The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My Public Portal About2021-12-09_Council Website Agenda Package Page 1 of 2 of Agenda Cover Page(s) MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA Thursday, December 9, 2021 Via Facebook Live Office Location: 151 King Street, Chester, NS 1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS 3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (15 minutes) 4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 4.1 Council – November 25, 2021. 5. COMMITTEE REPORTS 5.1 Committee of the Whole (recommendations for approval) – December 2, 2021 – Warden Webber. 5.2 Nominating Committee (recommendations for approval) – November 25, 2021 – Councillor Church. 5.3 Mayors/Wardens Meeting Update – Warden Webber. 5.4 Any Other Committee Meetings. 6. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS 6.1 Michele Haddal, Transportation Coordinator of Community Wheels. 7. MATTERS ARISING: 7.1 Information Report prepared November 29, 2021 regarding Extension of Winter Sidewalk Maintenance Service Contracts. 7.2 First Reading – Outdoor Fire By-Law #142 – amendment in section 4.3 for Chester outer fire control area. 8. CORRESPONDENCE 8.1 Correspondence dated November 30, 2021 from Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing John Lohr regarding the establishment of a Code of Conduct Working Group for Municipalities and Villages. Page 2 of 2 8.2 Correspondence dated November 29, 2021 from Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Partnership Society to Honourable Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long Term Care regarding funding for Seniors’ Safety Program. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 District Council Grant Request: a. District 4 - Forest Heights Community School – Christmas Dinner and Artwork - $1,000. 9.2 Request for Decision prepared November 3, 2021 – Community Development Recreation - Designated Community Fund Grant Request: a. Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department - $100. 10. IN CAMERA 10.1 Section 22(2)(a) of the Municipal Government Act – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Kaizer Meadow Property. 11. ADJOURNMENT APPOINTMENTS VIA ZOOM 8:45 a.m. Public Hearing 9:45 a.m. Michele Haddal, Community Wheels 382 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of COUNCIL MEETING 151 King Street, Chester / Facebook Live, NS On Thursday, November 25, 2021 MEETING CALLED TO ORDER Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:47 a.m. Present: District 1 – Councillor Veinotte District 2 – Deputy Warden Shatford District 4 – Warden Webber District 5 – Councillor Assaff District 6 – Councillor Connors District 7 – Councillor Church District 3 – Councillor Wells Staff: Dan McDougall, CAO Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk Emily Lennox, Executive Secretary Jennifer Webber, Communications Officer Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS  Additional District Grant Request – Together We Can Community Association - District 5 Grant.  Councillor Connors - Out and About in My District. 2021-439 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the agenda and order of business for the November 25, 2021, Council meeting be approved as amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. RESULTS OF SPECIAL ELECTION – DISTRICT 3 3.1 Recapitulation Sheet for Special Election for District 3. Council (continued) November 25, 2021 383 Returning Officer, Samuel Lamey, provided an overview of the Special Election Results indicating that Derek Wells was elected. The results were:  Annette Collicutt – 99 Votes  Jo-Ann Grant – 164 Votes  Derek Wells – 461 Votes – Declared Elected. 3.2 Swearing in of newly elected District 3 Councillor – Derek Wells. The Municipal Clerk conducted the swearing in of Councillor Wells. PUBLIC INPUT There was no public input received. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS 5.1 Council – November 10, 2021. 2021-440 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the minutes of the November 10, 2021, Council meeting be approved as circulated. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. COMMITTEE REPORTS 6.1 Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Program – October 2021 – Councillor Connors. Councillor Connors reviewed the October 2021 Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Program report. She noted that the Committee has met a few times over the last month with the regular monthly meeting yesterday. The group will be sending correspondence to the Province regarding funding (copied to each Municipality). There will also be a request to each Municipal Unit requesting additional financial support for the program as well as an annual presentation. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS No public presentations. Council (continued) November 25, 2021 384 MATTERS ARISING 8.1 Second Reading – By-Law 142 Outdoor Fire By-Law. a. Comments from Dan Moscovitch. b. Comments from Stephanie Nowe. c. Comments from Mary Ellen Donovan. Bruce Blackwood, Fire Services Coordinator, reviewed the comments received. There was a lengthy discussion regarding the size of fires and clearances within the Chester Village Boundary as well as the other areas of the Municipality. A suggestion was to consider a smaller clearance for smaller areas with the increase for larger fires. The intent is to ensure clearance from buildings, structures, and the tree line. The majority of complaints received are due to smoke – nuisance, rather than safety. It was agreed to adjust the clearances for fires in the outer control area in Section 4.3 as discussed, i.e., from 9 m to 4.5 m. The clearance from property lines will remain at 9 m. The change in clearance distance requires the document to go back for changes and to go through the process again, i.e., First Reading, advertisement, and Second Reading. Staff was directed to make the change and bring back to Council. 8.2 Strategic Priorities Update. Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO reviewed the Strategic Priorities Chart as updated from the Council workshop and included in the Council Package. She noted that the key priority is filling the vacant positions so that projects can move forward. Some of the timelines have changed due to the lack of staff at this time. It was also noted that Council would normally have a strategic planning session in January. The Deputy CAO agreed to send out copies of the presentation from this morning. 8.3 Accessibility in Lunenburg County – Update from Ellen Johnson, Accessibility Coordinator. Ellen Johnson, Accessibility Coordinator was introduced and the Deputy CAO provided an overview of the position which is shared with the remaining units in Lunenburg County. In addition to the Regional Accessibility Plan, Ms. Johnson will be coordinating our local Accessibility Plan. Council (continued) November 25, 2021 385 Ms. Johnson provided an overview of what has taken place to date, commenting on:  Review of the Accessibility Act – adopted in 2017 with the goal to create an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030 and the six standard areas to be created and implemented.  Municipal Obligations – Establishing an Accessibility Advisory Committee and developing an Accessibility Plan which are both done. Action Plans to reflect plans, progress, and new standards will be done and the plan will be updated every three years.  Progress to date; and  Short Term and Long Term Goals which include clarifying roles and processes, establishing and creating action plans and continued support for specific projects. Accessibility is to become part of processes, policies, procedures from the beginning of a project. Discussion was held following the presentation with regard to:  Our existing buildings and would it be more cost effective to rebuild or renovate.  Potential funding for retrofits.  Accessibility does not always mean wheelchair accessible.  The new Memorandum of Understanding between the province and municipalities and funding for accessibility requirements.  Consideration of audits for all built environments (buildings, parks, sidewalks, etc.) that will identify gaps and come back with options and alternatives to eliminate the gaps.  Contacting organizations and getting community members to consult with.  Potential impact on community centres and providing them with information. Council thanked Ms. Johnson for her presentation. CORRESPONDENCE 9.1 Letter of response from Bell Canada regarding cell coverage in the Chester Area. The Deputy CAO noted that Council directed staff to send correspondence to the service providers regarding the concerns about degrading cell service quality. Another letter was sent in August, and this is the response from Bell Canada. Since there have been no applications for new towers, staff is not aware if they have carried out the updates on other towers. A new tower would require a letter of concurrence. Council (continued) November 25, 2021 386 NEW BUSINESS 10.1 Council District Grant Requests: District 1 Council District Grant Requests: a. Aspotogan Fitness Club - $1,000. b. Hubbards Area Lions Club - $500. 2021-441 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council approve the following two District 2 Council Grants:  Aspotogan Fitness Club - $1,000.  Hubbards Area Lions Club - $500. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. District 3 Council District Grant Request: d. Chester Merchants Association – $1,500. Original application was $4,500 but the group has updated that request. Councillor Wells indicated that he would be recommending a lower amount and clarified that, once he received more information, he could recommend more funds at a later date. 2021-442 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council approve the following District 3 Council Grant:  Chester Merchants Association - $500. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. District 5 Council District Grant Requests: c. Western Shore & Area Improvement Association - $776.25. e. Together We Can Community Society - $1,500. 2021-443 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council approve the following two District 5 Council Grants:  Western Shore & Area Improvement Association - $776.25.  Together We Can Community Society - $1,500. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 10.2 Out and About in My Community – Councillor Connors Councillor Connors provided an update on the work of the New Ross Trails Society and the routes that have been completed. She also noted that the students may soon be able to get safely and legally to Ruby’s Trail and to the community tree to hang decorations. Council (continued) November 25, 2021 387 A screen shot of the cover of the trail brochure was shown – it is a map of the trail locations. She outlined the potential connection using the Old Annapolis Road – this is a big project as there are a lot of property owners involved, but they have written permission from the Province to use. The 28th Annual New Ross Christmas Festival will be held the first full weekend of December. It is a scaled down COVID- version but will include a lot of the typical activities. There will be a craft fair at the Ross Farm and music on Saturday in the Church – Rachel MacLean is slated to attend. The Craft fair is a smaller version; however, Father Christmas will be in attendance. COVID requirements will be in place for all indoor events. A break was held from 9:59 a.m. 10:15 a.m. IN CAMERA 11.1 Section 22(2)(a) of the Municipal Government Act – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Countway Mosher Property. 2021-444 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the meeting convene “In Camera” as per Section 22(2)(a) of the Municipal Government Act – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Countway Mosher Property. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Following a brief meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened with all members present. ADJOURNMENT 2021-445 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff the meeting adjourn. (10:55 a.m.) ___________________________ ___________________________ Allen Webber Pamela Myra Warden Municipal Clerk MOTIONS REQUIRING APPROVAL OF COUNCIL FROM DECEMBER 2, 2021 MEETING OF COW 2021-450 Approval of Agenda/Order of Business 2021-451 Approval of October 7, 2021, COW Minutes 2021-452 REFER TO FIRST READING – DECEMBER 9, 2021 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to refer the amended Outdoor Fire By-Law No. 142 to Council for First Reading. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2021-453 JANUARY 2022 MEETING SCHEDULE MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council that the January 2022 meeting schedule for Committee of the Whole and Council be approved as follows:  Committee of the Whole – January 6, 2022 is cancelled (offices are closed the week before when the agenda would be put together).  Council – January 13, 2022.  Committee of the whole – January 20, 2022.  Council – January 27, 2022. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2021-454 REPLACEMENT OF THREE AND ADDITION OF TWO FLOATS/FINGERS AT THE CHESTER BACK HARBOUR WHARF MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to authorize an expenditure of up to $30,000 to replace three existing floats, and add two additional floats/fingers for the 2022 boating season for the Chester Back Harbour Wharf. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2021-455 CONTRIBUTION TOWARD PURCHASE OF BIRCH ISLAND $75,000 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council that the Municipality contribute $75,000 towards the purchase of Birch Island (PID 60141041), conditional upon the $250,000 contribution from the Province and the $75,000 contribution from Mahone Island Conservation Association and that the purchase be completed before March 31, 2022. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2021-456 ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS FOR APPROVAL OF COUNCIL FROM NOMINATING COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 25, 2021 2021-446 Approval of Agenda/Order of Business 2021-447 Approval of October 7, 2021 minutes 2021-448 RECOMMENDATIONS AND CHANGES TO APPOINTMENTS MOVED by Warden Webber, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte the following appointments of Councillors as well as the removal of appointments to the Victorian Order of Nurses and Maibec Community Liaison Committee and the removal of an alternate member of Council for the Chester Village Planning Advisory Committee: COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION Audit Committee 2 Years for Public Appointments All members of Council All Members of Council Sandra Dumaresq Sandra Dumaresq Heather McLeod Heather McLeod Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee N/A Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Deputy Warden Shatford Deputy Warden Shatford Chester Municipal Planning Advisory Committee 2 Years for Public Appointments District 1 – Leslie Taylor District 1 – Leslie Taylor District 2 – Ross Shatford District 2 – Ross Shatford District 3 – Hugh Harper District 3 – Hugh Harper District 4 – Lee Harnish District 4 – Lee Harnish District 5 – Dennis Wood District 5 – Dennis Wood District 6 – Margeson Reeves District 6 – Margeson Reeves District 7 – Hassen Hammond District 7 – Hassen Hammond Councillor Church Councillor Church Councillor Assaff Councillor Assaff Chester Village Planning Advisory Committee Carol Nauss Carol Nauss Ray Cambria Ray Cambria COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION (continued next page) 2 Years for Public Appointments Sydney Dumaresq Sydney Dumaresq John Carroll John Carroll Village Comm – Nancy Hatch Village Comm – Nancy Hatch Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Wells Councillor Church REMOVE THIS APPOINTMENT Committee of the Whole N/A All members of Council All members of Council Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee 2-Year and 3-Year Terms Lorraine Burch – 2 Year Term Lorraine Burch – 2 Year Term David Broome – 2 Year Term David Broome – 2 Year Term Joud Alouch – 2 Year Term Joud Alouch – 2 Year Term Robert Young – 3 Year Term Robert Young – 3 Year Term Shelley McCorriston – 3 Year Term Shelley McCorriston – 3 Year Term Carol Millett – 3 Year Term Carol Millett – 3 Year Term Council – Vacant Councillor Assaff Council - Vacant Councillor Connors Health and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Assaff Councillor Assaff Heritage Advisory Committee 1 Year Carol Nauss Carol Nauss Robert Young Robert Young Public – Vacant Public - Vacant Public – Vacant Chester Municipal Heritage Society - Vacant Chester Municipal Heritage Society - Vacant Chester Municipal Heritage Society – Vacant Chester Municipal Heritage Society – Vacant COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION Council – Vacant Deputy Warden Shatford Council – Vacant Councillor Assaff Landfill Citizens Monitoring Committee 2 Years for Public Appointments Brad Armstrong Brad Armstrong Herbert Fraser Herbert Fraser Robb Manuel Robb Manuel Robert Mitchell Robert Mitchell Councillor Church Councillor Church Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Veinotte Joint Building/Fire Inspection Services Steering Committee N/A Deputy Warden Shatford Deputy Warden Shatford Warden Webber Warden Webber Joint Fire Services Committee None Set Vacant Vacant Angela Jessome Angela Jessome Debra Bond Debra Bond Landfill Consultation Committee N/A Warden Webber Warden Webber RCMP Advisory Board (continued next page) 2 Years for Public Appointments Arthur Vardjas Arthur Vardjas Terri DeMont Terri DeMont Beverly Armstrong Beverly Armstrong Warden Webber Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Deputy Warden Shatford Deputy Warden Shatford Provincial Appointment Recreation & Parks Committee 3 Years for Public Appointments (No more than 2 District 1 – Leslie Taylor 2nd Term District 1 – Leslie Taylor 2nd Term District 2 – Suzanne Brown 2nd Term District 2 – Suzanne Brown 2nd Term COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION consecutive terms) District 3 – Brad Armstrong 2nd Term District 3 – Brad Armstrong 2nd Term District 4 – Olivia Corkum 1st Term District 4 – Olivia Corkum 1st Term District 5 – Ross Shatford 1st Term District 5 – Ross Shatford 1st Term District 6 – Patricia Bates 1st Term District 6 – Patricia Bates 1st Term District 7 – Sandy Kaizer 1st Term District 7 – Sandy Kaizer 1st Term Councillor Veinotte Councillor Church Alternate - Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Wells Sherbrooke Lake Park Advisory Committee (2017- 529/540) 3 Years for Public Appointments Hugh Harper Hugh Harper Heather Dyment Heather Dyment Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Water Quality Monitoring Committee 2 Years Aspotogan Heritage Trust – Kathy Gamache Aspotogan Heritage Trust – Kathy Gamache Municipal AAC – Chairperson Municipal AAC – Chairperson Fox Point Lake Owners Association – John McNeil Fox Point Lake Owners Association – John McNeil Aspotogan Developments – Ged Stonehouse Aspotogan Developments – Ged Stonehouse Technical Consultant – Amina Stoddard Technical Consultant – Amina Stoddard Deputy Warden Shatford Deputy Warden Shatford REPRESENTATIVES TO OTHER BODIES COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION Church Memorial Park Trustees 1 Year Councillor Church Councillor Church Community Use of Schools – ACES 1 Year Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Warden Webber Warden Webber Deputy Warden Shatford Deputy Warden Shatford Community Use of Schools – FHCS 1 Year Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Warden Webber Warden Webber Councillor Assaff Councillor Assaff Fences and Arbitration Committee 1 Year Gene Seaboyer Gene Seaboyer Deputy CAO Deputy CAO Alternate: CAO Alternate: CAO Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee 1 Year Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Assaff Alternate: Councillor Assaff Councillor Wells Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Program 1 Year Councillor Connors Councillor Connors Maibec Community Liaison Committee Member (formerly Louisiana Pacific) 1 Year Councillor Veinotte REMOVE THIS FROM THE LISTING Region 6 Solid Waste Management Committee 1 Year Councillor Veinotte Councillor Veinotte Regional Emergency Measures (REMO) 1 Year Warden Warden Deputy Warden Deputy Warden CAO/Deputy CAO CAO/Deputy CAO Alternate: Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Wells South Shore Housing Action Coalition 1 Year Councillor Assaff Councillor Assaff COMMITTEE/ORGANIZATION PUBLIC TERM MEMBER RECOMMENDATION South Shore Regional Library Board 1 Year Councillor Connors Councillor Connors South West Regional Community Advisory Board (formerly Flight Engineering) 1 Year Councillor Assaff Councillor Assaff Western Regional Crown Land Stakeholder Interaction Committee 1 Year Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Veinotte Western Regional Housing Authority 3 Years David Murdoch David Murdoch Victorian Order of Nurses 1 Year Councillor Connors REMOVE FROM LISTING Zoe Valle Library Municipal Trustee 1 Year Councillor Barkhouse Councillor Wells ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2021-449 ADJOURNMENT INFORMATION REPORT REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: December 9, 2021 DEPARTMENT: Infrastructure and Operations – Public Works SUBJECT: Extension of Winter Sidewalk Maintenance Service Contracts ORIGIN: Expiry of Existing Winter Maintenance Contract Date: November 29, 2021 Prepared by: Christa Rafuse, P.Eng. Date: December 3, 2021 Reviewed by: Dan Pittman Date: December 3, 2021 Authorized by: Dan McDougall CURRENT SITUATION The Municipality of the District of Chester owns and maintains approximately 4.5 km of sidewalk located in Hubbard’s, the Village of Chester, Chester Basin, Western Shore and New Ross. Due to unforeseen circumstances related to the staff vacancies in the Infrastructure & Operations Department a new snow removal services contract was not reissued in time for the 21/22 snow removal season so new pricing from the existing supplier has been obtained for 2021/22 Winter Sidewalk maintenance to continue snow removal services. RECOMMENDATION For information. Council discussion and direction for the Marriott’s Cove roundabout sidewalk. BACKGROUND Under the current contract(s), the contractor is to plow, sand and salt sidewalks after any single snowfall greater than 5 cm; begin plowing within one hour of the snowfall ending; and have all sidewalks substantially cleared within 6 hours of snowfall ending. For events with less that or equal to 5 cm of snow, the contractor is to evaluate and plow, and sand/salt as necessary. The term of the contracts has expired, and extensions granted as we explored other options in-house and unexpectedly the pandemic arose, resources changed, and time passed. DISCUSSION/UPDATES Due to internal/external resource issues, tight timelines, and impending weather conditions IAO secured the existing contractors for the Winter of 2021/22. The MOC procurement process allows some flexibility to extend the contract(s) during unforeseen circumstances. However, the contracts are intended to be procured in the new year to allow for successful contractors to be well prepared for the next Winter season. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 The existing two (2) contracts for clearing snow for Municipal sidewalks are held by Gerhardt Property Improvement and Danny Hiltz (New Ross area, incl WW pump station and WWTP entrance). It should be noted that snow and ice control services for the Marriott’s Cove roundabout was added by staff for the 2020/2021 season. The Municipality did not construct these sidewalks. Some Council discussion occurred about whether or not the Municipality should provide winter maintenance for these sidewalks. Public Works Nova Scotia has indicated that they would not provide the service for this infrastructure. Council may wish to remove this work from the service contract. Staff have secured the following pricing from the two (2) existing contractors to carry the Winter Sidewalk Maintenance Services for the upcoming Winter months. Table 1. Cost Information Description 2019/20 Cost (excl HST) 2020/21 (excl HST) 2021/22 (excl HST) Snow clearing sidewalks in Hubbard’s, the Village if Chester, Chester Basin and Western Shore $44, 949.98/year $47,197.48/year $53,097.17/year Additional Sidewalk added to Original Tender $2,487.23/year $2,611.59/year $2,938.04/year Additional Sidewalk Section – Duke Street/Water Street $333.34/yr * $2,250.00/year Snow Plowing Round-a-bout in Marriott’s Cove $1,500.00/yr* $10,125.00/year Snow Removal (as needed) $82.90/hr. $82.90/hr. $82.90/year Snow clearing sidewalk in New Ross Varies depending on combination of snow removal, sanding (WWTP vs sidewalk etc) * Not full year rate ATTACHMENTS NA Municipality of the District of Chester Outdoor Fire By-Law By-Law No. 142 Amended: Effective Date TBD OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 2 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER BY-LAW # 142 OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW 1. AUTHORITY and PURPOSE 1.1 Section 172 (a), (b), and (d) of the Municipal Government Act provides Municipalities with the power to make bylaws respecting the health, well-being, safety and protection of persons, the safety and protection of property, and activities that may cause nuisances including burning, odours, and fumes. 1.2 This By-law shall be known as the Outdoor Fire By-law and is intended to control hazards and nuisances to the public associated with outdoor fires. 2. INTERPRETATION In this By-Law: 2.1 "Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit" means an outdoor receptacle open to the sky that; (a) is designed to contain fire and prevent it from spreading, (b) is constructed on all sides including the bottom from natural stone, bricks, block, concrete, heavy gauge metal (min. 4 mm thickness), or other suitable non- combustible components, and is no more than 1 meter in any dimension, and (c) has a spark arrestor or metal mesh screen no larger than 1.25 cm of opening covering the complete opening to contain sparks or blowing debris. 2.2 “Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace” means a commercially manufactured fire pit or fireplace fueled by natural gas, liquified petroleum gas or bio ethanol intended for recreational outdoor fires and having CSA, ULC or equivalent approval under the requirements of the Nova Scotia Fuel Safety Regulations. 2.3 “Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance” means a Chimenea or other similar commercially manufactured recreational outdoor wood burning appliance that; (a) is constructed from a suitable fire-resistant material and has a firebox intended for burning small quantities of wood or charcoal, and OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 3 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - (b) has a spark arrestor or metal mesh screen no larger than 1.25 cm of opening covering the complete opening to contain any sparks or blowing debris. 2.4 “ Chester Outer Fire Control Area” means that area of the Municipality indicated on the Map as Chester Outer Fire Control Area attached as Schedule B. 2.5 "Council" means the Council for the Municipality of the District of Chester. 2.6 "Emergency Management Organization" means the Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) as established for the County of Lunenburg. 2.7 "Fire Chief" means the Fire Chief for a fire department registered with the Municipality. 2.8 "Garden and Yard Waste" means any shrubbery, tree prunings, leaves, brush, weeds, roots, tree stumps, grass, root mat, turf and similar vegetation debris resulting from property development and/or general maintenance. 2.9 "Hazard" means a risk of fire or damage which may be caused by Outdoor Burning, and which may adversely affect property and/or persons as determined by the Municipality or Fire Chief. 2.10 "Municipality" means the Municipality of the District of Chester. 2.11 “Nuisance" means the causing of quantities of smoke or other emission from Outdoor Burning that may cause discomfort, injury or otherwise adversely or unreasonably affect the enjoyment by other persons of their property as determined by the Municipality. 2.12 “Open Air Fire” means any fire located anywhere on a property which is not contained within an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit, an Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance or an Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace. 2.13 “Outdoor Burning” means any combustion, whether or not fire is present or visible, located any place on property including inside any appliance that is not fully enclosed by a building or structure. Fire contained within a Portable Barbecuing Appliance is not defined as Outdoor Burning. 2.14 "Outdoor Furnace" means an outdoor wood burning appliance used for the space heating of buildings, the heating of water or other similar purposes. 2.15 “Portable Barbecuing Appliance" means an appliance sold or constructed for the purpose of cooking food outdoors, normally fueled by liquefied petroleum gas, natural gas, compressed briquettes or charcoal and having CSA, ULC or equivalent approval. OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 4 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - 2.16 “Prohibited Materials” means domestic or commercial garbage or waste, household hazardous waste, construction and demolition debris, plastics, paint, treated lumber, railway ties, manure, rubber, asphalt, asphalt products, fuel and lubricant containers, biomedical waste, tires or other materials that are required to be recycled or disposed of in accordance with current waste management practices established by the Municipality. 2.17 “Property" means for the purpose of the By-Law, a parcel of land owned by a person or two or more contiguous parcels of land owned by the same person. 2.18 “Owner” means a person who owns, manages, possesses or controls, or directs activity carried out on land or premises and includes a person shown on the Assessment Roll for the Municipality as the assessed owner or occupant of the land or premises. 2.19 “Solid fuel” means dry seasoned hard or soft wood, charcoal, mechanically processed fiber wood, pelletized wood and wood chips. 2.20 “Suitable fire protection equipment” means tools and equipment useful in extinguishing fires and preventing the spread of fires including but not limited to fire extinguishers, water containers, portable pumps and water tanks and hoses attached to an adequate water supply. 2.21 ” Chester Village Fire Control Area" means that area of the Municipality indicated on the Map as Chester Village Fire Control Area attached as Schedule B. 3. PROHIBITITED BURNING 3.1 On any lands within the Municipality no person shall be permitted to have Outdoor Burning that: (a) contains Prohibited Materials, (b) creates a Nuisance or Hazard, (c) is not in compliance with any conditions and/or restrictions imposed by the Department of Lands and Forestry or Provincial Government including any burning restrictions or burn bans, (d) is not in compliance with applicable Federal and Provincial laws and regulations, (e) is intended for the purpose of demolition of any building or structure without the written consent of the Minister of Environment of Nova Scotia and in accordance OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 5 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - with Air Quality guidelines and without first obtaining written permission of the local Fire Chief, (f) is not attended by an adult responsible for the fire, minimum 19 years old, and present on the property while the fire is burning and until the fire is extinguished, (g) is not provided with suitable fire protection equipment within reasonable distance from where the fire is located and there is the ability to contact the local fire services immediately if the fire is or appears to be getting out of control. 4. CHESTER OUTER FIRE CONTROL AREA 4.1 On any land within the Chester Outer Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to have an Open-Air Fire or Outdoor Burning that burns Solid fuel provided that: (a) the fire does not exceed the size of 1 meter in diameter, (b) the fire is located no closer than 4.5 meters from any building, combustible structure, combustible materials or bordering property line. 4.2 On any land within the Chester Outer Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to operate an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit, an Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance, or an Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace, on a wooden deck, provided: (a) it is positioned on a CSA approved fire-proof pad which extends 0.5 meters from the door opening and at least 0.2 meters on all sides, (b) is 2 meters from the building and 1 meter from any combustible surface not appropriately protected by a CSA approved fire proofing material and, (c) is operated to meet the stricter standard between this By-law and the manufacturer’s instructions for the appliance. 4.3 On any land within the Chester Outer Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to have Open-Air Fires or Outdoor Burning for removing or burning of Garden and Yard Waste provided: (a) the fire does not exceed the size of 3 meters in diameter and 2 meters in height, (b) the fire is located no closer than 4.5 meters from any building, shed, garage, out building, trees or other combustibles and no closer than 9 meters from the bordering property line, and OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 6 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - (c) only one fire is burned on the property at one time. 5. CHESTER VILLAGE FIRE CONTROL AREA 5.1. On any land within the Chester Village Fire Control Area, no person shall be permitted to operate an Outdoor Furnace, 5.2. On any land within the Chester Village Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to have Outdoor Burning in an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit, an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Appliance, or an Outdoor Propane Fireplace, provided that: (a) only Solid fuel is burned in an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit or an Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance, (b) the appropriate fuel is used in an Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace, and it is operated in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. (c) the Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit, Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance, or Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace is located a minimum of 3 meters from any building, combustible structure, combustible materials or bordering property line. 5.3 On any land within the Chester Village Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to have an Open-Air Fire provided that: (a) only Solid fuel is used, (b) it does not exceed 0.75 m in diameter, (c) is located a minimum of 3 meters from any building, combustible structure, flammable or combustible materials or bordering property line, and (d) only one fire is burned on the property at one time. 5.4 On any land within the Chester Village Fire Control Area, persons shall be permitted to operate an Acceptable Outdoor Burning Pit, an Acceptable Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance, or an Acceptable Outdoor Propane Fireplace, on a wooden deck, provided: (a) it is positioned on a CSA approved fire-proof pad which extends 0.5 meters from the door opening and at least 0.2 meters on all sides, OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 7 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - (b) is 2 meters from the building and 1 meter from any combustible surface not appropriately protected by a CSA approved fire proofing material and, (c) is operated to meet the stricter standard between this By-law and the manufacturer’s instructions for the appliance. 6. ENFORCEMENT: 6.1 The MOC By-Law Enforcement Officer is responsible for enforcement of this By-law. Where the By-law Enforcement Officer or their designate determines that an Open-Air Fire or Outdoor Burning poses a Hazard or a Nuisance to persons or property or where there is a failure to comply with any provision of this By-law, they or a designate, may issue an Order to the property owner to have the fire extinguished and/or to take any other remedial action that may be required to meet the provisions of the By-Law. 6.2 A Fire Chief may extinguish or order to be extinguished any Open-Air Fire or Outdoor Burning, if in the opinion of the Fire Chief the fire is a Hazard 7. OFFENCES AND PENALTIES: 7.1 Any person who contravenes or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this By-Law or any Notice or Order given pursuant is guilty of an offense punishable on summary conviction by a fine of no less than $250.00 and not exceeding $5,000.00 for each offence, as per Schedule "A" attached and in default of payment to imprisonment of not more than 90 days for each offense. 8. COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER ACTS AND BY-LAWS 8.1 Nothing in this By-law shall exempt any person from obtaining any license, permission, permit authority or approval required under any other By-law or regulation of the Municipality or any statute or regulation of the Province of Nova Scotia. If this By-law conflicts with any other statute or regulation of the Province of Nova Scotia, the more restrictive statute shall apply. 9. REPEAL 9.1 The Outdoor Burning Bylaw and amendments thereto are repealed upon the coming into force of this By-law. OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 8 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 9 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - SCHEDULE “A" OFFENCE Penalty First offence $ 250.00 Second Offence $1000.00 Third Offense $ 5000.00 OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 10 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - SCHEDULE “B " OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 11 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - Annotation for Official By-Law Book Date of First Reading Date of advertisement of Notice of Intent to Consider Date of Second Reading Date of advertisement of passage of By-Law * Date of mailing to Minister a certified copy of By-Law I certify that the Outdoor Fire By-Law #142 was amended by Council and published as indicated above _____________________________________ _____________________ P. M. Myra, Municipal Clerk Date Date *Effective Date of the By-Law unless otherwise specified in the text of the By-Law OUTDOOR BURNING BY-LAW NO. 142 PAGE 12 OF 12 _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Notice at Committee – Committee of the Whole – First Reading – Council – Second Reading – Council – Effective Date - I, Pamela M. Myra, Municipal Clerk of the Municipality of the District of Chester do hereby certify that the above is a true copy of an advertisement duly advertised in the (Name of Newspaper) on (Date). Given under the hand of the Municipal Clerk and under the corporate seal of the said Municipality the ____ day of ________, 2021. ____________________________________________________ Pamela M. Myra Municipal Clerk Work Commencing on Municipal and Village Code of Conduct Regulations Municipal Elected Officials and Municipal Administrators: I recognize that many of you have been waiting patiently on updates related to municipal codes of conduct regulations. Today, I am pleased to be sharing the most recent status of the project and what we hope to achieve in the next year. As you may be aware, in 2017 the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter (HRMC) were amended to add a requirement for municipalities and villages to establish a code of conduct for elected officials. The MGA and HRMC were further amended in 2021 to add additional provisions regarding codes of conduct, including the requirement for municipalities to hire a third-party investigator to investigate alleged breaches and to enable councils to discuss alleged breaches in-camera. Neither the 2017 nor the 2021 amendments have been proclaimed as regulations are required to support their implementation. In order to develop the regulations related to municipal codes of conduct in a thoughtful and collaborative manner, we have chosen to establish a Code of Conduct Working Group (CCWG). This working group has a mandate of developing recommendations on the content to be included in the municipal codes of conduct regulations. These recommendations will focus on the content to be included in a municipal code of conduct as well as possible sanctions for a breach. The CCWG has representation from the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing (DMAH), the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities (NSFM), the Association of Municipal Administrators, Nova Scotia (AMANS), and the Association of Nova Scotia Villages (ANSV) and will function similarly to the Joint Municipal Accountability and Transparency Committee (JMAT). The representatives will be from a regional, a rural, a town and a village to ensure accurate representation across Nova Scotia’s municipalities which assures various sizes and unique needs are captured. The NSFM, AMANS and ANSV have already determined the individuals they will be appointing to the CCWG. We will work closely with the NSFM, AMANS and ANSV to set up an initial meeting to begin this important work soon. It is important the recommendations developed by the CCWG are supported by municipalities and villages in Nova Scotia. Therefore, once the CCWG has developed their recommendations on the content, DMAH will consult with all municipalities and villages on the proposal. It is difficult to predict when the recommendations will be finalized by the CCWG. However, we will keep you apprised of their progress and look forward to your participation during consultations. …/2 November 30, 2021 Page Two Municipal Officials and Administrators I recognize how important this work is to all municipalities and villages in Nova Scotia and would like to thank you for your patience while we determine the most appropriate path forward to complete this work in a collaborative and thoughtful manner. I look forward to reviewing the proposed recommendations from the CCWG and associated consultation feedback. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Department. Sincerely, Minister Honourable John A. Lohr c. Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities Association of Municipal Administrators of Nova Scotia Association of Nova Scotia Villages aj 1/3 November 29th, 2021 Hon. Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care, Government of Nova Scotia Dear Minister Adams, As chair of the Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Partnership Society, I am pleased to congratulate you on your appointment as Minister of the Department of Seniors and Long-Term Care, a newly formed department that is sure to provide you and your staff with exciting opportunities to foster dynamic, collaborative relationships amongst people and departments that were previously housed separately. I look forward to learning more about your re-organized department and about the part that the Seniors’ Safety programs will play in the new configuration. Since my appointment as chair of our Society, I’ve learned about the high esteem in which our Seniors’ Safety Program is held by community partner organizations – well over 100 local, regional and provincial organizations. I am proud of the contribution that our 1 FTE Coordinator, with occasional help from contracted staff, has made to the safety, health and well-being of some of the 21,000 people age 55+ who live in Lunenburg County via community education and one -to-one direct service. I am proud … and concerned. Concerned because I’ve learned about significant gaps and barriers in the resource network for older adults, gaps that our Seniors’ Safety Coordinator is frequently called upon to address. Seniors’ Safety Programs have been characterized as “crack fillers” because they help vulnerable older adults navigate the uncharted spaces between service boundaries: they arrange supports for frail elderly persons on home care waiting lists; they help ensure required standards are met so that home care can be implemented (everything from arranging for a mop to having a hoarding situation cleaned out); they assist people transitioning from Income Assistance when they lose their support worker and financial coverage for medical and dietary needs; they help locate and fill out forms that ensure that income is not interrupted. They respond to the increasing number of seniors who are precariously housed or who are homeless. 2/3 Concerned because our referrals doubled between 2018 and 2020 and because municipal and provincial funding has been unchanged since 2018. The core of our operating budget is derived from the provincial Seniors’ Safety grant ($25,000), contributions from all five municipalities in the county totalling $27,000, and $5000 from the United Way. Concerned because the reasons for referral have become more serious and more complex: our Coordinator assists with issues such as homelessness, hoarding, mental health, elder abuse, financial hardship, lack of supports, suicide, and food insecurity among others. Careful budgeting and creative grant-writing enable us to hire part-time staff intermittently to supplement the work of our 1.0 FTE permanent Coordinator. This year, having exhausted our reserves, without knowing what funding will come from the Department of Seniors, and without knowing municipal decisions on our requests for increased funding until May or June, we must prepare a bare bones 2022/23 budget that will necessitate a reduction in the service we can provide. Seniors will be caught in the gaps. Seniors will suffer. Municipalities have expressed reluctance to increase funding to Seniors’ Safety without seeing a provincial increase. We want to tell them that the province is stepping up with more funds to support the health and well-being of seniors. The Lunenburg County United Way has pledged to increase their grant by th e same percentage as any municipal increases, a heartening show of local support that hinges in part on increased provincial funding. We are seeking the soonest possible assurance that the province will increase the base funding for Seniors’ Safety Programs, and implement a funding formula that recognizes the extra burdens on programs in counties with larger populations and/or geographic areas. Yours sincerely, David Murdoch Chair, Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Partnership Society 3/3 Penny Carver Councillor, Town of Mahone Bay Past Chair, Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Partnership Society cc Deputy Minister, Paul LaFleche Assoc. Deputy Minister, Tracey Barbrick Faizel Nanji, Executive Director, Dept. of Seniors Jacqueline Campbell, Policy Analyst, Dept. of Seniors Lunenburg MLA, Minister Hon. Susan Corkum Greek Lunenburg West MLA, Minister Hon. Becky Druhan Chester-St Margarets MLA, Danielle Barkhouse District Council Grants 2021 - 2022 Updated December 2, 2021 Requested Approved Date Approved *Ocean Swells Community Association: Maintain facility 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ April 15, 2021 *District 1 Community Centre: Maintain facility 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ April 15, 2021 District 1 Community Centre: Water Softener 547.50$ 547.50$ June 24, 2021 District 1 Community Centre: Parking Lot Repairs 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ June 24, 2021 Chester Jr Sail Program: Equipment & Repairs 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ August 19, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 4,547.50$ *Funds Carried Forward from 2020-2021 2,000.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 7,452.50$ Aspotogan Fitness Club: Gym Mirror 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ November 25, 2021 Chester Brass Band: Summer Band Stand Concerts 600.00$ 600.00$ June 24, 2021 Hubbards Area Lions Club: Purification System 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$ May 27, 2021 Hubbards Area Lions Club: Christmas Hampers 500.00$ 500.00$ November 25, 2021 Through the Years Day Care & Comm Centre: Court Surface 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$ June 10, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 6,100.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 3,900.00$ Chester District Soccer Association: Purchase New Jerseys 500.00$ 500.00$ April 15, 2021 Chester Farmers' and Artisan Market: Storage Shed 800.00$ 800.00$ June 24, 2021 Chester Jr Sail Program: Equipment & Repairs 500.00$ 500.00$ August 19, 2021 Chester Merchants: Village Christmas Festival 1,500.00$ 500.00$ November 25, 2021 Chester Municipal Heritage Society: Farmers Market Pavillion 2,500.00$ 2,500.00$ August 26, 2021 Chester Theatre Council (Playhouse): Summer Programs 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ June 10, 2021 Chester Yacht Club: Race Week Adaptations (Virtual, PPE, etc.) 500.00$ 500.00$ May 27, 2021 Starfish Reunite, St Stephens Parish: Refugee Family Fundraising 500.00$ 500.00$ August 12, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 6,800.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 3,200.00$ Chester Basin Fire Department: Everyday Heros and Wildfire Preparedness 500.00$ 500.00$ October 28, 2021 Forest Heights Community School: Christmas Dinner & Artwork 1,000.00$ RC Legion, Br 88, Chester Basin: Community Banner Project 4,000.00$ 4,000.00$ August 12, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 4,500.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 5,500.00$ Together We Can Community: 3 Events (2 Halloween and 1 Christmas) 1,500.00$ 1,500.00$ November 25, 2021 Western Shore & Area Improvement Asso: Flower Baskets 3,248.75$ 3,248.75$ June 24, 2021 Western Shore & District Fire Department: Western Shore Days 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$ August 12, 2021 Western Shore & Area Improvement Association: Christmas Wreaths 776.25$ 776.25$ November 25, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 7,525.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 2,475.00$ Charing Cross Garden Club 500.00$ 500.00$ September 9, 2021 Forties Community Centre: Oktoberfest 500.00$ 500.00$ May 27, 2021 RC Legion, Br 79 New Ross: Canada Day & Remembrance Day 1,500.00$ 1,500.00$ June 24, 2021 New Ross Community Care Centre: Communications 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ July 22, 2021 New Ross Farmers Association: Septic Upgrades & Maintenance, etc. 1,500.00$ 1,500.00$ August 12, 2021 New Ross Regional Development Society: Christmas Festival & other events 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ October 14, 2021 New Ross Farmers Association: Comm Rink Materials & Supplies 1,500.00$ 1,500.00$ August 12, 2021 New Ross Trails Society: Ongoing Trail Projects 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ November 10, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 8,500.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 1,500.00$ Chester District Soccer Association: Purchase New Jerseys 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ April 15, 2021 District 7 Chester Jr Sail Program: Equipment & Repairs 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ August 19, 2021 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 2,000.00$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 8,000.00$ Total Funds Approved 39,972.50$ District Grant Budget 2021-2022 70,000.00$ Plus 2020-2021 Carried Forward 2,000.00$ Total District Grant Budget 72,000.00$ Remaining Funds 32,027.50$ District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE : December 9, 2021 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation SUBJECT: Designated Community Fund ORIGIN: Designated Community Fund Request Date: November 3, 2021 Prepared by: Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation Date: Reviewed by: Date: Authorized by: RECOMMENDED MOTION That Council provide a Designated Community Fund Grant to the Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department in the amount of $100. CURRENT SITUATION The Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department has requested a Designated Community Fund Grant in the amount of $100. BACKGROUND The Municipality of Chester has a Designated Community Fund Policy (P-77) which provides an opportunity for individuals or businesses to donate funds to the Municipality with direction that it be deposited into a Designated Community Fund Account for a specific group. The donor receives a charitable donation receipt for their contribution. After a period of time, the community organization requests a Designated Community Fund Grant from the Municipality equivalent to the funds collected. DISCUSSION The Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department has followed the policy by establishing a Designated Community Fund Account and is now formally requesting the grant payment (see attached letter of request). The Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department is planning to purchase new pagers. The Department of Finance has confirmed that there is $100 in the Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department Designated Community Fund Account. OPTIONS 1. Approve the Designated Community Fund Grant as requested. 2. Do not approve the Designated Community Fund Grant and request additional information from staff. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy If Council approves the grant payment, they will have adhered to the process outlined in the Designated Community Fund Policy (P-77). R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 Financial/budgetary Payment of the grant in the amount of $100 is equivalent to the amount of funds collected. Approval of this request will have no impact on the Council budget for 2021-22. Environmental NA Strategic Priorities NA Work Program Implications NA Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A ATTACHMENTS 1. Letter requesting a Designated Community Fund Grant from Chief Doug Rines, Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department. December 2, 2021 Attn: Council Re: Designated Community Fund The Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department would like to request $100 from the fund to be used towards purchasing some new pagers. Tks Chief Doug Rhines Chester Basin Volunteer Fire Department