New Owners of United Church Building Present to Council

At tonight's meeting, Schreiber Council welcomed a presentation from Andrew Brown and Andrew Bayko, two local tech consultants who recently purchased the old United Church on Winnipeg Street. The building, vacant for the past year and listed for sale last month, was originally envisioned by the two as a tech learning center. However, their plans have expanded to include a broader vision for the space. Andrew Bayko explained that they hope to align their project with the town's community improvement policy currently under consideration. Beyond serving as a multi-use facility or community hub, they see potential for the surrounding land to support residential use and green spaces.

One key challenge is the building’s current zoning. Previously classified as a religious institution, the property was exempt from taxes. A shift to commercial zoning would incur high taxes, potentially making the project financially unviable. Instead, rezoning for educational purposes may be a feasible solution. Following the presentation, council resumed its scheduled agenda.

During question period, no queries were raised, and the minutes from previous meetings were adopted as circulated. In business arising from the minutes, council approved a quotation for sludge boxes at the waste treatment plant and allocated a grant to support the food bank’s Christmas hamper initiative. All accounts and debit orders for payment were ratified and approved.

In other business, council adopted the existing Recreation Policies and Procedures Bylaw, with further amendments to be added in the future.

Next, department reports began with the CAO's update. The waste treatment plant, which has faced significant issues due to age and lack of maintenance, continues to require resources to address ongoing challenges. A town-wide emergency notice was issued to keep residents informed. The Department of Works echoed the CAO’s concerns and detailed efforts to maintain operations through the winter. Additional updates included completed roof repairs at the arena, with further repairs scheduled for the municipal office.

The Recreation Department highlighted recent summer events and initiated plans for the upcoming Winter Carnival scheduled for February 2025. Progress on the town’s website revamp is underway, with a council update expected in the coming weeks.

Councillor Mauro shared updates from recent library board meetings, while a communication item led to a discussion on promoting annual activities through the Circle Route Magazine. Concerns were also raised about the lack of local medical service support and challenges in filling open positions.

In other business, conference attendance and planning for the township Christmas Party were discussed, alongside preparations for Citizen of the Year nominations.

The open session then adjourned, and council proceeded to a closed session.