McKinley Racquet Court upgrade completed
During her presentation to the Woodstock Council-in-Committee meeting on Oct. 8, Recreation Director Kelly Foster confirmed the completion of the long-awaited upgrade of the McKinley Tennis Courts into a new outdoor Racquet Facility.
She explained the courts were resurfaced, painted, fenced, and posts added for the planned opening on Oct. 14.
She explained the project transformed the former four-court tennis facility into a modern three-court tennis facility, with four additional pickleball courts to accommodate the growing sport.
Foster noted the project fitted all courts with new nets and posts.
“This revitalization not only improves the aesthetics and functionality of the facility but also aligns with our commitment to promoting recreational activities in our community,” said Foster.
Council passes first and second readings of the new Unsightly Premises Act
Council gave the first and second readings to its new Unsightly and Dangerous Premises Act at its Oct. 22 council meeting.
CAO Allan Walker explained that the public can find details about the act on the town website, noting that the post includes information about the provincial act, which the town’s act must follow. It also includes an FAQ section to address potential questions.
Walker said the FAQ explains how and why the town can tell someone what to do with their private property.
He explained that the town can cite several reasons for considering a property unsightly or dangerous, requiring property owners to clean, repair, or demolish buildings.
Allen pointed out that any public member can complain about a property by emailing Public Safety at woodstock.nb.ca.
“It’s important to note that when a member of the public makes a complaint, that’s as far as that information goes,” he said. “After that, the town is managing the complaint.”
He said that information about who made the complaint is never shared.
Walker explained that the bylaw officer would review the complaint and decide whether it was legitimate.
He said the bylaw officer would discuss the concern with the property owner and attempt to correct the situation cooperatively.
If unable to reach an agreement, Walker explained, the town will issue a letter to comply, setting out requirements and timelines.
He explained that the property owner could access an appeal process. If they lose the appeal, the owner can apply to the Court of King’s Bench for a final decision.
Walker explained that the town could take immediate action on a property or building considered an imminent danger to the public.
He explained that the town could take action at its own expense, billing the property owner for the work.
Walker added that unpaid bills would be sent to the province, adding the costs to the property owner’s tax bill.
“This is one (question) I get asked a lot,” he said.
Walker said town staff will bring details of problem properties to the council, which will make the final decision on recommended action.
The CAO said the new act will apply to all Woodstock wards.
Dog park may be on the move?
The town’s potential plan to upgrade Connell Park Raceway and areas around the AYR Motor Centre may require moving the dog park.
During the Oct. 22 regular council meeting, the mayor asked for council approval for her to direct staff to study potential options. She said management can also consider whether staff can handle the move or if it requires a contractor.
Jones said the town identified a couple of nearby spots if the park is moved.
New Christmas lighting in downtown
Council approved a motion to allow the Downtown Woodstock BIA to update holiday lighting and install new permanent lighting fixtures downtown.
At the Oct. 8 council meeting, Tourism Director Tobi Pirie explained the lighting situation, noting the BIA purchased the lights with grant money.
Woodstock’s public works staff will install the fixtures, and the town will assume upkeep.
Pirie said she is working with BIA members and the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce to complete the project.
“The lighting will be at the square at Keirstead Court, trees to the left of the gazebo on King Street with lights to be wrapped around the trees, large street light poles on King Street and the green light poles along the waterfront,” Pirie explained.
She said the town would assume ownership and undertake the ongoing maintenance of all new lights and decorations.
