McBride’s Oct. 22 Council meeting drew a significant public audience, many of whom were there to support the zoning variance relative to the 521 Main Street property, which would allow the library/museum to move to this location.

Unfortunately due to the absence of Councillor Kimpton, Council tabled the discussion and subsequent 3rd reading until the full Council could be in attendance and have their say. As a consequence it is expected that this vote will now happen at the first council meeting in November.

All members of Council mentioned their attendance at the bylaw review meeting, with Councillor Rejman noting that all but one of the speakers spoke in favour of the bylaw that is proposed.

The Councillors all indicated that they (councillors and Mayor) would be attending the Business Expo to be held the next day.

The balance of the Council meeting heard a presentation over the possible formation of a program for 1-4 year olds which would allow them collectively to work on gross motor skill development. Projected to benefit a class of 15/20 the group has applied for a grant for some equipment to be used for the program which is proposed for the Recreation Centre.

Public Works Manager Aitken reported that all their planned work for this year had been completed, and as a consequence (of having time available) they will pick up the rebuilding of the bridge connecting the high school to Dominion Street. He did report that the Village had replaced an older truck with a new one, and that the ongoing pothole patching was up to date, and finally that the water intake remedial work should result in improved water.

The Chief Administration Officer and the Economic Development Officer both spoke of grants that they are in the process of applying for, including a Wetland project, repair work in the park area adjacent to the Boat Launch and next year’s version of the facade improvement project.

By Chris Parker