Municipal planning, bylaws, and budgets top December meeting
To ensure consistency, the District of Carleton North, in partnership with the Western Valley Regional Service Commission, has proposed a new Municipal Plan and Zoning By-Laws. With the Municipal Reform process, the previous land-use regulations were inconsistent across the former municipalities and unincorporated areas.
As the final legislative requirement, the District held a public hearing led by Conor Tripp, Planning Director, for the Western Valley Regional Service Commission. Tripp advised that the revised planning and bylaws will help to ensure “orderly and sustainable development” within the district.
Notable changes included allowing up to six hens within the limits of Florenceville-Bristol, allowing shipping containers to be used as outbuildings in rural zones, and improving pathways for alternative housing, including tiny homes.
Mayor Andrew Harvey reassured residents that protecting the district’s treasured rural way of life was a top priority.
“We all live in this community, too. We’re never going to do anything to restrict the rights of people who live here,” he told the council. “This is going to protect the rights of people living in rural areas.”
Draft copies of both documents are available on the Western NB Service Commission website and the District of Carleton North website. Any questions or concerns should be directed to Conor Tripp in writing at conor.tripp@westnb.ca or directly to the Western NB Service Commission office at 3143 Main Street, Unit 2, in Centreville.
Budget approved
The council approved its 2026 General Operating budget in the amount of $10,565,402, as well as its 2026 Utilities budget in the amount of $781,300. Mayor Harvey noted how hard the staff worked to put together the 2026 budget despite the challenges they face in the upcoming fiscal year. Councillor Scott Oakes also made a point to thank the staff for “working so diligently to make this happen.”
The next regularly scheduled council meeting will take place on Jan. 13, 2026.
