponsor of the 2045 Canadian National Archery Championships. Sincerely, Robert McIn e, President River Valley Archery Club (506) 647 -5766 robert.mcintyre r saintiohn_ca RECEIVED COMMON CLERK'S OFFICE MAR 0 2005 CITY OF SAINT JOHN 2005 CANADIAN ARCHERY TARGET, FIELD and 3D CHAMPIONSHIPS July 22nd to August 1", 2005 x Budget 4 A NS 1 based on SCENARIO 2 based on 525 Revenues 370 registrants registrants Registration(includes banquet) 10,200.00 Registration Costs & Office Supplies Adult $ 30,100.00 $ 43,250.00 Youth $ 4,725.00 $ 5,775.00 Cub /Pee Wee $ 1,275.00 $ 2,225.00 Extra Banquet Tickets $ 900.00 $ 1,200.00 Souvenirs $ 3.900.00 $ 5.300.00 Total revenue $ 40,800.00 $ 57,750.00 Expenses Banquet $ 7,900.00 $ 10,200.00 Registration Costs & Office Supplies $ 1,500.00 $ 1,700.00 Printing, posters, scorecards $ 750.00 $ 750.00 Bank charges $ 150.00 $ 150.00 Portable Toilets $ 1,800.00 $ 2,400.00 Target Faces - FITA & Field $ 4,800.00 $ 4,800.00 Field Signs $ 480.00 $ 480.00 FITA targets $ 32,000.00 $ 32,000.00 FITA signs $ 360.00 $ 360.00 Freight for Targets $ 1,200.00 $ 1,200.00 3D medals $ 400.00 $ 400.00 Ribbons for 3D medals $ 100.00 $ 100.00 FCA Medals (75 X4.95) $ 371.25 $ 371.25 Ribbons for Medals $ 84.75 $ 84.75 FITA shade tents $ 1,725.00 $ 1,725.00 3D targets $ 34,960.00 $ 34,960.00 FCA Fee (all three events) $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Tents for 3D $ 1,725.00 $ 1,725.00 Upgrades to grounds (Road, Crossings) $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00 Website set up & maintenance $ 500.00 $ 500.00 First Aid honorarium $ 1,000.00 $ 1,000.00 Rental of Office equipment $ 1,500.00 $ 1,500.00 Fees (Director of shooting & judges) $ 9,000.00 $ 9,000.00 Communications, PA system $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Construction of podium, stands, etc $ 750.00 $ 750.00 Shuttle Service $ 3,500.00 $ 3,500.00 Souvenirs $ 2,595.00 $ 3,537.00 Signs, Thank Yous, Advertisement $ 1,600.00 $ 1,600.00 FCA Open $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Grand Prix $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Course security $ 1,000.00 $ 1,000.00 Water $ 740.00 $ 1,050.00 Total Expenses $ 118.481.00 $ 123,843.00 PROFIT (LOSS) Trudy Dryden, FCGA, Treasurer t 4. I Y Canadian National Archery Championships Economic Impact Target Championship S No. of participants: 175 175 x 6 days = 1050 x $200.00 = $ 210,000.00 Field Championships No. of participants: 125 125 x 2 days = 250 x $200.00 = $50,000.00 3 -D Championships No. of participants: 320 320 x 4 days = 1280 x $200.00 = $ 256,000.00 No. of Officials : 12 12 x 9 days = 108 x $200.00 = $21,600.00 No. of Volunteers: 20 20 x 12 days = 240 x $100.00 = $ 24,000.00 No. of family and guest 500 500 x 10 days = 5000 x $100.00 = $500,000.00 Total financial impact $ 1,061,600.00 Economic Impact Assessments / Average Delegate Expenditures When calculating the economic impact of conventions and events in Saint John, we use an international spending formula (IACVB) that estimates the average spending per delegate to be about $880 over an average of 3.48 days. Therefore, Tourism Saint John estimates that convention delegates spend about $200 250 per guestroom, per day, over an average of 3 days, while local delegates spend about $100 each. For festivals and locally based events, we believe volunteers spend about $60, locals about the same, and delegates approximately $75 -$100 per day. Out of town sport participants spend about $150 -$200 per day. *The Atlantic Canada Cruise Association 2002 Economic Impact Study determined that the average spending per passenger is $67.58, while crew members spent about $32.13 while they are in port. The overall economic impact of passenger and crew spending in Atlantic Canada in 2002 was $26.7- million, the 328 - thousand passengers alone spent $22- million in Atlantic Canada ports in 2002 on souvenirs, local tours, food and beverage. 43- thousand crew members spent $4.5- million on food and beverage, souvenirs and retail items such as jewellery and electronics. According to information gathered from the Nova Scotia Tourism Bureau in 1999, the average convention traveller was believed to be spending about about 4 days in Halifax, and about $156 —179 dollars per day. Tourism spending in Saint John is estimated to impact the community as the following breakdown indicates: 8% spending is on transportation, 13% retail shopping, 10% bars & pubs, 17% goods and services, 35% restaurants, 16% accommodations. Meeting New Brunswick used the following breakdown on industry revenue per delegate several years ago. (These figures are considered to be quite conservative:) Total expenditures for 3 days: Total for 4 days: (Ntl. Averaae Hotel room and incidentals 268 374 Hotel restaurants 48 67 Other restaurants 86 120 Hospitality suites 462 7 Admission fees 918 13 Theatres movies 9 12 Recreation 2 2 Sightseeing 12 17 Nightclubs 7 10 Sport events 3 2 Retail stores 112 157 Local transportation 21 29 Gas 6 8 OTHER 16 10 $600 $838 $600 divided by 3 overnights (usual length of stay) _ $200 per day Finally, the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance recently came out with a new economic assessment model called STEAM for calculating the impact from sport events in July 2002. It is a more complex calculation that takes into consideration more variables. For more information you can contact Rick Traer at CSTA at 613- 688 -5843 Rtra erato u rottawa. org UPE'* FP Employees Canadian Union of Public Em to On � p Y - front line * Au coeur de I'action Syndicat canadien de la fonction publique SAINT JOHN AREA OFFICE 208 Lancaster Avenue, Saint John, NB E2M 2K9, (506) 635 -1622, Fax: (506) 635 -1624 cupe.ca scfp.ca �i BY HAND 1 March 7, 2005 Mayor and Common Council City of Saint John Saint John, NB The four city unions are hereby requesting to appear before Common Council on March 14, 2005 and are herein submitting a copy of the brief which we will be presenting on Monday, March 14, 2005. Thank you for your continued cooperation in this matter. Sincerely, Robert Davidson Regional Director Maritimes Region C.C. David Gould, CUPE Local 18 Kim Phillips, CUPE Local 61 Paul Johnson, CUPE Local 486 Charles Hickey, IAFF 771 RD /Ifl cope 491 PAUL MOIST - National President / President national CLAUDE GENEREUX - National Secretary- Treasurer / Secretaire- tr6sorier national MARIO GERVAIS - TOM GRAHAM - RICK MACMILLAN - BARRY O'NEILL - PATRICK (SID) RYAN - General Vice - Presidents / Vice - presidents generaux & R01 4- Presentation to the Common Council of the City of Saint John by CUPE Locals 18, 61, 486, IAFF Local 771 CUPE Research March 14, 2005 2 INTRODUCTION On behalf of all unions and retirees involved in the pension plan of the City of Saint John we would like to thank the Common Council of the City of Saint John for this opportunity to express our views on some pressing issues dealing with our pension plan. We hope that we can resolve the serious issues facing our pension plan. We also know that the City of Saint John cannot escape their responsibility under the plan or under the Pension Benefits Act of New Brunswick. 3 PRESENT STATE OF PENSION PLAN The state of the pension plan for the City of Saint John is established when the actuary does a valuation. Valuations are required by law. Once completed, they have to be filed with the Superintendent of pension at the provincial level, and with Canada Custom and Revenue at the Federal level. The legal requirement is that they have to be filed every three years. This is why this plan had a valuation done for the three years ending December 31, 1997 and then one for the three years ending December 31, 2000. Now the actuary has drafted an actuarial valuation dated December 31, 2003. These rules are in place so you can look at the performance of your plan for three years at a time. This is important because it enables the regulators to see how your plan is doing on a longer period of time. In reality, it is more than a snapshot. This valuation over a three -year period of time will show how much assets you have. It will show how your investments have performed, how much money the contributions have generated, and what the inflation was. It will tell you how the membership of your plan has evolved in terms of age, revenue and life expectancy. It will tell you how many active members you have, how many retired, and the number of deceased. Looking at your plan on a longer period of time is important because it will eliminate the extremes in the ups and downs that a plan may experience. Then, the actuary will use assumptions to establish what will be the present and future costs of your plan. 0 When the actuary makes a valuation of the pension plan, he or she has to analyse the state of the pension from two points of view. First and foremost he or she has to look at the plan from the point that it is going to continue to provide benefits for the retirees and to future retirees. This is called the valuation on the going concern basis. If contributions have been made and if these contributions are in line with the benefits provided by the plan, then the investment returns will be crucial in determining the financial position of the plan. If the plan had investment returns above what the assumptions were, then the plan will show a balance account or a surplus. If on the contrary, investment returns are below the assumptions made, then you could easily end up with what is called an unfunded liability. This is the most commonly used valuation and the one most referred to in discussions around pension plans. At the same time, if the actuary feels that the plan may encounter a problem if the plan was terminated and wound up, then he /she has to do what is called a solvency valuation. The actuary has to assume that at the date of the valuation, the plan is terminated, and that the money has to be in the plan to pay for all future benefits owed to active members. In theory, it is to protect plan members from fly by night operations whereby plan members would be left vulnerable in case of negligence by pension plan sponsors. As with the ongoing valuation the actuary has to look at the investment returns of the plan. In order to ensure that enough money is in the plan for future benefits, the actuary has to use interest rates of the day to calculate future cost of benefits. Presently, interest rates are very low and it is not favourable to pension plan performance on solvency valuation. Combined with low investment returns and assuming that members are all going to retire at the earliest age possible, it can make a pension look as if it is in a very vulnerable situation. In 2001, the provincial government made matters worse when it changed the regulations in the calculation of benefits for solvency purpose. The result is an increase in unfunded liability on the solvency side. With the drafted valuation dated December 31, 2003, the results are not good for The City of Saint John Pension Plan. The preliminary numbers indicate a deficit of $45,344,500 on the ongoing basis and a deficit of $91,085,400 on the solvency basis. With a solvency deficiency special payments have to be made over a period of 15 years. Because you are making special payments on the solvency side you don't have to make additional special payments to cover unfunded liability on the ongoing side. For The City of Saint John Pension Plan total additional contribution would be $7,024,100 a year. Under the regulations of the Pension Benefits Act of New Brunswick, it is very clear that the City of Saint John, as the employer, will be making those special payments. The first paragraph of Section 35(2) and paragraph (c) of the regulations are the ones dealing with solvency. It says: 1135(2) Subject to sections 37 and 40 and subsection 41(1), an employer required to make contributions under a pension plan, or a person required to make contributions on behalf of an employer, shall make the contributions to the pension fund or, if pension benefits under the plan are paid by an insurance company, to the insurance company, in amounts that are not less than the sum of 6 (a) any contributions received from members, including any amounts withheld from members by payroll deduction or otherwise as the members' contributions under the plan and any additional voluntary contributions permitted under the plan, (b) employer contributions respecting the normal cost of the plan, as established under the plan or in the actuarial valuation report or cost certificate respecting the plan most recently filed under this Regulation, (c) the total amount of any special payments to amortize an experience deficiency, an initial unfunded liability, an actuarial loss or a solvency deficiency as determined in accordance with section 36, and (d) any amount required to be contributed or remitted under subsection 19(9) or paragraph 19(11)(x)." There are no other solutions but to pay for the shortage occurring in the pension plan. Although the amortization period for the payment under the solvency rules is fifteen years it does not necessarily mean that the City will have to make those payments for the next fifteen years. In one year or at any other time, another actuarial valuation could be done. If that solvency valuation showed a surplus then payment would stop. So if conditions in the market changed and if interest rates go up the unfunded liability could disappear. This is why the local unions making this presentation are opposed to any reduction in benefits for our members and retirees. We are against the reduction of benefits on principle but also because it would contravene The Pension Benefits Act of New Brunswick. There are many questions that arise concerning the solvency valuation when it comes to municipalities. If the plan shows a deficit in the solvency valuation, then payments have to be made to erase the deficit over a period of fifteen (15) years. Due to the continuous nature of municipal governments, the possibility of a pension plan being wound up or being terminated is non - existent. According to our research there has never been a wind up of a municipal pension plan in Canada. The Pension Benefits Act has to be amended by the provincial government so that the rules on solvency are in line with the realities of municipal operations. So far the provincial government has refused to hear what municipal governments have been telling them. The City of Saint John's Pension Board passed a unanimous resolution, which in turn was supported by the August 6, 2002 Report to Common Council by the Commissioner of Finance stating: "It is recommended that this report be received and filed and that Common Council support the Pension Plan's Board of Trustees in their efforts to have the City's Pension Plan exempted from the requirements for a solvency valuation under the Province's Pension Benefits Act ". (see attachment). On August 6, 2002, Common Council unanimously voted to remove the solvency valuation for municipalities (see attachment). In that context the Seven Cities Association made a recommendation in 2003 to have the municipalities excluded from the solvency test (see Appendices). We met with the current Minister responsible (Margaret Ann Blaney) in 2003, and she gave a commitment that if all the stakeholders were in agreement, the provincial government would reconsider removing the solvency requirement for municipalities. This year the Minister of Training and Employment Development has again stated: "The province is reviewing the Act and government would be willing to look at eliminating the solvency valuation for the City's Pension if all stakeholders were in Agreement ". Well, the record shows that the Board of Trustees, Commissioner of Finance, former Common Council, Four Civic Unions (see attached letters) all agree to eliminate the solvency valuation requirement. Again, on February 7tn, 2005, the Pension Board passed the following resolution: "Resolved that The City of Saint John Pension Board set up a committee comprised of Trustees and Council members to meet with MLA's in Fredericton to seek municipal exemption from the solvency requirements for The City of Saint John." With the above, we believe that now is the time for all of us to request that the provincial government remove the solvency requirement for municipalities. If we do not join together and act now, the City, in accordance with the law must make the solvency payments. This will tie up millions of dollars that could be used for many other City services. 9 THE CITY'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE PENSION PLAN The employer has not made an equal contribution to the pension plan. Presently in the City of Saint John, employees pay 8.5% of their earnings and the City pays only 7.5% of the employees' earnings. (The City was paying 7.0% until 1997). The City of Charlottetown employees pay 9% of their earnings and the City has to match that amount. In the City of Moncton, employees pay 6.65% of their earnings and the City pays 7.25% of the employees' earnings. In the City of Fredericton, employees pay 8% of their earnings and the City has to match that amount. The police pay 9% and the City has to match that amount. In the City of Campbellton, employees pay 5% of earnings and the employer pays 8% of earnings. In the City of Edmundston employees pay 7% of their earnings and the City has to pay 5% of the employees' earnings. In the City of Miramichi employees pay 6.045% of their earnings and the City has to pay 6.045% of the employees' earnings. In the City of Bathurst members of locals 1497 (police), 3040 (firefighters), 550 (outside workers) pay 7% of their earnings. local 1282 (inside workers) pays 7.5% and the City has to match those contributions. In addition to the comparison of contribution levels with other municipalities, we must point out that the City of Saint John Pension Plan has lower benefit levels than a number of other municipalities. For example, Fredericton has an age in service formula for early retirement of 75 for police 10 officers, and 80 for other employees. As well, the City of Saint John Pension Plan has no bridge benefit and the indexing is capped. Table 1 Contributions Saint John Charlottetown Moncton Fredericton Fredericton Police Employer 7.5% 9.0% 7.25% 8.0% 9.0% Employee 8.5% 9.0% 6.65% 8.0% = 9.0% Contributions Campbellton Edmundston Miramichi Bathurst - Outside Police /Firefighters Bathurst Inside Employer 8.0% 5.0% 6.045% 7.0% 7.5% Employee 5.0% 7.0% 6.045% 7.0% 7.5% For the City of Saint John the present unequal formula for funding the pension plan has meant a lot of savings to the City over the years. The following table illustrates that phenomena for the last 12 years. During that period the total difference in the contribution made by the employer equals $7,055,517. This lower contribution by the City has certainly contributed to the fact that we are facing an unfunded liability on the going concern and solvency valuations. 11 Table 2 As you can see from the information in Table I, the contributions made by the City of Saint John to the pension plan, whether looked at, as a percentage of payroll or cost sharing ratio, are lower than many municipalities in the region. The only difference is that the cost for the City of Saint John includes the additional benefit of a long -term in -house disability plan. This has proven to be very cost effective for both the employer and the employees of the City of Saint John. Other municipalities are paying high fees for their long -term disability with big insurance companies. In the last five years, some municipalities and their employees have seen the cost of long -term disability go up by fifty (50 %) to sixty (60 %) percent. We are all aware of the gouging taking place in New Brunswick by insurance companies. This has not happened in the City of Saint John because of the unique in house feature of the long -term disability plan. The City of Saint John and the employees have saved thousands and thousands of dollars with this long -term disability arrangement. Period Period Period Period Contributions Jan. 1, 92 Dec. 31, 94 Jan. 1, 95 Dec.31, 97 Jan. 1. 98 Dec. 31, 00 Jan. 1, 01 Dec. 31, 03 Total Employer $ 8,574,788.00 $ 8,871,291.00 $ 8,925,383.00 $10,003,195.00 $36,374,657.00 Employee $10,859,247.00 $10,796,058.00 $10,865,642.00 $10,909,227.00 $43,430,174.00 Difference $ 2,284,459.00 $ 1,924,767.00 $ 1,940,259.00 $906,032.00 $ 7,055,517.00 As you can see from the information in Table I, the contributions made by the City of Saint John to the pension plan, whether looked at, as a percentage of payroll or cost sharing ratio, are lower than many municipalities in the region. The only difference is that the cost for the City of Saint John includes the additional benefit of a long -term in -house disability plan. This has proven to be very cost effective for both the employer and the employees of the City of Saint John. Other municipalities are paying high fees for their long -term disability with big insurance companies. In the last five years, some municipalities and their employees have seen the cost of long -term disability go up by fifty (50 %) to sixty (60 %) percent. We are all aware of the gouging taking place in New Brunswick by insurance companies. This has not happened in the City of Saint John because of the unique in house feature of the long -term disability plan. The City of Saint John and the employees have saved thousands and thousands of dollars with this long -term disability arrangement. 12 Conclusion There are four main reasons why there is a deficit in our pension plan. One, the Employer (the City of Saint John), has not made equal contributions to the plan. Two, the return on investments for this plan has not been positive for the period of this valuation ending December 31, 2003. Three, the low interest rate as required for the solvency valuation and four the solvency valuation requirement for municipalities. Of these reasons, the first two apply to the going concern (normal) valuation. As already stated in our submission we are not interested nor is it legal to reduce benefits to the pension plan. Solvency Valuation It is now up to you — the Minister is waiting to hear from the Common Council of Saint John. Without changes to the solvency valuation requirements, the City of Saint John must start making special payments to resolve the unfunded liability of the plan — approximately $7M per year for fourteen (14) years. There are no other options unless we convince the provincial government to exclude municipalities from the application of solvency rules. 13 Ongoing Valuation (Normal) Finally we remind you of the fact that there are very positive investment returns (11.4 %) occurring for the year 2004. With this and the removal of the solvency valuation, another actuarial valuation can produce positive results in the near future. With your support we can ensure the security of our Pension Plan and avoid needless special payments. Thank you for your attention to this most important matter. Vb /ch /IFl /cope491 Richard Meraetti 65 Lake Cove Lane P.O. Box 936 Saint John, NB E2L 4E3 To Mayor and Council I am requesting permission to appear before Common Council. I would like to express my views concerning the ordered demolition of my home at 65 Lake Cove Lane on the Loch Lomond Watershed. Thank you for you attention to this matter. Respectfully, R!e //eft) /n(c%t?G� Richard Merzetti ;larch 10, 2005 t 57 Birchwood Place l` Saint John, N.B. E2M 5G4 Saint John Mayor & Councillors City of Saint John, N.B. RE; METERED WATER RENTAL Dear Mayor & Councillors: RECEIVED COW"DIN C.F - OFFICE MAR I tj 7005 CITY OF SSAINT JOHN Is mandatory metering of water the first step to privatize the Water & Sewerage Utility? Bottled water purchased at the store is a commodity. Is this the same approach the city will take with the water coming into our home? A commodity not a necessity. Water for profit? Is the proposed installation of water meters to obtain monies for the following projects: Conservation, Clean up the Harbour, Infracture, Spruce Lake for Industry, Privatize? If the answer is yes to any of the above projects, please go to the Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments now. We the citizen have already paid our $$$$ in taxes. It is our belief that enforcement of all abusers would be a less expensive way to approach the issue of metered water. I have taken Councillor Chase's advice and now put the tap water I drink in the fridge, so as not to waste water waiting for it to get cold before drinking. We don't water our lawn. The rain does it for us. We don't flush our toilet unnecessarily. We see mandatory metering of water as another tax, Now much more will the flat rate customers be expected to pay? With the $66 increase already in place and the additional $55 and $75 inc ®eases budgeted to come'. This is all we can afford, We are a single income couple in our 601s. Each day that goes by brings us closer to retirement. Fixed income. We have lived all our life in Saint Johg, and wonder how much longer we will be able to maintain our modest home in the city that has the highest taxes. t \� March 10, 2005 Saint John Mayor and Councillors City Of Saint John Saint John, NB Dear Mayor and Councillors: Re: Metered Water Water should be affordable for all citizens and we should not discriminate against families that have more children or have elderly relatives to take care of in their home. One big concern will be how much water the city thinks we should be allowed for everyday use. Water is a resource that we need for a quality of life and we should not deprive people who expect to be able to keep clean and their families. You have said you want people to all be inclusive. If you have five in your family you will have different needs then someone who lives alone. At present how many homes pay the flat rate and how much is that in a dollar figure? There is a need for money for the infrastructure and we will always need to be paying for this. It will be an ongoing thing for the rest of our lives. So we should be thinking about the needs of the people in Saint John. With 30 or 40 percent of seniors in the city on fixed income (and growing) and 24.5 percent on low income and on top of that a small population base, we have a problem. The money that is missing to pay for the infrastructure will have to come from the percentage of the population that can pay more. Realistically the average person is already stretched their dollar as far as they can. Citizens have no monetary gain with everyday use of water. Looked to the places that have monetary gain and you'll fine more money. We are submitting more pages of the petition signed by concerned citizens who say no to metered water. We presently have over 2500 signatures. Thank you. Sincerely Yours, Patricia Dashwood RECClV1 =D C0M -MON CLERK'S OFFICE N;, r i L 2005 CITY C'.=- SAINT JOHN I March 9, 2005 In regards to: Crane Mountain Landfill Operations Mayor McFarlane & Councillors City of Saint John PO Box 1971 Saint John, NB E2L 4L1 Attention: Common Clerk's Office Dear Mayor McFarlane & Councillors, SUBJECT: REQUEST TO PRESENT BEFORE COUNCIL During the latter part of 2004, the management of Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission had the opportunity to make a presentation before Council regarding operations. This presentation naturally focused on management priorities. To provide you with a balanced perspective, I would like to make a presentation before Council, from the perspective of the nearby residents and focus on our priorities. Would a fifteen to twenty minute presentation on either March 29th or April 11 t fit your schedule? Please let me know. Thank you for your anticipated positive response. Sincerely, `<<}xV *1 J1an Oliver 30 Westfield Road Saint John, NB E2M 6H2 Home: 738 -1182 CEIVED � &'CLERK'S OFFICE NAR .1 Q 2005 2130 WESTFIELD ROAD SAINT JOHN, NA E2M 61-I2