Happy Valentine’s Day from Tantramar Report. Here’s hoping some cinnamon hearts (or your treats of choice) find their way to you today, even if you need to go get them yourself.
On today’s Tantramar Report:
The two Sackville town councillors who have been the most vocal in their opposition to the forced amalgamation of Sackville, Dorchester, and surrounding areas will each put forward motions at tonight’s council meeting that could affect the process.
We’ll get the low-down on the motions, and hear from two Mount Allison political scientists–Mario Levesque and Geoffrey Martin–on the opposition to amalgamation.
Plus, CHMA’s daily news and information briefs:
COVID-19 and vaxx clinic update
The number of people in hospital with COVID-19 in New Brunswick has dropped to 116, after four more deaths were reported on Sunday. 266 new cases were reported via PCR testing, and 428 positive rapid test results were self-reported to the province.
The next Vitalité Health Network clinic at the Sackville Visitor Information Centre is taking place this Thursday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pfizer or Moderna booster shots are now available to anyone 12 and over who had their second shot of a COVID-19 vaccine at least five months ago. From 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, the clinic will administer first and second shots to kids aged five to 11. People can book a vaccine appointment at gnb.ca/bookavaccine, or through Jean Coutu or Corner Drug Store websites.
On the agenda for Sackville town council
Sackville town council has a number of items to cover this evening before they get to controversial motions on municipal reform.
Council will be asked to approve $92,500 in grants to community organizations, as well as renewing rental agreements for the Sackville Visitor Information Centre.
An amendment to Sackville’s zoning bylaw is being proposed for a parcel of land zoned industrial off Walker Road.
Two summer events that require road closures and other permissions are also on the agenda: the Levee on the Lake and the Sackville Triathlon, which both happen in August.
And the town is proposing to set up fireworks originally slated for Winterfest during March break.
A number of human resources items are also on the agenda, including a new health and fitness allowance policy which would give town staff access to a $300 annual rebate on health and fitness program fees.
Council meets at 7 p.m. at town hall, or online.
The Sweetest Little Thing is here
It’s Valentine’s Day in Sackville and that means time for the Sweetest Little Thing. The annual art auction and celebration is happening online again this year, with over 100 works by artists from across the country up for auction, with bids closing at 10 p.m. The night begins at 8 p.m with a virtual variety show and continues after the auction closes with a virtual dance party hosted by acclaimed artist Graeme Patterson. To attend or find out more, go to sweetestlittlething.ca
Listen to the Tantramar Report below: