Sports Hall of Fame given the green light
Hartland council worked through a full agenda during its March 10 meeting.
Town takes closer look at cemetery responsibilities
Deputy Mayor Stewart Fairgrieve reported that the town now manages multiple cemeteries across the expanded municipality, each with different conditions and levels of oversight.
A recent grant request brought the issue to light after it fell outside the town’s support.
“We want to determine the best practices from the town’s perspective as we get into this,” Fairgrieve said. “There’s a fair bit of work to do, but I think it’s all doable.”
The town will review provincial requirements and connect with cemetery boards, graveyard committees, and caretakers to better understand how each site operates and where the municipality fits in the long term.
Town hall refresh earns praise
Recent upgrades at town hall drew a strong reaction around the council table.
“Looks very nice… very long overdue,” said Councillor George Boone. “It’s wonderful.”
Fresh paint, updated finishes and exterior work have improved the building’s appearance from the street and made the interior more welcoming for both staff and residents.
Road concerns, DTI meeting preparations
“In New Brunswick, particularly rural New Brunswick, we refer to spring as pothole season,” said Deputy Mayor Stewart Fairgrieve. He pointed to Route 105 south toward Somerville as a long-standing concern.
Councillor Sam Walton cited Route 575, the Pole Hill Road, as particularly deteriorated, calling it “deplorable.”
“It’s an accident or death waiting to happen,” said Councillor Jason Smith. There are multiple spots like that broken from the center to the shoulder out through the 575.”
Among other areas, the council identified Cloverdale connections to Route 104, St. Thomas Road, Route 103, the 107 junction, and sections near Bridge Hill as areas of concern. Heavy truck traffic, including sap hauling, continues to put added pressure on roads not designed for that level of use and weight.
“As a council, we need to sit down and identify our priorities,” Fairgrieve said. “We need to meet with DTI as soon as possible.”
The town will map out the most affected areas and bring a focused list to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure at their next meeting.
Event for the funding approved, security nixed
Covered Bridge Recreation Inc. will receive a $2,500 grant from the municipal budget for its new event. However, the council did not approve the request for additional funding or security support.
While the request for a $10,000 grant came in after budget planning had concluded, Treasurer Tina Pelkey identified funds that could be utilized for the event.
“There is a line item called grants for social development; it’s $2,500 and could be used that way, if council so chooses,” she said.
“I think we should support them the best we can,” said Councillor Walton. “They are a huge draw to the area, and they do bring a lot of business.”
“I certainly think $2,500 is not enough,” added Councillor Smith to the discussion. “We could extend more beyond that by looking at other funds we have available.”
He also pointed out that there are volunteer organizations that may help with security.
“I think $2,500 is a fair start,” said Councillor Lee Patterson.
“Next year we can look at it and do more when we have a fresh budget,” said Councillor Boone.
Organizers also asked whether the town could take on a role in event security.
Fairgrieve replied, “We’re not in the security business,” which Councillor Walton reinforced, citing liability concerns.
“We don’t want to be in the security business.”
The motion passed unanimously.
Cell gaps leave residents without a safety net
“Sadly, it’s not just our area. It’s a provincewide issue where people aren’t getting proper cell coverage,” said Mayor Tracey DeMerchant, as council discussed cell service across Hartland and surrounding rural areas.
Residents continue to report inconsistent coverage, particularly outside the core area, where service can drop entirely.
DeMerchant said the issue has been raised through the Western Valley Regional Service Commission and the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick.
Councillor Smith raised a concern about situations during power outages in which both cell service and landlines fail simultaneously, leaving residents without a dependable way to call for help.
“I want to let our citizens know, it’s something we take seriously,” adding they will be sending letters of support on their behalf.
Puck drops on hall for Hartland’s hometown standouts
“The sky is the limit,” said Councillor Patterson as he introduced a proposal to create a Hartland Sports Hall of Fame.
The concept would use digital displays at the Day & Ross Community Centre, allowing local athletes, coaches and builders to be recognized through rotating content rather than fixed plaques.
“I think it’s a great idea… why not showcase our new complex?” Patterson said, adding that events such as induction ceremonies could also be held.
The proposal received support in principle, and staff will work with organizers on an agreement outlining responsibilities.
Election season opens the door to getting involved
“Elections are coming up… please don’t hesitate to at least investigate the process,” said Mayor DeMerchant.
Nominations will open March 23 and close April 10 at 2 p.m., with election day set for May 11. New Brunswick runs municipal elections on a non-partisan basis. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements, including residency and age criteria, and file nomination papers through the local returning office.
DeMerchant encouraged residents to consider running, noting the role the municipal council plays in shaping decisions that affect daily life in the community.
Next meetings
Hartland council will meet next on March 24 at 6:30 p.m. As always, members of the public are invited to attend.
