Public housing development set for Clark Street
At the Aug. 18 meeting of the Nackawic-Millville Council, it was announced that an eight-unit family public housing project on Clark Street in Nackawic is now in the planning stages. A letter from Housing NB to the council stated that they are currently conducting geotechnical studies and exploring the consolidation of lots on the site (from three to one), as well as removing easements in preparation for building.
The plan is to have the architect’s design services completed this fall, followed by a request for proposals from contractors in the spring of 2026. Construction is slated to start in the fall of 2026, with the units expected to be rented by the fall of 2027.
Council welcomes new Public Works and Utility Director
Council introduced and welcomed Ryan Candor, who joined the municipal team as the new Director of Public Works and Utilities on August 11. Candor is a Civil Engineer with water and sewer experience.
2024 Nackawic-Millville Rural Community Annual Report
Council moved a motion to accept the 2024 Annual Report. Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane noted that over $9 million was raised for projects, with only seven per cent contributed by taxpayers. MacFarlane said that after the completion of the new subdivision, the taxpayer contribution should be zero. He added that he hopes the council continues to be positive and proactive.
In the report, Mayor Tim Fox highlighted one of the major initiatives, the development of the five-year Strategic Plan for the community. The plan focuses on four key topics: population growth and economic development, community enrichment, efficient delivery of services, and sustainable governance.
Other highlights included the fact that the Nackawic-Millville Rural Community was the first municipality in the province to receive funding under the Government of New Brunswick Housing for All Strategy. Roughly $6 million was provided to assist the community with the infrastructure for a new housing development. Work on Phase 1 of the development began in December 2024 and continues. The community also received the Housing Accelerator Fund II initiative. This initiative will provide approximately $1.7 million toward housing and community development projects over the next four years.
Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation, hosting the second annual Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Open fishing tournament, was also mentioned in the report. The event saw 80 two-person teams participate in the weekend tournament. There was also a Youth Fishing Derby, which saw 40 participants. The Pan-American Black Bass Championship in Sept. 2024 was mentioned. It was co-hosted with Fredericton Capital Region Tourism. There were teams from Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Puerto Rico, China, the U.S.A. and Canada. There was also representation from two First Nation teams. This three-day event highlighted the community and was a boost to the local economy.
Council continues to work on a variety of initiatives. Mayor Fox said that adapting and establishing a policy that will work for a larger community remains a challenge for the council. Work has begun on replacing the Dumfries Fire and Community Hall. The Millville ballfield was upgraded, which included the installation of an outdoor kitchen.
Mayor Fox said the council also had a successful second year in office.
“We are so lucky to have such a productive and effective council, complemented by our municipal employees, fire department volunteers, and community volunteers, who work hard to keep everything running smoothly and looking great,” said Fox.
