By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At the Feb. 3 meeting of the North Hatley town council, presided over by Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish with about 10 residents in attendance, discussions focused on securing funding for the town’s master plan, addressing the ongoing deer issue, and various municipal projects.

Master plan funding secured

The town received confirmation that the roughly $122,000 necessary to fund the master plan, provided by an anonymous donor through the Ottawa Community Foundation, will move forward as planned. The money will be disbursed in phases according to the payment schedule agreed upon with the hired consulting firm. Mayor Davis-Gerrish confirmed receipt of a letter from the foundation detailing the funding arrangement. The master plan is a unified project aimed at renewing the town’s downtown core and is available on the town’s website.

In addition, a steering committee has been formed to oversee the master plan’s development and ensure transparency between the firm and residents. The committee will include Mayor Davis-Gerrish, Councillor Danielle Dupré, and three citizens. The committee’s mandate is to facilitate communication and ensure the project meets its intended objectives.

Deer overpopulation remains a concern

The ongoing deer problem was a major topic of discussion. Residents expressed frustration over the growing deer population and its impact on local vegetation. One resident pointed out that the animals have become unafraid of humans, saying, “They just stand there and look at you.”

Council members acknowledged that multiple communications have been issued to residents regarding feeding restrictions, but the issue persists. It was noted that some residents continue to feed birds, inadvertently attracting deer. The council is exploring various management strategies, including sterilization programs like those used in other regions. A guest speaker is expected to present potential solutions to the public in April.

The council also referenced deer culls, conducted on occasion in Quebec, where the meat can be processed and distributed. However, it was cautioned that if the town were to pursue a cull, community support would be necessary to avoid backlash.

Other municipal issues discussed

• Waste collection issues: The council plans to meet with the waste management company on Feb. 10 to address ongoing complaints about poor service. “It just doesn’t make sense,” one councillor said, referencing missed pickups and inconsistent service. The possibility of reviewing the contract if issues persist was mentioned.
• Winter road maintenance: Several residents voiced concerns about inadequate road salting, particularly on hilly streets, which has led to dangerous driving conditions. One resident recounted an incident where a car slid through an intersection. The council acknowledged the issue and committed to reinforcing the message to the public works department.
• New public works hire: The council approved the hiring of a new labourer for the public works department, effective Jan. 13. His contract follows the terms set for Group 3 employees in the personnel management guide.
• Community recreation coordination: A contract position has been approved to oversee sports and recreational programming in the town. The selected individual will be responsible for organizing events and activities within an allocated budget.
• Local projects and funding: The town has applied for financial aid from the Fonds région et ruralité (FRR) to support two initiatives: a resurfacing project at Parc de la Rivière and the installation of an automated boat wash station. The total municipal contribution for both projects will be approximately $1.6 million.
• Heritage preservation initiative: The council approved funding for Arts Cultures Massawippi ($4,000) and a local jazz organization ($3,000) to support cultural programming in 2025.
• Support for Route 143 repairs: North Hatley council voted to back the Hatley Township municipal council’s request for urgent repairs to Route 143, citing deteriorating road conditions that pose safety risks.

The meeting concluded just after 7:40 p.m. with a question period where residents raised further concerns about municipal purchasing practices and winter road conditions. The next council meeting is scheduled for early March.