Tuesday, December 16th, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Public Meeting of Council held on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 in Council Chambers.
Attendees: Mayor Marilyn Tulk (Chair)
Deputy Mayor Hayward Morgan
Councillor Samantha Budden
Councillor Elaine Coles
Councillor Brittany Whalen
Clerk/Manager Dianne Goodyear
Absent: Councillor Brian Thompson (LOA)
Councillor Mitchell Nippard
Call to Order: Chair @ 6:50 p.m.
Agenda: Resolution-166-25-Councillor S. Budden/Councillor E. Coles
Be it Resolved that the Agenda be adopted as circulated.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Minutes:
Mayor Tulk asked if there were any errors or omissions to the Minutes of the Regular Public Council Meeting of December 1st, 2025 which had been circulated to all members.
Resolution-167-25-Councillor S. Budden/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved that the Minutes of the Regular Public Council Meeting of December 1st, 2025 be adopted as circulated.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Committees:
Finance: Budget
Resolution-168-25-Councillor E. Coles/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved to adopt the 2026 Budget balanced at $834,028.19 with the Residential Mil Rate lowered to 5.25; the Commercial Mil Rate remaining at 8.25; the Minimum Property Tax increased to $400 and the Vacant Land Property Tax at $50. The Water and Sewer Fee Rate remaining at $400 and the Residential Water Only Fee remaining at $300. The Water Fee for Vacant Land at $50 and the Water and Sewer Fee for Vacant Land at $75 (new fees as required by the Local Towns and Service Districts Act). All other taxes and fees remain unchanged and as stated on the attached 2026 Tax and Fee Schedule.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Audit 2024
Resolution-169-25-Councillor S. Budden/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved to adopt the Audit of the Town’s 2024 Financial Statements as presented.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Collections Report
The Collections Report for November was presented to and reviewed by members. Collection of arrears is slowly progressing.
Public Works: Water Report
The Water Report from Testing by Government Services on December 12th, 2025 was satisfactory.
Chlorine Readings
The Chlorine Readings for November were presented to and reviewed by members. Readings were within the recommended guidelines.
Water Usage/Flow Data
The Water Usage and Flow Data for November were presented to and reviewed by members. The average water usage was 165,111 gallons per day.
Waterline Leak
Resolution-170-25-Councillor E. Coles/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved to write resident and give him 3 weeks to get the leak repaired. Further, if this time frame is unable to be met due to weather/ground conditions, a ditch will have to be dug to divert the water into the ditch alongside the road so it can run through the culvert and not onto the road.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Fire Dept: Complaints (Privileged Session)
Resolution-171-25-Councillor S. Budden/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved to enter into a “Privileged Session” to discuss this topic.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Discussion
Complaints (Privileged Session) continued
Resolution-172-25-Councillor S. Budden/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved that the meeting return to an “Open Session”.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Council’s response will be forwarded to the Fire Chief to reply to the complaints and to update members.
Recognition re SC Parade
Members were in agreement to send a recognition of excellence to Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who following the parade, visited and delivered a loot bag to a child that was incapable of attending the parade. Members were also in agreement that this will set a precedent for future visits by Santa and Mrs. Claus for children who are also incapable of attending the parade.
FES Response/Application
Notification was received from Fire Services Division that the application for financial assistance for Bunker Gear for 2025 was not approved. A new application for 2026 will be submitted in January.
Membership Application
Resolution-173-25-Councillor S. Budden/Councillor B. Whalen
Be it Resolved that the application for membership for Lori Whalen to join the Fire Department be approved as submitted and recommended by Fire Chief White.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Fire Dept: Life Jackets
Resolution-174-25-Councillor S. Budden/DM Morgan
Be it Resolved to purchase 10 life jackets for the Fire Members as requested. Sizing to be determined.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Bunker Gear Damage/Repairs
Resolution-175-25-Councillor E. Coles/Councillor S. Budden
Be it Resolved that the damaged Bunker Gear be sent out for repairs as recommended by FES.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Junior Firefighter Update
The Junior Firefighter Program is in it’s 4th year and they have 12 Juniors doing the program.
Firettes
Members were in agreement to remind the Fire Chief to submit their proposal and anticipated member list to Council so they can get started early in the new year.
Accounts
Payable:
Elaine Coles $ 153.95 – Reimburse – Tree Lighting Supplies (Paid)
Canada Post $ 450.11 – Postage Stamps (Paid)
Canada Post $ 68.77 – Postage Surveys (Paid)
Dollarama $ 499.50 – Tree Lighting/SC Parada Loot Bags (Paid)
Great Canadian Dollar Store $ 36.80 – Tree Lighting/SC Parade (Paid)
Tulk’s Home Hardware $ 30.51 – Tree Lighting/SC Parade (Paid)
Walmart $ 203.35 – Tree Lighting/SC Parade (Paid)
Walmart $ 75.90 – Tree Lighting/SC Parade (Paid)
Dollarama $ 23.29 – Tree Lighting/SC Parade (Paid)
Walmart $ 35.48 – Kitchen/Janitorial Supplies (Paid)
Receiver General for Canada $5,124.84 – Payroll Remittance (Paid)
NAPE $ 119.18 – Union Dues (Paid)
Desjardins $ 644.42 – Pension Premiums (Paid)
Central NL Waste Mgmt. $2,581.43 – Tipping Fees
Carmanville Valu Grocer $ 321.45 – Christmas Dinner
Central Office Equipment $ 156.25 – Office Supplies
Dooley’s Trucking $ 189.00 – Courier Fees/BA Servicing
TRIO $ 349.06 – Health Premiums
Bell Aliant $ 81.36 – Phone – FD
Lori Mercer – Auditor $9,200.00 – Audit of Financial Statements 2024
K & D Pratt $ 350.87 – Service BA’s
Tony’s & Sons Drycleaners $ 262.03 – Drycleaning Bunker Gear
G & M Services $ 474.46 – Gas: 268.46; Diesel: 206.00
Computer Shack Inc. $ 620.95 – Toners
Action Car & Truck $1,148.85 – Conveyor Chair – Sander
Resolution-176-25-Councillor S. Budden/Councillor B. Whalen
Be it Resolved that the outstanding accounts be paid in full as presented.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
New Business: ATV/Skidoo Trail
Members were advised that there is an excavator parked on the road going to the Quarry leased by Bulldog Construction that is blocking access to the trail used by the Fire Department for their Poker Run and used in general by the Public. Members were in agreement to contact Bulldog Construction to request the blockage be removed so the Poker Run can proceed as in previous years and residents will have access to the trail as well.
Wild Turkeys
A request to write the director of wildlife to ask if it is acceptable for the release of wild turkeys in Carmanville and if they fall under wild game and if so, what is the open season on it.
The Department of Wildlife were contacted and their response was that they are not wild turkeys as wild turkeys are not native to the island – these turkeys would be domesticated and originally had an owner. Further that you cannot hunt turkeys, there is no such license.
They advised that when town’s do not have by-laws for livestock, to contact the RCMP and that it is not a wildlife issue.
Members
Business: Mandatory Training Schedule
The mandatory training schedule for virtual training was given to each member. Members are to contact the office to be registered when they choose their training dates.
Tree Lighting
The Community Tree Lighting was held on December 12th, 2025 and despite the cold, it was very well attended. A good time was had by all. Council extends their thanks and appreciation to the Dancers, Singers, Santa and to all who helped with this event to make it the success it was.
Members
Business: Christmas Dinner
The annual Christmas Dinner for Council, Staff and all Volunteers on the Committees under the Town was held on December 6th, 2025. This event is cost shared by the Town, Fire Department, Habitat and Recreation Committees.
Christmas Newsletter
Members were in agreement for Mayor Tulk to compose a Christmas Newsletter to our residents. The Newsletter will be posted on Carmanville Connect and the Town Website.
Adjournment: Resolution-177-25-Councillor S. Budden/Councillor E. Coles
Be it Resolved that Council do now adjourn to meet again on January 12th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Monday, December 1st, 2025
Minutes of the Regular Public Meeting of Council held on Monday, December 1st, 2025 in Council Chambers.
Attendees: Marilyn Tulk (Chair)
Deputy Mayor Hayward Morgan (Remote Attendance)
Councillor Samantha Budden – arrived late
Councillor Elaine Coles
Councillor Mitchell Nippard
Councillor Brittany Whalen
Clerk/Manager Dianne Goodyear
Absent: Councillor Brian Thompson (LOA)
Call to Order: Chair @ 7:40 p.m.
Agenda: Resolution-155-25-Councillor E. Coles/Councillor M. Nippard
Be it resolved that the Agenda be adopted as circulated.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor E. Coles Councillor M. Nippard
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Minutes:
Mayor Tulk asked if there were any errors or omissions to the Minutes of the Regular Public Council Meeting of November 17th, 2025 which had been circulated to all members.
Resolution-156-25-Councillor B. Whalen/Councillor E. Coles
Be it Resolved that the Minutes of the Regular Public Council Meeting of November 17th, 2025 be adopted as circulated.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor E. Coles Councillor M. Nippard
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Business
Arising: Survey Responses
The survey responses regarding lowering speed limit are as follows:
Lowering speed limit from Atlantic Edge to the Interpretation Center from 80 kms to 60 kms: Yes – 45; No – 44.
Lowering speed limit in community from 50 kms to 40 kms
Yes – 43; No – 46.
Average: overall – Yes – 88; No – 90.
Resolution-157-25-Councillor M. Nippard/Councillor B. Whalen
Be it Resolved to request Transportation and Works lower the speed limit from the Atlantic Edge to the Interpretation Center from 80 kms. to 60 kms. Further to request to lower the speed limit throughout the community from 50 kms. to 40 kms.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor E. Coles Councillor M. Nippard
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
The survey responses regarding the time of the Santa Claus Parade are as follows:
Santa Claus Parade at night: Yes – 32; No – 26
Santa Clause Parade in Daytime: Yes – 47; No – 12
Due to the majority of responses requesting the Santa Claus Parade take place during the day, the Fire Department has made the change to have the Santa Clause Parade during the day this year. Notices have been posted to reflect the change.
FD Shed
Further research is required. Information will be brought back when it is received.
Illegal Dumping
Further research is required. Information will be brought back when it is received.
Business
Arising: FD Complaint (Privileged)
FD Appeal (Privileged)
Both these items were moved to the end of the Fire Department topics as Councillor S. Budden had not yet arrived at the meeting.
Committees:
Finance: SAM Partnership
(Councillor S. Budden arrived at the meeting at 8:00 p.m.)
Resolution-158-25-Councillor M. Nippard/Councillor H. Morgan
Be it Resolved that the Town of Carmanville will support the Stewardship Association of Municipalities in its application for funding for their project: Locally led community conservation outreach, habitat enhancement and restoration”. The Town will contribute $5,000 and SAM will contribute $10,000 towards hiring a Conservation Biologist as per previous year.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Nippard Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Budget
Members discussed the proposed budget plans to date. A draft budget will be presented when all information has been compiled.
Fire Dept: Hose/Recouple
Members were in agreement to check with the Fire Dept. to see if they need the hose recoupled now or if they have enough hose and don’t need it yet.
Fire Response/BA
On November 25th, a new full BA Cylinder was found on the road across from the Fire Hall and Town Parking lot. Fire Department was informed.
FD Cube Van/Truck
The cube van/truck has a dent in the front fender that was not reported on an incident report. Fire Department will be contacted to find out what happened.
FD Complaint (Privileged)
FD Complaint and FD Appeal moved from Business Arising
Resolution-159-25-Councillor M. Nippard/Councillor S. Budden
Be it Resolved to enter into a “Privileged Session” to discuss these 3 items.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Nippard Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Discussion
Resolution-160-25-Councillor E. Coles/Councillor B. Whalen
Be it Resolved that the meeting be returned to an “Open Session”
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Nippard Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Accounts
Payable:
Central Office Equipment $ 205.92 – Office Supplies
Construction Signs Limited $ 857.90 – FD Emerg. Scene Supplies
NL Power $ 200.66 – Hydro – Booster Station (Paid)
NL Power $ 544.95 – Hydro – Fire Hall (Paid)
NL Power $ 62.89 – Hydro – Garage (Paid)
NL Power $ 375.39 – Hydro – Mun. Bldg. (Paid)
NL Power $ 115.60 – Hydro – Chlor. Chambers (Paid)
NL Power $ 50.96 – Hydro – Lift Station (Paid)
Bell Aliant $ 319.04 – Phone/Fax/Internet
Bell Mobility $ 39.33 – Phone – Cell
Carmanville Valu Grocer $ 24.15 – Salt
G & M Services $ 729.34 – Town: 501.44: FD: 227.90
NL Power $2,053.03 – Hydro – Street Lighting
Rockwater $1,903.02 – Chlorine
Resolution-161-25-Councillor M. Nippard/Councillor S. Budden
Be it Resolved that the outstanding accounts be paid in full as presented.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Nippard Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
New Business: Complaint- Burning Garbage
Members were in agreement that the complaint regarding a resident burning garbage would be sent to Environment and Conservation for further action.
Members
Business: Christmas Bonuses (Privileged)
Resolution-162-25-Councillor S. Budden/Councillor B. Whalen
Be it Resolved to enter into a “Privileged Session” to discuss this topic.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Nippard Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
(Councillor M. Nippard and Clerk Manager D. Goodyear left the meeting at 9:30 p.m. due to a conflict of interest).
Members
Business: Christmas Bonus (Privileged)
Discussion
(Councillor M. Nippard and Clerk/Manager D. Goodyear returned to the meeting at 9:45 p.m.)
Resolution-163-25-Councillor B. Whalen/Councillor E. Coles
Be it Resolved that the meeting be returned to an “Open Session”
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Resolution-164-25-Councillor H. Morgan/Councillor S. Budden
Be it Resolved that the Christmas Bonus would remain the same as in previous years.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden
Opposed: Councillor E. Coles Councillor B. Whalen
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Christmas Hours
Members were in agreement to close the office on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve as per previous practice.
Adjournment: Resolution-165-25-Councillor B. Whalen/Councillor E. Coles
Be it Resolved that Council do now adjourn to meet again on Monday, December 15th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
In favour: Mayor Tulk DM Morgan
Councillor S. Budden Councillor E. Coles
Councillor M. Whalen Councillor B. Whalen
Opposed: 0
Abstaining: 0
Resolution Carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
