Council reflects on first meeting around the horseshoe
For the first time, on December 17, 2018, the newly elected Pelham Town Council took their seats around the horseshoe.
With inauguration in the rear view, Council’s first decisions reflected much of what was heard on the campaign trail leading into this October’s election: fiscal responsibility.
First up, potential changes to Council salaries – subsequently 2019 operating budget – as a result of new changes in effect in the New Year.
Currently, municipally-elected officials are granted a one third tax exemption on salaries to help cover the cost of work-related expenses. Members of Council for the Town of Pelham have always been provided one third of remuneration to be declared tax free. The 2017 Federal Budget has eliminated this provision, resulting in salaries becoming 100 per cent taxable as of January 1, 2019.
Harnessing a moment to fulfill campaign promises, Council unanimously supported an amendment to a motion affecting Council salaries, taking a pay cut from previous Councils.
Additionally, Council directed staff to review the justification for the Station Street Roundabout and prepare a report to be brought to the next regularly scheduled Committee meeting, re-examining an infrastructure expenditures.
Fiscal responsibility, of course, is more than just closing the cheque book, it’s about smart investment and clear paths forward, demonstrated by the approval of the Pelham fire department’s new radio system and the commitment to an audit committee.
The replacement of the fire department’s system addresses a serious health and safety issue; communications is their first line of safety when operating on an emergency scene. The department’s current radio system has met its end of life use and presents a number of gaps in communications at emergency scenes.
In terms of the audit committee, Council adopted terms of reference, appointing all members of Council along with two members of the public who possess a CPA in good standing. Applications for members of the public will be advertised when available.
In their own words, here is what Council had to say about their first meeting:
“Our first meeting and already many good decisions made!!New, dependable radio system for our firefighters, a long overdue audit committee for our Town, and a second look at a 700, 000 expenditure in infrastructure spending. A good night for the Town.” – Mayor Marvin Junkin
“From my personal perspective it was great getting our first meeting in Council Chambers behind us. It was quite a long period from the time of election to Dec 17th and it is satisfying that our work is commencing. We have a lot issues or concerns that need to be addressed and hopefully residents realize that those issues and concerns cannot be addressed all at once. The first 3 items that need to be addressed is the budget and the process therein. Secondly we need to address the opt in/ opt out deadline for Retail cannabis outlets. There is a survey online now that residents can provide council with their opinions. Thirdly Council has approved the creation of an audit committee comprised of two volunteer chartered accountants along with all of council. The purpose of this committee will be to oversee the Towns finances and to report to the residents of the Town our financial position on a regular basis. There is a huge learning curve for this council in that we are all new but I believe we have a good team and we will get up to speed quickly.” – Councillor John Wink
“I feel that Monday night went well considering that this was the first time for all of us except Mayor Junkin. Their will definitely be a learning curve but with all of the knowledge around the horseshoe, the willingness to work together, the positive support that we have been receiving from staff and the citizens of Pelham I have no doubt that we can accomplish great things.” – Councillor Mike Ciolfi
“Our first council meeting was an interesting experience. I'm sure there's lots to learn, but we'll get there with excellent guidance from our Clerk, Nancy Bozzato. I'm looking forward to learning about all the issues affecting our Town, and working toward making good decisions for the maintenance and advancement of our community.” – Councillor Marianne Stewart
"The first Council meeting went very well. It was rewarding to apply a common sense and fiscally responsible approach to decision making. I believe that we demonstrated that Council works well together and I look forward to continuing to play a role in the positive changes in Pelham. I am honoured to represent Ward 3 residents.” – Councillor Lisa Haun
"There was an air of expectancy in the Council Chamber on the evening of Dec. 17,2018. Many residents had come to spend their evening at Town Hall just before Christmas. This demonstrated to council how important Pelham’s residents considered the New Councils first meeting. The fact that we as Council get the opportunity of doing life together with such amazing Town people and staff was truly humbling. The commitment made by not only the Mayor and Councillors but also Staff who publicly state their willingness to participate was refreshing. At one juncture this brought applause from the public in attendance. As the evening's agenda progressed the atmosphere continued to be filled with openness, optimism and expectancy. The power of the story of our first Council Meeting aligned to show what happens when people work together. It provided the ambition with a mission to achieve new heights. The strong narrative tonight produced the glue that will bind our Town together as we move forward." - Councillor Bob Hildebrandt
CouncillorTo view the full Council meeting, click here.