Council Roundup (Jan 28th)
The application to rezone the street level of 8 Prince William from Commercial to Residential was defeated 6-3 after recommendations were made by the Planning & Advisory Committee to reject it.
There are problems with the property located at 68 Morris Street. Neighbours are putting pressure on the landowner to either repair the building or the city will force its demolition and removal.
The Recreation & Parks Plan for 2013 was released. Most important (at least to me

) was that there is a plan for 4 city arenas to be ending their life cycle (presumably Belyea, Gorman, Stu Hurley, Peter Murray?) and the creation of a new 4-pad ice arena. The plan stated that "co-location promotes operational efficiencies", "increases[sic] amenities - dressing rooms, washrooms, concessions etc.", "attracts users + tournaments" along with "Develop Regional strategy for ice sports".
Proposed 2013 General Capital Fund Budget:
Transportation
Reconstruction of Somerset St, and reconstruction of portions of Duke St, Loch Lomond Rd,Westmorland Rd are identified, as well as funding for preliminary design work for needed improvements to Hillcrest Dr and Prince William St.
Economic Development:
The emphasis in the 2013 budget is on making targeted investments that will spur additional economic activity in our region. Provision is made to move forward with the Barge Terminal project in the Lorneville Industrial area in order to create new business opportunities for the manufacturing sector in our community.
There is also an allocation to allow for the acquisition of additional property in the McAllister Industrial site in order to continue to be able to provide development ready sites for new or expanding businesses.
The City will also invest in the extension of road infrastructure in the North End in order to facilitate a new multi-residential development in the area. As well, a significant investment is proposed for needed upgrades to the Trade and Convention Centre in order to encourage additional meeting and convention activity in the City.
Recreation, Parks, Public Spaces:
It is also proposed that the City begin a multi-year program of investments in the Canada Games Aquatic Centre. This facility is now almost 30 years old and in need of sustained renewal. The Aquatic Centre is an anchor facility in the Urban Core and enhances the attractiveness of the community as a place to live, work and invest.
In addition, needed investments will be made in Harbour Station (chiller, fire alarms) and Mispec Park (Walkway to Beach). A $250,000 envelope has been provided to maintain a range of recreation infrastructure. The outcome of the PlaySJ deliberations will influence the nature of the particular investments in sportsfields, playgrounds and other assets in 2013 as well as capital planning in future years.
Waterfront Development:
The City has invested heavily in various waterfront development projects and these have proven to be successful community attractions. These investments are also in keeping with the principles of PlanSJ that encourage strategic investment in the primary development area. Minor capital expenditures in 2013 will focus on maintaining the existing infrastructure (Boardwalk, Harbour Passage, Loyalist Plaza).
It is hoped that the largest single investment will come from the private sector on the Fundy Quay site. The City completed acquisition of the Coast Guard property in 2012
and proposals have now been solicited from the development community. This is a prime site in the heart of the Uptown and the City should be insisting on a signature development that will be a source of pride in the community. The City will be responsible for environmental, legal, engineering and other services as part of the development process and funds are provided accordingly.
Details can be found in the Agenda:
http://www.saintjohn.ca/site/media/Saint...n%20Council%20Agenda%20packet%281%29.pdf
- - - -
Also of note is the property on which the former Tabernacle on Church Avenue burnt down a few months ago has been sold. If the property sold this quickly I would expect something to happen shortly.
Mecklenburg buildings being demolished:
Photo courtesy News CHSJ