City Council Meeting Recap: June 2, 2026
More
Search
Back to Search
The following is a recap of the City of St. John's Regular Council Meeting on June 2, 2026. The recap provides an overview of Council decisions. All related documents for the decisions outlined below and the full agenda from the meeting are available by clicking the button below.
Council Meeting Video, Agenda & Documents
Development Applications:
Development applications are formal requests submitted to the City of St. John's by individuals, businesses, or developers seeking approval for projects that involve land use, building construction, or changes to property. These applications require council approvals and ensure that proposed developments comply with the City’s Envision St. John’s Development Regulations.
The following development applications were reviewed at the meeting:
Proposed Accessory Building in the Floodplain Buffer: 9 Bonnie Drive |
|
Council was asked to approve a residential accessory building at 9 Bonnie Drive within a floodplain buffer, which is permitted under the Development Regulations and does not require consultation with the Environment and Sustainability Experts Panel.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
|
Proposed Dwelling Units in a Non-Conforming Use: 5-21 Airport Place |
|
Council was asked to approve the addition of eight dwelling units within an existing non-conforming residential use at 5–21 Airport Place, involving interior reconfiguration only, with no changes to the building footprint and sufficient on-site parking provided.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
|
Expansion to a Non-Conforming Use: 530 Topsail Road |
|
Council was asked to approve a small expansion to the Shriners’ Club at 530 Topsail Road, an existing non-conforming Place of Amusement use in a Residential 1 (R1) zone. The proposal is to add an 11.15 m² deck to the building. Under the Development Regulations, non-conforming buildings may be extended with Council approval, provided the expansion does not exceed 50% of the existing building. In this case, the proposed addition represents only 1.63% of the building’s floor area, making it a minor expansion that complies with the allowable limit.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Paving of Gravel Parking Lot in Floodplain Buffer: 84 Messenger Drive |
|
Council was asked to approve the paving of an existing gravel parking lot at 84 Messenger Drive within a floodplain buffer. The parking area existed prior to the 2021 Development Regulations and may be considered for paving with Council approval. The Environment and Sustainability Experts Panel raised no concerns, provided the work does not extend further into the floodplain buffer or floodplain.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Public Works and Infrastructure and Public Utility in the Floodplain, Wetland and Associated Buffers: Goldstone Street |
|
Council was asked to approve public works and infrastructure, including two roundabouts and associated utility upgrades, within a floodplain, wetland, and their buffers at the Goldstone Street and Team Gushue Highway intersection. The proposed work includes roadway and Newfoundland Power infrastructure, which may be permitted under the Development Regulations, and the Environment and Sustainability Experts Panel has expressed support for the project.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Public Works and Infrastructure in the Wetland Buffer: 222A Airport Heights Drive |
|
Council was asked to approve public works and infrastructure within a wetland buffer at 222A Airport Heights Drive to support a new cul-de-sac. The work is related to a subdivision creating three new residential lots, and involves replacing a temporary cul-de-sac with a permanent one that slightly encroaches into the buffer. The Environment and Sustainability Experts Panel had no concerns with the proposal.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Public Utility in the Floodplain and Floodplain Buffer: Major's Path |
|
Council was asked to approve the installation of Newfoundland Power infrastructure within the floodplain and floodplain buffer at the Major’s Path roundabout. The work supports a previously approved roundabout project at Portugal Cove Road and Airport Heights Drive. The Development Regulations permit public utilities in these areas with Council approval, and the Environment and Sustainability Experts Panel has supported the proposal.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Request for Variance on Accessory Building Height: 62 Old Bay Bulls Road |
|
Council was asked to approve a 7.2% variance to allow an accessory building at 62 Old Bay Bulls Road to exceed the permitted height, increasing it to 5.4 metres. The requested variance falls within the allowable 10% limit under the Development Regulations, and no objections were received during the public notification process.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Request for Parking Relief: 5 Cairo Street |
|
Council was asked to consider approving parking relief of one space at 5 Cairo Street to support the addition of a second subsidiary dwelling unit. The property currently has two parking spaces, and the request is supported by nearby transit access and proximity to amenities. A full parking report was not required, as Council may accept a staff report in this case.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Discretionary Use: 285 Southern Shore Highway |
|
Council was asked to consider a discretionary use application at 285 Southern Shore Highway to expand an existing accessory building. The extension would increase the building’s floor area to about 53.3 m² within the Watershed zone, where such buildings have been permitted when tied to an existing residential use. Only one accessory building per lot is generally allowed, and no public submissions were received.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Discretionary Use: 94 Hamlyn Road |
|
Council was asked to consider a change of non-conforming use at 94 Hamlyn Road from retail to a warehouse/storage use. The proposed use would occupy approximately 55.7 m², operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and includes on-site parking. The property is zoned Residential 2 (R2), and one public submission was received in support of the application.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Planning Applications and Information:
A planning application is a formal request to amend the Envision St. John's Municipal Plan and/or City’s Envision St. John’s Development Regulations. This would include applications to rezone or change the text in the Municipal Plan or Development Regulations. An amendment can be initiated by city staff, City Council, or a property owner.
Active applications can be viewed on the Planning St. John's webpage, which allows the public to learn more about planning applications, track progress, give feedback and ask questions and view upcoming public meetings all in one place.
The following planning applications were reviewed at the meeting:
Floodplain Map Amendment: Adoption |
|
Council was asked to adopt Development Regulations Amendment 65, 2026 to update floodplain mapping in Appendix C, Map 5 based on the approved 2023 Flood Risk Mapping Study. The amendment incorporates new and revised floodplains for seven watercourses, meaning updated development restrictions will apply to affected properties. Public consultation raised concerns about impacts, and as a result, the Barrow’s Road Stream area has been removed from the amendment for now pending further infrastructure work and updated mapping. Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Text Amendment Adoption: Accessory Buildings and Backyard Suites in Rural Zones |
|
Council was asked to adopt Development Regulations Amendment 77, 2026 to provide more flexibility for accessory buildings and backyard suites in rural zones. The amendment would allow accessory buildings in front of the building line at Council’s discretion, permit taller accessory buildings, and increase height limits for backyard suites in rural residential areas. The changes respond to requests from rural property owners and reflect the larger lot sizes in these zones. No public submissions were received during the consultation period. Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Text Amendment Adoption: 30 Duckworth Street |
|
Council was asked to adopt Development Regulations Amendment 84, 2026 to allow dwelling units on the first storey of buildings at 24–30 Duckworth Street. The amendment would enable first-floor residential use in the CDM zone at this location, responding to a specific application. Public feedback was generally supportive but raised parking concerns, and the change would allow — but not require — conversion from commercial to residential. Decision: Motion approved unanimously. |
Approval of Amendments: 746 Blackmarsh Road |
|
Council was asked to proceed with final approval of Municipal Plan Amendment 22 (2026) and Development Regulations Amendment 72 (2026) to enable a cluster development at 746 Blackmarsh Road. The proposal would redesignate the land from the Urban Expansion District to the Residential District and rezone it from Rural Residential (RR) to Apartment 1 (A1), supporting three apartment buildings with 45 units as part of a potential provincial affordable housing initiative. Council previously adopted the amendments on April 7, 2026, and a public hearing was held on May 6, 2026. The commissioner has recommended approval of both amendments, which is supported by staff. Council is also asked to approve a lot area of 18,290 square metres for the development. If approved, the amendments will be forwarded to the Province for registration, and the associated land use report will guide development, with any major changes requiring further Council approval.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
|
Ratification of E-Polls:
Sometimes, City Council needs to make decisions quickly—before the next regular meeting. When that happens, members can vote electronically. This is called an E-Poll. At the next official council meeting, those decisions are brought forward and formally approved, or ratified, to make them part of the official public record.
Council ratified the following e-poll at the meeting:
Film Shoot Noise By-Law Exemption
Council was asked to approve a noise by-law exemption for overnight filming of a “Movie of the Week” in St. John’s. Filming would take place at 12 Cheyne Drive from 11:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on May 29 and June 5, with no high-noise activities planned, and nearby residents will be notified in advance.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
Council Accepts Findings of Code of Conduct Investigation
Council accepted the findings of an independent Code of Conduct investigation involving Councillor Tom Davis and approved sanctions in accordance with the Councillor Code of Conduct.
The investigation found that Councillor Davis breached the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy by engaging in disrespectful behaviour and creating a negative work environment. As members of Council are required to comply with the Respectful Workplace Policy, the findings also constitute a breach of Section 6 of the Councillor Code of Conduct.
Council accepted the findings of the investigation and approved the following sanctions:
- A formal reprimand
- Mandatory training focused on effective and respectful communications, professionalism in the workplace, and sensitivity and inclusion within 60 days
- A one-month suspension from Council duties with pay from June 2 to July 2, 2026
During the Ward 4 Councillor’s absence, residents with questions or concerns can contact Access St. John’s by calling 311 or 709-754-CITY (2489) or emailing access@stjohns.ca. If additional assistance is required, residents may contact the Mayor’s Office at 709-576-8477 or Mayor@stjohns.ca.
Development Design Manual Revision 4
Council was asked to review and approve Revision 4 of the Development Design Manual, with updates to Division 9 (Landscaping) to clarify that landscaping should function as a usable amenity and enhance the livability and character of developments.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
157-163 Water Street Staff Report
Council was asked to approve the staff report as a Heritage Report for the demolition of 157–163 Water Street. The buildings, located in Heritage Area 2 but not designated, were previously reviewed by the Built Heritage Experts Panel and Council, who decided not to designate them. This report documents their character-defining features and outlines requirements to guide future redevelopment, including incorporating key design elements and meeting Heritage By-Law standards.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
Intermittent Overnight Construction: Portugal Cove Road and Major's Path/Airport Heights Drive Roundabout and Culvert Replacement
Council was asked to approve an exemption to allow intermittent overnight construction activities from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. at the Portugal Cove Road, Major’s Path, and Airport Heights Drive intersection.
The work would support construction of the new roundabout and culvert replacement, with overnight activity proposed to reduce traffic congestion and project impacts. The exemption would apply between May 25 and November 30, 2026, with work occurring on a limited, as-needed basis and advance notice provided to the public.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
Occupational Health and Safety Policy
Council was asked to adopt a new Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Program and rescind existing related policies. The updated framework modernizes and consolidates the City’s approach to workplace health and safety, addressing inconsistencies and aligning with current legislation, while clarifying roles and responsibilities. Existing policies would be rescinded to eliminate duplication and create a more cohesive, streamlined system.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
Rear Roof Windows: 59 Duckworth Street
Council was asked to approve the addition of two rear roof windows at 59 Duckworth Street, a designated Heritage Building. The building, known as Devon House, is located in Heritage Area 3 and is also recognized by Heritage NL. Exterior renovations were previously approved in July 2025 and are currently underway. The applicant is now seeking to revise the approved design to include two rear skylights. While the Heritage Design Standards do not specifically address skylights, they allow for specialty windows where compatible with the building’s character. The Built Heritage Experts Panel reviewed the request and recommends approval, which is supported by staff.
Decision: Motion approved unanimously.
Special Events Regulatory Committee
Council approved the following road closures and a parks by-law exemption to support several events in June and July:
Son of a Critch film shoot
- June 3 (7–11 p.m.): closures on Henry Street, Dicks Square, and Bulley Street
- June 13–14 (times TBD): closure on Guy Street (Anderson Avenue to Whiteway Street)
- Traffic control on site; local and emergency access maintained; residents notified
Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women (June 13)
-
Event runs 8–11 a.m.; closures/reductions begin earlier
-
Full closure: The Boulevard (White Hills Road to Legion Road)
-
Lane reductions: The Boulevard, Carnell Drive, Empire Avenue, White Hills Road
-
RNC escort and traffic control in place
Mews 8K Road Race (June 14)
-
7–9:30 a.m., from Mundy Pond to Quidi Vidi
-
Combination of short-term lane reductions and localized closures along route
-
Impacts include sections of Mundy Pond Road, Blackmarsh Road, Ropewalk Lane, Empire Avenue, Lake Avenue, and surrounding streets
-
RNC escort provided
National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21)
-
Event in Bannerman Park hosted by First Light
-
Requires parks by-law exemption to allow sale of food and goods
Tely 10 Road Race (June 28)
-
Begins in Paradise at 8 a.m., ending at Bannerman Park
-
Extensive closures across City, including Bannerman Road, Circular Road, Military Road, Topsail Road, Columbus Drive, and connecting routes
-
Impacts from early morning to midday; supported by RNC and City staff
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony (July 1)
-
Rolling closure 10–10:45 a.m. (Queens Road, Duckworth Street, Cochrane Street, Water Street)
-
Parade and ceremony with Water Street closures from 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
-
RNC and Parking Enforcement support
Canada Day Celebrations (July 1)
-
Family Fun Day (1–5 p.m., King George V Field): Carnell Drive closure from 12–11 p.m.
-
Fireworks (8 –11 p.m., Quidi Vidi): closures on The Boulevard, Lake Avenue, Clancey Drive, and Lakeview Avenue
-
Sunrise ceremony at Signal Hill (6–7 a.m.) – no road closures required
Permits Issued
Council was provided with a list of Development Permits and Building Permits issued since the last council meeting for their information.
Weekly Payment Vouchers
Council approved the weekly payment vouchers for the weeks ending May 20 and May 27.
Proclamations
The below proclamation took place at the meeting. All proclamations are also shared on our website.
National AccessAbility Week
Mayor Danny Breen was joined by Trisha Rose, accessibility and inclusion facilitator for the City, and Dwayne Morgan, chair of the Inclusion Advisory Committee and executive director of CNIB NL to proclaim May 31-June 6 as National AccessAbility Week 2026.
Contact Us
Subscribe