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Home My Public Portal About2022-02-10_a_Council_Website Agenda Package Page 1 of 2 of Agenda Cover Page(s) MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA Thursday, February 10, 2022 Livestreamed via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_uKlob3qOA6eD62x1kK5Kw 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 – 8:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.) 4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 4.1 Council – January 27, 2022. 5. COMMITTEE REPORTS 5.1 Committee of the Whole (recommendations) - February 3, 2022 – Warden Webber. 6. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS 6.1 Michele Haddal regarding Community Wheels (9:30 a.m.) 6.2 Mike Ernst regarding Ghost Gear Fund (9:45 a.m.) 7. MATTERS ARISING 7.1 Second/Final Notice – Adoption of COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. 7.2 Request for Decision – Boundary Review (deferred from February 3, 2022 Committee of the Whole Meeting). 8. CORRESPONDENCE 8.1 Email to Councillor Veinotte dated February 1, 2022 from Tami Clarke regarding NS Power’s new General Rate Application. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 Request for Decision prepared January 21, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation – New Private Road Name – Rylan Lane, off of North Lower Grant Road (Chester Grant). Page 2 of 2 9.2 Request for Decision prepared February 1, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management – Fire Services Registration 2021/22 as per Policy P33 Terms of Reference for Registration of Fire and Emergency Service Providers. 10. IN CAMERA 11. ADJOURNMENT APPOINTMENTS 9:30 a.m. Michele Haddal and David Outhouse regarding Community Wheels. 9:45 a.m. Mike Ernst regarding Ghost Gear Fund. 17 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of COUNCIL MEETING Livestreamed via YouTube from 151 King Street, Chester On Thursday, January 27, 2022 MEETING CALLED TO ORDER Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:48 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 (via Zoom) Emily Lennox, Executive Secretary Jennifer Webber, Communications Officer Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS  New Business - African Heritage Month.  In Camera – Shared Services – Councillor Veinotte.  Committee Reports – SS Public Library – Councillor Connors.  Committee Reports – Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee – Councillor Connors. 2022-015 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church the agenda and order of business for the December 16, 2021, Council meeting be approved as amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. PUBLIC INPUT There was no public input received. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS 4.1 Council – January 13, 2022. Council (continued) January 27, 2022 18 Councillor Wells referred to pages 6 and 8 of the January 13, 2022 minutes and the comments about the Hubbards Sailing Club about how Council would approach assistance, but there was no commitment. Warden Webber indicated that it was the general consensus that if there was a way that the Municipality could support, we would be interested in doing so. Councillor Wells didn’t feel there was consensus and asked if the minutes could be amended to reflect that Council is prepared to consider support/assistance. 2022-016 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Wells the minutes of the January 13, 2022, Council meeting be approved as amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. COMMITTEE REPORTS 5.1 Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 – Warden Webber. 2022-017 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council approve the following recommendations from the January 20, 2022 meeting of the Committee of the Whole: 2022-010 – “… adopt the draft Policy P-108 COVID-19 Vaccination Policy and refer to Council for First Notice.” 2022-011 – “… 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.” 2022-012 – “… 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 not to exceed amount of $76,834.78, net HST.” ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 5.2 Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Program – December 2021 – Councillor Connors. Councillor Connors indicated that the group met recently and a big item on the agenda was budget; funding is being discussed. 5.3 Committee of the Whole – December 2, 2021 (minutes only) – Warden Webber. Council (continued) January 27, 2022 19 2022-018 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that the December 2, 2021 minutes of the Committee of the Whole Meeting be received as presented. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 5.4 South Shore Library Board – Councillor Connors. Councillor Connors indicated that the Board met last evening. She reported that the new mobile library has not been on the road as there have been some deficiencies identified since delivery; they fall under warranty. The Board is also working on their Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Plan; they have an action plan, one of which is a suggested reading list of approximately a dozen books that will be added to over time. She will share the list to Council and the Municipality’s new Equity, Diversion, & Inclusion Advisory Committee. Councillor Connors also reported that the Library and mobile library would be distributing COVID Rapid Test Kits when they have them on hand. 5.5 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee – Councillor Connors. Councillor Connors reported on the first meeting of the Committee on Tuesday past. It was a great meeting with a great slate of individuals sitting on the Committee. The Chair and Vice Chair were elected, and they have established a regular monthly meeting schedule. They also agreed on an action that will be happening in the near future. Councillor Assaff, also a member, agreed that it was a great first meeting and was impressed by the student member who came to Canada from Syria. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS There were no public presentations. MATTERS ARISING 7.1 Second/Final Reading – Outdoor Fire By-Law No. 142 – amendments to allow residents to enjoy smaller recreational fires while limiting the possible negative aspects of burning. The Deputy CAO reviewed the changes made as per the direction of Council and now what is required is Second and Final Reading; once that is done, an advertisement will be placed in the local newspaper. There were no comments received. 2022-019 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council conduct Second and Final Reading of the Outdoor Fire By-Law No. 142 which was amended to allow residents to enjoy smaller recreational fires while limiting the possible negative aspects of burning. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Council (continued) January 27, 2022 20 7.2 First Notice – Adoption of COVID-19 Vaccination Policy – refer to Second Notice by Council on February 10, 2022. The Deputy CAO outlined the process; Committee of the Whole made a recommendation to Council to adopt the Policy. If Council wishes to adopt the policy, this will be First Notice with Second Notice to be given at the February 10, 2022 Council Meeting. 2022-020 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council conduct First Notice of the Adoption of the COVID-19 Vaccination Policy P-108 and refer the Policy to Second/Final Notice on February 10, 2022. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 7.3 Planning Matters Report prepared January 20, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation – Amendments to Village of Chester Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to permit Illuminated Signage in the Highway Commercial Zone. Garth Sturtevant reviewed the information included in the Report prepared January 20, 2022 with regard to Amendments to Village of Chester Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to permit Illuminated Signage in the Highway Commercial Zone. There was discussion regarding the following:  Height of 8m may be excessive – consider 6m as a compromise;  Landscape feature was well received;  Potential changes requested that would require the process to begin again;  Corporate signage that could have alternate signs/sizes; 2022-021 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that Council approve the following amendments to the Village of Chester Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to permit Illuminated Signage in the Highway Commercial Zone as follows: o The addition of requirements to the draft amendments, to ensure that a landscaped area, equal to two times the sign area, be crated when a ground sign larger than 6m2 is requested. o That Municipal Council give 1st Reading to the draft amendments attached to the Report prepared January 20, 2022 to the Village of Chester Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to permit and regulate illuminated signs within the Highway Commercial Zone. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Council (continued) January 27, 2022 21 2022-022 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Wells that the date for the Public Hearing to consider amendments to the Village of Chester Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to permit Illuminated Signage in the Highway Commercial Zone be March 1, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. CORRESPONDENCE There were no items of correspondence for review. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 District 3 Council Grant Request – Our Health Centre - $1,654.25. Councillor Wells asked to defer this item of business until February 3, 2022. 9.2 Request for Decision prepared January 19, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation – Appointment of Fire Inspector. Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation outlined the requirement to cross appointment staff to have the ability to use those staff in times of need, when the Municipality’s Building Official or Fire Inspector are not available. 2022-023 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council appoint Bruce Parks as Fire Inspector for the Municipality of the District of Chester and that the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to name him as Administrator of Unsightly Premises. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. A break was held from 9:48 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Councillor Wells wished to recognize the recent passing of Bill Nauss, Chair of the Village Commission, and longtime resident of the village. His passing will be a huge loss for his family and the community. He wanted the family to know how saddened Council is by the loss and that we are thinking about them and want to recognize what a genuine individual he was. He was a friend to many, and we will miss him. 9.3 Request for Decision prepared December 2, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management – Results of Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment – Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park Lands. Erin Lowe, Economic Development Officer reviewed the Request for Decision and reviewed the information included in the material. Council (continued) January 27, 2022 22 The consultant has recommended that Phase 2 testing would be appropriate, given the proximity to the landfill. There was discussion and suggestion that the wells of the current two tenants may be useful in the assessment and may lower costs as well. It was suggested that since the site is adjacent to a landfill, then a Phase 2 Report might have been the right first step. It was acknowledged that the Phase 2 assessment will assist in obtaining certification with the Atlantic Canada Site Certification Program. 2022-024 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Connors that Council approve the completion of a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment on the Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park lands at a budget not to exceed $26,500 plus HST; and staff be authorized to obtain water samples from the current businesses within the Park if possible or allowed by those businesses. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 9.4 Request for Decision prepared January 19, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation – Order to demolish and Rectify (Lindsay Moland Lane). This matter was removed from the agenda at this time. 9.5 African Heritage Month – Jennifer Webber, Communications & Outreach Coordinator. The Communications & Outreach Coordinator reviewed the proclamation for African Heritage Month, noting that we currently also have the flag. 2022-025 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council approve the proclaiming of February 2022 as African Heritage Month and to fly the Pan African Flag for two weeks as per the Policy. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. IN CAMERA 10.1 Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Contract Negotiations – Fire Services. 10.2 Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Contract Negotiations – Shared Services 2022-026 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that Council convene “In Camera” to discuss the following:  Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Contract Negotiations – Fire Services.  Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Contract Negotiations – Shared Services Council (continued) January 27, 2022 23 ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Following a meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened in Regular Session with all members present. 2022-027 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that Council authorize the Warden and Staff to execute the extension contract with the Village Commission for a three month period, ending on March 31, 2022. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Councillor Wells indicated that he reread the minutes and does not require them to be amended. ADJOURNMENT 2022-028 MOVED by Councillor Connors, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the meeting adjourn. (11:05 a.m.) ___________________________ ___________________________ Allen Webber Pamela Myra Warden Municipal Clerk MOTIONS FROM FEBRUARY 3, 2022 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APPROVAL 2022-029 APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS 2022-030 APPROVAL OF JANUARY 20, 2022 COW MINUTES 2022-031 REMO BUDGET 2022/23 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to approve the 2022/23 REMO Operating Budget with the Municipality of Chester’s portion being $44,078.35. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-032 COUNCIL DISTRICT GRANT FROM DISTRICTS 1, 3, AND 7 FOR OUR HEALTH CENTRE MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council that $500 be distributed from Districts 1, 3, and 7 for the District Grant Request from Our Health Centre. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-033 ADJOURNMENT MOTIONS FROM JANUARY 27, 2022 BUILDING CODE & UNSIGHTLY PREMISES COMMITTEE FOR APPROVAL OF COUNCIL 2022-043 ORDER TO DEMOLISH – 17 LINDSAY MOLAND LANE MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Connors the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee recommended Council issue the property owner and(or) Power of Attorney of 17 Lindsay Moland Lane, East Chester, Lunenburg County, PID 60151842 an Order to demolish the 5 derelict and(or) dangerous structures on the property within 30-Days. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-044 ORDER TO DEMOLISH – 42 LINDSAY MOLAND LANE MOVED by Councillor Connors, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee recommended Council issue the property owner and(or) Power of Attorney of 42 Lindsay Moland Lane, East Chester, Lunenburg County, PID 60151834 an Order to Demolish the 2 derelict and(or) dangerous structures on the property within 15 Days. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-045 ADJOURNMENT REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Council MEETING DATE: Thursday February 10, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation SUBJECT: Order to Demolish ORIGIN: Building Code & Unsightly Committee Date: February 7th, 2022 Prepared by: Brendan Mosher, Bylaw Enforcement Officer Date: February 7, 2022 Reviewed by: Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation Date: February 7, 2022 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION There are two recommend motions regarding two properties (same owner) that have dangerous elements. These recommendations are coming from the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee which met on Thursday January 27th, 2022. Motion #1: MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councilor Connors the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee recommend to Council the property owner and(or) Power of Attorney of 17 Lindsay Moland Lane, East Chester, Lunenburg County, PID 60151842 be issued an Order to demolish the 5 derelict and(or) dangerous structures on the property within 30-Days. MOTION CARRIED. Motion #2: MOVED by Councilor Connors, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee recommend to Council the property owner and(or) Power of Attorney of 42 Lindsay Moland Lane, East Chester, Lunenburg County, PID 60151834 be issued an Order to demolish the 2 derelict and(or) dangerous structures on the property within 14-Days. MOTION CARRIED. CURRENT SITUATION This report is in front of council since these two properties have structures on them that are past the point of repair and pose a life safety risk towards the public if anyone attempted to enter these structures. BACKGROUND April 10th, 2021 The initial complaint was received regarding an unsightly concern at 17 Lindsay Moland Lane and a site inspection was completed by the previous Bylaw Enforcement Officer. No further action was taken on this property during the period when the Bylaw Enforcement Officer position was vacant. November 9th, 2021 Brendan Mosher, Bylaw Enforcement Officer received a telephone call regarding the concern of this property and reopened the case file. Immediately after the telephone conversation Brendan Mosher reviewed the notes from April 10th, 2021 and conducted a site visit. During the site visit the following was noted: 1. Property owner’s household garbage and debris building up around the property. 2. Structures in disrepair and not secured. November 16th, 2021 Brendan Mosher presented this case file to the Building Code & Unsightly Premises Committee. After discussion regarding the property the following was agreed upon, one, photos will be provided showing a structure in a state of disrepair and rubbish around the yard and two, a letter will be sent to the R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 property owner advising the status of the property and concerns with the state of the structure asking what the property owners intentions are to address these concerns. December 6th, 2021 Brendan Mosher had a telephone conversation with the power of attorney for the property owner. During the conversation Brendan Mosher outlined the concerns with the property and asked the power of attorney what their intentions are regarding the outlined concerns. He stated, “He believes the properties are not in as bad of condition as stated and they are secured.” The power of attorney also indicated that there were no funds to complete the demolition and clean up. At the end of the discussion, it was agreed upon that myself and Building Inspector, Brent Haase, would complete another site/building inspection. January 10th, 2022 Brendan Mosher/Brent Haase/Jim Holt conducted a site visit to determine the condition of these properties. During the inspection of 17 Lindsay Moland Lane it was determined all five (5) structures on this property are in a dangerous condition with significant structural integrity issues. After discussion it was mutually agreed upon that all five (5) structures are in a state of disrepair. During this same site visit, the property at 42 Lindsay Moland Lane was found to have two (2) structures on it which is also in a dangerous condition with significant structural integrity issues and significant life safety hazards such as: - Buildings collapsing, free standing chimney - Powerlines connected to the structure - Wood scaffolding collapsing After the inspection was completed a conversation with the property owner’s power of attorney was completed again via telephone. Brendan Mosher outlined the significant life safety and structural integrity issues that were found to these structures. Brendan Mosher also informed the power of attorney that a recommendation would be going to the Building Code and Dangerous & Unsightly Committee that all seven (7) structures between the two properties be demolished due to the outlined concerns. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy The following bylaws and Acts are outlined for this report: - Municipal Government act. - Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy P-80 Financial/budgetary If the property owner does not follow through with the issued order the Municipality at some point be required to complete the assigned order(s) through the Municipal Heavy equipment contract and any expenses accumulated will be assigned to the correct property taxes. Has Legal review been completed? Yes ATTACHMENTS - Photos from January 10th, 2022 site visit R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 4 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 5 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 6 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 7 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 8 To Warden Alan Webber and Council for the Municipality of the District of Chester The aim of our presentation at your Council meeting is to discuss the Federal Ghost Gear Fund, formally known as the Sustainable Fisheries Solutions and Retrieval Support Contribution Programme. (SFSRSCP) Since the Fund’s inception in 2019, $16.7 million in funding has been distributed to support 49 projects on Atlantic/Paciﬁc Coasts, and Internationally. In September 2021 our Mahone Bay company, Titan Maritime, was granted monies by the Federal government to remove abandoned Ghost Gear. Our trained crew acted on this opportunity at short notice, as they had already identiﬁed potential sites. Under SFSRSCP guidelines, removal of Ghost Gear ﬁnished on November 30, 2021 and all funding terminates on March 31, 2022. Our presentation has two objectives. First is to explain the techniques for locating and removing Ghost Gear, and discuss its negative impact on the marine environment. The second objective has two parts. Initially we request that Council write a letter to the Hon. Joyce Murray, Federal Fisheries Minister, supporting the continuance of this initial two year fund. Ideally though, a longer term would allow: •an opportunity to locate and collect a signiﬁcant amount of the Ghost Gear • the proper training of staff •a return on equipment investment for Ghost Gear collection • the founding of strong research and education programmes •the establishing of a recycling program Secondly, we ask Council to encourage your residents to pick up and recycle litter that they ﬁnd when visiting coastal areas. Removal of shore line litter can contribute signiﬁcantly to protecting marine life, and keeping our oceans clean. Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear not only affects the health of our tidal waters, but can also have an impact on the livelihood of many residents who rely on the ﬁshing industry in our coastal communities. It is common knowledge that Municipal Government is the level most responsive to its residents. Thank you for the opportunity to make this presentation. Titan Maritime For more information please visit- Govt. of Canada ‘Ghost Gear Fund’ site explains the Ghost Gear Fund in detail and identiﬁes projects funded in Canada and abroad. https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ﬁsheries-peches/management-gestion/ghostgear- equipementfantome/program-programme/projects-projets-eng.html Ghost Gear Recycling programme, Ocean Legacy Foundation Canada’s First ‘Marine Debris Solutions Centre™’! https://oceanlegacy.ca/marine-debris-solutions-centre/ www.facebook.com/TitanMaritime/ for more photos and videos of Ghost Gear work carried out by Titan Maritime. Ghost Gear Removal carried out by Titan Maritime Abandoned aquaculture site gear retrieved at North West Cove, St.Margarets Bay, 55,000lb of nets and traps recovered 200 lobster traps recovered in the Tusket Islands area. Approximately 15,000 lbs of Polypropylene lines and nets removed from derelict trawlers in Bridgewater and recycled.   Services Include … •Ocean Research Charters •Consultation Services on Marine Research, Ocean Technology, Operations, Project Management •Environmental Clean Up, Impact Assessments and Remediation •Hydrographic/Bathymetric Surveying/Side Scan Sonar operations •Commercial Diving and Underwater operations •Salvage and Recovery including Grappling •Support to Govt. Agencies •Engine Maintenance •ROV Surveys and Recovery •Aquaculture Support Services •Delivery to Island and Remote Locations Our team includes Master Mariners (over 100 years of sea time) Certified Divers, Surveyors, ROV Operators and Hydrographer. Since September 2021 the location and retrieval of Ghost Gear  1   What is Ghost Gear ?  ALDFG - Abandoned, Lost or otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear   Government of Canada Ghost Gear Recovery Fund (formal name Sustainable Fisheries Solutions and Retrieval Support Contribution Programme) • Since its inception in 2019, the $16.7 million fund was allocated to 49 projects on Atlantic, Pacific coasts and Internationally 4 Components Ghost gear retrieval Responsible disposal Technology Development International Leadership Ghost Gear keeps on fishing indefinitely, causing entanglement of marine species that can lead to injury and death.   We ask that Council consider… • writing a letter to the Federal Government encouraging continuance of the Ghost Gear Fund Long Term… • ask residents to assist in the clean up of local shoreline areas, and when possible recycle the items collected • encourage the responsible disposal of Ghost Gear through coordination at all levels of government, industry and other parties Thank you for your time and consideration of these requests. Presented by DRAFT First Notice Conducted at Council on January 27, 2022. Second Notice – February 10, 2022. Municipality of the District of Chester Covid-19 Vaccination Policy Policy P-108 Effective Date: To be determined Policy P-108 – COVID-19 Vaccination Policy Page | 2 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 First Notice: Council – Council – January 27, 2022 (2022-020) Second Notice: Council – Council – February 10, 2022 Effective Date: 1. BACKGROUND The Municipality of Chester (the “Municipality”) is committed to providing a safe working environment. The health and safety of the Municipality employees, Council, and members of the public is a key priority. The Municipality is committed to taking every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of the health and safety of employees from the hazard of COVID-19. Vaccination is a key element in the protection of employees against the hazard of COVID-19. Full vaccination has been shown to be effective in reducing COVID-19 virus transmission and protecting vaccinated individuals from severe consequences of COVID-19 and its variants. There is evidence demonstrating a higher incidence of COVID-19 among unvaccinated populations. 2. PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to provide the Municipality’s expectations and requirements of employees, Council, volunteers, and committee members with respect to COVID-19 vaccination requirements so that all Municipality personnel can do their part to keep each other and the public safe. By doing so, the Municipality is committed to ensuring to those working or interacting with others in Municipal work environments a level of comfort that all within the workplaces have a minimum level of vaccine protection. 3. SCOPE This policy applies to all Municipality of Chester employees, Council, volunteers, and public Committee members, regardless of workplace location. This Policy does not apply to members of the public who are accessing Municipal services and programs; however, Municipal staff may require proof of vaccination status from members of the public in accordance with Provincial directives. The Municipality, at the discretion of the Chief Administrative Officer or their designate, apply this Policy to contractors who are working on Municipality premises. 4. DEFINITIONS 4.1. “Booster” means an additional dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine received after 168 or more days have passed since becoming Fully Vaccinated” in accordance with guidelines from Nova Scotia Health. Policy P-108 – COVID-19 Vaccination Policy Page | 3 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 First Notice: Council – Council – January 27, 2022 (2022-020) Second Notice: Council – Council – February 10, 2022 Effective Date: 4.2. “Fully Vaccinated” means meeting the requirements for full vaccination, as may be changed from time to time, by Nova Scotia Health. Currently this means: a) 14 days or more have passed since having received the second dose of a two-dose series of an approved COVID-19 vaccine; b) 14 days or more have passed since having received a single dose series of an approved one-does service of COVID-19 vaccine. 4.3. “Proof of Vaccination” means the presentation of an acceptable copy of a Nova Scotia or Health Canada COVID-19 Vaccination record. For those vaccinated outside of Canada, they may use the proof of vaccination record obtained from another jurisdiction to apply for a Nova Scotia Proof of Vaccination card. 4.4. “Vaccine” means a vaccine against COVID-19 and its variants that has been approved by either Health Canada or the World Health Organization. 5. POLICY 5.1. The Municipality requires all current and new employees, Council, public members of Committees of Council, and volunteers, to be Fully Vaccinated from COVID-19 and its known or future variants. Proof of vaccination must be provided within two weeks of the effective date of this policy. 5.2. The Municipality requires all current and new employees, Council, public members of Committees of Council, and volunteers to obtain a Booster dose as soon as they are eligible, and it is reasonably practicable for them to schedule and attend an appointment for the Booster dose. 5.3. Any employee who fails to comply with the requirements of this Policy within 60 calendar days of the effective date of this Policy will be placed on an immediate unpaid leave of absence and may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. 5.4. Prior to being placed on an unpaid leave of absence, any employee who has not provided proof of full vaccination will be considered unvaccinated, may be subject to temporary health and safety measures during the period of time they remain unvaccinated. 5.5. Based on operational needs, positions vacated by employees who have been placed on unpaid leaves of absence may be temporarily filled. Policy P-108 – COVID-19 Vaccination Policy Page | 4 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 First Notice: Council – Council – January 27, 2022 (2022-020) Second Notice: Council – Council – February 10, 2022 Effective Date: 5.6. Volunteers, students, and contractors who fail to comply with the requirements of this Policy within 60 calendar days of the effective date of this Policy will be prohibited from working on municipal properties and work sites. 5.7. Council and Committee members who fail to comply with the requirements of this Policy within 60 calendar days of the effective date of this Policy, will be prohibited from attending meetings in person and may be subject to further penalties, including suspension of any financial compensation. 5.8. The Municipality will verify proof of Full Vaccination but will not retain copies of vaccination documentation. The Municipality may request proof of booster doses. 5.9. The Municipality will provide adequate paid time off work when operationally feasible for employees to attend their vaccine appointment(s). 5.10. The Municipality recognizes that it has a duty to accommodate to the point of undue hardship employees who cannot receive the vaccine for any reason protected by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, such as medical restrictions or religion. Employees may be required to provide appropriate documentation to support their inability to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Employees seeking an exemption from this Policy must do so by submitting a request in writing to the Chief Administrative Officer. a. The Municipality will review the information on a case-by case basis and inform the employee of the outcome of their request. b. If approved, employees will be expected to participate in the accommodation process with the CAO and their direct supervisor. c. Anyone who receives an employer approved exemption will be accommodated in the workplace to the point of undue hardship. The Municipality may make accommodations, including alternate measures to protect the employee and the workplace from the transmission of COVID-19. Employees with an approved accommodation will be required to meet additional health and safety requirements such as wearing specific personal protective equipment (PPE), undergoing rapid testing and/or may be relocated or reassigned. Policy P-108 – COVID-19 Vaccination Policy Page | 5 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 First Notice: Council – Council – January 27, 2022 (2022-020) Second Notice: Council – Council – February 10, 2022 Effective Date: 5.11. Any form of harassment based on vaccination status is not acceptable in the workplace. Employees who are found in violation of this section may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. 5.12. Failure to adhere to the conditions of an Employer-approved exemption, or the provision of any false information in relation to vaccination status or an exemption request, may be considered misconduct and subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. 5.13. This Policy may be revised by the Municipality from time to time in accordance with directives from the Province of Nova Scotia and/or Nova Scotia Health. Version Number Description Policy Editor Policy Sponsor Approval Date 2022-01-20 Policy created CAO and Deputy CAO Corporate and Strategic Management Annotation for Official Policy Book Reason for Adoption Notice of Intention to Adopt Committee of the Whole – January 20, 2022 2022-??? Date of First Notice at Council Council – January 27, 2022 2022-??? Date of Second Notice at Council Council – February 10, 2022 2022-??? Effective Date I certify that this Policy was adopted by Council as indicated above. _______________________________________ Pamela M. Myra, Municipal Clerk Date 2022 Polling District Review Report #2 Corporate & Strategic Management February 10, 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 consultation 1 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 process 2 Discussion Size 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 Discussion District 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. 4 Discussion District 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). •2021 census data released this week will also be incorporated. 5 Discussion District Boundaries •Direction from the Board focuses strongly on target variations and comparable voting parity between districts •2021 Final List of Electors 6 District 2016 2021 Difference % Change 1 1283 1380 97 7.56% 2 1238 1464 226 18.26% 3 1219 1224 5 0.41% 4 1158 1191 33 2.85% 5 1282 1400 118 9.20% 6 1210 1280 70 5.79% 7 1097 1171 74 6.75% TOTAL 8487 9110 623 7.34% Discussion –Voter Parity 7 District 2016 Voters Parity 2021 Voters Parity 1 1283 5.82%1380 6.04% 2 1238 2.11%1464 12.49% 3 1219 0.54%1224 -5.95% 4 1158 -4.49%1191 -8.49% 5 1282 5.74%1400 7.57% 6 1210 -0.20%1280 -1.65% 7 1097 -9.52%1171 -10.02% TOTAL 8487 9110 Discussion Mayor 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. 8 Rural Municipalities Warden District of Chester County of Annapolis County of Antigonish County of Inverness County of Pictou County of Richmond County of Victoria District of Argyle District of Barrington District of Clare District of Digby District of East Hants District of Guysborough District of Shelburne District of St. Mary's District of Yarmouth 9 Mayor County of Colchester County of Kings District of Lunenburg County of Cumberland *All Regional Municipalities and Towns use the Mayor System Scope of Consultant Work –Option A 10 •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 Scope of Consultant Work –Option B 11 Phase 1 •Conduct a review and public engagement process for a Mayor vs Warden System of governance Phase 2 (Optional -If Mayor system is chosen by Council) •Collect and analyze statistics such as population, number of electors, and comparisons must be made to other municipal governments •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) •Prepare and conduct a public engagement program on three options •Mapping of each of the boundary options under consideration •Consultant must have final report and recommendations for Council no later than November 3, 2022 Proposed Evaluation Criteria Rated Criteria Category Points Weighting Comprehension & Approach 1 –5 20% Proposed Engagement Plan 1-5 15% Capabilities, Resources & Qualifications, Experience & References 1 –5 15% Work Plan &Schedule 1 –5 20% Subtotal 70 % Pricing 30 % Total Weighting 100 % BONUS:Suppliers located in the Municipality of Chester 5% 12 1 Pam Myra From:Andre Veinotte <andrev@ableinc.ca> Sent:February 2, 2022 8:40 AM To:Dan McDougall; Tara Maguire Cc:Pam Myra Subject:#External: FW: Nova Scotia Power’s new General Rate Application, filed with the Utility & Review Board on January 27, 2022 For the council agenda next week, should only need 10 minutes. From: Andre Veinotte Sent: February 2, 2022 8:33 AM To: Tami <tamicmc21@yahoo.ca> Subject: RE: Nova Scotia Power’s new General Rate Application, filed with the Utility & Review Board on January 27, 2022 Hi Tami, Thanks for the email. One of the things I planned to put in place during my term on council is a Energy Efficiency Upgrade Lending Program to provide residents with low-interest loans to help with the upfront cost of improving the energy performance of their properties. Council have adopted the proposal into it’s strategic plan and staff are working towards a change in the bylaw to allow this to happen. The proposal by NSP will approximately double the payback period for net-metered solar installations. It’s a regressive move and we all need speak out. I will post on my fb page to raise awareness, and raise the issue at council. Andre From: Tami <tamicmc21@yahoo.ca> Sent: February 1, 2022 8:00 PM To: Andre Veinotte <andrev@ableinc.ca> Subject: Nova Scotia Power’s new General Rate Application, filed with the Utility & Review Board on January 27, 2022 Hi Andre, I hope you are well. I am writing to express my profound concern with Nova Scotia Power’s new General Rate Application, filed with the Utility & Review Board on January 27, 2022. As you may be aware, this rate application would introduce a “system access charge” of $8 per kilowatt per month on solar net metering systems and a proposed 3.3 per cent increase in the residential electricity rate for each of the next three years. This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recogize the sender and know the content is safe. 2 This new charge would cost the average Nova Scotia family with rooftop solar panels close to $960 plus tax per year based on a 10 kWatt system which only produces approx $1700 in the best conditions and new efficiency, on top of a proposed 3.3 per cent increase in the residential electricity rate for each of the next three years. After a payment is made on solar panel financing, we would not realize any benefit after investing in our planet and government mandates for greener energy. Based on this rate application, Nova Scotia Power would earn $558 million in profit for the shareholders of their parent company, Emera Inc., over the next three years. There are over 4,100 residential customers across Nova Scotia who have installed solar panels. We firmly oppose this proposed “system access charge”, and we are calling on the Government to speak out against Nova Scotia Power’s regressive, arbitrary and unfair penalty on solar net metering customers. The solar industry supports hundreds of jobs throughout the province, primarily in rural communities, and last year contributed approximately $30 million in private-sector investment to the Nova Scotia economy while helping to reduce the province’s GHG emissions by nearly 250,000 tonnes. This proposed change would destroy the industry and put the province’s target of 80% renewable electricity by 2030 even further out of reach. If you add this to the current housing crisis, increased cost of homeownership, food, gas, and the loss of many local businesses, it is becoming a series of insurmountable challenges for many Nova Scotians. I ask that you voice your support for our community’s solar industry, and speak out against Nova Scotia Power’s new rate application and the proposed penalty on solar homes. Yours sincerely, Tami Clarke 2929 hwy 329 Northwest Cove, NS B0J 1T0 REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: [Date of meeting] DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation Dept. SUBJECT: New Road Name Assignment ORIGIN: New Private Road Name Request Date: January 21, 2022 Prepared by: Sylvia Dixon, Development & Planning Technician Date: January 24, 2022 Reviewed by: Chad Haughn, Director of CDRD Date: February 2, 2022 Authorized by: Dan McDougall, CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION It is recommended that Municipal Council approve the road name Rylan Lane. CURRENT SITUATION A private right-of-way accessed off of North Lower Grant Road in Chester Grant (map attached) that will provide access for a future development of three or more addressable structures requires a name. The landowner has proposed the road name of Rylan Lane. BACKGROUND When there are three or more addressable structures using an unnamed shared right-of-way/driveway, the Nova Scotia Civic Address Users Guide states that this point of access must be named. According to P-44, the road name is suggested following a majority agreement (66%) from the landowners that are served by the shared right-of-way. In this instance, the one property owner has proposed the road name of Rylan Lane as their first choice, with Rylan Jack Lane as the second choice, and Clara Lane as the third choice. DISCUSSION Rylan Lane would be a unique road name in the Municipality of Chester and in Nova Scotia. There are no similar road names to Rylan Lane within Municipality of Chester. It is of note that the proposed new road name is similar to the following road names in Nova Scotia: - Ryland Ave, Bible Hill, Colchester County - Ryland Ave, Dartmouth, Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax County - Ryleland Crt, Albert Bridge, Cape Breton Regional Municipality, Cape Breton County Comments received for Rylan Lane: - District 4 Councillor – Councillor Allen Webber: no objection with the proposed name - Municipal Engineer – Christa Rafuse: no objection with the proposed name - Chester Basin Fire Dept. – Fire Chief Doug Rines: no objection with the proposed name OPTIONS 1. Municipal Council can approve the road name Rylan Lane. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 2. Municipal Council can decide not to approve the name and direct staff to assign a name of Council’s choosing. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy Policy P-44 – New Road Names and Road Name Changes. Financial/budgetary A new road sign (with accessory materials) will be purchased and posted by the Infrastructure & Operations Department. Environmental N/A Strategic Priorities N/A Work Program Implications N/A Has Legal review been completed? N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) N/A ATTACHMENTS 1. Petition Received 2. Location Map 149 75 816 148 660 N o rt h L o w er GrantRd Highway 12Rev.:Date:Description: 0 MUNICIPALITY OF THEDISTRICT OF CHESTER From Date: N /ATo Da te : N/ADate Printed: 22/01/20 ® Legend Civic Address Road Building Footprint Property Boundary Waterbody 100 0 10050 Metres 22/01/20 Digital Folders Entry ID:1177185 Status: Ex istsProject ID: N/AClassification #: N/A Representation of Municipality of Chester within Nova ScotiaScale: 1:12 ,500 ,0 00 Scale: 1:5,000 New Private Road Name RequirementProposed: Rylan Lane New Private Road Naming Sources:Digital Base Map Data from Service N ova Scotia andMunicipal Relations Prepared by the Municipality of the District of Chester Coordinate System/Datum: UTM NAD83 CSRS ZONE20N Map Disclaim er:Information shown on these drawings is compiledfrom numerous sources and may not be complete oraccurate. The Municipality of the District of Chester isnot responsible for any erro rs, omissions ordeficiencies in these drawings. Date printed do es notreflect date ofdata. Actual Map Size: w 11" x h 8.5" Address:New Private Road Name RequirementCommunity:Chester GrantPID:60720844, 60720851, 60720869, 60720877, 60720885, 60720893, 60720901AAN:00963038, 10966256, 10966248, 10966231, 10966221, 10966213, 10966205Fire Dept:Chester Basin Fire Dept.Description:New private road name requirement for access to future developmentdue to subdivision. New Private Road NameProposed: Rylan Lane REQUEST FOR DECISION Prepared By: Bruce Blackwood Date February 1, 2022 Reviewed By: Tara Maguire Date February 1, 2022 Authorized By: Dan McDougall Date February 1, 2022 CURRENT SITUATION Fire and Emergency Services are provided to the Municipality by 6 Fire Commissions and their associated Fire Departments in Martins River (District 5), Western Shore (District 5), Chester Basin (District 4), New Ross (District 6), Hubbards (District 2), and Blandford (District 1). The Chester Village Commission, through the Chester Volunteer Fire Department, provides fire and emergency services to the Chester Village (District 3) and under contract with the Municipality to the Outside Areas in District 1 (Partial) and District 7. Due to continuing Covid-19 Public Health Restrictions Council continued to accept fire tax rates approved by the Commissions without reference to their Annual General meetings. There were further delays due to meeting restriction s and test schedules in getting the required registration data. Hopefully we will be able to resume regular schedules in 2022. RECOMMENDATION To complete the annual updates process for 2021, it is recommended that the P-33 (April 9, 2020) registration updates be brought to Council for approval and Schedule B confirmation of 2021/2022 registration notifications be sent to the individual Commissions. BACKGROUND Policy P-33 (April 9, 2020) requires that each Fire and Emergency Service agency provide the Municipality with appropriate operational evidence annually of its ability to provide the services it has registered. The fire tax rate to be levied for the next year to fund such services, proof of appropriate liability and firefighter insurance coverage and audited financial statements from the prior year are required. Information received from the Chester Village Commission, Fire Commissions, and the Fire Departments on Schedule A (Services) and Schedule C (Fire Tax Rate) of Policy P33 has been reviewed by the Fire Service Coordinator. It is noted that it is the responsibility of the Commission /Fire Department to bring any limitations on registered services to the attention of the Municipality. REPORT TO: Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY: Bruce Blackwood, Fire Services Coordinator DATE: February 1, 2022 SUBJECT: Fire Services Registration 2021-2022 ORIGIN: Policy P33 (April 9, 2020) 2 Request For Decision Registration data submitted indicate that the Fire Departments are adequately funded (by Commissions), equipped and trained to provide the service levels that they have currently registered. DISCUSSION A summary of the key registration data for 2021 with notes to significant changes is attached. Highlights of the registration review are provided following. 1. Fire Tax Rates: Confirmations of approved tax rates for 2021 are on file from all Commissions and the VOC: a. The fire tax rate for the Chester Village (District 3) has been maintained at 7.40 cents/$100 assessment. The same rate has been applied to the Outside Areas (District 7 and part 1) b. The fire boat tax rate for MOC Islands has been set at 7.40 cents/$100 assessment. (increase of 1 cent/$100 assessment from the previous year.) c. There were no changes to the fire tax rates in the other Districts. (Range 10.5 cents to 20 cents /$100 assessment) 2. Financials: Financial information for the past period received and on file with the Municipality is summarized in the table following: It is noted that the District 2 Fire Commission has continued great efforts to secure the required audited financials from past years. They have now brought all files up to date and submitted their Audited Financials for the period ending March 31, 2021. 3. Corporate Status Policy P-33 requires that all Fire and/or Emergency Service providers be a body corporate (not for profit) in good standing. The Commissions remain incorporated under the Rural Fire District Act or MGA (Village). It is noted that through an Order in Council, The Western Shore Fire Commission has been incorporated under the Rural Fire District Act, replacing their previous incorporation under a 1962 local statute. Fire District Financial Documents submitted Blandford (#1) Grant Thornton: (Audited) Financial Statement 03/31/2021 on file Chester (# 1,3,7) Moore Brewster Lake: (Audited) VOC Financial Statement 03/31/2021 on file Chester Basin (#4) Beliveau Veinotte (Audited) Financial Statement 03/31/2021 on file Hubbards (#2) Grant Thornton: Audited Financial Statements 03/31/2021 on file Martins River (#5) Belliveau Veinotte:(Audited) Financial Statement 03/31/2021 on file New Ross (#6) Belliveau Veinotte: (Audited) Financial Statement 03/31/2021 on file Western Shore (#5) Grant Thornton: (Audited) Financial Statement of 03/31/2021 on file. 3 Request For Decision The Fire Departments are incorporated under the Societies Act and are required to register with NS Joint Stocks annually. All fire departments with the exclusion of Hubbard ’s Fire Department are in good standing with the Joints Stocks Registry. Now that all financial audits are completed, District 2 intends to submit documentation to Joints Stocks, pay any penalties, and request the Default be removed. 4. Insurances: Five departments continue with the group policy from Arthur J Gallagher (Cowan). Chester FD is insured with the same through the Village Commission. Martins River has insurance with BFL through the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg . Additional environmental coverage on oil storage tanks continues to be held by Hubbards and New Ross with Victor (previously Encon). MOC retained its FD General Liability coverage at $ 10 million and the additional accident and disability coverage non-member volunteers who occasionally do work for the Fire Departments. Due to adverse market conditions in the insurance industry in Canada , premiums on our general property and liability fire department policy rose on average by 15 % in 2021. We benefited from our association with the AMA as some other underwriters presented much higher premium increases or withdrew from the market itself. Directors’ liability and bonding coverage for the Commissions has been maintained . Martins River, under the MODL policy, are considering this as additional coverage. With the passing of Bill 204 the MOC continues to provide basic Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB) insurance coverage to the volunteer firefighters. MOC registered over 180 volunteer firefighters from its 6 Departments (Martins River is registered through MODL). The initial rate of $0.47/ $100 payroll (basic salary set at $ 10,200 and cap of $ 62,000 annually) has risen substantially to the current rate set at $0.66/ $100 payroll. Average premiums for 2022 are estimated at $ 12,500. These rates are subject to change annually based on experience. The rate for the volunteers is entirely separate and has no impact on the WCB rates for the Municipality. All fire departments have retained their current private policies. WCB does not preclude the use of these policies where possible to supplement their benefits as a second payer. The MOC, Commissions and Departments continue to review insurance coverage and benefits to our volunteers. 5. Registered Service levels: An overview of registered service levels shows: a. Due to continuing Covid-19 restrictions and EHS Policy, our Fire Departments have slowly started response to critical medical incidents. b. There were no major changes in the other fire service levels currently registered. Chester completed training for High Angle Rescue. 4 Request For Decision c. There were no changes in the Fire District boundaries although the established boundary between Martins River and Western Shore Fire Districts remains under review with DMA. This is a legal issue only and has no impact on the operational boundaries nor fire tax levy. d. Except for the Chester Fire Department, which is registered at the Operational level, service levels for hazmat response remain at the Awareness level . Hazmat response is currently available from the Kings County or HRM response teams. 6. Emergency Calls: (Reference 2021 YE Fire Department Call Report Summary) An overview of emergency calls shows: a. 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. b. Structure fires increased significantly again in 2021 with 23 incidents reported, representing 4.7 % of the total calls across the Municipality. c. Non-structural fires decreased in 2021 with 58 incidents e.g. chimney, grass, vehicle fires represented approximately 12 % of total calls. d. 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. Exposure c oncerns 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) the MOC has provided Covid rapid test kits for testing of potential exposures in the fire departments. e. 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 calls in 2021. f. 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. g. Fire (and carbon monoxide alarms) have increased slightly from 52 in 2020 to 60 in 2021 representing approximately 12 % of our total calls. Chester FD continues to record the 5 Request For Decision 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. h. 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. 7. Operations: An overview of current operations shows: a. As of January 2022 Jared Swinamer took on the Chief’s position at the Western Shore Fire Department. There were no changes in the Chiefs at the other 6 Fire Departments in 2021. b. There were no major injuries to our firefighters in 2021. No major WCB claims were filed. c. Covid exposures within the fire services has presented some operational problems. The MOC continues to supply masks and rapid test kits when available from the Province. d. Volunteer membership in each department has remained steady at approximately 200 volunteer first responders across MOC. e. Recruitment and retention remain a concern with the Departments. Day coverage continues to be problematic. f. Mutual and automatic aid agreements amongst the MOC Departments are required to provide an adequate response to major emergencies. g. The Junior Firefighter programs continue at several Departments. h. Departments continued to work on the review of the Fire Risk Assessment. Follow up site visits were completed to address Steering Committee questions. Final report due in February 2022. i. MOC continues to fund respiratory protection mask fit testing for all Departments. j. The MOC purchased a drone for the fire services and they are working towards putting this in service in early 2022. k. MOC firefighters continue to pursue Level 1 Training for Interior Firefighters. Due to service issues with the Fire School, the group is looking at doing Level 1 training locally using our internal resources. l. The review of fire dispatch services continues through the Fires Services Association of Nova Scotia (FSANS). IMPLICATIONS Fire Services registration remains in effect unless revoked by the Municipality or as requested by any specific Commission or Fire Department. De-registration of any particular service provider 6 Request For Decision would have serious impact on district fire protection and public safety. For this reason, P33 requires the Commissions and Fire Departments provide an annual update on fires services governance and operational status, providing evidence for the Municipality to ensure the registered services can be effectively provided and any deficiencies addressed in a timely manner. Policy Requirements in accordance with Policy P 33 (April 9, 2020). Financial/Budgetary Fire Services continue to be funded through the fire tax levy. Environmental No Impact. Strategic Plan Reference to: • Maintain a high level of fiscal responsibility • Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services Work Program Implications Covered in work program of Fire Services Coordinator. OPTIONS The following recommendation is presented: 1. Per Policy P-33 (April 9, 2020) the registrations summary be brought to Council for approval. Upon approval, Schedule B confirmation of registration notifications be sent to the individual Commissions. ATTACHMENTS Fire and Emergency Services Registration Summary 2021. COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) N/A Emergency Services Registration Summary for 2021/2022 (Per Policy P33 dated April 9, 2020) Fire Commission and Associated Fire Department Fire District Schedule A Services Schedule C Tax Rate 2021/22 (cents per $100 ) FD Annual Renewal with Joint Stocks Joints Stocks Registry # Insurance Liability and Property Insurance Firefighter Sickness and Injury Financials Fire Department Chief Contact Number Hubbards 2 Yes 10.5 (No Change) Pending 1 1273381 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 GT (Audited) 2021 Chief Clary Coolen 902-483-7069 Blandford 1 Yes 13.0 (No Change) 2021-08-19 1258462 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 GT (Audited) 2021 Chief Mike Schnare 902-275-8730 New Ross 6 Yes 17.0 (No Change) 2021-07-07 3039664 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 BV (Audited) 2021 Chief Lyle Russell 902-275-8571 Chester Basin 4 Yes 11.0 (No Change) 2021-09-21 3032174 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 BV (Audited) 2021 Chief Doug Rines 902-275-2170 Martins River 5 Yes 20.0 (No Change) cents ) 2021-07-29 2166651 MODL 2021 MODL 2021 BV (Audited) 2021 Chief Scott Rafuse 902-277-2868 Western Shore 5 Yes 16.0 (No Change) 2020-05-12 3 2534963 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 GT (Audited) 2021 Chief Jared Swinamer 902-277-1114 Chester Village 3 Yes 7.40 (no change) 2021-09-21 3033377 AJG 2021 VFIS 2021 MBL (Audited) 2021 Chief Everett Hiltz 902-275-8304 Chester (Outside) 7, part 1 Yes 7.40 (no change) AJG Arthur J. Gallagher MBL Moore Brewster Lake Chester (Islands) MODC Limited 2 7.40 (up one cent) MODL (BFL) Municipality of Lunenburg MEBA McKee Employee Benefits Administration Changes noted in red. Refer to notes VFIS Vol. FF. Insurance Services MCT MacDonald, Chisholm, Trask GT Grant Thornton BV Belliveau Veinotte Department/District Fire/ Fire Related Medical Emergencies 4 Vehicle Rescue Water Rescue Ice Rescue High Angle Rescue Structural Collapse HAZMAT Ground Search and Rescue Hubbards and District FD District 2 Structural EHS Level 3 Operational Awareness Operational Awareness Awareness Awareness Assistance Blandford and Area Fire Rescue District 1 Structural EHS Level 4 Technician Technician Technician Awareness Awareness Awareness Assistance New Ross FD District 6 Structural EHS Level 4 Technician Awareness Technician Awareness Awareness Awareness Assistance Chester Basin FD District 4 Structural EHS Level 6 Technician Awareness Awareness Awareness Awareness Awareness Assistance Martins River FD District 5 (partial) Structural EHS Level 4 Technician Awareness Awareness Not Equipped Awareness Awareness Assistance Western Shore FD District 5 Structural EHS Level 3 Operational Awareness Operational Awareness Awareness Awareness Assistance Chester FD District 3, 7, Part 1 Structural EHS Level 5 Technician Operational Technician Awareness Not Equipped Operational Assistance Changes noted in red. Refer to notes Emergency Services Registration Summary for 2021/2022 (Per Policy P33 dated April 9, 2020) Note (1): The District 2 Commission has completed the 2021 audit with Grant Thornton. Hubbards Fire Department is registered separately with the Joint Stocks. They are currently in default for not submitting financial statements and non-payment of renewal. This will be resolved with the submission of th e audited financial statement as note above. Joints stocks has kept status as Default and has not to date revoked registration. Note (2): Due to the remote nature of the islands, Chester Fire Department has limited capability for fire suppression activit ies. Excluding the winter months, they do operate a boat with mobile water pumps and other firefighting equipment. The cost of the boat and equipment is not taxed to the VOC or the outside areas. The boat and equipment is paid for by the rate payers of the islands. The budgeted operating cost for 2021/22 is $ 10,004. Note (3): Western Shore Fire Department is updating the Joint Stocks Registry. Expect update in February 2022. Note (4): EHS Service levels are noted as registered prior to Covid 19 restrictions. Per EHS policy Fire Departments were limited in their response to medical incidents in 2021. MOC department are responding to critical and life-threatening incidents or as requested by the EHS paramedics. *Prepared from Schedule A data as submitted by Fire Commissions after review with respective Fire Departments. *Reviewed by B. Blackwood, Fire Services Coordinator REQUEST FOR D ECISION Prepared By: Bruce Blackwood Date February 7, 2022 Reviewed By: Tara Maguire Date February 7, 2022 Authorized By: Tara Maguire Date February 7, 2022 CURRENT SITUATION Gordon Appleby of the Martins River Volunteer Fire Department advised The Municipality that he was not to renew his appointment as Director/Alternate Director for the Fire Services Association of Nova Scotia for Lunenburg County. In accordance with MODC GOG-009 the Fire Chiefs of the 7 Fire Departments registered with the Municipality of Chester have subsequently nominated and elected Deputy Chief Cody Stevens of the Chester Volunteer Fire Department to serve in 2022 as Alternate Director, Fire Services Association of Nova Scotia for Lunenburg County. Six (6) of seven (7) fire Departments submitted nominations by the deadline of January 21, 2021. A total of 4 persons were nominated, two of which declined. The final accepted nominations were Deputy Chief Cody Stevens of the Chester Volunteer Fire Department and Captain Jamie Hatt of the Western Shore Volunteer Fire Department. The election process was held in January/February 2022 to correspond as best possible to the FSANS AGM currently anticipated in late March 2022. The election process was terminated on February 4, 2022 with 6 of 7 Departments returning their vote by the deadline. The vote resulted in a majority in support of Cody Stevens. Cody has accepted the election results. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council accept the recommendation from a majority of the MOC Chiefs and send confirmation of support to the Fire Services Association of Nova Scotia, recommending Deputy Chief Cody Stevens (Chester Volunteer Fire Department) to serve as Alternate Director, Fire Services Association of Nova Scotia for Lunenburg County in 2022. B ACKGROUND In 2019 MOC and the Chiefs developed and approved MODC GOG-009 to provide a fair and equitable process for the nomination and selection of the FSANS representative for MOC. REPORT TO: Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY: Corporate and Strategic Services DATE: February 7, 2022 SUBJECT: FSANS Alternate Director for Lunenburg County ORIGIN: MODC Fire Services 2 Request For Decision D ISCUSSION The FSANS Director/Alternate are accountable to the Chief Officers of the registered fire departments of the Municipality of the District of Chester and Fire Departments (MODL) with membership in the Lunenburg Regional Fire and Emergency Services Association. They are responsible for serving on the Board of Directors of FSANS and representing the fire service within Lunenburg County on fire and emergency services issues determined to be of Provincial or National significance. The Director/Alternate is to attend regular meetings of the Board of Directors. They are to bring fire service issues with background and supporting information to the Board and request consideration of resolutions on such issues. The Director/Alternate is expected to attend the Lunenburg Fire and Emergency Services and the Lunenburg East Fire and Emergency Services meetings, providing reports on FSANS activities. IMPLICATI ONS Policy MODC GOG-009 (MOC Operating Guideline) Financial/Budgetary The travel expenses for the FSANS Director or Alternate as appointed by MOC Council, when acting on behalf of the Fire Departments with MOC, are reimbursed under the MOC Fire Services budget. Environmental Not applicable. Strategic Plan Maintain a high level of fiscal responsibility; Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services; Work Program Implications Staff administrative support and coordination from Fire Services Coordinator’s current workplan. OPTIONS 1. Council send a letter of support to the Fire Services Association of Nova Scotia recommending Deputy Chief Cody Stevens (Chester Volunteer Fire Department) represent the Municipality of Chester as Alternate Director for Lunenburg County at that Association for 2022. A letter of gratitude for past service with FSANS is to be sent to Gordon Appleby. ATTACHMENTS N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) Direct communication with Fire Chiefs on nomination and election of FSANS representative with recommendations to Council.