The Municipal District of St. Stephen held a Special Committee of the Whole in December to review proposals for the 2025 municipal budget. The meeting, conducted in the Moosehead Room at the Garcelon Civic Centre, featured discussions on key infrastructure projects, budget priorities, and operational plans.

Florence Mitchell – Local Journalism Initiative

The session began with the approval of the agenda. Council members quickly transitioned into a review of the capital budget, which was presented in a revamped format designed to provide a clearer overview of proposed projects.

“This is the first time we’ve brought you a capital plan in this type of format where we’re actually identifying our projects right off the get-go,” said Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Renaud.

Focus on Infrastructure

Among the highlights of the capital budget was a plan to prioritize road resurfacing based on the Pavement Condition Index (PCI). Council members emphasized addressing the most deteriorated roads first. “These are the absolute worst ones that we’re starting with,” said Renaud.

The budget also allocated funding for replacing aging municipal equipment, including a backhoe and pickup trucks. “We are proposing that that finally be replaced,” said Renaud regarding the backhoe, which had been due for replacement.

In parks and recreation, funding was earmarked for the rehabilitation of the town’s tennis courts and the replacement of the Milltown Pool liner. Council members expressed optimism that these upgrades would resolve ongoing maintenance issues.

Enhancing Public Safety

Security improvements at the Garcelon Civic Centre were another point of discussion. A proposal to install 12 new security cameras focused on enhancing coverage in stairways and other blind spots.

“The areas we’re proposing to cover will make a significant difference in safety,” said Renaud, underscoring the importance of the initiative.

Airport and Sewage Projects

The future of St. Stephen’s airport also came under review. While there were no immediate plans for new infrastructure, council members expressed interest in exploring its potential as a regional asset. “The airport is an unrealized gem,” said Mayor Allan MacEachern.

A major infrastructure project, the renewal of the King Street Lift Station, was highlighted as a critical need. With an estimated cost exceeding $1 million, council members emphasized the urgency of moving forward on the project, citing its importance to the town’s sewage system.

Utility Fund and Operating Costs

The council also reviewed the utility operating fund, discussing ways to improve the efficiency of the town’s water system. “We’re looking at implementing some recommendations to reduce the cost side,” Renaud explained, pointing to ongoing efforts to manage operational expenses.

Next Steps

As the session wrapped up, council members expressed general satisfaction with the proposed capital plan, paving the way for formal approval. “I’m going to take it as direction that the capital plan is acceptable to present to council for approval,” confirmed Renaud.

The meeting concluded with a move to a closed session to discuss a financial matter, marking the end of a detailed review of the town’s 2025 budget priorities.