COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- October 12 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Monthly Council Meeting
October 10th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland  Councillor
Corey Gillis  Councillor
David Hughes-  Councillor (Absent)
Michelle Perry- CAO

2. Peter Mellish from the ATV federation did a brief presentation on share the road- pilot project.  Basically the ATV club is looking for support from the community by having them write a support letter to the Minister of Transportation, to change the provincial act to allow ATV to share designated  roads.  Peter will send some of the letters he received from other communities to review by council.  Mayor Gallant thanked Peter for the presentation.

3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest: No One declared a Conflict of Interest.

4. MAINTENANCE REPORT: Monty MacAusland gave the following report: The community received their salt for the upcoming season, and he was wondering if it would be not more beneficial for the community to have a metal container.  This way they can get bulk salt and sand and mix it for the season and it would be a lot cheaper than buying the bags.  Council asked if he would get a couple of quotes for next meeting.

5. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Meeting minutes Monthly Meeting September 12th, and Special Meeting September 20th, 2023.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the minutes for the Monthly Meeting September 12th, and Special meeting September 20th, 2023, be approved as presented.

6. BUSINESS ARISING:

a) West Lagoon Upgrades: The clay liner is almost completed, and the contractor will be working on Saturdays to get the project done.
b) Wilfred St: The projected started and they are about half way down the street putting in the drainage.
c) Restructuring the community: No news on this from IRAC..
d) Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom: The project is about half completed and another week it should be done.
e) Repairs to the sidewalk Main Dr E: The project is set to start in the next couple of weeks.
f) Hydrant: The driveway will be completed soon and WSP is still sourcing the pump, and they provided a sketch as to how the driveway and turning area will look. This is subject to change once the driveway goes in.
g) Quotes for the New Generator for the Rec Center: The community is still waiting for 2 more quotes for generators to see what the pricing is.
h) Building on the Easement in Iris Court: CAO Perry did not get a chance to check with legal about this, and she will for the next meeting.

7. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Fire Dept: Councilor MacAusland was not at the last meeting, and there is no one from the department to give a report.  Chief Woodbury did reach out to CAO Perry to as if council will still donate money towards Halloween night for pizza.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
That the community donate $200.00 towards Pizza for Halloween Night.

b) Recreation, Park, Playgrounds and Green Spaces: Councilor MacAusland gave the following report: Bingo are going well. He also wanted to know about purchasing new equipment for the Kelly Dr Park and swings for the Steeple view park.  Council suggested that he get some pricing and maybe they can look at it during budget time for the new fiscal year.
c)  Water & Sewer:  Councilor Gillis gave the following report: The manhole covers that were needing repair from 2019 have been completed.  He also suggested again that the community flush some of the main lines before winter, since the annual flushing was not done this year.  Council agreed to have this done before winter.

d) Repairs, Maintenance and Village Properties: Councilor Blanchard gave the following report: The new heat pump at the rec center was not working and a part was ordered under warranty to fix it. It was also mentioned about the painting at the rec center that is chipping off and needs to be touched up as it has not been 6 months yet since it was painted.
e) PEI Federation of Municipalities: Councilor Hughes was absent so no report was given.
f) Finances, Budgets, Pay Committee, Bylaws and Planning:  Councillor Parks gave the following report. The finances are good, the pay committee will meet in the new year.  The bylaws will be reviewed in the new year, and there were 2 building permits issued this month 21 Augustine st and 5 McMillan Dr, both were for storage sheds.

7. APPROVAL OF BILLS TOTALING $ 713,055.93

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Corey Gillis and carried.
THAT the payment of the bills totaling $ 713,055.93 be approved.

8. NEW BUSINESS:
a) Purchase Land for a Subdivision: It was discussed that the community should start looking into the future for development in their community. Council discussed that they are opened to development, but that the community is not in a financial position to be a developer at the moment.  But that they will certainly be open to any developer developing in the community. But they also have to be mindful on the lagoon’s capacity so that they are not over extending themselves.
b) Extension on the Garage: Council was made aware by maintenance that the garage is so full with equipment and supplies that there is nowhere to move in there.  And that it would be great if a piece could be added on so that if you need to work on equipment you have room to do so. Rather than having to work in the parking lot.  Council agreed to look into this to see where the boundaries are and how much room they would have to build if this is the way they decide to go.
c) At this time council asked that the meeting be closed to discuss a personal issue.  Public left the meeting. After 10 minutes council opened the meeting back up to the public.  For unforeseen circumstances the By Election for December 11, 2023, will be postponed for 1 week till December 18, 2023.

9. NEXT MEETING: Monthly Meeting November 14th, 2023

10. MEETING ADJOURNED

MOTION moved by Charles MacAusland THAT the meeting of October 10th, 2023 be adjourned.

 

 

___________________________                    __________________________
MAYOR ALBERT GALLANT                                       CAO MICHELLE PERRY

 

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- Special Meeting September 20 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Special Meeting West Lagoon Project
September 20th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING
Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant  – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland- Councillor
David Hughes- Councillor  (Absent)
Corey Gillis  Councillor  (Absent)
Michelle Perry- CAO

1 member of the public

Mayor Gallant opened the meeting at 6:00pm and handed the meeting over to Deputy Mayor Parks

Deputy Mayor gave a brief explanation for the meeting, that in order for the community to complete the project for the West Lagoon Upgrades they will need to borrow the full amount of the project cost until the invoices are paid and then submitted to the government for payment. The bank was also requesting a opinion letter from out lawyer to insure that the community is following their borrowing bylaw.

Deputy Mayor read the following resolution.

 

WHEREAS the Rural Municipality of Miscouche (the “Municipality”) has entered into a Funding Agreement with the Government of Prince Edward Island dated the 10th day of December 2021 under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (the “Funding Agreement”) for the purpose of making upgrades to the West Lagoon;
AND WHEREAS the Council for the Municipality considers the said upgrades to the West Lagoon to be necessary and in the public interest;
AND WHEREAS pursuant to the Funding Agreement, the Government of Canada will fund 40% of eligible costs up to $1,238,760.54 and the Government of Prince Edward Island will fund 33.33% of eligible costs up to $1,032,197.22;
AND WHEREAS it is necessary for the Municipality to borrow monies to fund expenditures for the project until reimbursement is received under the Funding Agreement and to fund the Municipality’s portion of this important capital project;
AND WHEREAS the matter of upgrades to West Lagoon was included in the Municipality’s 2023/2024 Capital Budget;
AND WHEREAS borrowing of funds for capital expenditures is authorized by the Municipality’s Bylaw # 2022-01, the General Borrowing Bylaw, and section 164 of the Municipal Government Act, RSPEI 1988, c M-12.1;
AND WHEREAS the current assessed value of real property in the Municipality is $61,807,061.00;
AND WHEREAS the Consolidated Credit Union Ltd. has offered to finance the West Lagoon project on terms and conditions set out in a Credit Agreement dated the 20th day of September, 2023;
AND WHEREAS section 168 of the Municipal Government Act and section 8 of the General Borrowing Bylaw establish the content of a resolution to borrow;
BE IT RESOLVED that Council authorizes the borrowing of money for the West Lagoon project as follows:
(a) the amount proposed to be borrowed;
The amount proposed to be borrowed is $3,444,374.00.
(b) a statement that the amount borrowed will not cause the municipality to exceed its debt limit;
Based on the current assessed value of real property in the Municipality and present capital debt, the amount borrowed will not cause the municipality to exceed its debt limit prescribed by subsections 164(3) and 164(5) of the Act.
(c) the purpose for which the expenditure is to be made;
The expenditure is for the purpose of making necessary upgrades to the West Lagoon.
(d) the proposed term or terms and amortization of the loan;
The loan is a demand loan payable in monthly installments of interest only until the project is complete and all funds from the Government of Canada and the Government of Prince Edward Island have been received and applied as lump sum principal payments to the loan, which are anticipated to reduce the outstanding principal balance to $1,173,416.00, at which time, the repayment will convert to monthly payments of principal and interest in the amount of $7,806.07. The loan is amortized over 25 years, commencing with date that payments convert to principal and interest payments. The term of the loan is one year.
(e) the estimated rate of interest and commissions or other costs payable on the loan;
The estimated rate of interest is fixed at 6.34% for a term of 12 months, after which a new interest rate will be determined.
(f) the method of repayment; and
The loan will be paid in monthly installments until all principal and interest have been paid.
(g) the security, if any, to be given by the municipality for the repayment of the loan; and
The security for the loan to be given by the municipality includes:
Demand Promissory Note from the Municipality in favour of Consolidated Credit Union Ltd.;
General Security Agreement;
Such other security as the Credit Union or its solicitors may determine as necessary.
(h) the revenue sources to be used to repay the capital and interest owing for the amount to be borrowed;
The Municipality will repay the capital and interest owing for the amount to be borrowed through the sewerage tariffs charged to resident individuals and businesses, as approved by the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission on January 17, 2022 in Order UW22-01.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
That the community borrow the full amount of $3,444,374.00 until the funding agreement from the government pay out their share of the project.  The community will then have a loan that will total $1,173,416.00 for the project.

Mayor Gallant thanked everyone for coming to the meeting.

 

 

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- September 12 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Monthly Council Meeting
September 12th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING
Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant  – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland  Councillor
Corey Gillis  Councillor
David Hughes-  Councillor (Absent)
Michelle Perry- CAO

2. Declaration of Conflict of Interest: No One declared a Conflict of Interest.

3. MAINTENANCE REPORT: Monty MacAusland gave the following report: Everything is good in the community except for the weather not cooperating for the grass cutting.

4. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Meeting minutes Monthly Meeting August 8th, 2023.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the minutes for the Monthly Meeting August 8th, 2023, be approved as presented.

5. BUSINESS ARISING:
a) West Lagoon Upgrades: The progress is ongoing, and the first invoice came in so we are just waiting for the funds to be released from the bank.
b) Wilfred St: The tender came in as expected, and the Government is going to put in the difference to complete the project. We are just waiting for word from the government as to when it will be started.
c) Restructuring the community: No news on this from IRAC..
d) Slip Tank for the Service Truck: The tank was purchased and installed, and council needs to decide where to get the diesel.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the community get a fuel card for the community and also check at the wholesaler to see about getting the tanks filled up.

e) Repairs to the sidewalk Main Dr E: The community only received 1 quote to do the repairs to the sidewalk for Main Dr E as well as the sidewalk by the post office.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Corey Gillis  and carried
THAT the community go with the quote from MacAusland Construction to repair the sidewalks at 35,41 A & 41 B Main Dr E and install and new wheelchair ramp at the corner of Lady Slipper Dr S and Main Dr for $13,030.05 HST included.

f) Hydrant: The driveway is marked and approved by Highways and is down farther towards the hydrant than expected due to the 3 lanes of traffic on the highway. The cost will be minimal for the driveway as highways will be putting it in.
g) Funding for the New Generator for the Rec Center: The community only received 1 quote so far for the generator and is still waiting for 2 more.  The 1 quote allowed to fill out the funding for the generator so we can determine if the community qualifies and for what amount.

6. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Fire Dept: Councilor MacAusland gave the following report. There was 2 meeting that he attended in August.  1 was for the service award, which the committee would like to know what councils recommendation is for the service awards.  To date the community was giving a watch at 25 years and that was it.  So the committee would like to see about getting something for 30 and maybe 35 years of service.  They also talked about a department medal in addition to these awards for 20-25-30-35 years of service. Council asked if the committee could put a list of recommendations together and then bring it back to council for approval. The fire department meeting information is as follows: They had 2 calls last month, and the summer party is September 22.  The Christmas party is also December 9.  The department made $10,226. From the road toll at the church picnic and half of that will go back to the church. The 10,000 that the department received from the government, $5000 will be spent on radios and $2000 for a nozzle, which leaves 3000. Left to spend. The EMO committee had a meeting to update their emergency plan and voted to sell 10 of the generators off that were received from the government last year. They have all be sold. Also the department was looking to get a group photo taken of firefighters as the last one that was taken was in 2012, and they also wanted to know if the council would want to get there photos taken as well.  Council stated that they will book in the new year as they are preparing for a by-election to fill the vacant seat for council.  Gavin Gallant retired this year and Robert Gallant will be retiring in December and the department is purchasing trophy for them.  And the department would like to know if council would pay half or the full amount for the trophy. Also John Mitchell will have 30 years in the department this year.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Ivan Blanchard and carried
That the community does not contribute to the gift of retirement.

Corey Gillis voted abstained from the vote.

b) Recreation, Park, Playgrounds and Green Spaces: Councilor MacAusland gave the following
report:, Bingo’s are doing good and the jackpots are high and the attendance is up from the previous month.
c)  Water & Sewer:  Councilor Gillis gave the following report: Nothing to report but he did have a question that since the community did not flush the lines this year if it might be a good idea to flush some water through some of the lines that we know have issue in the winter. He also mentioned that in the spring it might be a good idea to have a look at the holding tank by the church property to make sure that it does not collapse.

d) Repairs, Maintenance and Village Properties: Councilor Blanchard gave the following report: He was in touch with City Glass to see when they can come out to fix the automatic door by the municipal office as it is not working again.
e) PEI Federation of Municipalities: Councilor Hughes was absent so no report was given.
f) Finances, Budgets, Pay Committee, Bylaws and Planning:  Councillor Parks gave the following report. Since there was an increase in the cost of the lagoon upgrades and the community will have to borrow an additional amount of 173,415.86 for a total borrowed amount of $1,173,415.86

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT since the price difference of the West Lagoon Upgrades, that the community borrow an additional $173,415.86 to cover the cost of the upgrades.  This will bring the total borrowing amount to $1,173,415.86.

7. APPROVAL OF BILLS TOTALING $ 78,113.32

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the payment of the bills totaling $ 78,113.32 be approved.

8. NEW BUSINESS:
a)Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom: There was talk in previous years on having a wheelchair accessible bathroom in the fire hall.  CAO Perry received 1 quote for 4,130.25 plus HST to make the bathroom bigger and all the materials to finish it to. Which includes a new toilet, sink and grab bars and new floor.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the community accept the bid from Martin Gaudet to turn the bathroom in the senior’s room to a wheelchair accessible bathroom.

b) Dawson Ct complaints: A resident sent an email in regard to water that was going on their property from the new subdivision. The developer had dug a trench behind the property to collect the water before it goes on the resident’s property, and then dug an additional one that goes the whole length of the properties at the back of Kelly Dr.   They also wanted to see the plans for the subdivision and CAO Perry advised them that they would need to contact the developer for that as they are not our plans to show.  CAO Perry also advised them to let her know if there is any additional water after the second trench was dug out.
c) Snow Removal Tender: The snow removal tender went out for snow season 2023/2024 and the community only received 1 bid.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Corey Gillis and carried.
THAT the community accept the bid from CLS Holding for $10,000.00 plus HST for the Snow Removal for 2023/2024 season.

d) Appoint a MEO for the By-election:

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the community appoint Michelle Perry as the Municipal Electoral Officer for the By- Election which will be December 11th, 2023, for the vacant council seat.

e) 9 Iris Court Building on Easement: There is a 10 ft easement on each side of the property that has sewer lines run under ground when the next part of the subdivision goes in.  The resident has a shed on the property that is on the easement.  The shed has been there for 5 years.  A letter was sent to the resident advising that the building may have to be moved.  The resident wanted to see if council would let him keep the shed on the property till it either needed to be replaced or the next subdivision goes in which ever comes first. Council discussed this and decided that they would get some legal advice first before they make any decisions.

9. NEXT MEETING: Monthly Meeting October 10th, 2023

10. MEETING ADJOURNED

MOTION moved by Charles MacAusland THAT the meeting of October 10th, 2023, be adjourned.

 

 

 

 

 

 

COUCNIL MEETING MINUTES- August 8 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Monthly Council Meeting
August 8th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING
Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant  – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Jacqueline Lecky- Councillor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor (Absent)
Charles MacAusland  Councillor
Corey Gillis  Councillor
David Hughes-  Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO

2. Patrick McSweeney from BDO presented the Financial Statement for the year ending March 31st, 2023.  He also explained that the new changes that government is requesting.  One is to have a detailed site investigation necessary to measure the liability of the assets and to make sure that there is no asbestos in any of the facilities. Other than that the community is in good shape.
Mayor Gallant thanked Mr McSweeny for the presentation and the he left the meeting.

MOTION moved by Jacqueline Lecky seconded by Corey Gillis and carried
THAT the Financial Statement for the year ending March 31, 2023 be adopted as presented.

3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest: No One declared a Conflict of Interest.

4. MAINTENANCE REPORT: Monty MacAusland gave the following report: Everything is good in the community.

5. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Meeting minutes Monthly Meeting July 11th,, ,2023.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the minutes for the Monthly Meeting July 11th, 2023, be approved as presented.

6. BUSINESS ARISING:
a) West Lagoon Upgrades: The progress is ongoing.
b) Wilfred St: The tender opened up on August 3 and will close on August 24th, 2023. The cost estimate come in higher than expected at $934,000.00 which is about $300,000 over budget.  The government gave a few options to discuss.
1. Tender the project and if it comes over budget to see if the community can come up with the extra money.
2. Tender it to see if the prices come in lower, then make a decision to proceed with the work prior to awarding.
3. Shorten the length to fit the budget
4. Cancel the project.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by David Hughes and carried
THAT the community continue with the project and go as far as the $675,500 will take them on the project.

c) Restructuring the community: IRAC will set up a public meeting, unsure on what the dates are for the meeting.
d) Slip Tank for the Service Truck: Council received another quote for a 100 gallon tank, and CAO Perry heard back from insurance and the community does not need any additional insurance for it as it will be used mainly for filling the generators and there will be no more that 30-50 gallons left in the tank

MOTION moved by Charles MacAusland seconded by Allan Parks and carried.
THAT the community purchase a 100-gallon fuel transfer tank from Princess Auto to be permanently placed on the maintenance truck.

e) Eddie Laughlin Award: No nominations were received.
f) Hydrant: Contract was signed with WSP to finish the project, and they were requesting some information on the testing that was done when the well was dug, which CAO Perry sent a message to Breakwater to get a copy of the results for the testing.  Also, Councilor Parks was looking to get a site visit with the Fire Department to determine where the driveway should go so that we can get Highways approval.

7. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Fire Dept: Councilor Lecky gave the following report. They had 5 calls last month, and also some members participated in Fire Fit in Summerside, which went very well.  They received a donation from Summerside which they split with the Juniors.  They will be filling 4 positions in the department, and the pump driver position was posted. And they will be doing the road toll again this year for the Parish Picnic. The department will also be having their summer party this year and is looking for a donation for the food. They also realize that the insurance will not be covered for the auxiliary, and Chief Woodbury found out that the auxiliary in Summerside does not have any coverage for theirs and they have very strict guidelines for them. The department also created a committee for service retirement to make sure that all fire fighters that retire get the same thing, and they think that the fire department committee member should be on this committee as well.

MOTION moved by David Hughes seconded by Jacqueline Lecky that they community give the same amount that was given in previous years to the Fire Department for their Summer Party.

Charles MacAusland voted no Motion was carried.

b) Recreation, Park, Playgrounds and Green Spaces: Councilor MacAusland gave the following report: The camera will be installed tomorrow, and the bingos are still doing good.
c)  Water & Sewer:  Councilor Gillis gave the following report: Nothing to report but he did have a question that the community should have a policy in place that when a resident has a backup that they would have to get a plumber in to have their line taken care of before the community would
go out to flush it.  He was informed that is the policy that the community has in place.
d) Repairs, Maintenance and Village Properties: Councilor Blanchard was asent so no report was given.
e) PEI Federation of Municipalities: Councilor Hughes stated that the meeting was postponed, so he had nothing to report.
f) Finances, Budgets, Pay Committee, Bylaws and Planning:  Councillor Parks gave the following report. Finances are good. Nothing to report on the pay committee. Bylaws will be looked at in the fall.

8. APPROVAL OF BILLS TOTALING $ 31,862.81

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Jacqueline Lecky and carried.
THAT the payment of the bills totaling $ 31,862.81 be approved.

9. NEW BUSINESS:
a) Repairs to the sidewalk Main Dr E: Council received a letter from a resident on Main Dr E that the sidewalks in the driveways since they are not continuos it makes it very dangerous for anyone in a wheelchair or someone using a walker.  And the resident was asking that council take this matter seriously and get this fixed as soon as possible.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
THAT the community be in touch with a contractor to have them come out and have a look at this and see what it would cost to get the repairs done.

b) Funding for a New generator for the Rec Center: There is funding available for up to $50,000 for communities that have an approved reception center plan approved by EMO.  The paperwork as already been submitted to EMO with the plan for the Rec Center and we are waiting for a site visit to happen.

MOTION moved by David Hughes seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried.
THAT the community apply for the funding on the condition that the Reception Center plan for the Rec Center is approved by EMO.

Council also talked about selling some of the generators that were supplied by the province for the EMO Plan for the Community.  Council is seeking permission from the province to sell off 10 of the generators.  CAO Perry will be in touch with the province to find out if this is possible.
c) Corcoran’s Farm Supply: It was brought up again about the condition of the property. Councilor Lecky stated that we have reviewed this before and it does not fall under the unsightly property bylaw, so the discussion was dropped.
d) Personal Issue: At this time council closed the meeting to the public: Councillor Lecky wanted to thank council for all their support over the last 5 years as she read her resignation letter to council as she will be moving out of the community. Council thanked her for her service to the community over the last 5 years and wished her all the best.

The meeting was opened back up to the Public.

10. NEXT MEETING: Monthly Meeting September 12th, 2023

11. MEETING ADJOURNED

MOTION moved by Charles MacAusland THAT the meeting of August 8th, 2023, be adjourned.

 

 

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- Special Meeting March 28 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Special Meeting Award Tender West Lagoon Project
March 28th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Jacqueline Lecky- Councillor
Charles MacAusland- Councillor
David Hughes- Councillor
Corey Gillis Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO

Mayor Gallant opened the meeting at 6:00pm and handed the meeting over to CAO Perry

Michelle provided council with the 2 bids received for the West Lagoon Upgrade Project

Lower Bidder Bid Amount Construction Duration

AJL Limited $4,569,408.85 May 15/203-Nov 30/2023

Other Bidders

Stewart Enterprises Limited $ 6,148,895.33 *** Not Provided***

WSP recommendation was that council go with the lowest bidder even though it was 1.5 million over budget. Michelle explained the options that council had for the project.

Option 1: was to go ahead with the whole project and see if the bank will give the loan for the $2 million.

Option 2. Defer the Rock lining and the Sludge removal and the Lay down area for the old lagoon and keep that 1.2 million project for a later date to see if funding was available.

Council discussed this at great lengths to see what the best outcome was.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Ivan Blanchard
THAT the community approve the tender for AJL Limited, but will possibility remove the Rock lining, sludge removal and the lay down area of the project which is $1,260,440.00 over the original budget until council has a public meeting and makes sure that they can secure the funding for that part of the project.

Public meeting was set for April 11 at 6:00 pm just before the Monthly Meeting.

Mayor Gallant thanked everyone for coming to the meeting

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- March 14 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Monthly Council Meeting
March 14th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Jacqueline Lecky- Councillor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland Councillor
Corey Gillis Councillor
David Hughes- Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO

2. Declaration of Conflict of Interest: Councillor Gillis declared a conflict of interest on 5b and councillor MacAusland declared a conflict on 6f

3. MAINTENANCE REPORT: Monty MacAusland gave the following report:. Things are going good and we had to order an additional pallet of salt that we were not expecting to order.

4. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Meeting minutes for February 14th, and Proposed Budget Meeting February 28th,2023.

MOTION moved by Charles MacAusland seconded by Allan Parks and carried
THAT the minutes for February 14th, and Proposed Budget Meeting on February 28th, 2023 be approved as presented.

5. BUSINESS ARISING:

a) West Lagoon Upgrades: Tenders were extended till March 16 at 1:00pm as an addendum was put in for additional work for the contractors.

b) Budget Adoption: Councilor Gillis declared a conflict and left the room.

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Jacqueline Lecky and carried
THAT the Proposed Budget be adopted as presented on February 28th, 2023 with no changes being made.

Councillor Gillis returned.

c) Wilfred St: Still no word on if the project was approved.

d) Annex the property on Kinsmen Rd: Still no word on any development yet.

e) Insurance on the floor for the seniors room: First onsite got back with the quote and it came in at $12,000.00 since the deductible is $10,000.00 council decided to get it done with out using insurance. Councilor Blanchard will get some quotes before the next meeting.

f)Fire Dues Increase for Surrounding Areas: The committee met and there was an increase in the dues by $500.00 a month.

6. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Fire Dept: Fire Chief Woodbury gave the following report: They had 1 call for the month for Mutal Aid for Wellington. #131 had the lights replaced and rewired for the safety inspection. 3 chainsaws were ordered for the EMO plan. The log books are in place as well as the policy for the fire fighters. Mitchell Myers is now treasurer. A few of the retired members are looking to get an Auxiliary for the fire department that will assist the department in fundraising, and other little things. They will not have any benefits that the fire fighters will have it will be strictly more social, Chief Woodbury suggested creating a medal for any firefighter that has 25+ years in the department and it would be a different colour depending on the years of service. Councilor Lecky and himself will look into it and see what they come up with.

b) Recreation, Park, Playgrounds and Green Spaces: Councilor MacAusland gave the following report: Bingo are going good and the jackpots never went yet so the crowds are staying high. Still in the process of trying to get an electrician to give a quote on wiring the camera’s. Trees are still not taking down in the green-space off of Heritage. And there is some much needed upgrades that need to be done at the Rec Center that should be looked into next fiscal year.

c) Water & Sewer: Councilor Gillis gave the following report: Sewer Flushing will happen the second last week of August. Also he asked about any repairs that needed to be done to the sewer system. There are manholes that need to be fixed from a few years ago. He suggested that we get in touch with another contractor to see if they get here this year.

d) Repairs, Maintenance and Village Properties: Councilor Blanchard gave the following report: The roof at the Fire hall is still leaking and he will try to get a contractor out to look to see what needs to be done to fix it. Also he will get some quotes for the next meeting on painting the Rec Center downstairs and getting the floors cleaned. Also CAO Perry will get in touch with Highways to see about getting a 40 Km speed sign for Laughlin St.

e) PEI Federation of Municipalities: Councilor Hughes gave the following report: There is a meeting this Thursday in Charlottetown for the Federation, and the Annual meeting in Souris is on April 24th, 2023.

f) Finances, Budgets, Pay Committee, Bylaws and Planning: Councillor Parks gave the following report. Finances are all good as we prepare for the year end. The budget was just passed, and Councillor Parks asked that at this time the meeting be closed to the public to discuss pay raises for staff

All public left as well as CAO and Maintenance left the room as well as Councillor MacAusland.

After discussions public came back into the room:

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Corey Gillis and carried
THAT the CAO wages be increased by $3.38 per hour starting April 1 2023.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by David Hughes and carried
THAT the current Maintenance workers wages be increased by $3.48 per hour starting April 1 2023.

9. APPROVAL OF BILLS TOTALING $ 73,546.64

MOTION moved by Allan Parks seconded by Jacqueline Lecky and carried
THAT the payment of the bills totaling $ 73,546.64 be approved.

10. NEW BUSINESS:

a) Thank you cards: Council received 2 thank you cards one from Allan Parks for the fruit basket he received after surgery. And the other was from the Miscouchel School for the donation towards the Breakfast Program.

b) New Development PID 843086. The new owners for the land next to Sunny’s Dairy bar will be starting development as soon as they take possession of the land on March 31 2023. They will be keeping the road private and all the housing will stay as rentals. They will be building 6, 4 units this year and an additional 2, 6 units will be for future development. They will also be working with WSP on the designs and they will provide a copy once it is completed.

c) Welcome Signs: Councillor Blanchard showed all the new council on the design of the signs, and he will have new pricing done before the next meeting.

d) Newsletter: The new letter will go out for April 1st. It was suggested that we see if we can get some student volunteers that are looking to get volunteer hours to do some clean up around the community. This will go in the letter to see if there are any volunteers.

e) Rent for the Seniors Club: After some discussion about whether they should charge rent.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by David Hughes
THAT the community leave everything as is with the senior club.

Charles MacAusland and Ivan Blanchard voted No Motion was Carried.

11. NEXT MEETING: Monthly Meeting April 11th, 2023

12. MEETING ADJOURNED

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis THAT the meeting of March 14th, 2023 be adjourned.

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- Special meeting February 28 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Special Meeting Proposed Budget 2023/2024
February 28th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland- Councillor
David Hughes- Councillor
Jacqueline Lecky- Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO
2 Members of the Public

Mayor Gallant opened the meeting at 6:00pm and handed the meeting over to CAO Perry.

Michelle presented the proposed budget to the public, and answered any questions pertaining to the budget for clarification.

Mayor Gallant thanked everyone for coming to the meeting.

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- February 14 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE
Monthly Council Meeting
February 14th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor (Absent)
Jacqueline Lecky- Councillor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Charles MacAusland Councillor
Corey Gillis Councillor
David Hughes- Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO

2. Declaration of Conflict of Interest: No one declared a conflict of interest.

3. MAINTENANCE REPORT: Monty MacAusland gave the following report:. Everything is going good in the community. We had to order a pallet of salt which will take us to the end of the season.

4. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Meeting minutes for January 10th, and Special Meeting February 9th,2023 with WSP

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Jacqueline Lecky and carried
THAT the minutes for January 10th, and Special Meeting with WSP on February 9th, 2023 be approved as presented.

5. BUSINESS ARISING:

a) West Lagoon Upgrades: Council met with WSP on February 9th, 2023 to go over the drawings for the project. The tender process opened on February 9th and will close March 9th, 2023 at 1:00pm.

b) Miscouche ATV Club: Council received a letter asking for permission to access Parcel ID 548388- 631598 & 862282 to create a trail for the ATV’s. They were also looking for a monetary donation to help them create the club. Councillor Blanchard will be the liaison for the council.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Ivan Blanchard and carried
THAT the community give access to the Miscouche ATV club to access the above PID# as long as they stay out of the playground closer to the road, and as long as it is marked off. As for the property at the West Lagoon, they will need to be on the outside of the fencing.

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
THAT the community donate $300.00 to the Miscouche ATV Club.

c) Budget: Michelle passed out the proposed budget for council to review before it goes to the public on February 28th, 2023 at 6:00pm.

d) Wilfred St: Michelle had a call with the Active Transportation fund and they are still waiting to hear if we have been approved for the project. They stated that they should find out in March, 2023.

e) Office Sharing: with St Nicholas: St Nicholas sent a letter advising that they will not be using the shared office space as at this time they are financially unable to afford the $400.00 a month.

MOTION moved by David Hughes seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
THAT the community send a letter back to the St Nicholas advising that if they are still willing to pay the $50.00 week for the shared office space then Miscouche will accept that.

f) Annex the property on Kinsmen Rd: Still no word from the planning department in Charlottetown.

g) EMO Meeting: The committee met in January and they discussed what they would spend the $20,000.00 on that committee received from Government. They decided to put a Genlink in the hall in Lot 16, in case they ever had to open that warming center then they could hook up to a generator. They also discussed buying a few more chainsaws and lighting. Also the money was transferred to the community and put in an account earmarked for EMO.

6. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Fire Dept: Councilor Lecky gave the following report: The department had a total of 33 calls so far this year. They have also had 330 hours in training. Adam Gallant was elected as the new training officer. The department also gave a donation of $500.00 to School for their breakfast program and challenge the community to do the same. The bunker gear is still be sent for cleaning. The log book for the trucks are still not created, as there has to be a policy implemented with it. 2 trucks will be going for the safety inspection this month. And the department has a new junior fire fighter which they are now at full capacity with 6 juniors. Chief Woodbury also stated that he the log books will be created by the end of March 2023, and he is now working on a new contact with mutual aid Summerside West. At this time Councillor Lecky asked for the meeting to be closed. She would like to discuss the 3 members that had 30 years of volunteering this year. She requested that some kind of recognition be given to them. Council discussed it nd advised to check with other departments to see what they do.

Meeting was opened back up to the public.

MOTION moved by Jacqueline Lecky seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
THAT the Councillor Lecky work with Chief Woodbury to see how they can recognize 30 years of service.

b) Recreation, Park, Playgrounds and Green Spaces: Councilor MacAusland gave the following report: Bingo are going good and the jackpots never went yet so the crowds are staying high. All the TV’s have been installed. He also had 4 different quotes for an 8 camera system, however the community would have to pay the electrician to get them wired in. Councilor Blanchard also had a quote for 4 camera’s to be installed in the Fire Hall, which was costing $5,500.00.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Charles MacAusland and carried
THAT the community go with the store brand camera and get a price from the electrician to have them installed.

c) Water & Sewer: Councilor Gillis gave the following report: Corey will be looking into the hydrant and working with Chief Woodbury to see what we need for the hydrant system.

d) Repairs, Maintenance and Village Properties: Councilor Blanchard gave the following report: 2 heat pumps were put in at the Fire Hall, also there was burst pipe in the seniors room 2 weeks ago when the temperatures were well below freezing. Michelle opened a claim with insurance and the deductible is $10,000. We are still waiting for First On Site to assess the damage. Councillor Blanchard also requested a quote for 2 ceiling fans for the fire truck bay. It was also mentioned that there should be a door at the top of the stairs by the fire chief office and one at the bottom of the stairs by the municipal office. Not sure if that will work as it will need to be inspected by the Fire Marshall Office for safety reasons. Councilor Lecky also mentioned that there is no speed signs on Laughlin St, and requested that there be one put up with a 40 km sign.

e) PEI Federation of Municipalities: Councilor Hughes gave the following report: The semi annual meeting was in St Peters Bay on February 11 which he attended. They had some good discussions on land use and municipalities sharing services as well as EMO and what the municipalities are responsible for in there communities and what they have to offer for the municipalities.

MOTION moved by Jacqueline Lecky seconded by David Hughes and carried
THAT the community appoint David Hughes to be on the board of the Federation of Municipalities.

f) Finances, Budgets, Pay Committee, Bylaws and Planning: Councillor Parks was absent, so Michelle gave the following report. The pay committee met and they have some recommendations for council however this will be tabled till the next meeting so Councilor Parks can address council.

9. APPROVAL OF BILLS TOTALING $ 86,183.51

MOTION moved by Ivan Blanchard seconded by David Hughes and carried
THAT the payment of the bills totaling $ 86,183.51 be approved.

10. NEW BUSINESS:

a) Prince County Waste Water: Council received a letter advising that the monthly bill will be going up $250.00 plus HST to cover operating cost.

MOTION moved by Jacqueline Lecky seconded by David Hughes and carried
THAT the community accept the request to increase the cost of operating the Sewer System by $250.00 plus HST monthly.

b) Donation to Consolidated School Breakfast Program. Council received a letter from the Miscouche Consolidated School looking for a donation for their breakfast program.

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis seconded by Jacqueline Lecky and carried
THAT the community donate $500.00 to the Breakfast Program at the Miscouche Consolidated School.

c) Donation to MADD Canada: Council received a letter requesting support for their yearbook.

MOTION moved by Jacqueline Lecky seconded by Corey Gillis and carried
THAT the community donate $100.00 to the MADD Canada yearbook.

11. NEXT MEETING: February 28th, 2023 and Monthly Meeting March 14th, 2023

12. MEETING ADJOURNED

MOTION moved by Corey Gillis THAT the meeting of February 14th, 2023 be adjourned.

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES- Special Meeting February 9 2023

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MISCOUCHE

Special Meeting WSP

February 9th, 2023

1. OPENING MEETING

Mayor Albert Gallant called the meeting to order at 1:00 P.M

Present:
Albert Gallant – Mayor
Allan Parks – Deputy Mayor
Ivan Blanchard- Councillor
Corey Gillis Councillor
Michelle Perry- CAO
WSP Luc Van Hul and CJ MacCardle

Mayor Gallant opened the meeting at 1:00pm and handed the meeting over to WSP.

Luc and CJ went over the drawings for the new upgrades at the West Lagoon. The project will be going out to tender today and will close on March 9th, 2023 at 1:00 pm. WSP will be looking after the tendering process. There was a few concerns about going over budget, and Luc assured that he will try to keep the cost low, and there maybe a few things that the community can cut back on depending on what the tenders come in at.

Mayor Gallant thanked everyone for coming to the meeting.