ATV concerns, capital budget projects discussed by Murray Harbour Council

Following an update from Kings District RCMP Sergeant Mike Robinson, Murray Harbour Community Council discussed growing issues surrounding what they call risky ATV use along public roads in the area.

“I’m often concerned that it’s going to be somebody getting seriously hurt,” said Mayor Terry White, who has heard multiple complaints from residents. “Especially lately, it seems like a little more speed, and now they’re up on two wheels, and enough is enough. You know if you want to do that go out in the fields.”

“I love to ride my bike just as much as anyone else,” a member of Red Isle ATV Club who attended the meeting said. “I hate to see them put a bad name on the club.”

The noise of bikes ripping through the municipality later at night adds to the challenges of being a new parent, he said, adding roadside tricks and high speeds are risky for all involved.

Sgt Robinson took note and said, education about the rules of the road through police and groups like ATV clubs are a good place to start. The next step is to work to identify who is causing the issues.

Police typically do not pursue ATV or dirt bike drivers off-road for safety reasons, according to Sgt Robinson, and they are known to flee police.

If an individual is identified, police can follow up with appropriate enforcement actions. The minimum fine for failing to stop for police is $200 and can go as high as $1,000. Fleeing is considered a criminal offence.

In other council business Calvin Fraser, owner of Nellie’s Landing Marina Inc, requested a letter of approval from the municipality to apply for a liquor licence for his hospitality businesses.

“We have no plans of being a local watering hole or anything like that,” Mr Fraser said, adding technically their capacity outdoors is 400 but he has kept it to 80 since opening four years ago.

Council gave Mr Fraser unanimous consent.

Council also unanimously supported Paige and Christine Hart’s request to use the community centre’s kitchen to prepare and serve a free community dinner before the end of the month. The effort is in coordination with Charlottetown-based Growers Station.

Council discussed complaints about the location of the new community fridge which is situated off to one corner in parking space at the front of the community hall. Council said it was chosen for safety reasons and it provided access to electricity. Donated food items can be placed directly in the fridge and donations can be given to the village office in person, or by e-transfer.

Council approved GEBIS monks to host free meals for seniors on April 20 and June 22 at the community centre. Approval was also given to Jackie MacNeill Doiron to host an indoor yard sale at the community centre April 13 through 27. Funds from a $20 table fee will go to the community.

Repairs and upgrades

CAO Anne Harnesk reported she was advised work is needed on the community centre’s flashing where birds are entering. The chimney needs to be replaced and a larger generator was recommended to service uses related to being a designated warming centre.

Ms Harnesk said the community centre revitalization program could pay for 80 per cent of the cost of a new generator. Cost is estimated between $15,000 to $17,000.

The centre’s generator battery was replaced at a cost of $1,000 and a maintenance staff member put in extra hours cleaning and fixing chairs, oiling wood surfaces and completing a variety of other tasks such as cleaning the fridges. She suggested purchasing an upholstery cleaner to be used in the long-term.

Deputy Mayor Gary MacKay informed council there are no major updates from the planning committee.

He sought feedback related to spending capital budget as previously approved by council to buy a redesigned concrete waves monument. It would be situated at the wharf in honour of seafaring people who have earned their living on the water.

Councillor MacKay noted he is still looking for direction from the Murray Harbour Historical Society about another capital budget project to commemorate Murray Harbour’s old school house, arena and public office. He suggested a focal point would be the old bell from the school along with plaques.

Council unanimously passed a resolution to apply to the Canadian Community Building Fund for two major projects suggested by Coun MacKay.

The first would replace the concrete walkway leading from Main Street to the community centre and to make walkway improvements at the cenotaph. Both would increase wheelchair accessibility. Total cost is estimated at $53,900.

The second project is a parking lot by the dog park to service the soccer field and the outdoor rink. Coun MacKay said this would help prevent traffic congestion and other issues with cars lining up along the road during hockey or soccer games. Drainage improvement would also be a part of this project estimated at $53,350.

Funding for three hotspots to improve security camera service were requested at an estimated cost of $15,000.

Coun MacKay committed the maintenance committee to getting the ball rolling on issues such as the chimney and flashing.

Councillors Kelly Matheson and Marlene Chapman hope to release the first community newsletter around the end of May and will start seeking content in April.

A resident with a large outstanding sewage account has been contacted, according to Councillor Paul White who said interim sewage and utility manager Margaret Brady is in the process of sorting out a deadline and consequences if the bill isn’t paid.

Coun White along with Ms Harnesk have been working to find information about the potential of raising sewage rates.

The community will advertise for a sewage and utility manager.

Warming centre designation in sight

Ms Harnesk ordered everything needed for an enclosure around the community centre furnaces which is one of the final pieces needed to designate the location as an official warming centre.

She is also working out options and solutions to have fire-rated curtains on the stage and hall windows so that pickleball players can continue to play unhindered by sunlight while satisfying fire marshall requirements.

As reported in last week’s Graphic, council will invite Municipal Affairs representatives to their April meeting to discuss options to expand the rural municipality’s borders, without current interest in amalgamation by Murray River Council.

Following a prior council meeting Councillor Pam Oickle, chair of the EMO committee, said there is a need for a larger base of taxpayers to support the warming centre during emergencies such as Hurricane Fiona. She said many in the area use ervices but aren’t paying taxes to the municipality.

Regarding a derelict property in the municipality, CAO Harnesk reported she had sent a note to the fire marshal about safety concerns. The fire Marshall responded with a letter that acknowledged the issue, but did not suggest any follow-up would occur.

Fundraisers planned and 2024/25 budget were approved by council.

Coun White reported the fundraising committee had been working on organizing a St Patrick’s Day dance, an Easter Egg Hunt, events for Canada Day and a car show in July.

Council unanimously passed a balanced budget presented by Coun MacKay where both the municipality’s tax income and expenses increased.

, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Eastern Graphic