Feb. 17 meeting highlights include construction update, tree planting initiative
Construction of Dumfries Fire, Community Hall on schedule
Nackawic-Millville CAO Kathryn Clark reported that work on the new hall is humming along. She told the council that the siding on the building is almost complete. Painting has begun, and tile work is expected to begin this week. She said kitchen cabinets are scheduled to be installed the first week of April. Clark said she also had a meeting with Hatchard Engineering regarding the demolition of the existing fire/community hall and groundwork. They are going to draft a document outlining the work so quotes can be obtained from contractors.
Presentation on Tree Planting Initiative
Council heard a presentation from Cameron Ouellet regarding his tree-planting initiative. This high school student is proposing the idea out of personal interest in the environment.
He mentioned that Fredericton is a great example of an urban forest with a 68% canopy tree coverage, which is the highest in Canada.
Ouellet cited many advantages of having more trees in the community such as cleaner air, a cooler town, slower runoff, calmer spaces which help reduce stress, shading areas, improving air quality, managing storm water, creating habitats for birds and insects, storing carbon, improving health, raising property values, increases youth influence (connecting with nature and more likely to protect it), addresses climate change issues. He said some disadvantages include a seasonal clean-up, safety risks, and infrastructure damage.
To help eliminate some of this, he would like to plant deep-rooted trees. Ouellet would like to grow a different tree species each year and will grow the trees himself. He is currently looking at Red Oak and Sugar Maple.
It was agreed to share the information with the Recreation and Park Committee and to schedule a brainstorming meeting. Mayor Fox said this would allow them to put together a plan. And to also consult with the Public Works Department.
Deputy Mayor MacFarlane suggested that Ouellet also reach out to other groups, such as the Lions Club, schools, and clubs, to raise awareness of this project. He congratulated Ouellet on an amazing presentation.
