HomeMy Public PortalAbout2022-02-03_COW_Website Agenda PackagePage 1 of 1 (Cover Pages)
Committee of the Whole AGENDA
Livestreamed via YouTube at
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_uKlob3qOA6eD62x1kK5Kw
151 King Street, Chester, NS
1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (9:00-9:15 a.m. if any)
4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 January 20, 2022.
5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
6. MATTERS ARISING
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 Correspondence dated January 25, 2022 from Municipality of the District of Lunenburg regarding
the 2022/23 REMO Operating Budget – Chester’s portion is $44,078.35.
8. NEW BUSINESS
8.1 District 3 Council Grant Request – Our Health Centre - $1,654.25.
8.2 Information Report prepared January 17, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management – 2021 Year
End Fire Department Call Report.
8.3 2022 Polling District Review – Report #1.
9. IN CAMERA
10. ADJOURNMENT
A WASTEWATER WORKSHOP WITH EXP WILL TAKE PLACE FOLLOWING THE MEETING
9
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
Minutes of
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Via YouTube Live from 151 King St, Chester, NS
On Thursday, January 20, 2021
CALLED TO ORDER
Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:47 a.m.
Present: District 1 – Councillor Andre Veinotte District 4 – Warden Allen Webber
District 2 – Deputy Warden Shatford District 3 – Councillor Derek Wells
District 5 – Councillor Abdella Assaff District 6 – Councillor Tina Connors
District 7 – Councillor Sharon Church
Staff: Dan McDougall, CAO Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO
Jennifer Webber, Communications Officer Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk
Emily Lennox, Executive Assistant Bruce Blackwood, Fire Services Coord.
Christa Rafuse, Director of Infrastructure and Operations
Tim Topping, Director of Financial and Information Services
Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS
Additions:
Correspondence from Village of Chester.
In Camera – Fire Services Contract.
72 Hour Shelter in Place.
Green Cart – Deputy Warden Shatford.
2022-008 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the
January 20, 2022, Agenda and Order of Business be approved as amended. ALL
IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC INPUT
There was no public input received.
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 10
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 Committee of the Whole – December 2, 2021.
2022-009 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the
minutes of the December 2, 2021, meeting of Committee of the Whole be
approved as circulated. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
There were no public presentations.
MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Quarterly Report – Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 – Corporate & Strategic Management.
Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO reviewed the information included in the material distributed,
commenting on Special Projects, Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee,
Outdoor Burning By-Law, Fire Services, REMO, Health and Safety, Communication Support.
Erin Lowe, Development Officer reviewed the information included in the material distributed,
commenting on Investment Attraction, Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park, Business Retention and
Expansion, Physician Recruitment & Retention Program, Tourism Chester, and the Digital
Partnership Program.
A brief discussion around the process of marketing and selling the lots at Whalen Lake that
were acquired through tax sales as well as the process of other lots not within the Whalen Lake
development.
A discussion was also held regarding the landfill financial model(s) and possible timeline which
will take place during the budgeting process. It was noted that the 2022/23 budget is in the
final phase of fine tuning and there will be the need for direction from Council in the near
future on potential scenarios regarding the landfill financial model. Noted was the future
development and purchase of equipment particularly pertaining to contracts for waste that will
expire at some point; considerations if they are not renewed. What is the risk and how much is
the Municipality depending on the renewal of contracts?
The Gold River Bridge was discussed, and it was indicated that staff is working with the NS
Department of Public Works on potential options that may include capital improvements and
if off highway vehicles would be permitted use Croft Road and Beech Hill Road to access
highway 3 to have access to the trail on the other side of the river. It is expected that staff will
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 11
have a Request for Decision within the next month or so. This will be discussed during budget
deliberations.
Members discussed the possibility of updating the current Water Supply Upgrade Lending
Program By-Law #148 to allow financing on septic systems, etc. (similar to a PACE By-Law). It
was noted that the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator was also working on this, and it is expected
that Council will get the information by the end of Quarter 4. An update will be sent to
Council in the near future. The first step is defining the program and then determining
implications.
6.2 Draft Vaccination Policy P-108 for review and consideration to forward to First Notice by
Council.
Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO reviewed a presentation outlining what other municipalities and
organizations are doing with regard to COVID-19 measures in relation to vaccinations and
masking. The examples go from mandatory masking to mandatory vaccination and from
unpaid leave to dismissal. It was noted that any provincial restrictions override municipal
regulations; masking and distancing is required regardless of vaccination status.
It was also noted that some municipalities are seeing a large number of absences due to
COVID-19 cases or close contact isolation.
The Policy is intended to protect the health and safety of employees, Council, and members of
the public. Vaccination is a key element in the protection of employees against the hazard of
COVID-19. There is evidence demonstrating a higher incidence of COVID-19 among
unvaccinated populations.
The policy will apply to all Municipal employees, Council, volunteers, and public Committee
members, regardless of workplace location. The policy does not apply to members of the
public who are accessing Municipal services and programs however, proof of vaccination
status may be required from members of the public in accordance with provincial directors.
The definition of fully vaccinated is as set out by NS Health.
2022-010 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the Committee
of the Whole recommend to Council to adopt the draft Policy P-108 COVID-19
Vaccination Policy and refer to Council for First Notice. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
6.3 Request for Decision prepared January 10, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management –
Year End 2021 Safety Report and 2022 Work Plan.
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 12
Bruce Blackwood, Fire Services Coordinator/Health & Safety Officer was present via Zoom to
provide a review on the material included in the Request for Decision prepared January 10,
2022.
Outlined from the review was: Incident Reviews from 2021, Type Of Incidents, Investigations
and Recommendations from 2021, workplace inspections, Workers Compensation Review
2020, Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee, Nova Scotia Construction Safety
Certificate of Recognition Program, Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, and the
2022 Safety Program Work Plan Update.
Matters discussed from the Report:
Clarification of the location of some incidents highlighted in the report.
Vehicle and equipment driving on Nauss Point Road and posted speed limit.
o A request to reduce speed can be added to the quarterly meetings held with
the Provincial Public Works Department.
2022-011 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to accept the Year End 2021
Health and Safety Report and direct staff to continue development of the 2022
Safety Workplan and associated operating budget to include implementation of
integrated health software in support of the continuing development and
implementation of the Municipality of the District of Chester’s Health & Safety
Program. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
6.4 Request for Decision prepared January 14, 2022 – Infrastructure & Operations – Purchase
of Pickup truck.
Present via Zoom were Christa Rafuse, Director of Infrastructure & Operations, and Dan
Pittman, Records Management & Quality Control Coordinator via Zoom to review the
history of the purchase of a pick-up truck that began in 2021. To adjust for rising truck
prices the budget estimate was increased. An open competition Request for Quote was
issued resulting in no submissions. A second Invitation to Quote on the Provincial
standing offer was issued – again, no submissions.
It was determined that market conditions are not the best at this moment and there are
semiconductors and other supply issues that are affecting the sale of vehicles, particularly
trucks and SUVs. The options available were reviewed. This truck will be a replacement
truck for public works and is an important vehicle to have replaced in the fleet.
2022-012 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to approve the order of a new
2022 Ram Tradesman 2500 4X4 pick-up truck from Saunders Motors for
$66,976.50 with 10% add-on for required aftermarket safety accessories for a
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 13
not to exceed amount of $76,834.78, net HST. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
A break was held from 10:11 a.m. to 10:21 a.m.
CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 Correspondence dated January 17, 2022 regarding the Fire Services Agreement.
The Deputy CAO indicated that the Village Commission has responded to the request to
extend the contract for a six month term and would prefer to extend the contract only until
the end of March. The Village has also asked for a meeting to be held in February.
NEW BUSINESS
8.1 Shelter in Place – Councillor Veinotte.
Councillor Veinotte commented on the recent storm and the Provincial information for
residents to be able to shelter in place 72 hours. In a storm 72 hours is a long time when have
no heat and it’s cold out. He felt that this is not sufficient, and it should be recognized that
some areas need to open the comfort centres when needed. In the past there was no way for
some people to receive any communication on comfort centres and whether they were open
or not. He would like to see a process in place that people are advised prior to a big storm
when they can prepare. He does not like the reactionary nature of comfort centres.
It was noted that the 72 hour shelter in place is a concern of other municipal units as well.
Most storms are over by the time 72 hours has come and gone. It was suggested that a policy
change for the winter months where severe cold is an issue.
There was a lengthy discussion with the following comments:
Councillors are able to contact community comfort stations and ask them to open if
needed;
Consider advising residents of options before the storm arrives, particularly if power
outages are a concern;
Vulnerability of residents – neighbours checking on neighbours;
More to prepare prior to storms (for residents and staff);
There is a Guide for Elected Officials from REMO;
Using the radio to get information out to residents.
Consider other ideas – thinking outside of the REMO box;
Sometimes comfort centres open and no one shows up;
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 14
Councillor Wells thanked staff for their assistance over the weekend. He also commented on
the above and beyond work done by the people at NS Power and the Chester Fire Department
who were out at 2:30 a.m. clearing trees from streets to keep them open for emergency
vehicles.
The CAO also thanked all team members who were active, particularly noting Angela
Henhoeffer, Bruce Blackwood, Tara Maguire. He also noted that Public Works Staff Gippy
Dominey and Garth MacLean were out in the middle of the storm to ensure there were no
overflows at wastewater treatment plants. They worked long hours to protect community
infrastructure.
It was noted that staff have already had a post storm debrief session and have come up with
some ideas that might be helpful in helping us respond differently. There are some measures
that can be taken proactively.
It was clarified that the 72 hours shelter in place is not just a REMO standard; it is a global
standard. It does not mean that comfort centres cannot open before 72 hours. It is to ensure
that residents are prepared for 72 hours. In this case the storm was over before 72 hours, but
the impacts were not. Power lines were still down, and residents were not able to get out in
some instances. The 72 hours is not directly tied to comfort stations.
Staff will be bringing information to Council for review on possible changes or programs for
consideration.
8.2 Green Carts – Deputy Warden Shatford.
Deputy Warden Shatford provided a photo of his new green cart that he has had for only 3
months; he had the previous one for 9 years. He noted that the construction of the carts is not
very sturdy and commented that either the supplier needed to be advised or a new supplier
sought.
Christa Rafuse, Director of Infrastructure & Operations indicated that the department has just
recently received an order of 500 carts which they are hoping are of a sturdier construction.
IN CAMERA
9.1 Section 22(2)(a) of the Municipal Government Act – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security
of municipal property – Countway/Mosher House.
9.2 Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Fire Services Contract.
Committee of the Whole (continued) January 20, 2021 15
2022-013 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the
Committee of the Whole convene In Camera as per:
Section 22(2)(a) of the Municipal Government Act – Acquisition, sale, lease, and
security of municipal property – Countway/Mosher House.
Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Fire Services Contract.
ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Following a brief meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened with all members present.
ADJOURNMENT
2022-014 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the
meeting adjourn. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. (11:15 a.m.)
___________________________ ___________________________
Allen Webber Pamela Myra
Warden Municipal Clerk
Municipality of the District of Lunenburg
10 Allee Champlain Drive Cookville Nova Scotia Canada B4V 9E4
Administration
Phone: 902.543.8181 Fax: 902.543.7123 Web Site: www.modl.ca
January 25, 2022
Warden Allen Webber & Council
Municipality of the District of Chester
151 King St PO Box 369
Chester NS BOJ DO
Dear Warden Webber:
RE: 2022/23 REMO Operating Budget
At the January 17, 2022, Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) Advisory
Committee meeting, the Committee passed the following motion:
"that the Regional Emergency Management Advisory Committee recommends
a total 2022/23 budget of $146,300 to partner Municipal Units for approval."
Please find attached the recommended Operating Budget for REMO for the fiscal year 2022/23,
indicating the Municipality of Chester's share of $44,078.35. Please note there is no Capital
Budget for the fiscal year 2022/23.
Please forward this budget to your Council for consideration and approval. Once approved,
please forward a copy of Council's motion approving the budget to Joanne Powers, Executive
Assistant, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (ioanne.powers(5)modl.ca) for insertion on a
future REMO agenda.
Sincerely,
Alex Dumaresq
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer
Attachment
Angela Henhoeffer, REMCcc:
Fiscal Year Period April 01,2021 To March 31,2022
Funds
AvailableREMOYTOCommitmentAnnual Budget X Used Notes 2022/2023Variance
01-2250000-106
01-2250000-109 EMO PYMTS-CONTINGENCY
01-2250000-119 REMO-HONORARIUM
01-2250000-129 REMO-8ENEFITS
01-2250000-136 SERVICE AWARDS - REMO
0275 - REMO PERSONNEL SERVICES
VACATION PAY OOO 0.00 0%0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0%0.00
57,031.98
10,007.56
15,068.02
2,592.44
72,300.00
12,500.00
15,268.02
2,492.44
200.00
-100.00
100%
101%
78,600.00
13,900.00
0.00 0.00 0.00 0%0.00 0.00 0.00
67,039.54 17,660.46 84,800.00 17,760.46 100.00 92,500.00
01-2250000-140
01-2250000-141
TRAVEL
CONFERENCE/TRAINING
OFFICE EXPENSES (REMO)
ABOVE THIS LINE IS INCLUDED IN OPERATIONAL EXPENSES
567.50
1.447.66
225.34
1,500.00
900.00
500.00
3,000.00
3,800.00
1,000.00
2,432.50
2,352.34
774.66
932.50
1,452.34
274.66
69%3,000.00
4,200.00 Increased and reallocated from website
1,600.00 increased and reallocated from website
62%
01-2250000-201 73%
01-2250000 OPERATIONAL EXPENSES 69,280.04
251.00
150.00
4,637.28
1,020.20
1,471.65
323.47
1,000.00
1,300.00
25.06
-31.40
914.58
20,560.46
1,300.00
92,600.00 23,319.96
1,300.00 1,049.00
1,300.00 1,150.00
2,500.00
1,400.00
1,500.00
1,000.00
1,000.00
1,300.00
1,000.00
800.00
5,000.00 4,085.42
10,000.00 10,000.00
1,000.00 1,000.00
3,500.00
10,000.00
2,759.50
-251.00
1,150.00
-9,162.60
379.80
28.35
676.53
4.04 101,300.00 payroll increase and reallocated from website
1,700.00 estimated Insurance increase
1,300.00
3,500.00 reallocated from website
1,400.00
1,500.00
3,000.00 reallocated from website
1,000.00
1,300.00
1,000.00
800.00
1,000.00 reallocated to operational expenses, other equipment, and advertising
13,000.00
1,000.00
3,500.00
10,000.00
146,300.00 increase for insurance 8i payroll, remaining was reallocated within existing budget
01-2250000-210 ADMINISTRATION-INSURANCE
RADIO EQUIPMENT
OTHER EQUIPMENT
TELEPHONE-LOCAL SERVICE
CELLULAR PHONE (REMO)
ADVERTISING-GENERAL
ADMINISTRATION-ACCOUNTING
ADMINISTRATION-RENTAL
MOCK EXERCISES
119%
01-2250000-225 0.00 12%
01-2250000-226 7,025.32 467% comfort centre signage
73%
98%
-2,137.28
379.8001-2250000-230
01-2250000-231
01-2250000-235
01-2250000-236
01-2250000-248
01-2250000-249
01-2250000-254
01-2250000-272
01-2250000-299
01-2250001-235
01-2250001-236
0.00
0.00 28.35
0.00 676.53 32%
0.00 0.00 0.00 100%
0.00 100%0.00 0.00
974.940.00 974.94
31.40
4,085.42
10,000.00
200.00
3%
LICENSE FEES 800.00 831.40 96%
WEBSITE 0.00 18%
CONTINGENCY
ADVERTISING-SPECIAL
0.00 0.00 0%
0.00 800.00 80%
3,500.00
GROUND SEARCH 8i RESCUE GRANT 10,000,00
EXPENSES
ADMINISTRATION-CLERICAL 0.00 0.00 0.00 100%
01-2250006-295 0.00 0.00 0.00 100%
93,841.88 30,485.78 135,200.00 41,358.12 10,872.34 92%
2022/23 Proposed Budget2021-22 Budget
UA 2020/21
688,450,419
UA 2021/22
705,421,934
Cost Slidilng
Town of Bridgewater
sliaie
12.44%
Coiitilbutloi)
$ 16,819.39
share_________
12.44733500%
Coiitilbutlun
$ 18,210.45
Inuease
$ 1,301.06
Town of Mahone Bay 2.51%S 3.389.45 2.51989252%S 3.686.60 5 297.15138.736.951 142.808,678
S 40,823.35
S 67,341.80
S 44,078.33
S 72,820.84
$ 3,252.80
$ 5,479.01
District of Chestei 30.20%
49.81%
30.12873902%
49.77500873%
1,671,069,183
2,756,431,053
1,707,471,788
2,820,875,547District of Lunenburg
S 6.823.80 S 7,503.76 S 679.96Town of Lunenburg 5.05%5.12902474%279.311.517 290.674,795
$ 140,100.00 $11,100.00totals$ 135,200.00 100.00000000%100.0%5,533,999,123 5, W>/,252,742
District Council Grants 2021 - 2022
Updated January 19, 2022
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 Area Middle School: Christmas Dinner 900.00$ 500.00$ December 16, 2021
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
Our Health Centre: Enhanced Security System - Panic Buttons 1,654.25$
Starfish Reunite, St Stephens Parish: Refugee Family Fundraising 500.00$ 500.00$ August 12, 2021
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 7,300.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 2,700.00$
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$ 1,000.00$ December 9, 2021
RC Legion, Br 88, Chester Basin: Community Banner Project 4,000.00$ 4,000.00$ August 12, 2021
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 5,500.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 4,500.00$
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 Area Middle School: Christmas Dinner 900.00$ 400.00$ December 16, 2021
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 2,400.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 7,600.00$
Total Funds Approved 41,872.50$
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 30,127.50$
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
INFORMATION REPORT
Prepared By: Bruce Blackwood Date January 17, 2022
Reviewed By: Tara Maguire Date January 17, 2022
Authorized By: Dan McDougall Date January 17, 2022
CURRENT SITUATION
Fire and Emergency Services continue to be handled through our 7 Fire Departments operating in
Martin’s River, Western Shore, Chester Basin, Chester, Blandford, Hubbards and New Ross. All
Departments are currently meeting their registered service levels. Following additional training and
personnel protective gear required by Covid protocols our fire departments are being phased in to respond
to the more critical medical calls e.g. cardiac arrests incidents paramedic assists etc. Exposure concerns on
all emergency calls continue and all Fire Departments have Covid-19 protocols in place.
The total number of calls across the Municipality increased slightly from 466 in 2020 to 483 in 2021. These
numbers continue to be well below the pre pandemic level of 809 in 2019.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended to continue monitoring call volume and type for the Fire Departments serving the
Municipality.
B ACKGROUND
All Fire Department emergency dispatches within MODC are logged on a monthly basis. Data is
categorized by Department and Call type. Three (3) Departments retain dispatch services from Scotia
Business and four (4) receive services from Valley Communications. All Department continue with “I am
Responding” software for text dispatch messaging. REMO and the MOC continue to monitor the
dispatches where available, facilitating the Municipality and REMO to quickly evaluate the urgency and
extent of any incident and the likelihood of our departments needing additional assistance.
DISCUSSION
Overall District Responses
• The total number of calls across the Municipality increased slightly from 466 in 2020 to 483 in 2021 but
continue well below the 2019 level of 809 calls. The 2021 calls are only 60 % of the 2019 levels.
• Structure fires increased significantly again in 2021 with 23 incidents reported, representing 4.7 % of
the total calls across the Municipality.
• Non-structural fires decreased in 2021 with 58 incidents e.g. chimney, grass, vehicle fires represented
approximately 12 % of total calls.
REPORT TO: Council
SUBMITTED BY: Corporate and Strategic Management
DATE: January 17, 2022
SUBJECT: 2021 Y/E Fire Department Call Report
ORIGIN: Fire Services
2 Information Report
2021 Y/E Fire Department Call Report
• In accordance with Covid-19 Public Health and EHS Policy, fire departments resumed response to critical
medical incidents, e.g. cardiac arrests or calls where paramedics specifically requested Fire Department
assistance. The number of medical calls did increase slightly in 2021 with 112 calls dispatched
compared to 86 in 2020. This response is still well below the 2019 levels of over 350 medical
emergencies annually. EHS provided training and Personal Protective Equipment to the Fire
Department. Exp osure concerns remain and each Fire Department has appropriate Covid protocols.
The Municipality is providing additional masks (KN95 and N95) to the Fire Departments. Although
limited (supply has not opened up to the Municipality or the Fire Departments) t he MOC has
provided Covid rapid test kits for testing of potential exposures in the fire departments.
• The number of Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA) responses increased from 49 in 2020 to 76 in 2021 but
remained below the high incident rate of 94 in 2019. MVAs represented 15.7 % of the total call in 2021.
• The number of “Other” responses by our departments decreased from 73 in 2020 to 58 in 2021. These
types of calls (many adverse weather related) fall outside of the typical classifications and are not
fire related. e.g. flooded basement, power lines down, police assist, etc.
• Fire (and carbon monoxide alarms) have increased slightly from 52 in 2020 to 60 in 2021 represent ing
approximately 12 % of our total calls. Chester FD continues to record the highest number of false alarms
due to a higher level of buildings equipped with monitored fire alarm systems. Educational articles
concerning the False Alarm By-law continue to be issued. Our new Bylaw Officer is working with the Fire
Departments to facilitate more accurate and timely reporting of these calls. Improvement in the
reporting will assist in having a more effective response and corrective action especially at premises that
are causing repetitive false alarms.
• The number of multiple alarm incidents as mutual aid calls increased slightly to 101 calls in 2021. The
departments continue to rely on support from their neighboring departments during major incidents.
Mutual aid and automatic aid agreements are in place.
Chart 1 MODC Fire Department Calls by Type 2 0 2 1
Medical, 112
Rescue, 1
Structural Fires, 23
Non Structural Fires, 58
Motor Vehicle, 76
Mutual Aid, 101
Hazmat, 2
False Alarms, 60
Other , 73
2021 Calls by Type
3 Information Report
2021 Y/E Fire Department Call Report
Table 1 MODC Fire Department Calls by Type 202 0 /20 2 1 Comparison
Call Type Calls
2017
Calls
2018
Calls
2019
Calls
2020
Calls
2021
Var.
from
2020
Call Type
% 2021
Call Type
% 2020
Var.
from
2019
Medical 366 383 380 86 112 + 26 23.3 18.4 + 4.9
Rescue 3 1 1 5 1 - 4 0.2 1.2 - 1.0
Structural Fire 16 18 6 11 23 + 12 4.7 2.4 + 2.3
Non-Structural Fire 63 68 67 96 58 - 38 12.0 20.6 - 8.6
MVA 80 85 94 49 76 + 27 15.7 10.5 + 5.2
Mutual Aid 59 76 90 94 101 + 7 20.9 20.1 + 0.8
Hazmat 0 0 0 0 2 + 2 0.4 0.0 + 0.4
False Alarms 73 62 67 52 60 + 8 12.4 11.2 +1.2
Other 61 51 104 73 50 - 23 10.4 15.6 -5.2
Total 721 744 809 466 483 + 17
Chart 2 MODC Fire Department Calls by Department 2021
Blandford, 34
Chester, 114
Chester Basin, 79
Hubbards, 56
Martins River, 36
New Ross, 34
Western Shore, 130
Calls By Department 2021
4 Information Report
2021 Y/E Fire Department Call Report
Table 2 MODC Fire Department Calls by Department 2020/2021 Comparison
Department
Calls
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Variance
2020/2021
%
2021
Blandford 77 63 67 28 34 + 6 + 21.4
Chester 126 102 135 109 114 + 5 + 4.6
Chester Basin 51 51 73 58 79 + 21 + 36.2
Hubbards 146 176 205 111 56 - 55 - 49.5
Martins River 65 73 49 31 36 + 5 + 16.1
New Ross 116 139 131 59 34 -25 - 42.3
Western Shore 140 140 149 70 130 +60 + 85.7
Total 721 744 809 466 483 17
Table 3 MODC Fire Department Calls by Type 2021
Department Responses
• All departments met their service responsibilities throughout the year under Covid-19 pandemic
conditions.
• There were no major injuries to any of our firefighters during the year of response calls.
• Department membership remained steady at approximately 200 volunteer firefighters.
IMPLICATIONS
Policy
Policy P33 Fire Services Registration.
Call Type Blandford Chester Chester
Basin
Hubbards Martins
River
New Ross Western
Shore
Total
# % # % # % # % # % # % # %
Medical 19 56.0 8 7.0 0 0 1 1.8 13 36.1 3 8.8 68 52.3 112
Rescue 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0.9 1
Structural Fire 3 8.8 5 4.4 3 3.8 3 5.3 2 5.6 3 8.8 4 3.1 23
N-Structural
Fire
3 8.8 21 18.4 6 7.6 9 16.2 3 8.3 6 17.7 10 7.7 58
MVA 3 8.8 19 16.7 16 20.3 7 12.5 2 5.6 9 26.5 20 15.2 76
Mutual Aid 3 8.8 17 14.9 35 44.3 13 23.2 14 38.8 5 14.7 14 10.8 101
Hazmat 0 0 1 0.9 1 1.3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
Alarms 3 8.8 35 30.7 8 10.1 3 5.3 1 2.8 3 8.8 7 5.4 60
Other 0 0 8 7.0 10 12.6 20 35.7 1 2.8 5 14.7 6 4.6 50
Total 34 114 79 56 36 34 130 483
5 Information Report
2021 Y/E Fire Department Call Report
Financial/Budgetary
Staff work covered in existing Fire Service budget.
Environmental
Not Applicable.
Strategic Plan
Maintain a high level of fiscal responsibility;
Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services;
Work Program Implications
Staff work covered in existing Fire Service Work Plan.
OPTIONS
Not Applicable
ATTACHMENTS
None
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
Ongoing communication with Fire Commissions and Departments.
2022 Polling District Review Report #1Corporate & Strategic ManagementFebruary 3, 2022
Background•The Municipal Government Act (MGA) requires municipal governments to conduct a review of their respective polling district boundaries in 2022. •Section 369 (1) of the MGA states that: In the year 1999, and in the years 2006 and every eighth year thereafter the council shall conduct a study of the number and boundaries of polling districts in the municipality, their fairness and reasonableness and the number of councilors. •Following the completion of the polling boundary review municipalities are required to submit an application to the NSUARB to either confirm or alter the number and boundaries of polling districts. •The application must be submitted to the NSUARB before the end of 2022. •The Board directs that the review should be done in two phases:•Determine the number of districts/councillors.•Determine the boundaries for the proposed districts.•Both phases should incorporate public consultation1
Background•The last polling district review conducted by the municipality was completed in 2014•Council reviewed both the size of Council and the number of polling districts•In Sept. 2013 council received a report on the Mayor/Warden system•Directed staff to prepare a public engagement strategy to inform residents about the two systems and the implications of each system•Collected public feedback and prepared a staff report•50 responses with 70% in favor of keeping the warden system •Most of the concerns were around adding an additional person to council•May 2014 – received a report on size of Council •Based on feedback Council indicated they wish to remain at 7 members of Council•Public consultation on this phase conducted and report to council in July •Council felt confident to submit an application to the UARB to keep 7 councillors and the existing boundaries•Board approved the application and commended the Municipality for the extensive engagement process2
DiscussionSize of Council - Phase 1•Key considerations should be:•the desired style of council •the governance structure of council, and;•a determination of an effective and efficient number of councilors •Example of how the ‘governance structure of council’ varies between municipal units:•larger municipalities such as HRM may have community councils, comprised of several councilors from an area, that have discretionary decision-making powers for within that area (planning approvals, recreation, etc.),•in units such as MOC decisions are made by council as a whole. 3
DiscussionDistrict Boundaries – Phase 2•Distributing and delineating the polling districts •The Board has established a ±10% variance from the average number of electors per district as the target when boundaries are proposed. •The Board will consider variances in voter parity of up to ±25% in special circumstances if a strong case can be made for such a variation because of factors such as community interest and geography. •The greater a proposed variance is beyond ±10%, the greater and more detailed the justification required will be for Board approval.•Staff will begin an initial analysis of demographic data for the existing polling districts derived from the Final List of Electors from the 2020 election. 4
DiscussionDistrict Boundaries•When considering the appropriate district boundaries. UARB expects municipalities to utilize:•census data•electoral lists•property assessment information•building permit data •Building permit data should be used to justify variations in voter parity for areas where significant growth has occurred •i.e.: a variance of – 20% in a proposed polling district could be deemed appropriate if significant growth is expected over the course of the next few years (e.g., Clayton Park West in HRM).•The most recent census data, from 2021, is expected to be available in February 2022 and will also be incorporated. 5
DiscussionDistrict Boundaries•Direction from the Board focuses strongly on target variations and comparable voting parity between districts•2020 Final List of Electors should be an important tool as it identifies current voting parity among districts. •Elections were not held in Districts 2 and 6 where councillors were acclaimed.•Census data will be used as a proxy for electors in those districts•Staff will provide additional information on this issue in a second report. 6
DiscussionMayor vs Warden•Section 12(8) of the MGA enables Council to switch to a mayor system of•leadership from a warden system. •In 2014 Boundary review, Council reviewed its style of leadership and decided to keep the warden system. •This decision can be made at least nine months prior to any election. •Benefit of consideration in the scope of a boundary review - having a mayor may alter council’s decision regarding the number of councillors. •If a mayoral system is adopted for the 2024 election, the municipality cannot go back to a warden system in a future election.7
Scope of Consultant Work8•Review governance structure of the Municipality of Chester;•Collect and analyze statistics such as population, number of electors, and comparisons must be made to other municipal governments;•Develop an analysis of at least three options for governance, with one option being status quo;•Prepare and conduct a public engagement program on three options. •Recommend to Municipal Council a number of polling districts, the boundaries for each and number of Councillors to represent the citizens of the Municipality on Municipal Council.
Scope of Consultant Work9•Review governance structure of the Municipality of Chester;•Collect and analyze statistics such as population, number of electors, and comparisons must be made to other municipal governments•Develop an analysis of at least three options for governance, with one option being status quo•Prepare and conduct a public engagement program on three options•Minimum of three (3) options (and a recommendation) for the number of elected officials and district boundaries which would meet the NSUARB equity requirements (+-10% threshold)•Mapping of each of the boundary options under consideration•Consultant must have final report and recommendations for Council no later than November 3, 2022
Rated Criteria Category Points WeightingComprehension & Approach1 – 520%Proposed Engagement Plan1-515%Capabilities, Resources & Qualifications, Experience & References1 – 515%Work Plan & Schedule1 – 520%Subtotal70 %Pricing30 %Total Weighting100 %BONUS: Suppliers located in the Municipality ofChester5%10
Options & RecommendationRecommendationThat council authorize the scope of work for a consultant for the 2022 Polling District Review 11