Eastern Charlotte Council Addresses Water System Upgrades, Housing Projects, and Public Concerns

Eastern Charlotte Council Moves Forward on Infrastructure, Housing, and Public Spaces
July 2025 Regular Meeting Highlights

The July 2025 regular council meeting of the Municipality of Eastern Charlotte took place at Magaguadavic Place in St. George. Following the adoption of the agenda and approval of minutes from previous meetings, Council addressed a range of issues including bylaw amendments, infrastructure, housing, and public services.

Council gave third and final reading to proposed Bylaw 22-FNB-056-01, an amendment to the rural plan for the Fundy Bay Planning Area. The amendment aims to support long-term land-use planning and future development across the region.

A motion was also passed to transfer $25,000 to the Blacks Harbour Utility Operation Fund. The funds will support Phase 2A of the assessment and improvement of the community’s water system. “Phase 2 plans include a Phase 2A system assessment for the entire Blacks Harbour water system, and O&M improvements of the current Blacks Harbour water system,” said Chief Administrative Officer Jason Gaudet.

Tenders were awarded for the demolition of two unsafe structures—one in Bonny River and one in Utopia—identified as dangerous or unsightly under provincial regulations. These demolitions are part of the municipality’s ongoing property standards enforcement efforts.

Parks, Recreation, and Public Space Improvements

In the parks and recreation report, council received updates on several projects, including paving on Main Street and the installation of new fencing at local sports courts. The Main Street playground relocation is currently underway; the new location will be next to the courts in Blacks Harbour. These changes reflect broader efforts to improve access to and quality of public spaces.

Housing Development Update

Housing remains a key focus. Council received updates on two significant developments: the Bronson Street apartment project and the Hillside subdivision. “The Bronson Street apartment building project is regaining momentum by the developer,” noted Gaudet, indicating renewed progress on increasing local housing availability.

Emergency Services and Community Feedback

The fire report for June included a total of 68 calls handled by Eastern Charlotte Fire Rescue. These included six fires, 31 medical emergencies, and 16 training events.

During the public participation segment, resident Karen Kernighan advocated for basic upgrades at Riverside Park. “It would be a nice addition… just to have some running water and wash their hands,” she suggested. Council acknowledged the feedback and noted it for future consideration.