Council Highlights provide a brief overview of the latest Regular Council Meeting. For complete details, please refer to the official minutes, which will be available once approved at the next Regular Council Meeting.
Regular Council Meetings are where important decisions are made to guide our community’s development and future. Here’s a detailed snapshot of the key discussions and decisions from this meeting.
Public and Administrative Presentations
Earth Day Proclamation
Mayor Andrew Black officially proclaimed April 22, 2025, as Earth Day in the Municipality of Tantramar. Residents are encouraged to take part in clean-up efforts and other community-based environmental actions on April 22, 2025.
Freshwinds Eco-Village Housing Co-operative
S. Dietz presented on behalf of Freshwinds, a proposed co-operative housing project in Sackville.
Consent Agenda
Council approved the following initiatives and agreements:
- Levee on the Lake 2025 – Approval for noise by-law exemptions, event signage, and municipal equipment use to support planning and delivery of the event.
- Bill Johnstone Playground Improvements – Approval to purchase and install new preschool-aged playground equipment at Bill Johnstone Memorial Park.
- Shiretown Festival 2025 – Approval of logistical support for the festival in Dorchester, including road closures, equipment use, and liquor license arrangements.
- Fall Fair 2025 – Approval of all proposed activities and support, including fireworks, event infrastructure, and bar service.
- Dorchester Fire Department Dress Uniforms – Purchase of 15 dress uniforms approved to support formal public appearances and ceremonies.
Reports from Administration
2025–2028 Tantramar Strategic Plan
Council unanimously adopted the first-ever Strategic Plan for the Municipality of Tantramar!
This guiding document outlines priorities and goals for the next four years, developed through extensive engagement with council, residents, staff, and stakeholders.
Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund – Freshwinds Partnership
Council passed a motion not to proceed with a formal partnership for a Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) application.
2024 Capital Borrowing
Council approved borrowing in the amount of $300,000 for utility-related capital projects in 2024. The application will be submitted to the New Brunswick Municipal Finance Corporation.
Asphalt Patching Tender
Tender No. TAN-2025-03 was awarded to Dexter Construction Ltd. in the amount of $307,500 plus HST. This work will address high-priority pavement patching in both Sackville and Dorchester.
Council Motion – Sappyfest 2025
Council passed a motion from Councillor Josh Goguen to allocate an additional $8,800 to Sappyfest 2025 from the Council Initiatives Budget.
Mayor and Councillor Statements and Inquiries
- Mayor Andrew Black commented on recent provincial budget changes and limitations on legislative debate time for Green Party members. He acknowledged the ongoing advocacy work of MLA Megan Mitton, particularly related to local infrastructure such as the Wheaton Covered Bridge.
- Deputy Mayor Estabrooks reminded the public of the Walk a Mile for Sarah’s Smile event, taking place on April 13, 2025.
- Councillor Phinney shared remarks about the value of attending UMNB Advocacy Days and the connections made with other municipal leaders.
Stay Updated
The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will take place on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM. Residents are encouraged to attend in person or tune in via livestream on the Municipality’s YouTube Channel.
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