MINUTES

3. Trail Mapping Project

3.1 Jones Pond Access from Marine Drive - Update

Ralph reported that Council is of the opinion that the right-of-way is legal and should stay on the trail maps. This was confirmed in a letter to TETC from the town which reads in part: “this matter has been previously considered by the Torbay Town Council who are of the collective opinion that the indicated trail is a long standing traditional trail within the Town of Torbay and will continue to be protected for future public use”. The letter goes on to state that the public trail is indicated on the property deeds of the area and that the entrance point to the trail on Marine Drive was upgraded to minimize any trespassing over adjoining private property.

- 2 -

The three residents in attendance reiterated their position that the right-of-way is not valid, they do not want public traffic on their properties and they request that the trail be removed from the trail map. It is their intention to block off access to the trail.

Since the trail maps published by TETC are based on information confirmed by the town, the committee indicated that residents would now need to address this matter directly with Council. It is TETC’s intention to update the maps in August and it will be up to Council to provide us with direction on this matter at that time. In the meantime, Ralph offered to visit the site in the spring with other interested councillors to examine what, if any, alternative access to Jones Pond from Marine Drive might be found that could help resolve the matter to everyone’s satisfaction.

TETC members have received an email from Kathy Knowles, resident of Middle Cove, expressing her disappointment that the town has constructed a wide trail in the 50-metre no cutting buffer zone along Jones Pond. The correspondence has been tabled at Council.

The issues which have arisen regarding Jones Pond and other sensitive areas of our town reinforce the importance of identifying and resolving land issues ahead of time rather than having to fix problems after the fact.

3.2 Motion Lane Development - Update

Rodolphe reported on the meeting between the town and the Geography Department regarding erosion issues along the Motion trail area. Ralph reported that the matter had been considered at Council and a meeting held with the developer with a view to increasing the buffer size. The town has just received more detailed recommendations from Dr. Catto on the buffer size which are now being looked at.

3.3 Northeast Avalon Times Article

TETC is very disappointed by Council’s reaction to the NAT article and more particularly by their public comments about TETC. Madeleine has already briefed Ralph on the circumstances of her interview with NAT. Given the fact that Council has chosen to deal with this unfortunate misunderstanding publicly, as recorded in Council’s minutes of January 15, TETC would like to formally request a public apology. Ralph will bring this back to Council and report back at the next meeting.

3.4 GIS Software

Rodolphe is available to do a 20-30 minute presentation to Council on the software’s capabilities, with one week’s notice. Ralph will confirm a time with him and also check if we can have access to PlanTech’s data bank to help with the trail project. We will check with the town on what training will be arranged for Brian on how to operate the software and if Cathy Parsons could be included.

- 3 -

3. Torbay’s Green Living Initiative - Update

4.1 Draft Newsletter

The newsletter is almost ready and comments/suggestions are still welcome. The newsletter should be ready for printing within a week or so.

4.2 Green Team Application

Deadline for submitting applications is February 1. Madeleine briefed members on the draft application prepared by Cathy.

The Committee approved the application. Funds will come from the TETC’s own budget but we will explore possible sponsors such as EHJV and Ducks Unlimited.

4.3 Planning Group

A planning group is being put together for the project and all interested persons are welcome. Meetings will be monthly. In an effort to involve the schools, we may hold meetings in late afternoon. Helen Spencer volunteered to serve on the group.

3. Planning for Rock Garden Project - Update

There is tremendous interest in this project and over ten residents have agreed to serve on the planning group. An initial meeting is being planned.

3. Proposal for Design of Trails from the Schools to the Gully

Madeleine briefed the committee on the proposal received from Green Leaf Resources to prepare a detailed construction plan for the two wheelchair accessible trails connecting each school to the wetland. The amount of the contract will be vary depending on if a wooden ramp will be required at HTHS. The Committee approved the expenditure from the TETC’s own budget. Part of the funds used was raised by HTHS students.

Madeleine will check with Brian on whether a building permit will be required to construct the trails. Ralph will approach the Episcopal Corporation regarding land ownership in the Gully.

A question was raised regarding skidoos in the Gully. It has been our policy, based on advice from EHJV, that skidoos do not pose a threat to the wetland as they operate on snow cover. Skidoos operating on open water in the Gully are another matter, however, as they pose a real risk of contamination of the water body. Any sightings of skidoos running over open water in the Gully should be reported to the RNC or any TETC member.

3. Meetings Attended by Members

7.1 2007 TETC Budget

The TETC budget for 2007 has been approved as submitted. Copies were distributed.

- 4 -

Ralph will check on what provisions, if any, have been made in the town’s budget regarding the increased costs of traveling to the SAM meeting this coming September in Labrador City. This was submitted in an addendum but has not been addressed in our budget.

3. Other Business

8.1 David Suzuki Tour

All members are welcome to attend David Suzuki’s talk at Holy Heart of Mary Auditorium on February 1 as he launches his “If I were Prime Minister” tour. The event is free and will be followed by lunch at the Masonic Temple ($20ea).

8.2 Role of Council Representative

Every effort should be made to keep Ralph in the loop on all matters and events planned by TETC, eg include Ralph on email list when planning events, meetings, etc. Even though Ralph may not be able to attend all events, it is important that he be aware of what is happening on an ongoing basis so that he is able to effectively represent us on Council.

8.3 Bus Service/Car Pooling

In an effort to reduce vehicle emissions, Helen suggested it is time for Torbay to examine the feasibility of getting bus service between our town and St. John’s. Currently, Metro buses run as far as Stavanger Drive. The issue would be especially relevant to families which, like hers, has to travel to the city several times a day/week for appointments, childrens’ activities, etc. Another idea which could be explored is a car pooling program through the Internet. Such a program apparently exists at MUN. Helen will prepare an article for the next newsletter with a view to assessing public interest.

8.4 Healthy Environment Workshop, City Hall Annex, Friday 16

Madeleine informed the committee about the upcoming workshop being organized by the Healthy Environment Committee as a follow up to their September 2006 meeting. Anyone interested in participating, should let Cathy Parsons or Madeleine know.