St. Andrews Council Addresses Budget Adjustments and Service Expansion in Year-End Meeting

In a special session, the Town of Saint Andrews convened to address financial planning and operational initiatives. Held at the WC O'Neill Arena Complex Council Chambers, the meeting focused on budgetary adjustments for future capital investments and the potential addition of Horizon Health Laboratory Services at the St. Andrews Wellness Centre.

Vicki Hogarth – Local Journalism Initiative

The agenda, amended to include updates on the 2025 Liability and Property Renewal and the General Operational Fund, was unanimously approved. Some council members participated remotely, underscoring the adaptability of municipal governance.

A central focus of the meeting was on financial transfers aimed at bolstering reserves for upcoming fiscal challenges. Councillor Lee Keenan introduced a motion to transfer $40,000 from the General Operating Fund to the General Operating Reserve. “This will help offset future shortfalls,” Heenan explained. The council also scrutinized an additional motion to transfer funds to the General Capital Reserve Fund, initially set at $700,000 but later amended to $715,000 after discrepancies in financial documents were identified.

Councillor Darrell Weare highlighted the importance of precision, noting, “If we don’t amend the motion, we’ll have an extra $15,000.” The council swiftly approved the adjustment, reflecting its commitment to financial accuracy and transparency.

Discussions also included the possibility of switching to Canoe Insurance, which promised cost savings for the town. While the potential reduction in premiums was appealing, council members raised concerns about the terms of the agreement. “It’s something we can’t rush into,” cautioned Councillor Weare. Mayor Brad Henderson, participating remotely, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the risks of hasty decisions. “If there was one mistake, it could cost us a lot more than that,” Henderson said. The council ultimately decided to maintain its current insurance provider while continuing to evaluate Canoe Insurance’s proposal.

The meeting also addressed the establishment of Horizon Health Laboratory Services at the St. Andrews Wellness Centre. Due to a declared conflict of interest by Mayor Henderson, the discussion was moved to a closed session, ensuring compliance with governance protocols.

As the meeting wrapped up, council members took a moment to extend holiday wishes to the community. Councillor Mark Bennett expressed gratitude for the council’s diligence, saying, “Thank you, Council, for the careful work you do.” Deputy Mayor Kate Akagi added, “I’d like to wish the town of St. Andrews and all of our constituents a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”