The following items of business were discussed at the Jan. 9, 2024, District of Carleton North Council Meeting:
Western Valley Wellness Network workshop
Mayor Andrew Harvey shared the new Western Valley Wellness Network event date with the council. Initially planned for Dec. 2023, the networking workshop will now occur on Feb. 8, 2024, at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Florenceville-Bristol.
The event’s focus is the future of the Western Valley Wellness Network and will feature lunch, breakout sessions, and group discussions.
The event is open to anyone and is free to attend. Tickets are required, however, and can be reserved through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/network-and-discuss-the-future-of-the-western-valley-wellness-network-tickets-778320717217?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete&keep_tld=1
Donation to the Elementary Literacy Program
Mayor Harvey read a letter from the Elementary Literacy Program requesting a donation to help fund their literacy programs for struggling readers.
Councillor Angel Connor noted, “My child did benefit from this program for three years. It is a really good program,” said Councillor Angel Connor during the discussions. The council agreed to match last year’s donation, estimated to be between $300 and $500.
Road priorities
Mayor Harvey told the council the district had compiled a list of 22 provincially maintained roads that needed significant repairs.
The list was submitted to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Richard Ames, and Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson.
After work was completed on several roads, Johnson asked for an updated list of priority roads for 2024.
Councillor Scott Oakes remarked, “I don’t think the priority list should change,” noted Councillor Scott Oakes during the discussion.
He said that roads that were problematic last year will still be problematic this year.
It was also pointed out that the top priority in the district remains the Back Greenfield Road.
Third annual Matthew Tweedie Memorial Game
Councillor Chala Watson shared details of the annual Matthew Tweedie Memorial Game. The event will occur at the Northern Carleton Recreation Centre on Jan. 17 at 7:30 pm.
All proceeds will be given to the Matthew Tweedie Memorial Fund, which helps support Matthew’s wife and children.
Matthew Tweedie, a beloved hockey coach to many youth in the area, died in a snowmobile crash on Jan. 22, 2022.
Strategic Planning Sessions
Mayor Harvey, councillors, and district staff will participate in strategic planning sessions in January. Norm Purdy, a certified change management practitioner, will lead the meetings.
Council and staff will participate in team-building exercises, help the district identify their priorities, and recognize their strengths and weaknesses.
Mayor Harvey noted a final report will be released in late February following the sessions.
