Saint Andrews Council Reviews Financials, Awards Contracts, and Recognizes Community Service

The Town of Saint Andrews Council met on May 5, 2025, at the W.C. O’Neill Arena Complex, with a full agenda covering everything from fiscal updates and infrastructure tenders to community events and heritage board appointments. The meeting was livestreamed for public accessibility and recorded exclusively for broadcast by CHCO-TV.

Peter Logan of Teed, Saunders & Doyle opened the session by presenting the town’s 2024 consolidated financial statements. Logan reported a year-end surplus, primarily attributed to conditional transfers from senior levels of government. The town’s property tax warrant rose to $6.257 million, up from $5.765 million in the previous year. Overall, the auditors found no major areas of concern, indicating a strong fiscal position.

Council officially proclaimed May 25–31 as Disability Awareness Week, aligning with the Premier’s Council on Disabilities. Mayor Brad Henderson reaffirmed the town’s commitment to removing participation barriers and promoting accessibility and inclusion for all residents.

In economic development discussions, council approved the return of Indulge: Taste of St. Andrews, scheduled for October. The event will involve the temporary closure of a section of Water Street. Councillor Darryl Weare raised concerns about open liquor consumption and public intoxication, prompting staff and law enforcement to review enforcement strategies and liability risks ahead of the festival.

Two major infrastructure contracts were awarded during the meeting. Midi Construction Limited received the tender for water and sewer upgrades on Prince of Wales Street, while Coastal Enterprises Limited was awarded the Carleton Street project. Both bids came in under budget, resulting in a combined savings of approximately $200,000. Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi highlighted the cost savings as a key benefit in reducing the town’s future borrowing for infrastructure improvements.

Council also appointed John Leroux, a respected architect and heritage specialist, to the town’s Heritage Board. His appointment filled a key vacancy and was met with unanimous approval. Councillor Lee Heenan noted Leroux’s extensive professional experience as a significant asset in preserving and managing Saint Andrews’ designated heritage properties.

Public feedback was invited regarding a proposed helicopter landing pad on Rankin Road. Several residents voiced concerns about potential noise and safety issues. Chief Administrative Officer Chris Spear clarified that the proposal remains under review and that any approval would be subject to Transport Canada regulations and local zoning compliance.

The meeting closed with a tribute to Debby Lord, Director of the Youth Centre, who is retiring after nearly 20 years of dedicated service. Council members expressed deep appreciation for her longstanding contributions to youth programming in the community.

No major motions were deferred, and the next regular council meeting is scheduled for later this month.