Eastern Charlotte Council Approves Sewage Project, Considers Town Status and Shelter Expansion

The Municipality of Eastern Charlotte council met on August 20, 2025, at Magaguadavic Place in St. George, addressing issues ranging from animal welfare and infrastructure to public safety and local governance. The session was attended by residents and recorded exclusively by CHCO-TV.

The evening began with a presentation from the St. George Animal Shelter, a nonprofit, low-kill facility. Board member Rebecca Eldridge reported a 30 percent increase in animals since 2023. To meet demand, the shelter is launching a capital campaign to build a permanent facility on land donated by veterinarian Dr. Melanie Egan. The group also appealed for community support to help cover rising operational costs.

Infrastructure dominated the agenda, particularly concerns over the Blacks Harbour sewage lagoon. Operating at limited capacity, the lagoon requires dredging to maintain service levels. Council awarded the $588,589 contract to Clean Harbours, to be funded through the Blacks Harbour Utility Capital Reserve Fund. Officials noted that waste volumes have increased by 10 percent since the last tender. The dredged material will be transported to a certified disposal site.

Public safety was raised during the open session by resident Matthew Hall, who urged stronger security at the local YMCA following a rise in break-ins and suspicious activity. He also called on council to adopt virtual participation in meetings, pointing to other municipalities that have used the practice to increase transparency and engagement.

Governance was another key topic. Mayor John Craig proposed halting further steps toward converting Eastern Charlotte from a rural district to town status. Instead, he recommended putting the question to voters in a plebiscite during the next municipal election. Council unanimously agreed to pause the process until residents have their say at the ballot box.

Financial matters included approval of routine reports and discussion of payroll system upgrades. With longtime accountant Mark Porter preparing to retire, council noted the need to recruit a replacement. Members also acknowledged a $52,000 grant awarded to the St. George Curling Club for the purchase of new equipment.

Community groups were represented as well. The Eastern Charlotte Lions Club requested permission to install a new sign highlighting its presence in the municipality. Vice President Justine Postbleth said the club would cover half the cost. Council approved the request, citing the Lions’ long-standing community contributions.

The meeting closed with remarks from councillors.