Welcome back! This issue of Engage is particularly exciting; I’m sure you’ll agree. It showcases, on many levels, how we continue to make community service and involvement vital to the culture of our City.
As a strong contingent of just over 600, we get stuff done, and then some: we accomplish our objectives; we lead fundraising initiatives, in both spirit and financial success; we win awards and accept accolades; we are recognized for our outstanding efforts and leadership in our neighborhoods; we interact with colleagues and on committees to share, learn, and empower others to extend beyond what they sometimes thought possible; we are our own ambassadors; and we embody what it means to represent, and represent well. At the changing of the season, let’s applaud ourselves and continue to look out for our colleagues and community, and concern ourselves with what we have shown matters most – our passion and our compassion. Enjoy this issue of Engage, help us pass it along to our colleagues who may not have a chance to read it online, and take a moment to consider what you do as a job very well done.
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We look after the City. Please look out for us.
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~ Damon Richards
Together, we spend countless hours working and volunteering our time, energy and creativity to make our city a healthy, safe place to live, work, play and learn. And boy do we ever know how to raise the bar high.
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“Your customer doesn’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
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On prend soin Vo la ville.for employees Ade publication retirees of the Faitesand attention à nous. City of Saint John
Engage 20
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What’s Inside? In the Headlines Page 2 – 4
Recognition Pages 5 – 6
Good Works Pages 7 – 8
Engage in the Community Pages 9 – 15
Health and Safety Pages 16 – 18
Hires, Retires, Promotions and Transfers Page 19
Published by City of Saint John Communications Editor Lisa Caissie Communications Officer 506-648-3714 engage@saintjohn.ca Next issue Winter 2014/15 Deadline for submissions: January 13
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A publication for employees and retirees of the City of Saint John
In the headlines
IronMan Do you ever wonder how someone with a demanding full-time job and young children at home finds the time (and desire) to prepare for a physically and mentally gruelling Ironman race? You’re not alone. An Ironman distance triathlon, just so we’re clear, takes three events—2.4mile swim, 112-mile bike and 26.2-mile run—and puts them into one. Ouch! While most of us would view the task of training for and competing in an Ironman as extreme, unimaginable and insurmountable, a small number of us may see it as nothing more than a challenge that needs to be overcome. And then there’s an even smaller population of what we’ll call extremists that view it as a chance to push the very limits of the human body. This even smaller population is where Trevor Gamblin, the City’s Facilities Manager, resides. On June 29, after seven months of dedicated training and dieting, Trevor crossed the finish line after a punishing 11 hours and 2 minutes with a remarkable sixth place finish in the EPIC Dartmouth Iron Distance Triathlon. Unbelievable! When interviewed by a reporter with the Telegraph-Journal, Trevor detailed the motivation and training it took for
him to prepare for the challenge, and described the ‘zen-like’ state of mind he experienced while competing.
See a race highlight video
To read more about Trevor’s experience, click here. To congratulate him, email here: trevor.gamblin@ saintjohn.ca
In the headlines
One-Stop Development Shop
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Early in the year, under the leadership of Common Council, a project team was formed with service-area leads from Building Inspection and Enforcement, Infrastructure Development, and Community Planning and Development to deliver a new program called the One-Stop Development Shop. The program is designed to integrate the City’s development related services by providing clear and consistent internal processes to facilitate investment and development in Saint John while maintaining community standards that align with PlanSJ.
Over the next several years, the team will work together to enhance the City’s development service to better support economic growth, be more responsive to customer needs and help deliver the community’s vision set out in PlanSJ for a more sustainable Saint John.
The project team includes Jacqueline Hamilton, Amy Poffenroth, Holly Young, Pamela Bentley, Stacey Forfar, and Mark O’Hearn.
For more information on the One Stop Development Shop, visit Growth and Community Development.
Safe, Clean Drinking Water Project Reaches Major Milestone September 11 marked a major milestone in the City’s Safe, Clean Drinking Water Project. It represented the deadline for interested consortiums to hand-deliver details of their response to the City’s request for qualifications (RFQ) for the project. Dean Price, the manager for the water project told the Telegraph Journal that, “We were happy to get six submissions in response to the Request for Qualifications. That’s a good number for a project like this. It shows strong interest in the market.” Specialized teams of City staff and consultants spent the better part of eight weeks evaluating the responses and narrowed the list down to three bidders. Common Council approved the three prequalified bidders on November 3. The three bidders will now be invited to provide a response to the Request for Proposals, which is expected to be issued later this year. The successful proponent will be the City’s private sector partner for the water project. The RFQ containing the entire project scope is available on the Tenders and Proposals Page at: www.saintjohn.ca and through the New Brunswick Opportunities Network (NBON). More information on the project can be found at www.saintjohn.ca/ drinkingwater.
Project scope now includes a wellfield on the City’s west side A public information session was held in September for west side residents to learn about the water supply discovered in the wellfield. Last year, the City began testing for groundwater (underground wells or aquifers) on both the East and West sides in an effort to reduce project costs as ground water costs less to treat. Tests from the West wellfield indicated that there is enough water to supply groundwater to the west side. That water can be treated at the Spruce Lake Treatment Plant. This means capacity at the East side plant can be reduced to 75 MLD (million litres per day) and that there is no need for some of the distribution and storage upgrades needed to supply East side water to the West side. This development will result in significant savings for the project.
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In the headlines
Crews from the construction company join Councillor MacKenzie, Deputy Commissioner Mike Hugenholtz, Councillor Lowe, Mayor Norton, Councillor McAlary and representatives from Emera for the turf laying ceremony.
Emera New Brunswick Field well underway with construction Thanks to a $500,000 donation from Emera New Brunswick and additional funding in the City of Saint John’s General Capital Budget for 2014, construction is well underway for the City’s first artificial turf field located at Shamrock Park. The full-sized field will host football and soccer games as well as other See a sports. This highlight video new artificial turf field, along with the tennis courts completed previously represents significant progress on the Shamrock Park Master Plan endorsed by Council in 2009. On September 17, Mayor Mel Norton, members of Common Council and Emera New Brunswick General Manager Christian Richard were joined by residents and special guests for a construction update at the park. Work on the field is expected to be finished this fall, and will include the installation of lighting. An official field opening will take place in the spring.
Special recognition goes to staff in the Parks and City Landscape Department for their work on the field and Mayor Norton, Councillors and the Communications Department for assisting with the event.
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RECOGNITION
Congratulations Congratulations to Yves Léger, GIS Manager in the Planning and Development Department, for being awarded the President’s Citation at the Canadian Institute of Geomatics annual general meeting in Montreal. The award was presented in recognition of Yves special contribution to the Institute by his continued support, his dedication to the advancement of its objectives and his leadership of the New Brunswick Branch.
Yves Léger, centre
The ZoneSJ Map Viewer developed by our GIS team was recently selected by URISA’s Exemplary Systems in Government (ESIG) Review Committee to receive recognition as a Distinguished System. Yves Léger accepted the ESIG award on behalf of the City during an Awards Ceremony in New Orleans on September 10. The awards presentations were part of the 52nd Annual URISA Conference for GIS professionals. URISA is a multidisciplinary association where professionals from all parts of the spatial data community come together to share concerns and ideas.
In recognition of her outstanding service to Canada’s engineering profession, Holly Young, PEng, was awarded a Fellowship of Engineers Canada on February 21, 2014. Fellowship recipients represent a leading group of people who have played a significant role in the advancement of the profession. As such, they are entitled to use the “FEC” designation.
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RECOGNITION
Fire Department proudly announces three new Acting Platoon Chiefs The City’s Fire Services is pleased to announce and congratulate senior firefighters Stephen Voutour, Kevin Comeau, and Michael Carr for successfully completing the comprehensive Acting Platoon Chief process. The process is designed to reflect the diverse and challenging nature of the Platoon Chief role within the SJFD. All three senior firefighters have been strong ambassadors in the SJFD. As acting Platoon Chiefs, they will be provided additional opportunities to act as leaders and stewards for the Fire Department. Special thanks are extended to Deputy Chief Joe Armstrong, Division Chief(s) Barry Oickle, Gerald Green and Mark Wilson, as well as Platoon Chief(s) Kevin Forrest, Eric Garland, Peter Saab, and Brian Wilson for the support and training opportunities they provided firefighters Voutour, Comeau and Carr during this process. “Your interest in our department, and commitment to the Platoon Chief process, as well as this community, is very much appreciated. Very well done gentlemen, and welcome to the world of Chief Officers!!” – Fire Chief Kevin Clifford.
Senior Firefighter Stephen Voutour joined the Saint John Fire Department as a holiday relief firefighter on March 12, 1991 and was appointed to the permanent establishment on January 9. 1995. Voutour successfully completed the Lieutenants qualification process in May of 2013 and has had a significant impact on developing the Fire Department’s rope rescue program.
Senior Firefighter Kevin Comeau joined the Saint John Fire Department as a holiday relief firefighter on October 22, 1993 and was appointed to the permanent establishment on January 14, 1998. Comeau successfully completed the Lieutenants qualification process in May of 2013 and is a veteran of the rescue squad and has a diverse response history that will guide him as he takes his upcoming assignment on F3. Senior Firefighter Michael Carr joined the Saint John Fire Department as a holiday relief firefighter on February 13, 1995 and was appointed to the permanent establishment on January 19, 1998. Carr successfully completed the Lieutenants qualification process in May of 2014 and also played a significant role in establishing rope rescue competence across the Fire Department during the last half of 2013.
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GOOD WORKS
City staff respond well to Arthur July 5, 2014 won’t be a date many of us will forget anytime soon. Post-tropical storm Arthur made an impressionable mark here in Saint John as it hovered over the City at its peak intensity level. Fallen trees, flooding and power outages had City crews, SJ EMO, and firefighters, Communications staff working around-the-clock to keep residents safe and streets passable for emergency responders.
of all your efforts this weekend and the citizens of Saint John have no idea, in a time of crisis, of the efforts you From left: Dave Blizzard, and your personnel Al Frigault and Joe went through to McDonald keep them safe and comfortable through this trying time! Can never say enough!”
Kevin Rice, Deputy Commissioner of Transportation and Environment, was pleased with the way staff responded to the storm: “Jeff Hussey, Chief Clifford, Lisa Caissie, Steve Bishop, John Armstrong, I am extremely proud
“Thanks to all. It was a combined effort today and all employees involved should be very proud of their efforts and dedication. Good job everyone.” - Jeff Hussey.
The Aftermath of Arthur Just days after the storm, Mike Hugenholtz estimated that his department had received close to 150 calls about fallen trees that had to be removed from right-of-ways or other City property. A widespread Residential Tree Clean-up Program helped residents with the removal of 860 loads of tree branches and trunks from properties across the City. From left: Mike Hugenholtz and Marc Doucet
Commissioner thanks staff for a job well done Jacqueline Hamilton, Commissioner of Growth and Community Development Services, gave special thanks to staff for their support and presentation of the One Stop Development Shop to Common Council. To see the presentation, click here. “On behalf of the City Manager and the entire senior leadership team, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the One Stop Development Shop
team and all of our colleagues who were involved in making last night’s launch a great success. You have represented the organization well and I am so pleased to see your efforts recognized by Council and the community. This was a positive first step in moving the transformative One Stop Shop process forward. Thanks especially to Amy Poffenroth, Pam Bentley and Holly Young who delivered a very polished and professional presentation to Council. Thanks also to everyone behind the scenes who helped shape the presentation and materials, Mark O’Hearn, Stacey Forfar, Lynda Lockhart, Jill Good, Nancy Moar, Lisa Caissie, Stephanie Rackley-Roach and for the entire staff team who took the time out of your busy schedules to provide great advice and guidance leading to Council’s unanimous endorsement of the program principles for One Stop Shop.”
GOOD WORKS
City Staff Promote Pedestrian Safety After crews from Pedestrian and Traffic Services assisted students from Beaconsfield school with a sidewalk safety campaign, Councillor Gerry Lowe sent a note of congratulations to Tim O’Reilly, manager of pedestrian and traffic services, and his crew for a job well done.
Do not walk out into the crosswalk without doing a few other things first.
“Tim, thanks very much for what you and your people did by putting up the stop signs and letting the kids paint the crosswalk. I think the kids will learn more about safety by doing the cross walk and other kids looking at the result.”
Make sure people in cars see you and stop for you before you begin crossing the street. If you can’t see the person in the car, they can’t see you.
On behalf of the Market Place Wellness Centre, Jill Roberts echoed Councillor Lowe’s sentiments: “I want to thank you also Tim. I just stopped back up and took some pictures of the completed project and it looks great! The kids had fun and picked up some helpful tips about crosswalk safety, while doing so. Thank you Councillor Lowe for supporting this and all of the projects that we do with our community partners here on the Lower West Side.” Help spread the word: Safety Tips to Share with Children Always cross the street at a marked crosswalk or at an intersection.
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You should extend your arm so people in cars know you want to cross the street.
Don’t forget that cars can come from either direction on a street. You should look both ways before crossing the street and make sure that cars from either direction see you and stop for you. Just because crosswalk signs, line marking the crosswalk or traffic lights are at a crosswalk doesn’t mean you will be safe. People in cars may not stop for you. Always extend your arm and wait for people to stop for you before you cross the street.
City Staff make 18th Annual Safe Kids day a success at Rockwood Park “A big thank you to all of you for helping to increase awareness for keeping children and other’s safe! Without a collective effort by all, the Safe Kids event would not exist. I am always amazed and proud of the people and groups from Saint John who work together so well for a common cause. You all make it easier to put an event of this scope on.” Ann Hogan, Child Safety Link, Horizon Health Network Special thanks to the Saint John Fire Department, Pedestrian and Traffic Services and Communications Department for their support in this year’s event.
ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
P.R.O. Kids – Keeping kids active in our community Earlier this year, Mayor Norton unveiled the P.R.O. Kids GET ON BOARD arena advertising campaign. All the proceeds from rink board advertisements in four of our local rinks (Stewart Hurley, Hilton Belyea, Peter Murray, and Charles Gorman) directly benefit P.R.O. Kids.
From Left: Dorothy Sheppard, MLA; Wayne Long, President of Saint John Sea Dogs; Kathryn Davison, Chairwoman of P.R.O. Kids Advisory Committee; Mayor Mel Norton, David Dobbelsteyn
One rink board or wall sign that an advertiser purchases will help place one child in sports or recreation programs for a whole year. If the campaign reaches its full capacity, it has the potential to give P.R.O. Kids the ability to help an additional 300 children per year.
P.R.0 Kids was proud to have the support of U.C.T. as its title sponsor for this year’s fundraising dinner, with a generous donation of $10,000. The dinner drew a crowd of 300 guests and raised $30,000 for P.R.O. Kids. Thanks are extended to all the City staff who worked together to make the dinner a success.
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P.R.O. Kids, the City, and Jumpstart partnered the Mayor’s Cup Skateboarding Competition on Canada Day to outfit 250 local children with skateboard helmets to promote helmet safety and help raise awareness of the City’s helmet by-law. With three golf tournaments under its belt this summer – the Dickie Crossman G olf Tournament, the Rocky’s Golf Tournament, and the Peter Landers Memorial Golf Tournament – P.R.O. Kids benefited from over $30,000 raised. Interesting Fact: As of the end of Oct, P.R.O. Kids assisted over 1000 local children this year with equipment, transportation, and registration fees for dozens of sports and recreation programs. This ongoing support for kids in our community is largely made possible by the support from City staff across multiple service areas, and under the leadership of P.R.O. Kids manager David Dobbelsteyn.
Staff donate through PALS program for Lorne Middle School Thanks to the generosity of City staff, students at Lorne Middle School received boxes of new school supplies. Far left: Stephanie Walsh, HR, and far right: Paula Doucette, HR.
ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
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Passport to Parks 8 parks, 4 days, lots of fun Our city boasts a large assortment of municipal parks, from splash pads and skate parks to beaches, trails, and neighbourhood squares. Over the first four weeks of summer, the Communications Department and staff from Neighbourhood Development services kicked it up a notch and partnered with local community groups to host residents at eight different parks across the city -- “Saint John style.” There was face painting, magic shows, story tents, a live DJ, healthy snacks, and games at each site, along with additional entertainment and activities that made each park visit special. The City hopes to make Passport to Parks an annual program, incorporating different parks from summer-tosummer.
“Just wanted say thank you for making yesterday the best skateboarding event the city has ever seen. It went off so smoothly it was almost hard to believe. This was great experience for the kids at the park and I think will send a strong message to the skaters and the parents. We respect their sport but we want to help them be safe.” Jason MacLean, Fundy Skateboard Association
“The skate park event was a huge success and we all deserve a pat on the back! Thanks again to everyone who made this happen!” Dan Boyer, East Side Board Supply
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ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
“Passport to Parks at Mispec Beach was great! Lots of people came out, and it was a beautiful day. The City did a great job. I heard nothing but good things from everyone I spoke to. Thanks so much for the opportunity to take part.”
“Passport to Parks was an incredible success. Great way to get people excited about all the wonderful spaces we have in the city. Kudos to the City for an amazing set of events!” David Fleming
Kate Shannon, Canaport LNG “Awesome photos! I’m glad Dominion Park was able to be rescheduled after the storm. Even when it got a little chilly in the beach, my facepainting line was all the way to the water.” Cathie Wilson, face painter “A wonderful time was had at the Little River Reservoir Park yesterday. Biggest day EVER there!” Glen Creamer, Little River Reservoir Association “Thoroughly enjoyed the music, games, facepainting and paddleboards at Mispec Beach on Canada Day. First rate fun for all of us.” Joan Kinney
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ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
Jervis Bay Ross Memorial Park sees upgrades for annual service
In 1942 the heirs of Reverend Doctor James Ross (1855-1936) left 9.3 acres of land in trust with the Parish of Simonds (since 1967 the City of Saint John) for a park. In 1953 the City leased 4.61 acres of the park to the Simonds Branch #53 (since 1966 the Jervis Bay Memorial Branch #53), Royal Canadian Legion, for 99 years. This park officially opened in 1994.
Le révérend Ross a prêché à Woodstock avant de s’établir à Saint John en 1894. Il a demeuré dans le quartier est de Saint John de 1907 à 1917 et a agi à titre de surintendant des missions locales de l’Église presbytérienne. Il a déménagé à Halifax en 1918.
The SS Jervis Bay was launched in 1922 as an Australian Commonwealth Line steamer carrying passengers between Great Britain and Australia. In 1939 the ship was commissioned into the Royal Navy as an Armed Merchant Cruiser.
Le SS Jervis Bay a été mis à l’eau en 1922. C’était un paquebot de l’Australian Commonwealth Line qui transportait des passagers entre la Grande-Bretagne et l’Australie. En 1939, le navire est entré au service de la Marine Royale en croiseur marchand armé.
From June 5th to September 5th, 1940, HMS Jervis Bay was at the Saint John Dry Dock on Bayside Drive. She underwent refit for underwater repairs, degaussing, and modifications and repairs to engines, boilers, cabins and radios. While in Saint John the officers and crew became well known to the citizens and groups of this City. Some of the sailors had local girlfriends, and two ended in marriage – Seaman Bob Squires and Ruth Shiels; and Able Seaman Everett Morrow and Evelyn MacDonald.
Du 5 juin au 5 septembre 1940, le HMS Jervis Bay se trouvait à la cale sèche de Saint John, sur la promenade Bayside. Il a été remis en état suite à des réparations sous-marines, des travaux de démagnétisation, modifications et réparations apportées aux moteurs, chaudières, cabines et radios. Lors de leur séjour à Saint John, les officiers et membres de l’équipage se sont fait bien connaître des citoyens groupes de cette ville. Certains des marins avaient des copines dans la ville, et deux se sont mariés matelot Bob Squires et Ruth Shiels, ainsi que le matelot qualifié Everett Morrow et Evelyn MacDonald.
Groups such as the 8th Anti-Aircraft Battery and the local Red Cross hosted the men or provided materials for the crew over the summer. On September 5th, 1940, Acting/Captain E.S.F. Fegen, Royal Navy, and his crew hosted Governor General the Earl of Athlone and his wife, Her Royal Highness Princess Alice. A few hours later the Jervis Bay departed for Halifax where she resumed her escort duties.
As a result of the efforts of a committee of the Jervis Bay Memorial Branch #53 Royal Canadian Legion, a fund established in 1942 by Rev. James Ross, and the City of Saint John, the Jervis Bay-Ross Memorial Park was established on Loch Lomond Road in 1990.
En 1942, les héritiers du révérend James Ross (1855-1936) ont laissé 9,3 acres de terre en fiducie à la paroisse Simonds (The City of Saint John depuis 1967) pour l’aménagement d’un parc. En 1953, The City a loué 4,61 acres du parc à la filiale 53 Simonds (depuis 1966, la filiale 53 Jervis Bay Memorial) de la Légion royale canadienne depuis 99 ans. Ce parc a été ouvert officiellement en 1994.
Reverend Ross ministered in Woodstock before coming to Saint John in 1894. He lived in East Saint John from 1907 to 1917 as Superintendent of Home Missions of the Presbyterian Church. He relocated to Halifax in 1918.
On November 5th HMS Jervis Bay and five merchant ships were sunk by the German pocket battleship Admiral Scheer. Acting/Captain Fegen was awarded the Victoria Cross and several of his crew were also recognized for their bravery. There were 65 survivors and 198 casualties from the Jervis Bay. The last survivor, Able Seaman Walter Darnbrough, Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve, passed away in 2013. In 1941 the citizens of Saint John erected the Jervis Bay Memorial now relocated to this park. In 2002 the Greater Saint John Community Foundation established a Trust Fund to ensure the long-term maintenance of this veteran’s memorial park. The Jervis Bay Legion has been serving the veterans and residents of East Saint John since 1946.
Des groupes tels la 8e Batterie antiaérienne et la Croix-Rouge locale ont hébergé les hommes ont fourni du matériel aux membres de l’équipage au cours de l’été. Le 5 septembre 1940, le capitaine par intérim, E.S.F Fegen de la Marine royale, et son équipage accueilli le gouverneur général, le comte d’Athlone, et son épouse, Son Altesse Royale la princesse Alice. Quelques heures plus tard, le Jervis Bay repartait vers Halifax où il a repris ses tâches d’escorte.
des et — le
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Le 5 novembre, le HMS Jervis Bay ainsi que cinq navires marchands ont été coulés par le cuirassé de poche allemand Admiral Scheer. Le capitaine par intérim Fegen s’est vu décerner la Croix Victoria et plusieurs membres de son équipage ont aussi été honorés pour leur bravoure. Le naufrage du Jervis Bay a fait 198 victimes. 65 personnes ont survécu. Le dernier survivant, le matelot qualifié Walter Darnbrough, Réserve volontaire de la Marine royale du Canada, est décédé en 2013. En 1941, les citoyens de Saint John ont érigé le monument à la mémoire du Jervis Bay. Il est maintenant déménagé dans ce parc. En 2002, la Greater Saint John Community Foundation a mis en place un fonds en fiducie en vue d’assurer l’entretien à long terme de ce parc commémoratif. La Légion, filiale Jervis Bay, est au service des anciens combattants et des résidents du quartier est de Saint John depuis 1946.
“In appreciation of all the hard work, a member of the local community group had this to say: “I thanked the grounds workers, who Every year, a memorial service is held at Thanks again all, for were working hard and effectively. the park to honour the memory of the I take this opportunity to also captain and crew who lost their lives on your many different the Jervis Bay in November 1940. The contributions to the thank City staff, Kevin Watson ship had been refitted for war service in upgrade and upkeep and Marc Doucet. Their efforts over the past few years have been Saint John during the summer of 1940. of the Park.” impressive, considering where we Once again, City staff were thanked started from. The Park is quickly Dave Blaney. for their contributions to the memorial becoming an impressive place service at the park, as Parks and City to quietly remember and respect those who have Landscape crews were out pruning trees and served us so well, including those who have paid shrubs, reshaping beds, clearing paths along the supreme sacrifice. It is also a good place to overhanging rose bushes, and clearing around all watch the local community youth in open play on memorials. They even uncovered a long-covered the hills and field - I think all past and present vets memorial dedicated to the memory of deceased would approve. Branch #53 Ladies Auxiliary member. The old park sign also saw a fresh coat of paint.
Common Clerk Carries Flag for New Brunswick Interesting fact: The City’s longest standing job is that of the Common Clerk, established as part of our charter in 1785. Since 1785, 16 people have held the position of Common Clerk for the City of Saint, one of which held the position for 40 years. Jonathan Taylor, today’s Common Clerk, took the position in 2013, making him lucky number 16! In June of this year, Jonathan attended the annual International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and was asked to represent New Brunswick by bearing the provincial flag during the opening ceremony parade. The IIMC Conference was established in 1947 and offers common clerks from countries around the world an opportunity to meet one another, share best practices, and participate in professional development courses. This year’s conference was attended by close to 1000 delegates.
ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
City Helps Neighbourhoods Clean Up Many neighbourhood cleanups take place mainly in the spring and fall. Community associations reach out to the City of Saint John to assist in these efforts by providing promotional support as well as tools, supplies and labour. Stay tuned for the 2015 launch of a new trailer that will contain all the tools and supplies necessary for community associations to access for their community clean up events.
From left: Myles McCormick and Chris Nowlan
13 From left: Deputy Joe Armstrong, Firefighter Paul Britt, Firefighter Mike Lawson, Lieutenant Paul Stackhouse, Firefighter Alastair Graham, and Chief Kevin Clifford
“On behalf of Champlain Heights Community Assoc., Neighbourhood Watch Committee I would like to thank the following City Departments for their support and donations in making our Annual “Clean and Green ”a success, on Saturday, June 7, 2014. Barry Freeze, Kevin Watson, Mark Kincade, Chris Nowlan, Myles McCormick, Fire Chief Kevin Clifford, Deputy Fire Chief Joe Armstrong, Lieutenant Al Graham, Lieutenant Paul Stackhouse, Paul Britt, Mike Lawson, Lori Lambert, and Councillor David Merrithew.” Brenda Thibault Coordinator Champlain Heights Community Association
Neighbourhood Gets New Court On May 24, residents, volunteers and funding partners celebrated the new Anglin Drive 3 on 3 basketball court. Joining in the celebrations were Honorable Trevor Holder, Councillor Greg Norton, Councillor John MacKenzie, Barry Freeze of the City of Saint John, Debbie McLeod of Social
Development and Ian McCarthy, Mill Rats Manager. After the ribbon cutting ceremony, funding partners and Mill Rats went head to head with the Anglin Drive Mighty Mice basketball team in a scrimmage, followed by a BBQ and cake.
ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
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Saint John Firefighters at Work in Our Community Saint John Firefighters Local 771 sold Harley tickets at McAllister Place raising $2,200 for Muscular Dystrophy, bringing their total annual amount raised to an impressive $19,775 in support Muscular Dystrophy.
Left to right – Firefighters Paul Hallett and Lucas Roderick, with Muscular Dystrophy Fundy Chapter Member Jeff Sparkes.
The Canadian Progress Club hosted Ladies Night Out with Saint John Firefighters manning the coat check, selling balloons and helping the group raise $7,441 for First Steps Housing. Firefighters volunteering for the evening included: Jeremy
First annual neighbourhood block party a success It was a beautiful summer day on the City’s west side for the first annual Porter Fun Day. Organized by City employees and neighbours Chris Green and Lisa Caissie, the day included games, music, special entertainment and a BBQ for neighbouring families and friends. Special thanks to Saint John Fire Department Station 7 for their much welcomed appearance and interaction with the children. Other City employees living in the neighbourhood and in attendance were Troy McGraw and Kevin Beckwith.
Harley, Justin Cavan, Michael Lawson, Jeff Dobbin, Greg Power, and Shawn Elliott. During the last school year, Local 771 Saint John Firefighter Retirees prepared lunches the first Tuesday of each month for the School Lunch Program at Saint John the Baptist King Edward School. Thanks to Mike Case, Shane O’Brien, Wayne Connell, Paul McDade, David MacDougall, Chuck Reid, Stephen DeForest, Eldon McGraw, Karl Maskos, and Fred Ramsay.
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ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY
UPTOWN BLOSSOMS The beautification efforts of our Parks and City Landscape crews have certainly not gone unnoticed. Tulips lined uptown streets and parks greeting patrons with all their bright red glory. Crews planted and maintained over 12,000 tulip bulbs this spring.
Randy Gerawh is pictured at the City’s crosswalk safety display.
Expo teaches kids safety The 18th Annual Safe Kids Expo took place at Rockwood Park on June 7th. The expo is a fun day of music, activities, displays and demos that emphasize summer safety messages. The expo is sponsored in part by the City of Saint John.
SIGN OF APPROVAL Left to right: Rob Ringuette, Mike Montgomery, Colin Boyd, and Andrew Parsons.
CHANGING GEARS Crews at the Eastern Waste Water Treatment Facility are riding high on two wheels. Biking around the plant saves on both fuel emissions and costs and keeps the crew physically active.
Saint John Water Crews were surprised to see a sign from On the Vine thanking the City for their work on Hickey Road. The section of the road underwent infrastructure upgrades and resurfacing this past spring.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY
Quality of Work Life Survey Says… As most of you are aware, in 2012-13 we began the process of analyzing our workplace in terms of Quality of Work Life (QWL). The reason we undertook this initiative was to proactively examine employee risks and relative levels of job satisfaction using an evidence-based approach. The QWL survey was designed to identify factors in the workplace that, when present, directly impact employee well-being, effectiveness and performance. These factors are also primary contributors to individual stress and burnout. Over 300 of you participated in the QWL survey, including 36 police officers. Survey participants represent all key job categories and primary operational departments. Thank you for taking the time out of your very busy days to participate in the survey process. The results of the survey showcased both positives and risk findings. This was not surprising considering the challenges we face as an evolving municipal service-delivery organization. Key findings are summarized below.
Positive Findings: The survey results highlighted three positive workforce attributes: 1. Conscientiousness 2. Agreeableness 3. Emotional stability Specifically, the findings indicate: • We are a well-educated workforce, capable of learning and growing as the City evolves • Overall we have a strong safety culture
• Employees take a great deal of pride in the organization and care what the community thinks • Employees perceive that we have an open and inclusive work environment, with a low risk for cultural biases
Risk Findings: The risk findings indicate three primary areas of concern: 1. Organization Climate 2. Organization Culture 3. Work Demand Control The results indicated that 40% of our employees do not take time or have time to relax. A high percentage is also experiencing daily perceived stress. We have work to do. The external consultants have provided us with two main recommendations: 1. Change our culture to increase employee engagement 2. Provide support to employees Continued…
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HEALTH AND SAFETY Continued from page
to help you improve your professional and personal effectiveness and stress management The Human Resources and Strategic Services teams have analyzed the report findings and are introducing strategies and developing an implementation plan to address our needs. The primary focus of these strategies is to increase our skills and abilities in leadership and management in order to improve our workplace culture. Initiatives have already been introduced: strengthening our 5*22 safety management system and associated safety protocols, significantly expanded wellness sessions, a new anti-bullying workplace initiative, improved employee engagement and communications (including the Engage newsletter and regular Management / Professional staff meetings), employee service recognition initiatives, attendance management, and additional training and resources for all staff.
In addition, the City is currently launching Advance SJ, our new corporate strategic plan. Advance SJ includes a proactive commitment to addressing organizational capacity, including: • Workforce development • Employee performance management • Health, wellness and safety Again, thank you for your support. Our ability to continue to serve our citizens is rooted in the overall well-being of our workforce. By working together, we can effect positive workplace changes. Should you require Employee or Family Assistance (EFAP), please contact Manulife Resilience Canada Wide (24 hour immediate confidential response) at 1-866-644-0326.
City Wraps up Safety Campaign This summer and fall, motorists were asked to “look out” for City workers who perform construction, maintenance and public safety services on city roads, particularly services carried out in the right of way and in traffic. Large signs mounted on packers, City workers in full safety gear remind motorists that “We look after the City, please look out for us.” “We’ve received a great response from employees and the public” says Peter Morgan, Manager, Safety and Policy. “It’s important that our citizens and our employees know that safety of our employees is our number one concern.” Special thanks to: Lieutenant Roy Byers, Saint John Fire Department; Constable Tanya Lawlor, Saint John Police Force; Grant Harrigan, Saint
We look after the City. Please look out for us. On prend soin de la ville. Faites attention à nous.
John Water; Greg Walker, Transportation and Environment; and, Ron Blizzard, Parks and City Landscape Services. The campaign is a cross-service effort supported by the Saint John Fire Department, the Saint John Police Force, Saint John Water, Transportation and Environment Services, Parks and City Landscape Services, Human Resources and Communications.
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Life is full of challenges Help is available all day, all week, all year Through Manulife’s Resilience Program, the City of Saint John offers a full-service, confidential Employee Assistance Family Program (EAFP) to all City employees and their immediate family members. The service offers assistance from a team of experienced counsellors who will listen, offer sound advice and help create an action plan to address the issue. Counselling is offered for, but not limited to, the following: • Marital and family problems • Stress • Psychological disorders • Drug and alcohol problems • Bereavement
The City’s EAFP program is made possible thanks to the dedicated efforts of our EAFP committee. Members of the committee represent a cross-selection of employees from various service areas, and include Mike McAllister, Tony Shaw, Lynne Kaine, Tiffany Dalton, Peter Morgan, Tanya Lawlor, Mary Ellen Henderson-Martin, Tom Clayton, Alastair Graham, Dan Oram, Adam Ketchum, Chris Patterson, Paul Stackhouse, Shelley Richard, and Margaret Senna.
• Lifestyle problems • Referral for financial and legal problems If you wish to contact an EAFP counsellor to discuss a personal situation you may be experiencing, you can do so 24 hours/ day by calling (toll-free) 1-866-644-0326. All contact between you and your counsellor is completely confidential.
DID YOU KNOW All staff can access online City systems from any location with Internet Explorer? Here’s a list of the systems and URLs for each: • The City’s SharePoint site – eCity.saintjohn.ca • The City’s email and contact management system – webmail.saintjohn.ca • The City’s electronic pay advice system – ePay.saintjohn.ca • The City’s remote desktop system – eDesktop. saintjohn.ca or postern.saintjohn.ca* • Connect a personal cellular device to the City’s email and calendar system – sync. saintjohn.ca** • Job ads and applications – Njoyn
To access the sites, you will need to enter the addresses (in bold above) into the address bar, and complete your network credentials (log-in info). All users require network accounts. If you do not have one, please contact IT Service Desk staff during regular business hours at 658-6047 or ServiceDesk@saintjohn.ca. *Contact the IT Service Desk staff for initial set up. **Instructions for set up can be obtained from the Service Desk staff.
HIRES, RETIRES, PROMOTIONS AND TRANSFERS February 26, 2014 to September 30, 2014
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Welcome to the City! • Anne Drew, Accounting Supervisor, Finance & Administrative Services
• Jeremy Kilpatrick, Skilled Worker, Transportation & Environment Services
• Ashley Hay, Administrative Assistant, Finance & Administrative Services
• Brent Morine, Skilled Worker, Transportation & Environment Services
• Monic MacVicar, Procurement Specialist 7, Finance & Administrative Services
• Wesley Levesque, Skilled Worker, Transportation & Environment Services
• Bernard Breau, Municipal Engineering Tech 5, Transportation & Environment Services
• Ryan Pearson, Instrumentation Journeyman, Saint John Water
• Corey Duke, Traffic Technician, Transportation & Environment Services
• Kelly Harquail, Skilled Worker, Saint John Water
• Kevin Beckwith, Corporate Planning Officer, Strategic Services
• Richard Casey, Skilled Worker, Saint John Water
Congratulations on your promotion! • Daniel Walker was promoted to Lieutenant, SJFD
• Sherry O’Connor was promoted to Executive Assistant, Finance & Administrative Services
• J. Derrick Kingston was promoted to Lieutenant, SJFD
• Pamela Bentley was promoted to Deputy Building Inspector, Growth & Community Development
• Michael Carr was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD • E. Patrick Currie was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD • Stephen Johnson was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD • K. Jeffrey Kearney was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD • James McCormick was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD • David Ross was promoted to Qualified Lieutenant, SJFD
• Christopher McKiel was promoted to Project Engineer, Growth & Community Development • Brian Wilson was promoted to District Chief, SJFD • Pierre Leblanc was promoted to Operations Manager, Saint John Water • Leah Robichaud was promoted to Human Resources Officer, Strategic Services • Phillippe Ouellette was promoted to Executive Director, Legislative Services • Michael Meahan was promoted to Customer Service Specialist, Saint John Water
• Natalie Harvey was promoted to 3rd Class Fire Fighter, SJFD • Ryan Brown was promoted to 3rd Class Fire Fighter, SJFD • Scott Nason was promoted to 3rd Class Fire Fighter, SJFD
• David MacGillivray was promoted to SubForeman Works, Transportation & Environment Services • Nelson Thorne was promoted to Foreman Works, Transportation & Environment Services
Thank you for your years of service! • John T. Marshall – 27 Years
• Gisele Peacock – 27 Years
• James Reynolds – 41 Years
• John Leonard – 33 Years
• David Crawford – 25 Years
• William Fordham – 36 Years
• Kevin Clynick – 36 Years
• Jim Bezanson – 23 Years
• Allan Smith – 25 Years
• Barbara Mahaffy – 6 Years
• Edward Savoy – 30 Years