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HomeMy Public PortalAbout2022-05-12_Council_Website Agenda Package Page 1 of 3 of Agenda Cover Page(s) MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA Thursday, May 12, 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 – April 28, 2022. 5. COMMITTEE REPORTS 5.1 Equity Diversion & Inclusion Committee – April 26, 2022 – Councillors Connor/Assaff. a. Request for Flag Raising – Lunenburg County Pride. 6. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS 6.1 Blake McNeely, Coastal Action at 9:00 a.m. a. Request for Decision prepared April 21, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation – Monitoring Report and Consideration of 2022 Monitoring Program. b. Bayswater Beach – 2021 Water Quality and Sediment Sampling Report c. Bacteria Monitoring Results from Goose Creek and Rafuse Cove, Western Shore. 7. MATTERS ARISING 7.1 Second/Final Notice – Repeal – Policy P-10 Regular Council Meetings. 7.2 Second/Final Notice – Repeal Section 6 of the Personnel Policy P-55 (Travel Expense and Meal Allowance Policy. 7.3 Second/Final Notice – Repeal - Policy P-22 Petty Cash Fund Policy. 7.4 Second/Final Notice – Adopt – Expense Policy P-95 (with removal of per diem rates). 7.5 Second/Final Notice – Adopt - Council and Committee Procedural Policy P-109. 7.6 Request for Decision – Corporate & Strategic Management – Priorities Chart Update. Page 2 of 3 7.7 Corporate and Strategic Management Department – 4th Quarter Quarterly Report January 1, 2022 to March 31, 2022. 8. CORRESPONDENCE 8.1 Correspondence dated May 4, 2022 from Donna Whitford requesting Council consider a dust abatement by-law. 8.2 Email dated May 4, 2022 from Ray Cambria requesting Council consider a dust abatement by-law. 8.3 Letter of request from regarding International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia May 17, 2022 (draft proclamation included) and consideration to fly flag. 8.4 Correspondence dated April 24, 2022 from Bell Canada regarding cell phone coverage updates in the Municipality of Chester. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 Request for Decision prepared April 2022 – Community Development & Recreation Department – Private Road Name, Constellation Lane, Hubbards. 9.2 Request for Decision prepared April 2022 – Community Development & Recreation Department – Private Road Name, Willow Bay Lane, Blandford. 9.3 Request for Decision prepared May 3, 2022 – Community Development & Recreation Department – Appointment of Building Official. 9.4 Request for Decision prepared May 4, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management Committee – Resolutions for Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP) ($25,000) and Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program (FRIIP) ($44,250). 9.5 Council District Grant Requests: a. All Districts - Forest Heights Community School - $2,100 = $300 from each district (Prom 2022). b. District 2 – Hubbards Area Lions Club - $2,000 (septic system repairs). c. District 2 – Through The Years Day Care & Community Centre - $4,000 (heat pumps). d. District 3 – Chester Municipal Heritage Society - $3,000 (July 1 and & Celebrations – Canada Day and Garden Party.) e. District 7 - Forties Community Centre - $500 (Oktoberfest). 9.6 Request for Decision – Infrastructure & Operations – Sidewalk Design Award Request for Proposals MODC-T-2022-007. 10. IN CAMERA 11. ADJOURNMENT Page 3 of 3 APPOINTMENTS 9:00 a.m. Blake McNeely, Coastal Action – Presentation of Water Quality Monitoring Reports. 181 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of COUNCIL MEETING Livestreamed via YouTube from 151 King Street, Chester On Thursday, April 28, 2022 MEETING CALLED TO ORDER Webber called the meeting to order at 8:48 a.m. Present: District 1 – Councillor Veinotte District 5 – Councillor Assaff District 2 – Deputy Warden Shatford District 6 – Councillor Connors District 3 – Councillor Wells District 7 – Councillor Church District 4 – Warden Webber Staff: Dan McDougall, CAO Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor Warden Webber noted that due to technical difficulties (audio is not working), we are unable to livestream the meeting this morning. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS Additions:  Community Trails Program – Councillor Connors.  Sailing Club – Deputy Warden Shatford. 2022-165 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the agenda and order of business for the April 28, 2022, Council meeting be approved as amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. PUBLIC INPUT There was no public input. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 182 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 4.1 Council – March 14, 2022. 2022-166 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the minutes of the March 14, 2022 Council Meeting be approved. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 4.2 Public Hearing – April 21, 2022. 2022-167 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that the minutes of the April 21, 2022 Public Hearing be approved. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. COMMITTEE REPORTS 5.1 Committee of the Whole – April 21, 2022 – Warden Webber. 2022-168 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the following recommendations from the April 21, 2022 Committee of the Whole meeting be approved: 2022-160 – “… direct staff to obtain purple lighting if possible and light the Municipal Building in purple lighting on May 12 in recognition of the 5% of Canadians living fibromyalgia.” 2022-161 – “… cancel the May 5, 2022 Committee of the Whole Meeting as some members of Council will be attending a conference. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS 6.1 Volunteer Presentations. Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation gave a brief description of the Volunteers. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 183 Barbara Zwicker – Nominated by Lighthouse Food Bank - Barb has been a volunteer at the Lighthouse Food Bank for the last 8 years. Barb is loyal, hardworking, reliable, and up to any task. She is a great person overall! Over the last 8 years, Barb has coordinated our Christmas Hamper program. Due to Barb’s leadership, this program provided 98 Christmas Hampers to families in need in 2021. She procured all the groceries, managed several other volunteers with packing and sorting and led everyone on distribution day. Distribution day went off without a hitch and all our clients were very impressed and thankful. Barb is also a board member and works monthly to help those in need. Barb’s volunteerism has directly helped those in need in our community. The Food Banks’s catchment area includes all the Municipality of Chester, as well as the Tancook Islands – so one can see the impact of Barb’s dedication and desire to help others with her time and abilities. Nateleen Zinck – Nominated by Starfish Reunite - Nateleen is co-chair for the Starfish Reunite Project that is bringing the remaining members of the Alouch Family to Canada. As co-chair, Nateleen spends countless hours organizing all the events that the Committee puts together to support the cause. Nateleen is a strong leader that never hesitates to do whatever is needed to support everyone. Nateleen also supports the members of the family that are in Canada. She tutors the children, gives economic guidance to all the family members, provides emotional support and guidance. She is also in contact with the family members in Turkey to help with the complicated application process. Nateleen has been integral in the transition of the Alouch Family to Canada. She is involved in all aspects of the family becoming an important citizen in the Municipality of Chester. With her guidance, the Alouch Family members can be seen at the local farm markets, soccer fields, churches, community events, etc. The Alouch Family are becoming valuable community members. Rick Parker – Nominated by Hubbards Area Lions Club - Rick’s attributes include being an executive member of the Hubbards Area Lions Club where he spends many hours serving his community in addition to his work at IBM, where he is also busy with volunteer work. These endeavors include mentoring students at three Provincial High Schools through the Provincial P-Tech Program: Pathways in technology known locally as TAP (Technology Advantage Program) allowing disadvantaged students access to higher learning. He’s also Council (continued) April 28, 2022 184 involved with the United Way Days of Caring including such past programs as Veith House, Margarite Centre & Urban Farm. Rick also works with IBM’s employee engagement committee. Past programs have included introducing therapy dogs for IBM employees and coordinating employee events. “If you want to touch the past, touch a rock. If you want to touch the present, touch a flower. If you want to touch the future, touch a life.” – AUTHOR UNKNOWN. Rick continues to touch the lives of so many in his own community of Hubbards and beyond. His dedication and support to the Lions Club has been outstanding, affecting many people from all walks of life. We love you Rick and are so proud of you. Warden Webber thanked each Volunteer for their dedication to their communities and the Municipality. MATTERS ARISING 7.1 Request for Decision prepared April 19, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management Department – Expense Policy. Present was Jonathan Meakin, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, to outline the information included in the Request for Decision prepared April 19, 2022 regarding the proposed Expense Policy. Information in the policy addresses requirements in the Municipal Government Act as well as the Financial Reporting and Accounting Manual (FRAM). There are a number of things that staff are currently doing that will be included in the policy which will apply to both Councillors and Staff. He outlined the following and discussion was held on:  Travel advances. No objection.  Per diem meals – after a lengthy discussion it was agreed to require receipts and not provide per diem rates.  Signing officers.  No alcohol (refer to Hospitality Policy).  Some policies will need to be repealed, i.e., Policy P-22 Petty Cash and Section 6 of the Personnel Policy P-55 regarding Travel Expense and Meal Allowance. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 185 2022-169 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council give notice of Intention to:  Adopt the Draft Policy P-95 Expense Policy as presented with the removal of per diem rates; and  Repeal Section 6 of the Personnel Policy P-55 – Travel Expense and Meal Allowance Policy; and  Repeal Policy P-22 Petty Cash Fund. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 7.2 Request for Decision prepared April 7, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management Department – Events Levy Promotion. Erin Lowe, Senior Economic Development Officer, was present to review the Request for Decision prepared April 7, 2022 regarding Events Levy Promotion. The Senior Economic Development Officer outlined the current situation as well as the background, which began in 2017 with the Municipality of Chester, the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, the Town of Bridgewater, and the Town of Mahone Bay initiating the development of an events/hotel room night levy, termed the Lunenburg County Events Promotion Levy. The Town of Lunenburg was invited to participate in 2018 but elected not to at that time. Originally, staff presented the proposed levy to industry as a traditional tourism marketing levy where monies raised would be put towards marketing Lunenburg County as a tourist destination including events attraction. Feedback received from industry at that time was that South Shore Tourism Cooperative already provided tourism marketing for the region and that it was felt a tourism marketing levy would be a duplication of effort. Feedback received indicated a focus on the attraction and delivery of mid to large scale events to increase room night stays in Lunenburg County especially in winter and the shoulder seasons was a better use of the funds. She outlined the proposed model which included a flat rate of $2.00 per room per night of roofed accommodations with 20 rooms or more. It was suggested that the Town of Lunenburg be asked again if they wish to participate. The potential revenue and benefits were outlined as noted in the information. The recommendation of staff is to support the request for legislation. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 186 Councillor Connors asked what formula would be used for four units rather than the usual five unit model and the Senior Development Officer indicated that has not yet been determined but expects it could be similar to the commercial/residential split, similar to the REN model. It was noted that, at this time the request is to get the province to adopt legislation so that it could be done, and the revenue split can be determined later. Councillor Wells also indicated that it should be considered later whether the funding for the employee should come from the levy or be subsidized. 2022-170 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Wells that Council approve the support of enabling provincial legislation for the establishment of an events levy in Lunenburg County, termed the Lunenburg County Events Promotion Levy as per the letter received from the Town of Bridgewater dated March 28, 2022. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS (continued) 6.2 MLA Danielle Barkhouse was present to review matters of concern with Council. MLA Barkhouse updated Council on some recent advancements by the Province, noting that the budget was passed along with 30 bills. She also noted that she can see some benefit to the Municipality of Chester, i.e., New Ross affordable housing, 49’ers Sailing Event, Chester Playhouse, Shoreham, etc. Ms. Barkhouse also briefed Council on some of the following matters:  The Province’s five-year road plan - there have been a number of adjustments in dates and/or scope, or projects have been removed from the plan until a later date due to the increase in pricing.  She also noted that she will be holding an evening meeting for Blandford residents in the near future to update them on the Tancook Ferry move to Blandford.  Funding for Fire Departments in the amount of $10,000 each for equipment needed. A brief discussion was held on the decline of fire fighting by Lands and Forests, which Fire Departments are now having to fight. She suggested letters and lobbying to reinstate this to Lands and Forests. Councillor Church expressed her concern at the removal of Councillor Veinotte asked about paved shoulders on Highway 329 – considered the Blue Route. A letter was sent to the Minister and the Minister responded indicating that would not happen. The road is well used by cyclists, and it is felt that it will only be a matter of time Council (continued) April 28, 2022 187 before someone is injured. MLA Barkhouse indicated that she is continuing to work with the NS Department of Public Works on this matter and felt that something would happen as the Minister is on board with continuing to have Blue Routes done. Councillor Connors thanked MLA Barkhouse for her staffs’ assistance as well as her own. She also thanked her for her help with the New Ross Housing Project. She also noted that while MLA Barkhouse was a member of Council, she advocated for J Class Roads and is hoping that she is still carrying that message to the Province. MLA Barkhouse indicated that she is still advocating for J Class Roads but did note that at this time they are not a priority of the Province. Councillor Connors also asked if there was any discussion on the CAP by the province and potential removal. She has heard nothing, which makes her nervous. Her community has asked where things are with the CAP as it is a concern. MLA Barkhouse commented that the CAP is the right idea, but the wrong tool. Discussions have been held in camera, so she is not able to say too much. There are some who understand, and others who fear removal. Her opinion is to start an educational program so people know what the CAP is, i.e., pros and cons. Councillor Connors clarified the guardrail to Council – it is the guardrail from the New Ross School Area to Vittles and the request was brought up by the Councillor prior to her. If there is a ribbon cutting for the guardrail she will be there. Councillor Connors also noted that she was behind Councillor Church’s concern about the Lands and Forests fire brigade. It has been discussed at the Lunenburg East Committee (fire departments) as they know the issue and she felt that Council should discuss further and write a letter. Councillor Veinotte raised the lack of funding for J Class Roads, i.e., $2 Million for all J Class Roads in the province is not sufficient. Based on today’s numbers, it would be 135 years before a road would be considered again. He hoped that she could raise awareness for this with the Province. MLA Barkhouse commented that not everyone understands J Class Road, particularly if they don’t have any in their area. She will continue to lobby for J Class Road funding. Deputy Warden Shatford noted that he appreciated the updates but was not happy to hear that Fox Point Beach was removed. When there are storms, the rocks are washed over the road and parking lot. He recently spent four hours raking rocks. If they would also clear the parking lot, it would make a huge difference to the volunteers. He noted that the parking lot Council (continued) April 28, 2022 188 area is used daily – summer and winter. He asked if the Lighthouse Road mentioned was in his district and MLA Barkhouse indicated that it was on the books to be repaired. Deputy Warden Shatford also raised the Blue Route issue, commenting that the previous two MLAs also worked on that issue. It is a real concern because of turns in the road and the number of bicycles that use the road. Use is increasing and the potential for danger will get worse. MLA Barkhouse encouraged Council to continue to send letters on the issue. People are respectful of bicycles but, with the nature of the road, that there is potential for a fatality. She also noted that the new Regional Director is a cyclist and intends to cycle the Aspotogan Loop this summer – she will discuss with him after that. Councillor Wells referred to the Provincial Budget – some good things but some not so good. He asked what the affordable housing piece will be of benefit to this Municipality. MLA Barkhouse noted that she doesn’t have all the answers, but municipalities can partner with developers, etc. and would be happy to provide more detail via email to all Council. Councillor Wells indicated that this Municipality is looking for funding and we have submitted an application for wastewater. He asked if she was aware of our application and MLA Barkhouse indicated that she is and has lobbied Minister Lohr (in camera) and is pushing very hard to get it approved. Councillor Wells indicated that housing is a big issue - but we need infrastructure and MLA Barkhouse commented on what was needed for development, particularly in relation to amenities. Councillor Wells also asked MLA Barkhouse about the decision on non-resident tax. He knows she has heard from many people, but some still don’t understand that municipalities are not imposing the tax and that it is a provincial initiative. He asked what she was doing to support those who are being hit with the tax. MLA Barkhouse indicated that she has been bringing issues and alternatives to the table with respect to this initiative. She knows the impact it will have and coming from this Municipality she may see it differently than others. She has been lobbying at the table and indicated that although she does not have the power to have this removed, she will be working with the Premier and Finance Minister on the regulations, where the amount will be implemented. She feels that $2 is too much. It was also noted that there could be exemptions and she is hoping to be part of the committee that will establish those regulations. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 189 Councillor Wells also commented that he felt the information the Province is asking for is intrusive – people can’t buy a property without giving their social insurance number. He felt that they are treating people terribly. He hoped to work together on the regulations and exemptions. MLA Barkhouse commented that the Municipality wrote a good letter and noted that she believes the Premier when he said that the regulations will be tweaked and there will be exemptions. She also noted that she watched all of Law Amendments and was very proud of those from Chester who spoke. She also noted that she has some thoughts on how to fix affordable housing. Councillor Assaff noted it was good to see stakes in the ground for the paving from Chester Basin to Oak Island Resort and Spa. He noted that the Municipality did write a letter requesting that the paving be extended to Martins River when this portion was being done. He also asked if it was possible to have Public Works check Crandall Point Road, there is filming being done there and there may be some mention about the state of the road on the show. MLA Barkhouse encouraged people to send letters and provide information so that she can use as information for these issues. MLA Barkhouse commented that the Department of Public Works will be doing year round brush cutting as pre-emptive planning. MLA Barkhouse thanked Council for their input and continued support since her election. She will be pushing as hard as she can. She acknowledged that she is learning as she goes along and picking up mentors. If she doesn’t know something, she knows enough to ask for information. Warden Webber thanked MLA Barkhouse for her attendance at the meeting. A break was held from 10:26 a.m. to 10:36 a.m. 7.3 Request for Decision Prepared April 19, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management Department – Outdoor Dining Area By-Law. Erin Lowe, Senior Economic Development Officer, was present to review information included in the Request for Decision Prepared April 19, 2022 regarding an Outdoor Dining Area By-Law. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 190 She outlined the process to date, working with the NS Department of Public Works and business owners as well as the public consultation that was included in the traffic study which also included concerns around accessibility, safety, etc. There was concern that with the required jersey barriers (or alternative) there wouldn’t be much room to have a sidewalk dining area in locations within the Village. Also discussed was the requirement to provide alternate parking spaces. The NS Department of Public Works indicated that individual approval is required so that it will be consistent for every business. It was noted that the current draft includes the minimums of the Province. As well, the businesses who did have sidewalk dining last year have been provided with a copy of the by- law and know what is included. It was clarified that private businesses are not permitted to advertise in public space, i.e., umbrellas with advertising logo – the intent is extra dining space, not extra advertising. Councillor Wells commented on concern about the amount of illegal signage and the Development Officer agreed, however, it is a time/resource issue. Some pictures of last year’s outdoor dining locations were shown so that staff could outline what would be required, noting that the Province must approve the application and what is to be put in place by the businesses, i.e., level walkways, jersey (or permanent) barriers (not rope). There are also accessibility requirements. The Deputy CAO indicated that the information will be changed as discussed. 7.4 Request for Decision prepared April 2022 – Infrastructure & Operations Department - Speed Radar Signs. Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations outlined information included in the Request for Decision prepared April 2022 regarding Speed Radar Signs. The options are for solar or wired units, depending on the location to be determined by Councillors and approved by the NS Department of Public Works. 2022-171 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Veinotte that Council approve the following: Council (continued) April 28, 2022 191  Agree on the speed radar sign specifications for inclusion in a Request for Proposal (as outlined in the April 2022 Request for Decision – Speed Radar Signs); and  Councillors advise administration on the desired locations within their districts, subject to NS Department of Public Works approval. DISCUSSION:  Deputy Warden Shatford indicated that this was raised at the recent RCMP Advisory Board meeting, and they were happy to hear about this and the RCMP is willing to assist. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. CORRESPONDENCE There were no items of correspondence for review. NEW BUSINESS 9.1 Request for Decision prepared April 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management Department – Procedures of Council Policy. Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO reviewed the information included in the Request for Decision prepared April 2022 regarding a Procedures of Council Policy. The Municipal Government Act outlines what should be contained. She outlined the changes to make it gender neutral, changing “chair” to “presiding officer” which covers most committees, requirement for video conferencing and allowing virtual attendance, and when emergency meetings can be held. Discussed was concern that a new Councillor would attend only virtually (there is a limit of the number of times that can take place). Allowing for special circumstances is to be added. 2022-172 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that Council:  Conduct First Reading to repeal By-Law #79 Rules Governing Proceedings of Council and refer to Second Reading following required advertisement;  Give First Notice to repeal Policy P-10 Regular Council Meetings; and  Give First Notice to adopt Policy P-109 Council & Committee Procedural Policy and refer to Second Notice. DISCUSSION  Councillor Veinotte indicated that we have had had some discussions with regarding to changing the meeting format; does that impact this format? We may want to Council (continued) April 28, 2022 192 move to a Council/Council/ and monthly policy strategy meeting instead of Committee of the Whole.  The Deputy CAO indicated that the policy is silent on Committee of the Whole meetings; all this refers to is the two regular meetings of Council.  Councillor Veinotte asked if it could be discussed at a later date, and it was agreed to do so. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Deputy Warden Shatford asked about a Code of Conduct Policy, and it was noted that the province had supplied a model, however, a new model is being considered at the Association of Municipal Administrators level. The Deputy CAO indicated that she would bring back a sample for review. 9.3 Community Trails – Councillor Connors. Councillor Connors noted that the semi-annual deadline for Council grants is May 31. She will be attending the AGM of the New Ross Trails Society soon and this will come up for discussion. She is not sure if she should encourage them to submit an application; she knows Council will be holding a workshop but unsure when that will take place. It was agreed that the group should submit an application. 9.4 Sailing Club – Deputy Warden Shatford. Deputy Warden Shatford thanked Council for supporting the upcoming sailing event that will take place in August/September. He outlined the number of boats, volunteers, equipment, etc. that will be used for the event. He also noted that they are still looking for volunteers to fill the 15 Committees. As well, they are looking for places to stay. He will send out information to Councillors. IN CAMERA 10.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(a) – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Whalen Lake. 10.2 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(a) – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Marriotts Cove. Council (continued) April 28, 2022 193 2022-173 MOVED by Councillor Church SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the meeting convene “In Camera to discuss:  In Camera as per Section 22(2)(a) – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Whalen Lake.  In Camera as per Section 22(2)(a) – Acquisition, sale, lease, and security of municipal property – Marriotts Cove. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. Following a meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened with all members present. 2022-174 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council direct staff to sell remaining lots owned by the Municipality, located at Whalen Lake, by tender. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. ADJOURNMENT 2022-175 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the meeting adjourn. (11:24 a.m.) ___________________________ ___________________________ Allen Webber Pamela Myra Warden Municipal Clerk MOTIONS FOR COUNCIL APPROVAL FROM EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION COMMITTEE APRIL 26, 2022 2022-176 APPROVAL OF APRIL 26, 2022 AGENDA 2022-177 APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 22, 2022 MINUTES 2022-178 $2,000 FOR ART PROJECT FOR STUDENTS MOVED by Lorraine Burch, SECONDED by Joud Alouch that the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee recommend to Council to consider the request of a maximum of $2,000 to fund an art project within the Municipality of Chester Schools that will encourage students to acknowledge people of other countries through flags with the purchase of materials dependent on an approved materials list. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-179 AMENDMENT TO FLAG RAISING & PROTOCOL POLICY MOVED by David Broome, SECONDED by Carol Millett that the Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Committee recommend to Council to consider and give notice to amend the Flag Raising and Protocol Policy P-102 to allow for 1) multiple applications to fly the same flag per year; and 2) provide a pre-approved list of flags that would not require an annual application to raise. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. 2022-180 ADJOURNMENT THE st IfNh EPAC.JTV OF CHESTER M NICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER: COMMEMORATIVE FLAG RAISING APPLICATION Please review the Flag Raising and Protocol Policy P-103, specifically section 3.03 Special Purpose Flags, for further details. Et...E. <.. Applications are to be submitted a minimum of one month prior to the dates the grouopr n ibycip 1 to 151 cipates having the flag flown. Submissions can be sent electronically to ` _ 6' King Street, Chester, NS, B0J-1J0 Attention: Emily Lennox. All applications must be reviewed by Council for approval. Mailing Address: Email Address: Phone Number: Date Request was Submitted: Flag description (Please attach clear image/photo): Relevance of flag to the Municipality of the District of Chester: Requested date(s) for flying the flag: I understand and accept that the flag and all necessary ropes/attachments will be provided by the applicant and or their organization. Municipal staff will raise and lower the flag in accordance with the terms of the permissions granted. tuaen\--),:kce;). C-ic\.,c CI C. c/ oa - \2 2zk \nc\v,,,o(\, r7\vim>>� , cep - 1('.0\;re N\c'f \\• ('C Signature: For any additional questions or concerns, please contact the Executive Secretary a � REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation SUBJECT: Receive 2021 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Report & Consider 2022 Monitoring Program Budget ORIGIN: 2021-202 Date: April 21, 2022 Prepared by: Garth Sturtevant, Senior Planner Date: Reviewed by: Date: April 25, 2022 Authorized by: Dan McDougall, CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION For discussion and consideration. CURRENT SITUATION Beginning in 2015, Municipal Council approved a Water Quality Monitoring Program for Fox Point Lake. Each year a report is presented to Council to outline the findings from the previous season’s sampling. Council then considers the budget for the coming year and whether to continue funding the program. Coastal Action has completed and submitted the 2021 Monitoring Report (Appendix A). The Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Committee met on April 6, 2022. Blake McNeely of Coastal Action presented the findings of the report and answered questions from Committee members. Following discussion, the Committee passed the following motion: MOTION: It was MOVED by Kathy Gamache, SECONDED by John McNeil, that the Committee accept the 2021 Monitoring Report and recommend that Council accept the Report, share copies with Nova Scotia Environment and post it to the Municipal Website. In addition, the Committee recommends Municipal Council approve the continuation of the monitoring program for 2022, pending review and approval of a revised budget from Coastal Action, with the intent to limit any increased costs to solely that of increase in laboratory fees. CARRIED. BACKGROUND Municipal Council created the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Committee in response to concerns expressed during public discussions about a golf course and proposed residential development near Fox Point Lake. The Committee is comprised of representatives from Municipal Council, the Municipal Planning Advisory Committee, the Aspotogan Heritage Trust, Fox Point Lake Property Owners Association, a representative for the Developer of Aspotogan Ridge and a subject matter expert related to water quality. DISCUSSION This year Coastal Action was asked to wait until the Committee had met before submitting a proposed 2022 budget. The reasoning was to allow discussion at the Committee to occur freely without directly referring to the proposed budget. It was expressed that there may be a point when the Municipality would no longer be willing R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 to financially support the program or when the funding model would need to change. Following discussion, the Committee agreed that if the budget could be maintained at or below last year’s cost, the 2021 program was approved in the amount of $14,495.58, then the program should continue. The Committee believes there is a desire and need to continue monitoring efforts on the lake. Coastal Action has provided a proposed budget (Appendix B) to continue the monitoring program for the 2022 season for a total cost of $12,891.20. This budget includes monthly sampling as has been done in previous years. This budget will allow the continuation of the monitoring program without increasing costs. Coastal Action staff will work with volunteers from the Fox Point Lake Homeowners Association to coordinate bi-weekly YSI data at no additional cost to the program. The addition of this bi-weekly testing was desirable to Committee members but would have resulted in increased cost to the program if the work was done by Coastal Action staff. Through discussion it was agreed that if volunteers could carry-out this work, that may be the best option for this season. OPTIONS Council is being asked to provide direction on the following two items: 2021 Water Quality Monitoring Report: 1. That Municipal Council accept the 2021 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Report, direct staff to share the report with Nova Scotia Environment and post the report to the Municipal Website. 2. That Municipal Council does not accept the 2021 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Report, pending changes or further information. The report will not be posted to the Municipal website or shared with Nova Scotia Environment until it is accepted by Council. 3. Other (please specify). 2022 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program Budget 1. That Municipal Council approves the continuation of the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program for the 2022 season by accepting the budget proposed by Coastal Action, as detailed in Appendix B, for a total of $12,891.20. 2. That Municipal Council does not approve the continuation of the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program for the 2022 season. 3. That Municipal Council is not prepared to accept the proposed budget for the 2022 Monitoring Program at this time and requests changes to be presented at a future meeting for consideration. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy MPS Policy E-6: Council may work with developers and other local partners to implement ongoing water quality monitoring projects, where deemed necessary. Financial/budgetary The costs to continue the program for the 2022 season are attached as Appendix B. The cost of the program is considered once per year and a motion of Council is required each year to continue funding the program. Environmental This program was designed to monitor and potentially identify sources of pollution as initially reported by property owners on the lake. Approval of the 2022 monitoring program will continue gathering R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3 Strategic Priorities The continuation of the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework: Priority Outcomes: Environmental Stewardship  Support environmental conservation & protection initiatives and efforts to tackle the impact of climate change. Work Program Implications Staff coordination of this activity is required. The Senior Planner provides support relating to organizing meetings, keeping minutes, preparing Council Reports and other duties as required. The Committee is prepared to oversee a monitoring program for 2022 subject to budget approval. Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No X N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) N/A ATTACHMENTS Appendix A – 2021 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Report Appendix B – 2022 Fox Point Lake Budget – Coastal Action Fox Point Lake 2021 Water Quality Monitoring Report March 2022 Prepared for: Municipality of Chester Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Committee Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 2 Fox Point Lake 2021 Water Quality Monitoring Report Contributing Authors Blake McNeely, Watersheds & Water Quality Team Lead (Coastal Action) March 2022 Coastal Action 45 School Street, Suite 403 Mahone Bay, N.S., B0J 2E0 Ph: (902) 634-9977 Email: info@coastalaction.org This work was supported by: Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 3 Contents List of Figures .................................................................................................................................. 4 List of Tables ................................................................................................................................... 6 1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 7 1.1. Fox Point Lake Background .............................................................................................. 7 1.2. Program Background ........................................................................................................ 8 1.3. Review of the 2020 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Report ........................... 8 2. 2021 Water Quality Monitoring Results ................................................................................ 10 2.1. Water Sampling .............................................................................................................. 10 2.1.1. Physical Water Quality Parameters ........................................................................ 10 2.1.2. Chemical Water Quality Parameters ...................................................................... 20 2.1.3. Biological Water Quality Parameters ...................................................................... 23 2.2. Sediment Sampling ......................................................................................................... 25 2.2.1. Metals ..................................................................................................................... 26 2.2.2. Sediment Phosphorus and Orthophosphate .......................................................... 29 2.3. Additional Monitoring Parameters ................................................................................ 30 2.3.1. Rainfall .................................................................................................................... 30 2.3.2. Lake Level ................................................................................................................ 30 2.3.3. Stream Discharge Rates .......................................................................................... 31 3. Discussion .............................................................................................................................. 33 3.1. Algae Blooms in Fox Point Lake ...................................................................................... 33 3.2. Trophic State of Fox Point Lake ...................................................................................... 33 3.3. Potential for Nutrient Enrichment of Fox Point Lake ..................................................... 36 4. Review of FPL Water Quality from 2015 to 2021 .................................................................. 37 4.1 Trends in Water Quality Parameters .................................................................................. 37 4.2 Trends by Site ...................................................................................................................... 39 5. Recommendations ................................................................................................................. 40 6. References ............................................................................................................................. 41 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 4 List of Figures Figure 1 Drainage basin and sampling sites of Fox Point Lake. ...................................................... 7 Figure 2. Phycocyanin (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. ................................... 10 Figure 3. Chlorophyll-α (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. ................................. 11 Figure 4. Cyanobacteria cells per mL from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. ................................ 11 Figure 5. Cyanobacteria cells per mL from the 2021 monthly depth profiles at Lake site........... 12 Figure 6. Chlorophyll-a (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly depth profiles at the Lake site. ..... 12 Figure 7. Annual average water temperatures at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 20- degree threshold for cold-water fish species. .............................................................................. 13 Figure 8. July and August average water temperatures at all sites from 2015 -2021. Red line indicates 20-degree threshold for cold-water fish species. ......................................................... 13 Figure 9. Monthly water temperature depth profiles at the Lake site from 2015 -2021. ............ 15 Figure 10. Annual average dissolved oxygen (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 6.5 mg/L minimum for aquatic species set by CCME. ................................................... 16 Figure 11. Dissolved oxygen (mg/L) depth profiles at Lake site from 2015-2021. ....................... 18 Figure 12. Annual average pH at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 6.5 pH minimum for aquatic species set by CCME. .................................................................................................. 19 Figure 13. Annual average Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021................. 20 Figure 14. Annual average Total Suspended Solids (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. ............. 21 Figure 15. Annual Average Phosphorus (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. The solid red line indicates the ≤ 0.03 mg/L MOECC guideline for streams and rivers, and the dotted red line indicates ≤ 0.02 mg/L MOECC guideline for lakes. ....................................................................... 22 Figure 16. Annual average total nitrogen (mg/L) at all sites from 2015 -2021. Red line indicates 0.9 mg/L guideline from Dodds and Welch (2000). ...................................................................... 22 Figure 17. Annual average Fecal Coliform at all sites from 2015-2018. ....................................... 23 Figure 18. Annual average E. coli at all sites from 2019-2021. Red line indicates the Health Canada primary contact guideline. ............................................................................................... 24 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 5 Figure 19. Microcystin-LR concentrations in water samples collected during observed algal blooms in FPL. ............................................................................................................................... 25 Figure 20. Phosphorus and orthophosphate concentrations in benthic sediment at Southwest Cove in FPL from 2018-2021. ........................................................................................................ 29 Figure 21. Phosphorus and orthophosphate concentrations in benthic sediment at the South Inlet site from 2018-2021. ............................................................................................................ 29 Figure 22. Rainfall amounts at FPL from 2015 to 2021. ............................................................... 30 Figure 23. Stream discharge rates at FPL from 2015 to 2021. ..................................................... 32 Figure 24. Carlson TSI for FPL in 2021 using the mean Secchi disk depth (transparency), mean chlorophyll α concentration, and mean total phosphorus concentration. (Carlson, 1977) ........ 34 Figure 25. Comparison of FPL TSI scores from 2015 to 2021 and trophic states, using the Carlson (1977) trophic equations for total phosphorus, chlorophyll α, and Secchi disk. ......................... 35 Figure 26. Trophic State Index of FPL from 2015-2021. ............................................................... 36 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 6 List of Tables Table 1. Concentrations of metals within site sediment samples. Light yellow indicates parameters approaching one of the guidelines, orange indicates an exceedance of ISQG, red indicates an exceedance of either the PEL or NSEQS guidelines.................................................. 26 Table 2. Summary of guideline exceedances of metals in sediment samples from SW Cove and South Inlet sampling locations. Light yellow indicates parameters approaching one of the guidelines, orange indicates an exceedance of the ISQG, and red indicates an exceedance of either the PEL or NSEQS guidelines. ............................................................................................. 28 Table 3. TSI values for the FPL Lake site in 2021 for three parameters. ...................................... 34 Table 4: Nutrient concentrations from surface and depth (below the thermocline) water at the Lake sample site. ........................................................................................................................... 37 Table 5: Nutrient concentrations from the two South Inlet sites following rainfall events in 2019, 2020, and 2021. ............................................................................................................................ 37 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 7 1. Introduction The following report summarizes the results of the 2021 monitoring period at Fox Point Lake as well as a review of water quality changes at the lake from 2015 to 2021. 1.1. Fox Point Lake Background Fox Point Lake (FPL) is a 1.4 km2 lake located on the Aspotogan Peninsula, within the Municipality of Chester, Nova Scotia (Figure 1). FPL contains 11 small islands and has an average depth of 4.9 m (Beanlands, 1980). The lake drains an area of 8 km2, with two inlet streams – the north and south - and one outlet draining into St. Margaret’s Bay. The northern inlet drains a forested region, crossing a wetland before reaching the lake, while the southern inlet flows through the Aspotogan Golf Course. Residential properties, both year-round and seasonal, line the lake perimeter. Figure 1 Drainage basin and sampling sites of Fox Point Lake. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 8 1.2. Program Background In 2014, due to concerns from residents about the water quality of FPL, the Municipality of Chester created the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Committee (WQMC). The southern end of FPL began suffering significant sedimentation pollution after heavy rainfall events. This sedimentation coincided with the beginning of development at Aspotogan Ridge, a 550-acre community with original development plans for 344 residential units and an 18-hole golf course. The sedimentation events, occurring near the southern inlet which drains from the golf course, raised the concern of citizens for the health of FPL. To monitor the water quality conditions and track changes within the lake, Coastal Action was contracted in 2015 by the Municipality of Chester to join the WQMC and develop and implement a water quality monitoring program. The program involves four sample sites to monitor the water quality incoming, within and exiting the lake (Figure 1). Monitoring activities are conducted by a small group of trained volunteers, with the support of Coastal Action staff. Further details on the program can be found in the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program (2015), and program results are found in the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Reports from 2015 to 2020; all are available on request from the Municipality of Chester. 1.3. Review of the 2020 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Report From 2015 to 2019, the trophic state of FPL has been oligotrophic - approaching mesotrophic, indicating that the biological productivity of the lake has not changed during this period. However, in 2020 the lake displayed a shift in trophic state and was determined to be mesotrophic. Thermal stratification was observed at the Lake sample site leading to a depletion of oxygen at depth, with concentrations of less than 3 mg/L recorded in the bottom waters of the lake. A water sample was collected during a potential algal bloom in 2020; however, the sample was lost by UPS in transit from BV Labs to their contracted lab. The suspected bloom was associated with a large flock of Canada geese (Branta canadensis); therefore, it is difficult to determine if the water was discoloured due to an algal bloom or geese. Three of the four FPL sites did not exceed phosphorus guidelines in 2020; however, the South Inlet site exceeded the 0.03 mg/L MOECC stream guideline, as it has done from 2015 to 2019. The annual average total phosphorus in 2020 was the lowest of any previous year, at 0.073 mg/L with a low of 0.065 mg/L. It is worth noting that the July sample was lost, and the data was excluded from the annual average. Sediment was sampled at the Southwest Cove and South Inlet sites to test for metal concentrations. At the Southwest Cove site, arsenic, lead, mercury, and selenium were elevated; Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 9 with arsenic, lead, and mercury exceeding ISQG (Interim Sediment Quality Guidelines), and selenium exceeding NS Environment (NSE) guidelines. At the South Inlet sample site, arsenic decreased, exceeding the ISQG guidelines, but not the NSE guidelines. Lead levels decreased and were no longer approaching the ISQG guidelines, while mercury maintained the same concentration as in 2019, exceeding the ISQG guidelines. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 10 2. 2021 Water Quality Monitoring Results 2.1. Water Sampling 2.1.1. Physical Water Quality Parameters 2.1.1.1. Chlorophyll-a, and Phycocyanin In 2021, a ProDSS Total Algae PC Sensor was purchased by the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) to use on the ProDSS YSI unit owned jointly by MOC and MODL. This probe measures concentrations of chlorophyll-α and phycocyanin present in water. Phycocyanin is a pigment found in cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, and provides an estimate of total cyanobacteria production. Chlorophyll-α is a pigment produced by all types of algae and provides an estimate of total algae production. Collecting this data over multiple seasons will help determine the baseline concentrations of phycocyanin in FPL, which can vary across waterbodies. Long-term monitoring with this probe, paired with the collection of microcystin-LR water samples during blooms, will help to identify spikes in phycocyanin concentrations and build a predictive curve for the relationship between the concentrations of these algal pigments and the occurrence of algal blooms in FPL. Algal concentrations are measured as Relative Fluorescence Units (RFU). These units were converted to the total number of cells (Genzolia and Kann 2016). World Health Organization (WHO) provides two guideline levels, ‘alert level 1’ is reached when 20,000 cells/mL are observed, and ‘alert level 2’ is reached when 100,000 cells/mL are observed. At no point were the WHO guidelines exceeded, nor were they approached. The data was not collected before, during, or immediately after any known algae blooms. Figure 2. Phycocyanin (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 11 Figure 3. Chlorophyll-α (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. Figure 4. Cyanobacteria cells per mL from the 2021 monthly YSI readings. Depth profiles display an increase in cyanobacteria cells with depth, except for in October when the lake turned over (Figure 5). This is indicative of algal cells dropping out of the photic zone and getting trapped in the thermocline. Over the years, FPL has displayed microbial decomposition in the thermocline zone with a significant decrease in dissolved oxygen in this part of the water column. Chlorophyll-α concentrations throughout the water column differ from the pattern displayed by cyanobacteria cells, remaining fairly consistent from the top to the bottom. More data is needed in subsequent monitoring years to better understand these changes in algal concentrations during thermal stratification at FPL. 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 June July August September OctoberChlorophyll-α (RFU)Month North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South culvert -500.00 0.00 500.00 1000.00 1500.00 2000.00 2500.00 June July August September OctoberCyanobacteria Cells/mlNorth Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 12 Figure 5. Cyanobacteria cells per mL from the 2021 monthly depth profiles at Lake site. Figure 6. Chlorophyll-a (RFU) levels from the 2021 monthly depth profiles at the Lake site. 2.1.1.2. Surface and Depth Profile Water Temperatures Water temperatures are recorded monthly. Average annual temperatures ranged from 9.4°C to 19.5°C (Figure 7). The South Inlet and South Culvert sites are consistently cooler due to the dense forest canopy along this sampling zone. The highest average annual temperature recorded was at the Lake site in 2018. At no point did any of the annual averages exceed the 20oC temperature threshold for cold-water fish species (Nova Scotia Salmon Association [NSSA], 2014). -500.00 0.00 500.00 1000.00 1500.00 2000.00 2500.00 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18Cyanobacteria Cells/mlDepth (m) June July August September October 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16Chlorophyll-α(RFU)Depth (m) June July August September October Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 13 Figure 7. Annual average water temperatures at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 20-degree threshold for cold-water fish species. Average surface water temperatures for July and August exceeded the 20oC threshold for cold- water fish from 2015 to 2021 at the Lake and Outlet sites. The North Inlet site exceeded the same threshold only once in 2020, and the South Inlet did not exceed this threshold. The deeper waters of the lake and deep cold-water pools in the Outlet can provide refuge during the warmest part of the summer. However, in previous years the North Inlet was also a source of cooler water refuge, which might not continue to be the case during the summer months (Figure 8). Figure 8. July and August average water temperatures at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 20-degree threshold for cold- water fish species. 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Temperature (°C)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Average Temperature(°C) July & AugYear North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 14 Depth profiles have been conducted monthly at the Lake site from 2015 to 2021 (Figure 9). Thermal stratification establishes in the lake between June to July, with warmer waters remaining at the surface (epilimnion) and the cooler, more-dense waters settling to the lake bottom (hypolimnion). The thermocline, the depth at which the water temperature rapidly changes, has been consistent each year. The thermocline in June is between 9-10 m depth. The temperature of the top 3 m of the water column in 2021 stayed above the 20°C threshold, while none of the other years saw temperatures above 20°C in June. The top 4 meters of the lake exceeded the 20°C threshold required for cold-water species, in all years of the project. This is problematic given the trend across all years of low dissolved oxygen concentrations available for cold-water fish at depth. September brought some much-needed cooler water temperatures in most years, but surface temperatures in 2015, 2016, and 2018 exceeded the 20°C threshold for cold-water species. Lake turnover in FPL typically occurs between late September to early October. This is a relatively brief window of time when the surface layer becomes colder than the bottom layer and begins to descend, causing a mixing of the entire lake. During this period, parameters are observed to be uniform at all depths. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 15 Figure 9. Monthly water temperature depth profiles at the Lake site from 2015-2021. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 16 2.1.1.3. Surface and Depth Profile Dissolved Oxygen Dissolved oxygen (DO) was recorded bi-monthly at all four sites, from 2015 to 2017, and monthly from 2018 to 2021 (Figure 10). The average annual DO ranges from 3.77 mg/L to 9.32 mg/L. Average DO levels were generally lower in the summer months of July and August, which ranged from 0.9 mg/L to 8.81 mg/L. The North Inlet consistently had the lowest DO concentrations, while the highest concentrations were recorded at the Lake site. The low velocity, minimal incline, and wetland drainage conditions of the North Inlet stream are likely factors in the low DO measurements, as these factors limit the water’s ability to engulf oxygen from the air due to the lack of turbulence of the water. DO is a requirement for the survival of aquatic organisms, with a minimum threshold of 6.5 mg/L set by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) for cold-water species (CCME, 1999). Surface DO concentrations are not concerning at the Lake and Outlet sites. Low DO concentrations were observed at the South Inlet site in 2016 and 2018. Figure 10. Annual average dissolved oxygen (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 6.5 mg/L minimum for aquatic species set by CCME. DO was also measured at the Lake site from the surface to the bottom at each meter depth, from 2015 to 2021 (Figure 11). Annual averages were calculated month by month to compare DO levels through the water column. The DO levels below the thermocline in 2021 were outliers from previous years. The DO of all surface readings ranged from 9.04 mg/L to 7.31 mg/L. The DO levels each year, except 2021, followed the same pattern of declining at 3-5 m depth, slightly increasing at 6-8 m depth, then decreasing gradually to the bottom. The DO levels in 2017 followed a similar pattern but decreased more rapidly at 10 m depth, and ended at a lower concentration. 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 17 The 6.5 mg/L threshold is crossed every year in August but the depth at which it decreased varied considerably. There is a noticeable trend in the last two years, where DO levels remain high until 8 m depth in 2021, and 10 m depth in 2020. In previous years, DO began to decline at shallower depths. The DO annual averages in September were much less varied than in August. Surface DO levels in August from all years ranged from 7.54 mg/L in 2015 to 9.91 mg/L in 2020. Bottom DO levels for all years ranged from 0.89 mg/L in 2015 and 8.32 mg/L in 2017. The depth at which the thermocline is reached differs year to year. The temperature profiles mirror this sentiment; however, the temperature change vs the DO change is much less drastic. The annual averages in October show data that is to be expected of a lake headed for turnover. The DO levels in 2016, and 2021 remain consistent, top to bottom, with very little change. The lake had yet to turn over in the other years, with the thermocline still being present between 13- 16-m depth. The August profiles display the most challenging conditions that fish in the lake will experience, given the high temperatures throughout the water column coupled with the steep drop in DO at depth. In 2018, water temperature remained above the 20-degree threshold until 6-m depth, but below that depth, DO concentrations are far below the 6.5 mg/L threshold. This leaves no part of the water column that remains above either threshold; however, DO levels return to ~ 5 mg/L at 10-12 m depth. In 2019, water temperatures exceed the 20°C threshold until 4-m depth and DO levels decrease below 6.5 mg/L at that depth. In 2020, the temperature stayed at 22.6°C until 11 m depth, at which point the DO levels had dropped to 4.52 mg/L. In 2021, the temperature hovered around 20°C until 9-m depth. There was a sharp drop in DO from 7.41 mg/L to 4.52 mg/L at this depth. While not ideal conditions, the top layers of the lake would have been easier on the local fish species than in previous years. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 18 Figure 11. Dissolved oxygen (mg/L) depth profiles at Lake site from 2015-2021. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 19 2.1.1.4. pH pH, a measurement of the acidity of a liquid, was measured monthly at all sites from 2015 to 2021. Although the pH measurements for most annual averages fell below the 6.5-pH threshold set by the CCME (CCME, 2002), the acidity of the FPL waters is not a significant concern. As Nova Scotia has experienced high amounts of acid precipitation in the past, an d its geology limits the replenishment of base cations to soils (NSSA, 2015), surface waters in southwest Nova Scotia are generally lower than the 6.5-pH threshold. In addition, though the FPL sites’ pH values are lower than 6.5 pH, many fish species can survive in waters >5.0-pH (NSSA, 2014) and therefore it appears that most of the time the acidity of the waters at FPL pose minimal threat to organisms. Figure 12. Annual average pH at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 6.5 pH minimum for aquatic species set by CCME. Before 2021, the year-to-year annual average pH trends demonstrated that they were rising at all the stream sites and slightly decreasing in the lake (Figure 12). The last year of the project saw the opposite trend as the annual average pH in the lake was higher than in previous years at 6.88, and the stream sites were lower, ranging from 5.42 to 4.88. The pH at the South Culvert site has been measured only twice, in 2019 and 2021. There was very little difference between the two years, but these readings were one-time samples, not annual averages. 2.1.1.5. Total Dissolved Solids The annual average of total dissolved solids (TDS) from the four FPL sites sampled monthly from June-October ranged from 24.6 mg/L to 50 mg/L (Figure 13). The North Inlet displays the highest TDS concentrations, while the remaining sites never exceeded 35 mg/L. Annual average TDS at the Lake and Outlet sites were nearly identical for the duration of the program. There is no guideline for TDS set by the CCME for the protection of aquatic health; 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average pHYear North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 20 however, Hinch and Underwood (1985) found that pristine Nova Scotian lakes had an average of 20 mg/L. The Lake site displays an overall average of 30 mg/L, with a low of 27.5 in 2015, and a high of 33.2 in 2018. This suggests that the lake is not pristine and to some extent is affected by sedimentation. The presence of high TDS is not necessarily harmful as dissolved materials can be from both anthropogenic and natural sources. As TDS does not have a guideline for the protection of aquatic organisms, TDS concentrations do not appear to be detrimental to FPL. Figure 13. Annual average Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. 2.1.2. Chemical Water Quality Parameters 2.1.2.1. Total Suspended Solids Total suspended solids (TSS) were measured as the value of solids suspended in a water column that do not pass through a 45 µm glass fibre filter. Annual averages ranged from 1.0 mg/L to 7.58 mg/L (Figure 14). The South Inlet site displays the highest concentrations of TSS across all years, spiking significantly in 2017 and 2020. As the CCME has a guideline of a 10 mg/L allowable increase from baseline in waterbodies with TSS ≤ 100 mg/L (CCME, 2002), the increases observed in FPL do not appear to be a threat to aquatic organisms. 0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 50.0 60.0 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 21 Figure 14. Annual average Total Suspended Solids (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. 2.1.2.2. Total Phosphorus Annual averages for total phosphorus ranged from 0.006 mg/L at the Lake site in 2018, to 0.164 mg/L at the South Inlet site in 2015 (Figure 15). The highest phosphorus concentrations were consistently measured at the South Inlet and were different from the North Inlet, Outlet, and Lake sites. Ontario’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) has established two guidelines for phosphorus in water bodies: ≤ 0.02 mg/L for lakes, and ≤ 0.03 mg/L for rivers and streams (Ontario’s Ministry of Environment [MOE], 1979). The rivers and streams guideline was exceeded every year in the South Inlet and South Culvert sites. The North Inlet site only exceeded the river and streams guideline once in 2019, at 0.031 mg/L. The Outlet site never exceeded the guidelines for rivers and streams, and the Lake site never exceeded the lake guidelines. While the phosphorus levels at the South Inlet site have been consistently high each year, there is a noticeable downward trend since the start of the program, with a small average increase in 2021. The reduction in phosphorus concentrations suggests that the stream may be slowly recovering from nutrient enrichment and that the control measures placed along any developments feeding the South Inlet are helping. The South Culvert site only consists of three total samples, but there may be an upward trend occurring at this site. As there are few natural phosphorus inputs into the environment, elevated concentrations indicate an anthropogenic source. 0.000 1.000 2.000 3.000 4.000 5.000 6.000 7.000 8.000 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Total Suspended Solids (mg/L)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 22 Figure 15. Annual Average Phosphorus (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. The solid red line indicates the ≤ 0.03 mg/L MOECC guideline for streams and rivers, and the dotted red line indicates ≤ 0.02 mg/L MOECC guideline for lakes. 2.1.2.3. Total Nitrogen Annual averages for total nitrogen ranged from 0.214 mg/L at the Lake site in 2016, to 1.221 mg/L at the South Inlet site in 2015 (Figure 16). The highest concentrations of total nitrogen were observed at the South Inlet site. Annual averages at the North Inlet site seem to be on an upward trend since 2018. The three samples collected at the South Culvert site are not annual averages; these samples were taken after rainfall events. Total nitrogen concentrations have remained stable at the Lake and Outlet sites from 2015 to 2021. Figure 16. Annual average total nitrogen (mg/L) at all sites from 2015-2021. Red line indicates 0.9 mg/L guideline from Dodds and Welch (2000). 0.000 0.020 0.040 0.060 0.080 0.100 0.120 0.140 0.160 0.180 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Phosphorus (mg/L)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert 0.000 0.200 0.400 0.600 0.800 1.000 1.200 1.400 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average Nitrogen (mg/L)Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 23 2.1.3. Biological Water Quality Parameters 2.1.3.1. Fecal Bacteria In 2019, the FPL Monitoring Program switched from monitoring fecal coliforms to monitoring Escherichia coli (E. coli) to align with Health Canada’s recommended use of E. coli as the primary indicator of bacteria contamination in freshwaters. Health Canada has set primary and secondary recreational contact guidelines for E. coli in freshwaters, ≤400 CFU/100 mL and ≤1000 CFU/100 mL, respectively (Health Canada, 2012). Bacteria samples were collected monthly from all sites. Annual averages were calculated and split into two categories: fecal coliform before 2019 (Figure 17), and E. coli levels from 2019 to 2021 (Figure 18). E. coli samples can be compared against Health Canada’s primary recreational contact guideline. Annual average E. coli levels ranged from 9 CFU/100 mL at the Lake site in 2021 to 154 CFU/100 mL at the North Inlet site in 2019. None of the annual averages or individual sample results exceeded the 400 CFU/100 mL guideline. Three bacteria samples were collected from the South Culvert site after rainfall events. Only one of them recorded the presence of E. coli at a concentration of 250 CFU/100 mL. A residential property with livestock was built in 2018 next to the south inlet stream, downstream of the South Inlet sample site but upstream of FPL. This site is monitored for nutrients and bacteria due to the potential for pollution entering the stream from the livestock and manure on this property. Figure 17. Annual average Fecal Coliform at all sites from 2015-2018. 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Average Fecal Coliform / 100 mL Year North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 24 Figure 18. Annual average E. coli at all sites from 2019-2021. Red line indicates the Health Canada primary contact guideline. 2.1.3.2. Microcystin-LR & Algal Blooms The recreational guideline for cyanobacterial toxins – microcystin-LR is 10 µg/L (Health Canada, 2012). This guideline is meant to protect against exposure to microcystins and other toxins that may be present in an algal bloom. Microcystin-LR can persist in aquatic environments after a visible bloom has dissipated (Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee on Drinking Water, 2002). Not all algal blooms are toxic cyanobacteria blooms, and Microcystin-LR is only one of the possible toxins in a cyanobacteria bloom. For this reason, every algal bloom should be treated with caution and reported to Nova Scotia Environment (NSE). Algal blooms were observed in the lake during several years of the program (Figure 19). In 2016, an algal bloom was detected on June 22 and a grab sample was collected and submitted to Maxxam Analytics Laboratory to be analyzed for Microcystin-LR. The results showed Microcystin- LR levels of 1.25 µg/L, confirming the presence of cyanobacterial toxins in the bloom. This was the only recorded bloom in 2016. A bloom was observed and tested on June 17th, 2017, displaying a Microcystin-LR concentration of 0.71 µg/L, again lower than the Health Canada guidelines. A sample collected in 2018 displayed a Microcystin-LR concentration of 0.16 µg/L, much lower than the previous two years. No blooms were sampled in 2019; however, NSE was contacted regarding a bloom. An NSE inspector made a site visit and obtained a grab sample; it was determined that no bloom was present. A possible algal bloom was reported in 2020 on July 27th. A sample was collected and sent for analysis; however, it was lost in transit by UPS. The toxicity of this bloom remains unconfirmed. 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022Average E. Coli /100 mLYear North Inlet South Inlet Lake Outlet South Culvert Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 25 In 2021 there were two blooms observed in the lake by volunteers. The first bloom occurred on July 17th, 2021. Results showed no Microcystin-LR present in the sample. The second bloom was detected by volunteers on August 29, 2021. Results showed a Microcystin-LR concentration of 0.13 µg/L. Figure 19. Microcystin-LR concentrations in water samples collected during observed algal blooms in FPL. 2.2. Sediment Sampling Sediment sampling in the Southwest side of the lake (known as ‘SW Cove’) and at the South Inlet site has occurred each year since 2017. The bottom substrate from both sites was analyzed for metals, phosphorus, and orthophosphate, to assess the risk of internal nutrient loading within the lake and potential risk from the accumulation of metals within the sediments (Tables 1 & 2). 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022microcystin-LR (µg/L)Year Fox Point Lake Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 26 2.2.1. Metals Table 1. Concentrations of metals within site sediment samples. Light yellow indicates parameters approaching one of the guidelines, orange indicates an exceedance of ISQG, red indicates an exceedance of either the PEL or NSEQS guidelines. UNITS SW Cove South Inlet Sediment Concentration Guidelines Metals 2018 2019 2020 2021 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 ISQG PEL NS Acid Extractable Aluminum (Al) mg/kg 1700 10000 14000 12000 4400 6100 6200 6600 6400 Acid Extractable Antimony (Sb) mg/kg ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 25 Acid Extractable Arsenic (As) mg/kg 6 6.1 9.1 20 7.9 10 22 9.8 35 5.9 17 17 Acid Extractable Barium (Ba) mg/kg 14 37 69 73 30 50 54 46 50 Acid Extractable Beryllium (Be) mg/kg ND 2.4 2.2 3.3 ND ND ND ND ND Acid Extractable Bismuth (Bi) mg/kg ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND Acid Extractable Boron (B) mg/kg ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND Acid Extractable Cadmium (Cd) mg/kg ND 0.8 0.48 1.6 ND 0.4 0.37 ND ND 0.6 3.5 3.5 Acid Extractable Chromium (Cr) mg/kg ND 6.4 12 7 3.2 4.5 4.4 5.4 5 37.3 90 90 Acid Extractable Cobalt (Co) mg/kg 1.2 1.1 3.3 3.2 1.9 2 3.3 2.9 4.6 Acid Extractable Copper (Cu) mg/kg 2.2 11 18 10 7.4 8.5 8.3 7.3 7.3 35.7 197 197 Acid Extractable Iron (Fe) mg/kg 4000 3200 11000 7200 5900 7000 12000 11000 16000 47,766 Acid Extractable Lead (Pb) mg/kg 2.6 50 61 21 17 33 31 21 21 35 91.3 91.3 Acid Extractable Lithium (Li) mg/kg 6.6 7.6 20 11 6.8 7.8 9.3 13 11 Acid Extractable Manganese (Mn) mg/kg 230 150 420 430 330 270 550 420 1800 1,100 Acid Extractable Mercury (Hg) mg/kg ND 0.16 0.23 0.13 0.12 0.21 0.17 0.17 0.19 0.17 0.486 0.486 Acid Extractable Molybdenum (Mo) mg/kg ND ND ND 4.2 ND ND ND ND ND Acid Extractable Nickel (Ni) mg/kg ND 4.6 8.1 4 2.7 3.8 3.8 4.2 3.6 75 Acid Extractable Phosphorus (P) mg/kg 110 1,100.00 1200 460 640 920 660 Acid Extractable Rubidium (Rb) mg/kg 4.3 6.2 16 9.3 7.1 7.9 9 13 11 Acid Extractable Selenium (Se) mg/kg ND 2.7 2.1 3.3 ND 1.1 1 0.71 0.9 2 Acid Extractable Silver (Ag) mg/kg ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 1 Acid Extractable Strontium (Sr) mg/kg ND 11 16 9.8 12 24 24 17 15 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 27 ND = Not Detected Three guidelines are used for comparison for the sediment analysis; the CCME’s recommended interim sediment quality guideline (ISQG), the CCME’s probable effect levels (PEL), and the Nova Scotia Environmental Quality Standards (NSEQS) contamination threshold. Sediment samples were collected at two sites in Fox Point Lake, starting in 2017. One of these sites, Southwest Cove, was sampled for only phosphorus in 2017, and then a full metals suite in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. The South Inlet was sampled for a full metals suite from 2017 to 2022. Arsenic levels were noticeably high at both sites, in all years. At Southwest Cove, the ISQG guidelines were exceeded from 2018 to 2020, and all three guidelines were exceeded in 2021. There is a noticeable increase in arsenic at this site. The levels in 2018 showed 6 mg/kg, and a jump to 20 mg/kg in 2021. A similar trend is present in the South Inlet site, where ISQG guidelines were exceeded in 2017, 2018, and 2020. All three guidelines were exceeded in 2019 and 2021 . There was an increase from 7.9 mg/kg in 2017, to 35 mg/kg in 2021. This suggests that there is an active input of arsenic into the system that is gradually increasing concentrations in the sediment at both sites. Increased arsenic levels reduce the abundance of benthic invertebrates, the main food source for many aquatic species (CCME, 2002). Given the increasing levels of arsenic at both sites, the presence of food for freshwater species may be actively decreasing. Organisms living within the stream should be considered at-risk for bioaccumulation. Any fisheries should be limited to the lake, where the inputs from the South Inlet are diluted and do not appear to affect the overall sediment quality within the lake . Cadmium levels in the Southwest Cove site exceeded the ISQG guidelines in 2019 and 2021 but were never exceeded in the South Inlet. The highest cadmium level recorded was 1.6 mg/kg in the Southwest Cove in 2021. Like arsenic, cadmium reduces the abundance of benthic invertebrates and damages aquatic species. However, cadmium levels are generally low at both sites, often going undetected in the metal suite analysis. The highest level recorded only exceeded is ISQG guidelines by 0.7 mg/kg. Lead levels were also relatively low in both sites, with only the ISQG guidelines being exceeded in 2019, and 2020, at the Southwest Cove site. In 2019, lead was recorded at 50 mg/kg, and 61 mg/kg in 2020. These levels exceeded the ISQG guidelines by 15 mg/kg, and 31 mg/kg, Acid Extractable Thallium (Tl) mg/kg ND 0.13 0.18 0.52 ND ND 0.1 0.15 0.13 Acid Extractable Tin (Sn) mg/kg ND 3.2 3.7 1.4 ND ND 1.1 1.3 1.1 Acid Extractable Uranium (U) mg/kg 1.5 14 11 18 6.9 11 10 7.5 8.9 Acid Extractable Vanadium (V) mg/kg 2.8 15 25 18 6.1 8.4 10 9.4 9.9 Acid Extractable Zinc (Zn) mg/kg 16 50 48 78 30 43 35 35 31 123 315 315 Orthophosphate (P) mg/kg 0.64 0.24 0.30 0.16 0.51 1.30 0.55 0.33 0.33 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 28 respectively. Lead levels at the South Inlet approached the ISQG guidelines in 2018, and 2019, but did not exceed them. Lead can reduce the abundance of benthic invertebrates, and depending on the physicochemical conditions, can be harmful to other aquatic organisms (CCME, 2002). The levels of lead at both sites appear to be decreasing and do not approach the threshold of the PEL or NSEQS guidelines. Mercury levels observed at both sites appear to consistently exceed or approach the ISQG guidelines. At the Southwest Cove, mercury levels exceeded the ISQG guidelines once in 2020, but only approached them in 2019, and 202 1. At the South Inlet site, the ISQG guidelines were either met or exceeded from 2018 to 2021 and were approached in 2017. The highest levels of mercury observed were 0.23 mg/kg at the Southwest Cove and 0.21 mg/kg at the South Inlet. While these levels exceeded the ISQG guidelines, they did not come close to approaching the PEL or NSEQS guidelines. There doesn’t appear to be an increasing trend at either site. Selenium is another metal that was found to exceed at least one of the three guidelines. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, the selenium levels at the Southwest Cove were found to exceed the 2 mg/kg guideline from the NSEQS. The selenium levels in the South Inlet never exceeded or approached these guidelines. The development of the residential property near the south inlet stream may pose issues with water quality within the remaining stretch of the stream before it flows into the lake. Continued development and disturbance of bedrock upstream of this area also pose a risk. As the South Inlet’s sediment has been contaminated with heavy metals previously, disturbance of the sediment and additions of more pollutants to the sediment can result in the release of metals into the water, thereby affecting water quality and organisms. Overall, metals appear to be increasing at both sites since 2018. Table 2. Summary of guideline exceedances of metals in sediment samples from SW Cove and South Inlet sampling locations. Light yellow indicates parameters approaching one of the guidelines, orange indicates an exceedance of the ISQG, and red indicates an exceedance of either the PEL or NSEQS guidelines. SW Cove South Inlet UNITS 2018 2019 2020 2021 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Acid Extractable Arsenic (As) mg/kg 6 6.1 9.1 20 7.9 10 22 9.8 35 Acid Extractable Cadmium (Cd) mg/kg ND 0.8 0.48 1.6 ND 0.4 0.37 ND ND Acid Extractable Lead (Pb) mg/kg 2.6 50 61 21 17 33 31 21 21 Acid Extractable Mercury (Hg) mg/kg ND 0.16 0.23 0.13 0.12 0.21 0.17 0.17 0.19 Acid Extractable Selenium (Se) mg/kg ND 2.7 2.1 3.3 ND 1.1 1 0.71 0.9 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 29 2.2.2. Sediment Phosphorus and Orthophosphate Concentrations of both acid extractable (total) phosphorus and bioavailable orthophosphate in sediment were analyzed from 2018 to 2021, with total phosphorus being excluded from the 2021 sample (Figures 20 and 21). Within the SW Cove, the concentration of orthophosphate dropped to 0.16 mg/kg in 2021. Within the South Inlet, orthophosphate concentration was 0.33 mg/kg, the same as 2020. Figure 20. Phosphorus and orthophosphate concentrations in benthic sediment at Southwest Cove in FPL from 2018 -2021. Figure 21. Phosphorus and orthophosphate concentrations in benthic sediment at the South Inlet site from 2018-2021. Although there is a decrease in the fraction of orthophosphate in the sediment of the South Inlet and only a slight increase in SW Cove, the overall continued increase in total phosphorus concentrations could result in nutrient enrichment during fall turnover if the available orthophosphate stores increase and are not assimilated. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total Phosphorous (mg/kg).Orthophosphate (mg/kg)SW Cove Total Phosphorus (P)Orthophosphate (P) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80 1.00 1.20 1.40 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total Phosphorous (mg/kg)Orthophosphate (mg/kg)South Inlet Total Phosphorus (P)Orthophosphate (P) Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 30 The total phosphorus concentrations within the sediment of both sites suggest marginally polluted sediment. According to Ontario’s provincial sediment quality guidelines, pollution can range from clean/marginally polluted (‘lowest ef fect level’) at 600 mg/kg of phosphorus to heavily contaminated (‘severe effect level’) at >2000 mg/kg of phosphorus in sediment (Ontario MOE, 2008). Both the South Inlet and SW Cove have marginally polluted sediment, exceeding the 600 mg/kg boundary by 60 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg, respectively in 2020. The decrease in total phosphorus at the South Inlet site is promising as it is close to achieving the 600 mg/L boundary; however, the continued increase in total phosphorus in the SW Cove indicates an increase of pollution over the past year into the lake. 2.3. Additional Monitoring Parameters 2.3.1. Rainfall Rainfall was monitored during all years of the project (except in 2019). Data were collected daily by a volunteer using a rain gauge until 2021 when a weather station was installed at the lake. In 2021 the weather station was used to remotely collect 107 readings, totally in 607 mm of rain. Readings were not collected in June, or the first half of July. Figure 22. Rainfall amounts at FPL from 2015 to 2021. 2.3.2. Lake Level The water level of FPL was measured daily by a volunteer using a staff gauge from 2015 to 2021, except for 2016 and 2019. The staff gauge was attached to the volunteer's dock and the lake level was recorded by visual observation. Lake level monitoring was included in the original design of Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 31 this monitoring program to identify any significant changes in lake level as a result of upstream water usage (i.e., irrigation activities at the Aspotogan Ridge Golf Course). In 2015, the average water level for all months was 0.69 m. In 2017, the average water level across all months was 0.68 m. In 2018, the average across all months was 0.68 m, however, a large data gap in this year means the average is less reliable. In 2020, the overall average of the lake level was 0.69 m; however, volunteer data collection was sporadic. In 2021, sporadic data collection displayed lake levels of 0.61 m in June, 0.59 m in July, and 0.65 m in August. Attempts to contact the volunteer to retrieve data from the remaining two months were unsuccessful. Water levels remained consistent from 2015 to 2021, with a slight decrease in 2021; however, considering the limited and sporadic data collection, this data is not considered useful. 2.3.3. Stream Discharge Rates Stream discharge rates were monitored at the two inlet sites – North and South – and the Outlet site monthly from June to October from 2015 to 2021. Stream discharge (m³) was calculated using a Global Water Flow Probe along with measurements of wetted width and water depth. Similar to lake levels, discharge rates were included in this program as a way to identify significant changes caused by water usage within the lake’s drainage basin. The North Inlet and Outlet sites had the highest discharge, but the North Inlet site did experience periods of negative results. The negative directions recorded at the North Inlet are associated with the strong influence from wind and the lake’s waves, causing the stream to appear to be moving backward. Trendlines show that the total discharge of the North Inlet is decreasing slightly, but the South Inlet and Outlet are slightly increasing. The average annual total stream discharge at the North Inlet was highest in 2019 at a rate of 0.67 m³ and was at its lowest in 2016 with a total stream discharge of 0.178 m³. The annual average stream discharge at the South Inlet was highest in 2019 at a rate of 0.105 m³ and was at its lowest in 2016 with a total stream discharge of 0.027 m³. The highest readings at the Outlet were 0.67 m³ in 2019, and the lowest readings were 0.178 m³ in 2016. Stream discharge rates were highest in 2019 and lowest in 2016. This corresponds with the rainfall amounts observed in 2016 during a significant drought period. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 32 Figure 23. Stream discharge rates at FPL from 2015 to 2021. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 33 3. Discussion 3.1. Algae Blooms in Fox Point Lake In 2021, a weather station was installed to capture long-term weather data. This station collected air temperature, dew point, heat index, wind chill, pressure, accumulated rainfall, windspeeds, wind speed averages, and wind direction data in 5-minute intervals. With continued data collection, this weather data can be used in conjunction with the algal probe (see section 2.1.1.1) to better understand conditions at the lake leading up to and during an algal bloom. NS Environment’s current system of notifying lake residents of potentially harmful algae blooms is reactive and can be ineffective. NSE responds to reports of suspected blooms but inspectors are not always able to respond in time to witness the bloom. NSE rarely collects water samples for analysis and often has to post precautionary advisories based on the appearance of a bloom in photographs submitted by residents. Lake closure advisories are posted via Twitter and other online locations. Many residents of FPL do not have internet access at the lake. An NSE advisory posted via Twitter in the summer of 2021 did not reach the majority of lake residents. Microcystin-LR is not the only toxin produced by cyanobacteria. Anatoxins, Cylindrospermopsins, Nodularins, Saxitoxins, Dermatoxtoxins, and other irritant toxins are also produced by cyanobacteria (Health Canada, 2012). The majority of commercia l labs in Canada do not test for these toxins. This means that the absence of Microcystin-LR in a water sample does not mean that a bloom does not contain other toxins. Because of this, lake residents should be made aware of all blooms and treat all blooms with the same level of caution. As algal blooms can be induced and intensified by increases in nutrients to ecosystems (whether naturally from mixing of waters or anthropogenically from pollution), trends in algal blooms are hard to predict and can vary spatially. Increases in total nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in FPL increase the potential for blooms to occur. The literature predicts increases in both size and frequency of blooms, globally, in the future (Michalak et al., 2013). Algal blooms should continue to be monitored and tested within FPL, with residents made aware of algal bloom causes, health effects, precautions to take, and the reporting procedure if a bloom occurs. 3.2. Trophic State of Fox Point Lake The biological productivity of FPL has been assessed and monitored for changes over time by identifying its trophic state annually. Based on the mean depth of transparency (Secchi disk), and mean concentrations of chlorophyll-α and phosphorus, a Trophic State Index (TSI) score can be calculated using the Carlson (1977) equations (Equations 1, 2, and 3). Trophic states range from oligotrophic (low productivity and minimal biomass) to hypereutrophic (high productivity and maximum biomass). Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 34 Equation 1: 𝑆𝑆𝐼 (𝑆𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑖ℎ 𝑐�ℎ𝑟𝑘)=60 −14.41 × ln(𝑀𝑐𝑎𝑘 𝑆𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑖ℎ 𝑐�ℎ𝑟𝑘 [𝑘]) Equation 2: 𝑆𝑆𝐼 (𝑐�𝑘𝑘𝑟𝑘𝑘�𝑦𝑘𝑘 𝐴)=30.6 +9.81 × ln(𝑀𝑐𝑎𝑘 𝑐�𝑘𝑘𝑟𝑘𝑘�𝑦𝑘𝑘 𝑎 [𝜇𝑔 𝐿]) Equation 3: 𝑆𝑆𝐼 (𝑟𝑘𝑟𝑎𝑘 𝑘�𝑘𝑟𝑘�𝑘𝑟𝑟𝑟)=4.15 +14.42 × ln(𝑀𝑐𝑎𝑘 𝑟𝑘𝑟𝑎𝑘 𝑘�𝑘𝑟𝑘�𝑘𝑟𝑟𝑟 [𝜇𝑔 𝐿]) Table 3. TSI values for the FPL Lake site in 2021 for three parameters. Figure 24. Carlson TSI for FPL in 2021 using the mean Secchi disk depth (transparency), mean chlorophyll α concentration, and mean total phosphorus concentration. (Carlson, 1977) The trophic state of FPL has consistently been recorded as oligotrophic-approaching mesotrophic from 2015-2019, however, the TSI results for 2020 put FPL into the mesotrophic category. In Parameter Calculated TSI Value Secchi (Transparency) 46.26 Chl α 42.53 Phosphorus 31.50 TSI Result 40.10 Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 35 2021, the trophic state returned to oligotrophic (Figure 25). Phosphorus remains in the oligotrophic range and chlorophyll-α decreased from a TSI of 48.9 in 2020 to 42.53 in 2021 keeping it in the mesotrophic-approaching oligotrophic range. The continued increase in chlorophyll-α concentrations over several years, suggests the lake may return to the mesotrophic range in the coming years. Chlorophyll-α dropped considerably since 2020, but it remains higher than any other year. The eutrophication process is driven initially by catchment processes that contribute excess nutrients, particularly phosphorus, to a waterbody and increase the probability of the occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms (Necombe et al., 2010). Trend lines show that the trophic state of FPL is on an upward trend (Figure 26). Figure 25. Comparison of FPL TSI scores from 2015 to 2021 and trophic states, using the Carlson (1977) trophic equations for total phosphorus, chlorophyll α, and Secchi disk. 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021TSI ValueTSI Secchi Chla TP Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 36 Figure 26. Trophic State Index of FPL from 2015-2021. 3.3. Potential for Nutrient Enrichment of Fox Point Lake Excessive nutrients entering FPL can be detrimental and contribute to a shift in the lake’s trophic status. Nutrient enrichment can be from both external and internal loading sources. External sources can be natural (wildlife waste, plant decomposition, etc.) or anthropogenic (septic tank malfunction, fertilizer application, livestock waste, composter leachate, etc.) (Sereda et al., 2008; Wetzel, 1990; Dion et al., 1983). Internal sources come from within the lake, whether nutrients trapped within the lake substrate (i.e., orthophosphate) or nutrients trapped in the water below the thermocline until lake turnover occurs (Kennedy and Walker, 1990). In FPL, external loading appears to affect the inlet streams more than the lake. Both inlet streams had greater nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations compared to the lake, which is able to dilute and assimilate some excess nutrients. The elevated nutrient concentrations of these two inlet streams suggest a level of pollution related to nutrients, particularly phosphorus entering the South Inlet from its catchment area. Nutrient loading within the two inlets is further increased during rainstorms via overland flow. Further increases in nutrients in the inlet streams or along the perimeter of FPL may affect the delicate balance within the lake and speed up the process of eutrophication. Internal loading poses a risk to nutrient enrichment and eutrophication in FPL. In 2021, nitrogen and phosphorus in the water column below the thermocline displayed slightly higher concentrations than those measured at the surface (Table 4). When fall turnover occurs, the redistribution of these elevated levels of nutrients can lead to algal blooms or increase the eutrophication of the lake. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 37 The low dissolved oxygen conditions of the bottom waters during lake stratification increase this risk of internal nutrient loading. Anoxic conditions can lead to the release of sediment-bound phosphorus from complexes with metals. Table 4: Nutrient concentrations from surface and depth (below the thermocline) water at the Lake sample site. Surface Waters At-Depth Waters 2019 2020 2021 2019 2020 2021 Phosphorus Concentrations (mg/L) 0.007 0.261 0.007 0.012 0.246 0.010 Nitrogen Concentrations (mg/L) 0.007 0.304 0.267 0.014 0.288 0.572 The South Inlet continues to display the highest nutrient concentrations within the FPL system and suffers from a significant buildup of sedimentation. The residential property with livestock located near the South Inlet poses further risk to this stream during overland runoff events. In addition, increases in both phosphorus and orthophosphate concentrations at the SW Cove in the lake indicate enrichment within the lake. The water samples from the South Inlet and South Culvert sites showed no difference in phosphorous or nitrogen in 2021 (Table 5). Table 5: Nutrient concentrations from the two South Inlet sites following rainfall events in 2019, 2020, and 2021. South Inlet South Culvert Site Difference 2019 2020 2021 2019 2020 2021 2019 2020 2021 Phosphorus Concentrations (mg/L) 0.049 0.645 0.063 0.049 0.056 0.063 0.000 -0.589 0.000 Nitrogen Concentrations (mg/L) 0.065 0.714 0.461 0.661 0.691 0.461 0.596 -0.023 0.000 4. Review of FPL Water Quality from 2015 to 2021 4.1 Trends in Water Quality Parameters Water Temperature Average monthly water temperatures across all sites are on a slight downward trend; however, in the summer months of July and August, each site is on a slight upward trend, except for the Lake site, which shows a slight downward trend. During the summer months of July and August, Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 38 trendlines show that the water temperatures of the North Inlet have increased by ~2.5 oC, and ~1oC at the South Inlet and the Outlet over the course of the program. Trendlines show that the temperature at the Lake site has slightly decreased by ~0.3oC over the course of the program. Dissolved Oxygen Average monthly dissolved oxygen levels (mg/L) across all sites are on an upward trend; trendlines show that the DO levels have increased by ~1 mg/L in the North Inlet, ~0.70 mg/L in the Lake, ~0.50 mg/L in the South Inlet, and ~0.20 mg/L in the Outlet. During the summer months of July and August, trendlines show that the average monthly dissolved oxygen levels have increased in the North Inlet by ~1.40 mg/L, ~0.2 mg/L in the Lake, and have remained unchanged in the South Inlet, and Outlet. pH Average monthly pH levels across all sites are on an upward trend. Throughout the program, trendlines show that the pH levels have increased by ~0.30 in the Lake, and the North Inlet, ~0.25 in the Outlet, and ~0.10 in the South Inlet. Total Dissolved Solids Average monthly TDS levels across all sites have increased at each site, except the North Inlet. Throughout the program, trendlines show that the TDS levels have decreased at the North Inlet site by ~7 mg/L, increased by ~2 mg/L in the Lake, and ~1 mg/L at the South Inlet, and Outlet. Total Suspended Solids Average monthly TSS levels across all sites have increased at each site, except in the Lake. Throughout the project, trendlines show that TSS levels have increased at the South Inlet by ~3.8 mg/L, ~1 mg/L at the North Inlet, ~0.20 mg/L at the Outlet, and decreased by ~0.70 mg/L in the Lake. Total Phosphorous Average monthly total phosphorous levels have increased at the North Inlet, and the Outlet, but have decreased at the South Inlet, and the Lake. Throughout the program, trendlines show that TP levels have increased by ~0.05 mg/L at the North Inlet, and ~0.01 mg/L at the Outlet, while levels have decreased by ~0.08 mg/L at the Lake, and ~0.01 mg/L at the South Inlet. Total Nitrogen Average monthly total nitrogen levels have increased at the North Inlet, and the Lake, but have decreased at the South Inlet and Outlet. Throughout the program, trendlines show that TN levels have increased by ~0.10 mg/L at the North Inlet, ~0.05 mg/L in the Lake, and decreased by ~0.40 mg/L at the South Inlet, and ~0.02 mg/L at the Outlet. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 39 4.2 Trends by Site Outlet The water quality data from the Outlet shows all parameters are slightly on the rise except nitrogen which has been on a slight downward trend throughout the project. Bacteria have also been on the rise since the start of the program. Similar to the North Inlet, this increase in nutrients is consistent with the results of the trophic state index. North Inlet The water quality data from the North Inlet shows that almost every parameter is on the rise, except total suspended solids, which are on a slight decline. This change in water quality is consistent with the results of the shifting trophic state in the lake. The stream is becoming more nutrient-rich, and both the temperature and pH are increasing. Bacteria in the stream are on the decline. Chlorophyll-α levels have been on the rise since 2015 but there was a large drop in 2021. Lake The water quality data from the Lake display varied changes in every parameter. Dissolved oxygen, pH, total dissolved solids, total nitrogen, and chlorophyll-α are on the rise. Temperature, total suspended solids, total phosphorous, and bacteria are declining. The trophic state has shifted slightly; however, additional monitoring years would be needed to determine if this is a long-term trend. South Inlet The South Inlet site has experienced some minor changes in parameters throughout the program. Trendlines show that the temperature is on the rise and has increased by ~0.9°C. DO (mg/L) and pH do not show any notable changes. Annual average DO levels are either slightly above or below 6 mg/L each year, and the annual average pH, which shows even less variability, is near 5.4 each year. TDS is varied each year, but trendlines show that it has increased by ~1 mg/L since the start of the program. TSS shows a clearer upward trend of ~3 mg/L since the start of the program. Trendlines show that total phosphorous and nitrogen have decreased since the start of the program, which started with very high concentrations of both parameters in 2015. Since 2016, average annual nitrogen levels have been between 0.7 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, on a slight downward trend. Since 2017 the average annual phosphorus levels have been between 0.1 mg/L and 0.7 mg/L, also on a slight downward trend. Fecal Coliform and E. Coli levels have been declining since the start of the pro gram. Three very high outliers exist in 2015, 2016 and 2018, but the overall results show fewer instances of elevated bacteria. Trendlines show that the level of Chlorophyll-α is on a slight upward trend since the start of the project, increasing by ~0.30 mg/L, however, the annual average in 2021 was the lowest of any year at 2.21 mg/L. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 40 5. Recommendations It is recommended that the Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program be continued. The lake has shown a shift in its trophic state in recent years, algal blooms continue to occur, the water quality of the North Inlet appears to be declining, and the South Inlet continues to su ffer from poor water and sediment quality as well as significant sedimentation . Coastal Action recommends a continuation of all current program components as well as the consideration of additional rainfall-dependent sampling, homeowner education initiatives, and the removal of sediment from the South Inlet stream. Continued use of the ProDSS Algal Probe, along with data collected by the weather station and the collection of water samples, will improve the understanding of lake conditions leading up to and during algal bloom events. While algal bloom advisories are the responsibility of NS Environment, this program could seek to improve the notification process for FPL to ensure that all lake residents are immediately made aware of potentially dangerous algal blooms. Homeowner education initiatives are recommended for the continued protection of the lake. This could include the distribution of fact sheets and informational booklets, as done in past years of the program, informing residents of best management practices for protecting water quality. An investigation of the land-use activities within the catchment area of the North Inlet is warranted, given the declining water quality observed in this stream in recent years. Finally, we recommend the consideration of a sediment removal project in the South Inlet stream. The severe sedimentation events that occurred in this stream in the early years of the development project have left a legacy of contamination that will remain for many years to come. The sediment left in this stream and the bottom waters of the south end of FPL display elevated and increasing concentrations of metals. Coastal Action is recommending an investigation into the feasibility of sediment removal using a device called a Sand Wand. There may be an opportunity to have this activity partially funded from outside sources. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 41 6. References Beanlands, D.I. 1980. Surveys of Ten Lakes in Guysborough, Halifax, Hants, and Lunenburg Counties, Nova Scotia, 1978. Freshwater and Anadromous Division Resource Branch. Canadian Data Report of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences No. 192. Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). (1999). Canadian water quality guidelines for the protection of aquatic life: Dissolved oxygen (Freshwater). In: Canadi an environmental quality guidelines, 1999, Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, Winnipeg. Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). (2001). Canadian sediment quality guidelines for the protection of aquatic life: Introduction. U pdated. In: Canadian environmental quality guidelines, 1999, Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, Winnipeg. Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). 2002. Canadian water quality guidelines for the protection of aquatic life: Total particulate matter. In: Canadian environmental quality guidelines, 1999, Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, Winnipeg. Carlson, R. E. (1977). A trophic state index for lakes. Limnology and oceanography, 22(2), 361- 369. Dion, N. P., Sumioka, S. S., and Winter, T. C. (1983). General hydrology and external sources of nutrients affecting Pine Lake, King County, Washington. US Department of the Interior, US Geological Survey. Dodds, W.K. and Welch, E.B. (2000). Establishing nutrient criteria in streams. J.N.Am.Benthol.Soc.19(1), 186-196. Health Canada. (2012). Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality, Third Edition. Water Air, and Climate Change Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. (Catalogue No H129-15/2012E). Hinch, P.R. and Underwood, J.K. 1985. A study of aquatic conditions in Lake Echo during 1984. N.S. Dept. Env. Lib. L192.1 85/00 C2. 38 p. Kennedy, R. H., and Walker, W. W. (1990). Reservoir nutrient dynamics. Reservoir limnology: ecological perspectives, 109-131. Michalak, A.M., Anderson, E.J., Beletsky, D., Boland, S., Bosch, N.S., Bridgeman, T.B., Chaffin, J.D., Cho, K., Confesor, R., Daloğlu, I. and DePinto, J.V. (2013). Record-setting algal bloom in Lake Erie caused by agricultural and meteorological trends con sistent with expected future conditions. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 201216006. Necombe, G., House, J., House, Ho, L., Baker P. and Burch M. (2010). Management Strategies for Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae): A Guide for Water Utilities. Research Report No. 74. Water Quality Research Australia. Nova Scotia Environment (NSE). (2014). Environmental Quality Standards for Contaminated Sites, Rationale and Guidance Document. Version 1.0, April 2014. 57 p. Fox Point Lake Final Report | Municipality of Chester | Coastal Action | 2022 Page | 42 Nova Scotia Salmon Association (NSSA) NSLC Adopt-A-Stream Program. (2014). Walking the River: A Citizen’s Guide to Interpreting Water Quality Data. 43 p. Nova Scotia Salmon Association (NSSA) NSLC Adopt-a-Stream Program. (2015). Acid Rain. [http://www.nssalmon.ca/issues/acid-rain]. Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE). (1979). Rationale for the establishment of Ontario’s Provincial Water Quality Objectives. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 236 p. Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE). (2008). Guidelines for Identifying, Assessing and Managing Contaminated Sediments in Ontario. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 112 p. Sereda, J. M., Hudson, J. J., Taylor, W. D., and Demers, E. (2008). Fish as sources and sinks of nutrients in lakes. Freshwater Biology, 53(2), 278-289. Wetzel, R. G. (1990). Land-water interfaces: metabolic and limnological regulators. Internationale Vereinigung für theoretische und angewandte Limnologie: Verhandlungen, 24(1), 6-24. Fox Point Lake 2022 Recommendations and Proposed Budget Tel: 902-634-9977 Email: info@coastalaction.org Web: www.coastalaction.org Recommended changes to the 2022 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program Coastal Action presents the following budget for the 2022 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program for consideration by the Municipality of Chester and the FPL Committee. The cost for services reflects the current analysis fees quoted by BV Labs and a continuation of all monitoring activities. To continue gathering data with the ProDSS Total Algae Probe (installed on the YSI unit jointly owned by MOC and MODL), Coastal Action is proposing to coordinate with FPL volunteer, John McNeil, to collect bi-weekly YSI data from his dock at no additional cost to the program. Table 1. Cost for services and lab analysis for the 2022 Fox Point Lake Water Quality Monitoring Program. Expenditure Cost Breakdown Total Cost Monthly sampling (June - Oct) Four Sites: $205.60 per site X 4 sites x 5 days QA/QC: 1 field replicate @ $205.60 and 1 blank sample @ $205.60 $4,112.00 $411.20 Sediment sampling (August) $154.70 per site X 2 sites $309.40 * Cyanobacteria bloom sampling (Microcystin toxin; as needed) $172.10 per sample x 2 samples (budgeting for 2 bloom events) $344.20 Nutrient sampling under thermocline (August) $64.90 x 1 site $64.90 Rainfall-dependent sampling (TBD) $205.60 per site x 5 sites $1,028.00 Staff services for sampling and rainfall event (June – Oct.) 1 person @ $350.00/day for 6 days $2,100.00 Staff travel expenses for monthly sampling events and one rainfall event (June – Oct.) 180 km @ $0.50/km for 6 days (roundtrip travel from Coastal Action office to Fox Point Lake and BV Labs) $540.00 Staff participation at committee meetings and council presentations $100/meeting x 3 meetings $300.00 Development of Water Quality Monitoring Report $400.00/day x 5 days $2,000.00 Sub-Total $11,209.70 15% HST (HST#: 14067 2106 RT 0001) $1,681.50 Total Cost $12,891.20 Bayswater Beach 2021 Water Quality & Sediment Sampling Report April 2022 Prepared for: Municipality of Chester i Bayswater Beach 2021 Water Quality & Sediment Sampling Report Contributing Authors Blake McNeely, Watersheds & Water Quality Team Lead (Coastal Action) April 2022 Coastal Action 45 School Street, Suite 403 Mahone Bay, N.S., B0J 2E0 Ph: (902) 634-9977 Email: info@coastalaction.org This work was supported by: ii Contents List of Figures .................................................................................................................................. iii List of Tables ................................................................................................................................... iii 1.0 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1 2.0 2021 Sampling Results ......................................................................................................... 2 2.1 Water Quality ................................................................................................................... 2 2.2 Bayswater Pond Sediment Core ....................................................................................... 4 2.2.1. Geochemical Analyses ....................................................................................................... 4 2.2.2. Isotope Analyses................................................................................................................ 5 3.0 Discussion & Recommendations.......................................................................................... 7 4.0 References ........................................................................................................................... 8 iii List of Figures Figure 1. Locations of sediment and water quality sampling sites at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park in 2021. ................................................................................................................................... 2 Figure 2. Geochemical analyses of benthic sediment collected from Bayswater Pond on September 14, 2021, provided by Dr. Ian Spooner, Acadia University. ......................................... 5 Figure 3. A comparison of stable isotope chemistry of Bayswater Pond sediment samples (BWP 1-18 from an 18 cm long gravity core) to samples of organic matter collected at Bayswater Beach (Beach) and in the offshore environment (Benthic). This diagram is modified from Figure 9 in a report by the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, April 28, 2021, entitled “Investigating Concerns of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Impacts at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park, NS”. ........................................................................................................................ 6 List of Tables Table 1. Water quality analysis from three sampling events at the Culvert site in Bayswater Pond in 2021. .................................................................................................................................. 3 Table 2. E. coli analyses from three sampling events at the Culvert, Pond, and Beach sample sites at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park in 2021........................................................................... 4 1 1.0 Introduction The following report summarizes the results of water quality and sediment sampling activities conducted at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park in 2021. This work follows a small- scale water quality program that investigated bacteria conditions in Bayswater Pond in 2020, as well as the findings of a report titled Investigating Concerns of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Impacts at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park, NS, which summarizes investigations carried out by NS Fisheries and Aquaculture in late 2020. In 2020, Coastal Action was contracted by the Municipality of Chester to monitor bacteria conditions in Bayswater Pond and the freshwater stream that flows out of the pond across Bayswater Beach. Bacteria samples were collected on four occasions from surface water and beach sand. Bacteria concentrations were found to be very low and no exceedances of Health Canada recreational water quality guidelines were observed. Results can be found in Water Quality Monitoring Report for Bayswater Pond/Bayswater Beach Provincial Park (Coastal Action 2020). In response to concerns regarding the presence of a foul-smelling black substance on Bayswater Beach, a sediment composition study was conducted by the NS Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture in 2020. Isotopic analysis was conducted to investigate possible linkages between the black substance and the open net-pen finfish aquaculture operation located offshore of Bayswater Beach. This sediment composition study determined that C-N isotope signals in the sedimentary organic matter (SOM) on Bayswater Beach did not share a common source with those found in SOM collected from the benthic habitat surrounding the nearby aquaculture operation. The study suggested that the SOM found on Bayswater Beach may be influenced by input from Bayswater Pond and the significant amounts of macrophytic algae that get deposited on the beach. Results from this study can be found in Investigating Concerns of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Impacts at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park, NS (NSDFA 2021). In order to further investigate the conditions influencing this accumulation of organic matter on Bayswater Beach, monitoring activities in 2021 focused on the collection of a benthic sediment core from Bayswater Pond and the continued monitoring of water quality in the pond and stream as it flows across Bayswater Beach. The objectives of this work were: • To collect a benthic sediment core from Bayswater Pond for paleolimnological and C- N isotope analyses, allowing for the comparison of isotopic signatures between the marine benthic sediment, the black SOM on Bayswater Beach, and the benthic pond sediment. • To continue water quality investigations in Bayswater Pond through the analysis of E. coli, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and dissolved organic carbon. 2 2.0 2021 Sampling Results 2.1 Water Quality Water quality sampling occurred on August 20, 2021, and September 9, 2021, following heavy rainfall events (> 25 mm of rainfall), and on August 24, 2021, during drought conditions (i.e., several days of no precipitation). Sampling occurred at three sites identified as Pond, Culvert, and Beach (Figure 1). Dissolved organic carbon, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and E. coli were analyzed at the Culvert site, whereas only E. coli was analyzed at the Pond and Beach sites. Figure 1. Locations of sediment and water quality sampling sites at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park in 2021. 3 Total phosphorus ranged from 0.008 mg/L to 0.009 mg/L at the Culvert site (Table 1). Ontario’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) has established two guidelines for phosphorus in water bodies: ≤ 0.02 mg/L for lakes, and ≤ 0.03 mg/L for rivers and streams (Ontario’s Ministry of Environment [MOE] 2008). Results at the Culvert site did not exceed either of these phosphorus guidelines and did not display an influence of overland runoff following rainfall. Total nitrogen ranged from 0.435 mg/L to 0.537 mg/L (Table 1). Dodds and Welch suggest a guideline of 0.9 mg/L for healthy freshwater environments (Dodds and Welch 2000). Results at the Culvert site did not exceed this nitrogen guideline and did not display an influence of overland runoff following rainfall. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) ranged from 8.9 mg/L to 13 mg/L (Table 1). Studies show that brown water systems with high DOC concentrations are associated with increased bacteria productivity (British Columbia Environment and Resource Management Department Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Parks 1998). E. coli concentrations ranged from Not Detected (ND) to 540 CFU/100 mL (Table 2). Health Canada’s E. coli primary contact guideline for recreational water quality is ≤ 400 CFU/100 mL (Health Canada 2012). One exceedance of this guideline was observed at the Culvert site on August 24, 2021, during drought conditions. Results from the Beach site, located only 10- 20 m downstream from the Culvert site displayed a low E. coli concentration of 80 CFU/100 mL, suggesting a possible localized source of contamination above the culvert (i.e., beaver activity) or potential sample contamination. Table 1. Water quality analysis from three sampling events at the Culvert site in Bayswater Pond in 2021. Date Dissolved Organic Carbon Total Phosphorus Total Nitrogen (mg/L) (mg/L) (mg/L) Culvert 20-Aug-21 8.9 0.008 0.435 24-Aug-21 13 0.009 0.490 09-Sept-21 10 0.009 0.537 4 Table 2. E. coli analyses from three sampling events at the Culvert, Pond, and Beach sample sites at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park in 2021. Date Culvert Pond Beach E. coli (CFU/100 mL) 20-Aug-21 ND ND 50 24-Aug-21 540 20 80 09-Sept-21 20 100 90 2.2 Bayswater Pond Sediment Core A sediment core was collected on September 14th, 2021 from the center of Bayswater Pond using a gravity corer (Figure 1). The core was cut into 18 1-cm sections, which were then individually sealed in plastic bags and delivered to Dr. Ian Spooner at Acadia University for a paleolimnological analysis of several elements (Figure 2). Following this analysis, the samples were shipped to the University of New Brunswick for analysis of %C, %N, and stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (Figure 3). These data can be used to create a geochemical ‘signature’ to characterize the benthic sediment from Bayswater Pond and compare this signature to those found in the NS Fisheries and Aquaculture study on Bayswater Beach and the marine benthic sediment offshore. This analysis also provides insight into the sources and anthropogenic activities that have influenced the chemistry of Bayswater Pond. 2.2.1. Geochemical Analyses The paleolimnological analysis and interpretation were provided by Dr. Ian Spooner at Acadia University. Overall, the timeline represented in the sediment core from Bayswater Pond is difficult to interpret. The observed increase in lead (Pb) at 5 cm depth may indicate an increase in atmospheric deposition of combustible lead, which would correlate to approximately the year 1920. However, increases in titanium (Ti), rubidium (Rb), chromium (Cr) and other metals may be the result of geological processes associated with landscape disruption, possibly related to the construction of Route 329 and increased traffic (Dunnington et al. 2018). Iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) data suggest a trend toward reducing (redox) conditions (Mackereth 1966). Decreasing levels of sulphur (S) and strontium (Sr) suggest that marine influence on sedimentation in the pond has reduced over time, possibly associated with Route 329 creating a barrier between the beach and pond. Collectively, the paleolimnological analyses of metals in the benthic sediment of Bayswater Pond provide a unique signature of the local conditions in the pond for comparison to nearby sources and ecosystems. 5 Figure 2. Geochemical analyses of benthic sediment collected from Bayswater Pond on September 14, 2021, provided by Dr. Ian Spooner, Acadia University. 2.2.2. Isotope Analyses Following the paleolimnological metals analyses at Acadia University, the Bayswater Pond sediment core was sent to the SINLAB at the University of New Brunswick for analysis of %C, %N, and stable isotopes of both carbon and nitrogen (Figure 3). Interpretation of this isotopic analysis was provided by Dr. Ian Spooner at Acadia University. The carbon, nitrogen and C/N isotopes data represent a unique chemical signature for sediment in Bayswater Pond. There is a significant dissimilarity between δ13C and δ15N values in the Bayswater Pond sediment to those observed in the Bayswater Beach and benthic marine samples collected in 2020 (NSDFA 2021). 6 Declining C/N values likely indicate the development of more autochthonous productivity (i.e., in-situ photosynthesis of plants and algae within the pond ecosystem). This factor may have contributed to the apparent increase in reducing conditions and may be associated with transportation development, pond outlet restriction, and perhaps inputs to the pond from anthropogenic activity within the watershed. The C/N ratios remain between 10 and 20, indicating that both autochthonous and allochthonous productivity were likely contributing to the organic sediment load in Bayswater Pond (Meyers and Lallier-Vergés 1999; Meyers and Teranes 2001; Talbot 2001). The decreasing δ13C is in contrast to increasing %C and δ15N. These relationships are complex, especially in a transitional freshwater-marine environment like Baywater Pond, which also likely has been subject to significant chemical and physical anthropogenic influence. Talbot and Lærdal (2000) and Filippi and Talbot (2005) proposed that falling δ13C (and relatively high δ15N and C/N) is recorded in freshwater sediments during water level rise, thus the data from Bayswater Pond may be, in part, related to outlet manipulation and consequent impacts on the water level. In summary, the bulk geochemical data retrieved from Baywater Pond sediment indicates that this material is unique with respect to other organic material gathered locally and that it has likely been significantly influenced by anthropogenic activity. Figure 3. A comparison of stable isotope chemistry of Bayswater Pond sediment samples (BWP 1-18 from an 18 cm long gravity core) to samples of organic matter collected at Bayswater Beach (Beach) and in the offshore environment (Benthic). This diagram is modified from Figure 9 in a report by the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, April 28, 2021, entitled “Investigating Concerns of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Impacts at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park, NS”. 7 3.0 Discussion & Recommendations Baywater Beach Provincial Park did not experience any closures of the marine swimming area in 2021. The monitoring activities reported here observed one exceedance of Health Canada’s E. coli primary contact guideline on August 24, 2021, during drought conditions (i.e., several days of no precipitation) at the Culvert sample site; however, bacteria conditions on the same day in the stream on Bayswater Beach did not exceed guidelines. Low concentrations of total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and dissolved organic carbon suggest that the pond is not rich in nutrients and is likely not a highly productive aquatic environment. Analyses of the sediment core indicate that the sediment found in Bayswater Pond is distinct from the beach and marine benthic sediments investigated by NSDFA (2021). The pond has likely been impacted by anthropogenic activities related to land clearing, the development of Route 329, and manipulation of the pond’s outlet. Completion of this analysis means that there are now three distinct isotopic ‘fingerprints’ that have been investigated in the local area: Bayswater Pond, the marine benthic sediment near aquaculture operations offshore, and a sediment organic layer at 50-cm depth on Bayswater Beach. It is recommended that a sample of the foul-smelling black substance be collected from Bayswater Beach when it appears on the surface of the sand, which seems to occur during the warm summer months. Once collected, this sample would undergo a paleolimnological and C/N isotope analysis to be compared to the three distinct isotopic signatures already established in the local area. Should MOC be interested in financially supporting this initiative, Coastal Action can facilitate the collection of this sample by coordinating with local residents. Sample analysis would then be coordinated with Dr. Ian Spooner at Acadia University and the University of New Brunswick. 8 4.0 References British Columbia Environment and Resource Management Department Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Parks. 1998. Ambient water quality guidelines for organic carbon in British Columbia. 12 p. Coastal Action. 2020. Water Quality Monitoring Report for Bayswater Pond/Bayswater Beach Provincial Park. Available on request from Municipality of Chester. Dodds, W.K. and Welch, E.B. (2000). Establishing nutrient criteria in streams. J.N.Am.Benthol.Soc.19(1), 186-196. Dunnington, D.W., Spooner, I.S., Krkošek, W.H., Gagnon, G.A., Cornett, R.J., Kurek, J., White, C.E., Misiuk, B., and Tymstra, D. 2018. Anthropogenic activity in the Halifax region, Nova Scotia, Canada, as recorded by bulk geochemistry of lake sediments. Lake and Reservoir Management, 34: 334–348. Filippi, M.L., and Talbot, M.R. 2005. The palaeolimnology of northern Lake Malawi over the last 25ka based upon the elemental and stable isotopic composition of sedimentary organic matter. Quaternary Science Reviews, 24: 1303–1328. doi:10.1016/j.quascirev.2004.10.009. Health Canada. (2012). Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality, Third Edition. Water Air, and Climate Change Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. (Catalogue No H129-15/2012E). Mackereth, F.J.H. 1966. Some chemical observations on post-glacial lake sediments. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences, 250: 165–213. doi:10.1098/rstb.1966.0001. Meyers, P.A., and Lallier-Vergés, E. 1999. Lacustrine Sedimentary Organic Matter Records of Late Quaternary Paleoclimates. Journal of Paleolimnology, 21: 345–372. doi:10.1023/A:1008073732192. Meyers, P.A., and Teranes, J.L. 2001. Sediment Organic Matter. In Tracking Environmental Change Using Lake Sediments: Physical and Geochemical Methods. Edited by W.M. Last and J.P. Smol. Springer Netherlands, Dordrecht. pp. 239–269. doi:10.1007/0-306-47670-3_9. Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSDFA). 2021. Investigating Concerns of Marine Finfish Aquaculture Impacts at Bayswater Beach Provincial Park, NS. https://novascotia.ca/fish/documents/Report_Apr._28_2021_- _Investigating_Concerns_of_Marine_Finfish_Aquaculture_Impacts_at_Bayswater_Beach_Provi ncial_Park_NS.pdf Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE). (2008). Guidelines for Identifying, Assessing and Managing Contaminated Sediments in Ontario. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 112 p. Talbot, M.R. 2001. Nitrogen Isotopes in Paleolimnology. In Tracking Environmental Change Using Lake Sediments. Kluwer Academic Publishers. pp. 401–439. Talbot, M.R., and Lærdal, T. 2000. The Late Pleistocene - Holocene palaeolimnology of Lake Victoria, East Africa, based upon elemental and isotopic analyses of sedimentary organic matter. Journal of Paleolimnology; Dordrecht, 23: 141–164. Springer Nature B.V., Dordrecht, Netherlands, Dordrecht. doi:http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.acadiau.ca:2048/10.1023/A:1008029400463. Bacteria Monitoring Results from Goose Creek and Rafuse Cove, Western Shore, NS S. Fredericks February 2022 Bacteria Monitoring Results from Goose Creek and Rafuse Cove, Western Shore, NS Contributing Authors and Surveyors: Blake McNeely, Watersheds & Water Quality Team Lead Abby Maguire, Nova Action Cohort Member February 23, 2022 Coastal Action 45 School Street, Suite 403 Mahone Bay, N.S., B0J 2E0 Ph: (902) 634 9977 Email: info@coastalaction.org This work was supported by: Contents 1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1 2.0 Program Methodology ............................................................................................................................ 1 2.1 Goose Creek E. coli Sampling .............................................................................................................. 2 2.2 Rafuse Cove Enterococci Water Sampling .......................................................................................... 3 2.3 Rafuse Cove E. coli Sediment Sampling .............................................................................................. 4 3.0 Results ..................................................................................................................................................... 4 3.1 Goose Creek E. coli Results ................................................................................................................. 4 3.2 Rafuse Cove Enterococci Water Sample Results ................................................................................ 5 3.3 Rafuse Cove E. coli Sediment Sample Results ..................................................................................... 5 4.0 Discussion and Recommendations ......................................................................................................... 6 4.1 Rafuse Cove ......................................................................................................................................... 6 4.2 Goose Creek ........................................................................................................................................ 6 4.3 Recommendations .............................................................................................................................. 7 5.0 References .............................................................................................................................................. 9 List of Figures Figure 1. Bacteria sample sites on Goose Creek and a drainage channel near the Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant. ........................................................................................................................................... 3 Figure 2. Water and sediment sample sites in Rafuse Cove, near the mouth of Goose Creek in Western Shore, NS. ...................................................................................................................................................... 4 List of Tables Table 1. Health Canada guidelines for primary and secondary water-based recreation for Enterococci and E.coli bacteria. ........................................................................................................................................ 2 Table 2. Description of sample sites located along a 600-m section of Goose Creek and drainage channel in Western Shore, NS. ................................................................................................................................... 3 Table 3. E. coli results from one rainfall-dependent and four drought-dependent sampling events in Goose Creek. ................................................................................................................................................. 5 Table 4. Enterococci results for three marine sites in Rafuse Cove, collected during drought conditions on September 28, 2021................................................................................................................................. 5 Table 5. E. coli concentrations in marine benthic sediment collected in Rafuse Cove during drought conditions on September 28, 2021. .............................................................................................................. 6 1 1.0 Introduction The Municipality of Chester (MOC) contracted Coastal Action to conduct a water quality monitoring program in 2021 in Goose Creek (also known as Vaughans River) and Rafuse Cove, both located in Western Shore, NS, near Oak Island. This program follows a similar small-scale program conducted in 2020 that investigated fecal bacteria conditions at the mouth of Goose Creek as well as marine sites in Rafuse Cove. Results of the 2020 monitoring identified a frequent source of bacteria contamination in Goose Creek; however, bacteria conditions in the marine environment were not determined to be a significant issue at the time. The 2021 program focuses on monitoring a 600-m section of Goose Creek, from the ocean upstream to the Chester Connection Trail, to isolate and identify the location(s) where fecal bacteria pollution is entering the stream. Additional sampling occurred in the marine environment to investigate bacteria conditions in the immediate drainage area of Goose Creek and the bottom sediments of Rafuse Cove. The objectives for this monitoring program were to: 1. Determine the source(s) and location(s) of fecal bacteria pollution in Goose Creek. 2. Determine if bottom sediments are acting as a reservoir for fecal bacteria in Rafuse Cove and investigate bacteria conditions in the marine discharge area of Goose Creek. 3. Monitor algal blooms in the Rafuse Cove area to determine if blooms contain cyanobacteria toxin (microcystin-LR) (Dependent on the occurrence and reporting of blooms in the area). 2.0 Program Methodology The original program design included two rainfall-dependent and two drought-dependent sampling events, which were to occur in both the 600-m stretch of Goose Creek and the stream’s marine discharge area in Rafuse Cove. All sampling events were conducted; however, multiple rainfall-dependent sample sets were lost due to equipment and procedural failures at the contracted laboratory, where samples were sent for analysis. Due to these unforeseen challenges, this report includes only one rainfall-dependent sampling event. Supplementary data has been included from a similar study which was conducted in Goose Creek in 2021. Abby Maguire, a Park View Education Centre student, and a member of Coastal Action’s Nova Action cohort, has been investigating the issue of fecal contamination in Goose Creek under the guidance of Coastal Action staff. The sample site locations and methodologies are identical to this study, allowing for the use of that data in this reporting. 2 Bacteria results are compared to Health Canada’s Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality (2012). Guidelines have been developed to indicate the safety of recreational waters for both primary (i.e., whole body or the face and trunk are frequently immersed or the face is frequently wetted by spray, and it is likely that some water will be swallowed) and secondary (i.e., only the limbs are regularly wetted and greater contact, including swallowing water, is unusual) types of water contact (Table 1). Table 1. Health Canada guidelines for primary and secondary water-based recreation for Enterococci and E.coli bacteria. Enterococci bacteria E. coli bacteria Primary Contact ≤ 70 cfu/100 mL (single sample max.) ≤ 400 cfu/100 mL (single sample max.) Secondary Contact ≤ 175 cfu/100 mL ≤ 1000 cfu/100 mL * cfu = colony forming units 2.1 Goose Creek E. coli Sampling Surface water samples were collected from multiple locations in Goose Creek, beginning at the mouth of the stream and travelling upstream as far as the Chester Connection Trail. Sample sites were placed between (i.e., upstream and downstream) residential properties and other potential contamination sources. Additional samples were collected when possible (i.e., when water was present/flowing) from a drainage ditch that runs parallel to Boehner Road and then flows through a forested wetland habitat along the northern and eastern sides of the Westermm Shore Sewage Treatment Plant fenceline before discharging into Goose Creek just upstream of Hwy 3 (Figure 1). 3 Figure 1. Bacteria sample sites on Goose Creek and a drainage channel near the Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant. Table 2. Description of sample sites located along a 600-m section of Goose Creek and drainage channel in Western Shore, NS. 2.2 Rafuse Cove Enterococci Water Sampling Surface water samples were collected from three locations in Rafuse Cove on September 28, 2021 (Figure 2) and analyzed for enterococci bacteria, the recommended fecal indicator species in marine environments (Health Canada 2012). This sampling event occurred during drought conditions (i.e., > 48 hours without precipitation). Site Number Description of bacteria sample sites 1 The mouth of Goose Creek before draining into the ocean 2 Upstream/downstream of residential properties 3 Upstream/downstream of residential properties 4 Downstream of Hwy 3 bridge 5 Drainage channel upstream of livestock property 6 Drainage channel downstream of livestock property (culvert outflow) 7 1 m downstream of the drainage channel 8 The mouth of the drainage channel before entering Goose Creek 9 1 m upstream of the drainage channel 10 The mouth of the Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant effluent pipe 11 Upstream of Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant 12 Upstream of residential property / downstream of Chester Connection Trail bridge 13 Mid-way along the Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant property 4 2.3 Rafuse Cove E. coli Sediment Sampling Benthic sediment samples were collected from two locations in Rafuse Cove on September 28, 2021, and analyzed for E. coli bacteria (Figure 2). This sampling event occurred during drought conditions. Sediment samples were collected using a gravity corer. A gravity core of the top 10-20 cm of benthic sediment was collected and transferred to laboratory-provided, sterilized jars. Figure 2. Water and sediment sample sites in Rafuse Cove, near the mouth of Goose Creek in Western Shore, NS. 3.0 Results 3.1 Goose Creek E. coli Results E. coli concentrations displayed a marked difference following a heavy rainfall event on May 31, 2021 (Table 2). On this day, exceedances of Health Canada’s primary contact guideline were observed at sites 1-6 and site 11, while the remaining sites also showed elevated bacteria concentrations compared to drought conditions. No exceedances were observed during drought-dependent sampling events, indicating that bacteria contamination in Goose Creek is being caused mainly by runoff from land-based sources and not the frequent discharge of sewage treatment plant effluent. 5 Table 3. E. coli results from one rainfall-dependent and four drought-dependent sampling events in Goose Creek. Drought May 12, 2021 Drought May 20, 2021 Rainfall May 31, 2021 Drought August 18, 2021 Drought Sept. 28, 2021 Site 1 10 60 1200 230 20 Site 2 ND 44 640 60 80 Site 3 ND 42 680 30 40 Site 4 10 26 840 - 80 Site 5 ND ND 480 - 30 Site 6 ND ND 2100 - - Site 7 10 40 250 40 190 Site 8 ND 6 100 - - Site 9 ND 100 360 10 180 Site 10 ND 88 90 10 40 Site 11 ND 140 440 10 40 Site 12 - - - 20 40 Site 13 - - - ND - (ND = <10 cfu/100 mL) (ND = <2.0 cfu/100 mL) - (ND = <10 cfu/100 mL) - * ND = Not Detected below the specified concentration. * (-) indicates a site was not sampled due to lack of water flow or accessibility. 3.2 Rafuse Cove Enterococci Water Sample Results Water samples collected from Rafuse Cove during drought conditions displayed low concentrations of enterococci bacteria at sites located in Rafuse Cove; however, one exceedance of Health Canada’s primary contact enterococci guideline was observed near the marine discharge area of Goose Creek (Rafuse 3). Table 4. Enterococci results for three marine sites in Rafuse Cove, collected during drought conditions on September 28, 2021. Site Name Enterococci Concentration (cfu/100 mL) Rafuse 1 10 Rafuse 2 30 Rafuse 3 100 3.3 Rafuse Cove E. coli Sediment Sample Results Benthic sediment samples collected from two locations in Rafuse Cove displayed low concentrations of E. coli bacteria. Health Canada does not currently have recreational guidelines for bacteria concentrations in beach sand or benthic sediments. 6 Table 5. E. coli concentrations in marine benthic sediment collected in Rafuse Cove during drought conditions on September 28, 2021. Site Name E. coli Concentration (MPN/g) Rafuse Sediment 1 < 2.0 Rafuse Sediment 2 < 2.0 4.0 Discussion and Recommendations 4.1 Rafuse Cove Based on the limited amount of data collected from Rafuse Cove during drought conditions, both the benthic sediment and overlying water column did not display elevated concentrations of fecal bacteria. Of the three marine water samples collected, the site located closest to the marine discharge area of Goose Creek was the only site to exceed Health Canada’s primary contact guideline for enterococci bacteria. This may be attributed to the frequently contaminated waters of Goose Creek; however, other potential sources are present in this area (i.e., waterfowl, coastal shoreline properties in Rafuse Cove). No algal blooms were reported and no water samples were collected for the analysis of microcystin-LR during the study period. 4.2 Goose Creek Ground-truthing and monitoring results confirm that land-based sources of fecal bacteria within the catchment area of Goose Creek are contaminating this stream following rainfall events and during wetter periods of the year. Two residential properties have been identified as likely contributors to this problem; however, all properties within the stream’s catchment area should be included in educational outreach initiatives (see section 4.3). A residential property located immediately north of the Western Shore Sewage Treatment Plant (WSSTP) has a small fenced paddock where three horses and one goat are kept. A manure pile, which is not properly contained, is located next to this paddock. This paddock and manure pile slope directly towards a drainage ditch, located roughly 5 m from the manure. This drainage flows along the northern and eastern fenceline of the WSSTP, briefly running underground through a culvert then spreading throughout a wetland area before being funnelled back into a small drainage ditch that discharges into Goose Creek just upstream of Hwy 3. For non-contained solid manure, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) recommends separation distances of 20 m from a drainage ditch and 100 m from a watercourse. Solid manure should be contained within a walled concrete pad , and runoff should be managed to prevent leaching into the environment (Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture 2006). The hobby farm-scale manure pile in question is located just 5 m from a drainage ditch and roughly 110 m from Goose Creek. 7 Sample sites were strategically placed in order to isolate the runoff from this property. Site 5 is located in the drainage ditch upstream of the livestock impacts. Site 6 is located immediately downstream of these impacts, and sites 7, 8, and 9 are placed along the drainage and leaching zone of this drainage channel where it joins Goose Creek. Results from the rainfall-dependent sampling event presented in this report (May 31, 2021; Table 2) show elevated fecal bacteria at all sites downstream of this property in both the drainage ditch and Goose Creek. Runoff from the property in question warrants an investigation from NS Environment, as the release of harmful substances, including manure, that results in the impairment of water quality is in violation of the NS Environment Act (Province of Nova Scotia 1995). It should be noted; however, that additional sites upstream of this property, as well as sites located several hundred meters downstream of this property, have also displayed elevated bacteria conditions. A residential property located upstream of this property and the WSSTP, and just downstream of the Chester Connection Trail, also houses a small paddock and a poultry barn located immediately adjacent to the streambanks of Goose Creek and poses a similar risk of contamination if not properly managed. It is not known if these livestock/poultry structures were in use during the study period. 4.3 Recommendations The intention of the monitoring program and this report is not to lay blame on individual properties for the fecal bacteria contamination issue in Goose Creek. The objectives are to confirm the persistent contamination issue and identify likely and potential sources for remediation. Next steps should focus on homeowner education, community stewardship, and remediation activities, along with continued rainfall-dependent monitoring. Coastal Action presents the following list of suggested next steps: • Conduct a targeted outreach initiative with all property owners located within the catchment area of Goose Creek. This program could include educational resources regarding best practices for managing runoff and protecting water quality. Additional activities could include individual property assessments, recommendations, and resources (i.e., septic system maintenance, riparian buffers, water conservation/control techniques, etc.). • Conduct one or more community stewardship days with volunteers to remove the significant amount of garbage observed within Goose Creek and throughout its riparian habitat. • Maintenance and/or enhancement of the small wetland habitat located between the WSSTP and Hwy 3. This wetland is helping to filter the contaminated water currently flowing through it before it reaches Goose Creek (land ownership TBD). • Continued rainfall-dependent bacteria monitoring is recommended to further confirm contamination areas in Goose Creek due to the issues with rainfall-dependent 8 monitoring events experienced in 2021. Continued monitoring would help to assess the before/after impacts of educational and remediation activities. 9 5.0 References Health Canada. 2012. Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality, Third Edition. Water Air, and Climate Change Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. (Catalogue No H129-15/2012E). Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture. 2006. Manure Management Guidelines. 20pp. Accessed on February 15, 2022. [https://www.nsefp.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/NS-Manure-Management- Guidelines.pdf]. Province of Nova Scotia. 1995. Nova Scotia Environment Act. Accessed on February 15, 2022. 108pp. [https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/environment.pdf]. MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER POLICY P -10 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETINGS Regular Council meeting of Chester Municipal Council shall be held on the second Thursday and the last Monday of each month in the Municipal Council Chambers. Meetings will commence at 8:45 a.m. Notice of a change in meeting time or date is to be published in a local paper circulating in the area. This policy will become effective on May 1, 2001. Notice given March 28 "', 2001 Adopted April 12 "', 2001 (2001.171) 21 SECTION 6 - TRAVEL EXPENSE & MEAL ALLOWANCE 6.1 Purpose To establish guidelines for the reimbursement of travel expenses incurred by an employee while conducting Municipal business away from the Municipal Offices. 6.2 Objectives The objectives of the Travel Policy will be to: 6.2.1 Identify circumstances that dictate travel; 6.2.2 Identify travel expenses that will be eligible for reimbursement; 6.2.3 Provide authorization to travel; and 6.2.4 Provide the procedure to claim travel expenses. 6.3 Policy The Municipality of the District of Chester shall reimburse employees for all reasonable and appropriate expenses for travel, meals, and accommodations incurred in the course of carrying out their duties and responsibilities and attending meetings, courses, seminars, conferences or call -outs approved by the Municipality. The mode of transportation chosen should be that which enables the employee to conveniently meet scheduled appointments, minimizes the amount of working time spent in traveling and is the most cost effective means of transportation. 6.4 Travel Expenses Eligible for Reimbursement Itemized receipts are required for reimbursement of all travel expenses unless stated below and to be submitted to the appropriate Department Head for approval. 6.4.1 Car Travel - where car travel is indicated as the most suitable mode of transportation, an employee may use their own car and be reimbursed at the Provincial rate. Employees are responsible for their own insurance while using their vehicle on municipal business. Employees should endeavour to travel in one car when two or more employees are scheduled for the same destination at the same time. 6.4.2 Car Rental - reimbursement will be made for rental of economy type cars at destination. Rental of car requires prior approval of the Department Head or, for Department Heads, prior approval of the CAO. Notice of Amendment - Committee of the Whole - April 5, 2012 (2012-161) 1st Notice - Amended - Council - April 12, 2012 (2012-203) 2nd Notice - April 26, 2012 (2012-239) Effective Date - April 26, 2012 Page 1 of 2 Section 6 - Travel Expense & Meal Allowance (continued) 6.4.3 Accommodation - single room accommodation rate will be reimbursed. Double room accommodation rate will be reimbursed if two or more employees share the same room. 6.4.4 Meals - the employee's reasonable out-of-pocket costs will be reimbursed for personal meals while traveling on Municipal business while attending meetings or while on call - outs. Itemized receipts, and debit/Visa slips are required for all meals. Reasonable tips and gratuities will be reimbursed, if receipted. Alcoholic beverages are not eligible for reimbursement. 6.4.5 Telephone - All telephone expenses for Municipal business purposes will be reimbursed. 6.4.6 Parking and Toll Expenses - the Municipality will reimburse all parking expenses and bridge/road tolls. Receipts are required. 6.4.7 Miscellaneous - Out of pocket expenses for parking, taxi fares, dry cleaning, bridge/causeway tolls, ferry, etc., as appropriate. Receipts are required. 6.4.8 The only expenses for which receipts are not required are as follows: • claims for per diem meal allowances • claims for car mileage 6.4.9 Where the employee certifies that the receipt was lost, accidentally destroyed, or unobtainable, a personal declaration may replace the receipt. Personal credit or debit card copies are acceptable for total amounts. 6.5 Reimbursement of Travel Expenses Claims for mileage and meals while attending business meetings will be reimbursed to employees. 6.6 Travel Advances Estimates for travel, meal, and accommodations in excess of $150.00 may require an advance paid to the employee. When the estimated expense is less than $150.00, there will be no advance. 6.7 Use of Municipal Vehicles Employees using Municipal vehicles are required to adhere to all Motor Vehicle regulations and shall be responsible for any fines for any infractions. Notice of Amendment - Committee of the Whole - April 5, 2012 (2012-161) 1st Notice - Amended - Council - April 12, 2012 (2012-203) 2nd Notice - April 26, 2012 (2012-239) Effective Date - April 26, 2012 Page 2 of 2 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER POLICY P -22 PETTY CASH FUND POLICY Limit - Administration - $500.00 Recreation - $100.00 2. The fund is to be used only for Municipal expenses. 3. The fund must not be used to settle part of the Municipality's accounts payable transactions. 4. Salaries are not to be paid out of Petty Cash under any circumstances. 5. Travel expenses, with the exception of reimbursing employees for taxi fare, are not to be paid out of Petty Cash. Notice Given, August 8, 2002 (2002.480) Approved by Council, August 26, 2002 (2002.501) 33 Municipality of the District of Chester Expense Policy Policy P-95 Effective Date: Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 2 of 15 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER POLICY P-95 EXPENSE POLICY 1 PURPOSE 1.01 The Expense Policy ensures the appropriate use of Municipal funds through routine disclosure of information concerning eligible expenses incurred by reportable individuals (the Warden, Deputy Warden, Councillors, and the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)), as well as Committee members and Municipal employees. Through uniform standards and consistent procedures for reimbursement, the Municipality of the District of Chester seeks to enhance public confidence in the oversight of eligible travel, accommodation, meals, and training & continuing education expenses incurred by Council, the CAO, employees of the Municipality, and Committee members while conducting Municipal business. 1.02 Authority for the Expense Policy is derived from Section 23(3), (4), (6), and (7) and 65D(1), (2), (5), and (6) of the Municipal Government Act. Section 23(3) directs the adoption of an expense policy; Section 23(4) states the minimum requirements for such a policy; Section 23(6) stipulates an expense may only be reimbursed if authorized by an expense policy; Section 23(7) states that the expense policy be reviewed and adopted following each regular election; and Section 65D outlines requirements for expense reporting. 2 PRINCIPLES 2.01 The principles informing and underlying this Policy are as follows: (a) Accountability The Municipality is accountable for public funds used for travel, accommodation, meals, and training and continuing education expenses. (b) Transparency The Municipality is transparent to all of its residents, businesses, and community organizations. The procedures for incurring and reimbursing travel, accommodation, meals, and training and education expenses are clear, easily understood, and available to the public. (c) Value for Money The Municipality undertakes plans for travel, accommodation, meals, and training Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 3 of 15 and education that are necessary and economical with due regard for health and safety. (d) Fairness The Municipality reimburses legitimate authorized expenses incurred during the course of business conducted by the Municipality. 3. POLICY 3.01 Signing Authorities (a) The following are the Signing Authorities responsible for administering this policy with respect to the individuals in the identified positions. Position Signing Authority Warden or Deputy Warden CAO or Designate Councillor Warden or Designate CAO Warden or Designate Employees of the Municipality Immediate Supervisor or CAO Committee Members CAO or Designate (b) A Signing Authority may designate a second Signing Authority. The designation of a secondary Signing Authority shall be in writing and shall state the name and position of the designate. (c) All Signing Authorities are prohibited from authorizing their own expenses. (d) Where applicable, the person who requests a reportable individual to attend a certain function or meeting and therefore incur eligible expenses should also be the Signing Authority for that reportable individual to ensure consistent of process. 3.02 Individual Responsibilities (a) Everyone who incurs expenses in relation to Municipal business is responsible for: i. understanding and complying with the provisions of this policy; ii. completing and submitting expense claims with necessary supporting documentation; iii. exercising reasonable diligence and care in incurring expenses prudently and responsibly; and iv. timely cancelation of travel reservations as required, safeguarding travel advances and funds provided, and considering alternatives to travel such as teleconferencing and videoconferencing. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 4 of 15 3.03 Permitted Expenses (a) Subject to and in accordance with this policy, the following expenses incurred by Council, the CAO, employees of the Municipality, and Committee members are eligible for reimbursement: i. authorized travel, including transportation, parking, accommodation and meal costs; ii. pre-approved out-of-province travel, including transportation, parking, accommodation and meal costs; and iii. approved training or continuing education costs. 3.04 Authorized Travel (a) All members of Council shall be reimbursed for the reasonable expenses incurred for attending: i. Council and Committee of Council meetings; ii. functions, meetings, or conferences at which their attendance is authorized or requested by Council or is part Municipal business; iii. meetings of any Board, Commission, Committee, or other organization to which they have been appointed by Council, with the exception that no reimbursement shall be provided by the Municipality if the reimbursement of expenses is available directly from the applicable host organization; iv. in the case of the Warden and Deputy Warden or Designate, functions, meetings, or conferences to which one or more representatives of the Municipality have been invited or requested or would otherwise reasonably be expected to attend, unless Council has specifically directed the Warden or Deputy Warden not to attend; v. in the case of a Councillor, and on behalf of the Municipality, functions, meetings, or conferences identified in 3.04(a)iv above provided that such attendance is either: 1. at the request of Council to attend in lieu of the Warden or Deputy- Warden; or 2. at the request of Council to attend as a Councillor for a district that has a special interest in, or connection with, the subject of the meeting or conference or because of special knowledge and experience of the Councillor that relates to subject of the meeting or conference; and vi. training or continuing education events in accordance with the provisions of this policy concerning training and continuing education. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 5 of 15 (b) The CAO, or an employee of the Municipality delegated any of the responsibilities or powers of the CAO pursuant to subsection 29(b) of the Municipal Government Act, shall be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in attending: i. any Council or Committee of Council meeting; ii. meetings or conferences at which the CAO’s attendance is authorized or is requested by Council; iii. a meeting of any Board, Commission, Committee, or other organization to which the CAO has been appointed by Council, with the exception that no reimbursement shall be provided by the Municipality if the CAO is entitled to reimbursement of expenses directly from the applicable organization; iv. functions, meetings, or conferences to which one or more representatives of the Municipality have been invited or requested or would otherwise reasonably be expected to attend, unless Council has specifically directed the CAO not to attend; and v. training or continuing education events in accordance with the provisions of this policy concerning training and continuing education. (c) Employees of the Municipality shall be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in attending: i. functions, meetings, or conferences necessary for carrying out duties and responsibilities associated with their employment and/or as authorized or requested by their Immediate Supervisor or the CAO or Designate; ii. meetings of any Board, Commission, Committee, or other organization to which they have been appointed by Council or the CAO, with the exception that no reimbursement shall be provided by the Municipality if the reimbursement of expenses is available directly from the applicable host organization; iii. functions, meetings, or conferences to which one or more representatives of the Municipality have been invited or requested or would otherwise reasonably be expected to attend, unless their Immediate Supervisor or the CAO or designate has specifically directed them not to attend; and iv. training or continuing education events in accordance with the provisions of this policy concerning training and continuing education. (d) Committee members of the Municipality shall be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in attending: i. meetings of the Committee to which they have been appointed by Council or the CAO; and Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 6 of 15 ii. functions, meetings or conferences at which attendance is authorized or requested by the CAO or Designate, with the exception that no reimbursement shall be provided by the Municipality if the reimbursement of expenses is available directly from the applicable host organization. 3.05 Training and Continuing Education (a) Council members, the CAO, or employees of the Municipality may apply in advance (see Section 5.02 for procedure) for approval to incur expenses out of an established training and continuing education expense budget provided that: i. the training or education course, meeting, or conference is related to professional development objectives in municipal governance, business, or administration; ii. in the case of a Council member, the training or education course, meeting, or conference is completed prior to the next municipal election date; and iii. the Claimant reimburses the Municipality for enrollment fees in the event of failure to attend all or some of the training or education course, meeting, or conference without reasonable justification. (b) If the applicable Signing Authority approves an application to incur expenses in relation to training or continuing education, and the Claimant (not the Municipality) pays all or some of the pre-approved expenses, the Claimant shall be eligible for reimbursement of those expenses after submitting an expense claim in accordance with this policy. 3.06 Limits on Reimbursement of Expenses (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Policy, the following limits shall apply to the reimbursement of expenses: i. a Claimant shall be reimbursed only for costs the Claimant has incurred; ii. the expenses of a Council member for political activity associated with election or re-election shall not be reimbursed; iii. air travel must be booked at the most cost-effective rate available in order to be eligible for reimbursement; iv. reasonable costs for luggage, airport improvement or similar fees shall be reimbursed at actual costs; v. hotel accommodations shall be reimbursed at actual costs, with government rates obtained whenever possible; Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 7 of 15 vi. hotel accommodation upgrades shall be at the personal expense of the Claimant unless there are ergonomic necessities attributable to physical requirements including, but not limited to, accessibility needs; vii. meals included as part of registration fees for conferences or courses are not eligible for reimbursement; viii. eligible meal expenses shall be reimbursed by expense claims accompanied by detailed receipts; one of two methods as outlined in Section 3.09: 1. expense claims accompanied by detailed receipts; or 2. per diem meals rates; ix. costs for alcoholic beverages shall not be reimbursed; x. fees, interest, and surcharges incurred on a credit card shall not be reimbursed; xi. when personal and Municipal travel is combined, only documented, eligible expenses directly related to the Municipality are reimbursable; any extended travel time and related expenses are the Claimant’s personal expenses and shall not be reimbursed; xii. reimbursement shall not be provided for the following: loss of personal effects; medical and hospital treatment; purchase of luggage, clothing and other personal equipment; or personal services such as valet services, dry- cleaning, laundry, haircuts; and xiii. reimbursement shall not be provided for travel and related expenses for individuals who are not Council members, the CAO, employees of the Municipality, and Committee members. 3.07 Travel Advances (a) Travel advances are not routinely approved. Advances are intended to cover out- of-pocket expenses incurred during travel. The following limits shall apply to the use of advances: i. all advances must be approved by the Immediate Supervisor, or the CAO or Designate, as appropriate; ii. advances will only be issued when an overnight stay is required; iii. advances will not be made for less than $150; iv. the Immediate Supervisor, or the CAO or Designate, must not approve an advance unless there is a reasonable need for the advance; v. the recipient of the advance must complete an expense claim that reconciles the amount of the advance with the actual reimbursable expenses incurred, and must repay any remaining balance of the advance to the Municipality within 10 days of completing the travel; and Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 8 of 15 vi. advances are prohibited if the Claimant has a Municipal credit card. 3.08 Use of Municipal Credit Cards (a) In respect to expenses incurred while conducting Municipal business, Municipal Credit Cards shall be used only for eligible expenses related to travel, accommodation, meals, and training and education as defined in this policy. (b) Municipal Credit Cards must not be used for cash advances and personal expenses. (c) Expenses incurred while on Municipal business and which are paid with Municipal Credit Cards are considered personal expenses of the card holder until such time as the signing authority has reviewed the statement and has approved them as eligible expenses according to this policy. 3.09 Meals (a) For each day or part day of travel, the Claimant shall be reimbursed for meals (including reasonable associated gratuities and taxes) that the Claimant purchased during travel. Meal expense claims shall be accompanied by detailed receipts. shall be reimbursed by one of two methods: i. meal expense claims accompanied by details receipts; or ii. per diem rate for each meal, which includes an allowance for gratuities and taxes. (The per diem rate for meals shall be established by Motion of Council.) (b) Should special dietary requirements (medical, religious, etc.) prevent the Claimant from participating in a meal that is provided free of cost, and, as a result, the Claimant must pay for a meal, the Claimant shall be reimbursed for that meal. (c) Alcoholic beverages are not eligible for reimbursement. 3.10 Kilometrage (a) The kilometrage allowance reimbursed for a Claimant using a personal vehicle for authorized travel shall be at the rate stipulated by the Province of Nova Scotia as the maximum kilometrage rate for its employees. (b) Should Council members, the CAO, employees of the Municipality, and Committee members be attending the same meeting, conference, or function, reasonable Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 9 of 15 efforts shall be made to share a vehicle. 3.11 Vehicle Rentals (a) The cost of rental of a vehicle shall be a reimbursable expense in instances when: i. reasonable ground transportation services such as public transit, taxis, or hotel shuttles are unavailable; or ii. two or more Municipal representatives (Council members, the CAO, employees of the Municipality, Committee members) are traveling together, and it is more economical than the combined cost of other reasonable ground transportation. (b) Compact, economical vehicles must be used unless three or more persons are travelling together, the bulk or weight of goods being transported necessitates a larger vehicle, or a compact, economical vehicle is unavailable. (c) For the protection of the Claimant and the Municipality, Claimants must ensure that adequate insurance (collision, comprehensive, and third-party liability insurance) is in place for all drivers by either renting the vehicle using a personal credit card with an insurance option, or by purchasing a policy from the rental agency. The applicable deductible must be the lowest available given the coverage described above. 3.12 Fraud, Misuse or Misappropriation of Municipal Funds (a) Fraudulent irregularity, misuse or misappropriation of Municipal funds may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. (b) Suspicious activity and potential misuse of funds must be reported to the CAO. If such activity relates to the CAO, it must be reported to the Warden. 4 SCOPE 4.01 This Expense Policy applies to all Reportable Individuals, employees of the Municipality, and Committee members who incur approved expenses while conducting Municipality of the District of Chester business. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 10 of 15 5 PROCEDURES 5.01 Approval of Out-of-Province Travel Requests (a) All requests for out-of-province travel costs shall be made in writing and shall contain the following information: i. purpose and duration of the trip; ii. location(s) to be visited; iii. dates and times of arrival and departure; iv. details regarding any pre-paid transportation, meals, or accommodation; and v. details regarding any other anticipated expenses. (b) The review and approval of all requests for out-of-province travel will consider the value and benefit of the proposed travel in relation to its cost. (c) When two or more out-of-province travel requests are made by Council members for the same purpose, the CAO, in discussion with the Warden, shall determine the appropriate number of persons necessary to represent the Municipality. (d) All requests for out-of-province travel by Reportable Individuals and Municipal employees will be reviewed by corresponding Signing Authorities in accordance with Section 3.01(a) of this Policy. (e) If a request for out-of-province travel is approved, and the Claimant (not the Municipality) pays all or some of the eligible expenses for the travel, the Claimant shall be eligible for reimbursement of those expenses after submitting an expense claim in accordance with this policy. 5.02 Approval of Training and Continuing Education Requests (a) All requests for training or continuing education reimbursement shall be made in writing and shall contain the following information: i. details of proposed training or continuing education; ii. course or enrollment fees; iii. details regarding pre-paid transportation, meals, or accommodation; and iv. any other anticipated expenses. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 11 of 15 5.03 Expense Claims (a) Expense claims must be submitted on the form provided by the Municipality and shall be signed by the Claimant. (b) The business reason for each expense must be submitted with all expense claims and a detailed itemized receipt is required for all expense claims except: i. claims for per diem meal allowances; i. incidental expenses, such as tolls and parking; and ii. claims for personal vehicle kilometrage for authorized travel. (b) If no receipt is available, a written attestation signed by the Claimant must be submitted to explain why the receipt is unavailable, and a description itemizing and confirming the expenses. Debit or credit card transaction records are not acceptable as receipts. (c) Expenses incurred by one individual on behalf of another must be attributed to the individual for whom those expenses were incurred. (d) No expense claim shall be paid unless the claim is first approved for payment by the Signing Authority with the authority to approve the claim. Before approving an expense claim, a Signing Authority must ensure that: i. the claim is consistent with this policy; ii. the expenses claimed were necessarily incurred in the performance of municipal business; iii. appropriate receipts are provided to support the claim, and the claim documentation is appropriately filed; and iv. the expenses claimed have appropriate justification. (e) In considering an expense claim for payment, a Signing Authority may request additional explanations, documentation, or justification from the Claimant, and may refuse to approve any claim or expense that the Signing Authority decides is unreasonable or not in compliance with this policy. (f) The use of petty cash to pay an expense claim is prohibited. 5.04 Timeframe (a) A claim for reimbursement of an expense shall be submitted for approval to a Claimant’s Signing Authority within thirty (30) days of the expense being incurred. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 12 of 15 (b) An extension to the thirty (30) days submission window will be considered if the Claimant provides a reasonable explanation for the delay. (c) Expenses must be submitted in, and charged to, the year in which they occurred otherwise they will be considered ineligible. Expenses cannot be carried forward to future years. 5.05 Reporting Requirements (a) In accordance with the requirements section 65D of the Municipal Government Act, the CAO shall ensure that the Municipality: i. prepares and posts an Expense Report on the Municipality’s website within ninety (90) days of the end of each quarter for expenses incurred by the Warden, CAO (including an employee of the Municipality delegated any of the responsibilities or powers of the CAO pursuant to subsection 29(b) of the Municipal Government Act), and each member of Council for the following: 1. travel and travel-related expenses, including transportation, accommodation, and incidental expenses; 2. meals; and 3. training and education; ii. prepares an annual report that summarizes expense reports for the preceding fiscal year in compliance with the requirements of the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing and of the Financial Reporting and Accounting Manual, and files that annual summary report with the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing by September 30 each year. 5.06 Review Requirements (a) The Municipality’s Audit Committee shall review the expense annual summary report by September 30 of each year. (b) By the January 31 immediately following a regular election held under the Municipal Elections Act, Council shall review this policy and, following a motion by Council, either re-adopt the policy or amend the policy and adopt the policy as amended. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 13 of 15 6. REFERENCES AND RELATED STATEMENTS OF POLICY  Municipal Government Act Section 23(3), (4), (6), and (7) and 65D(1), (2), (5), and (6).  Financial Reporting and Accounting Manual (FRAM), Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Government of Nova Scotia.  P-09: Remuneration of Warden, Deputy Warden, and Councillors Policy – Section E  P-55: Personnel Policy, Section 7 – Training and Professional Development  P-58: Remuneration of Appointed Committee Members As of the date of adoption of this policy, this Expense Policy replaces any related sections of Municipality of the District of Chester policies and procedures concerning the definition, approval, and reimbursement of expenses. Not to restrict in any way in general applicability of the foregoing statement, this policy replaces the following policies:  P-55: Personnel Policy, Section 6 – Travel Expense & Meal Allowance  P-22: Petty Cash Fund Policy DEFINITIONS 7.01 “CAO” means the Chief Administrative Officer of the Municipality of the District of Chester. 7.02 “Claimant” means the individual submitting an expense claim in accordance with the policy and procedure statement of this policy. 7.03 “Committee Members” means members of committees formed by Council from its members and the public at large to perform authorized functions as required by any Act, by-law or resolution. 7.04 “Council” means the elected officials that make up the Council of the Municipality of the District of Chester. For the purposes and provisions of this policy, the term ‘Council’ includes the Warden, the Deputy Warden, and Councillors, unless specific statements of policy or procedure are otherwise identified for the Warden or Deputy Warden. 7.05 “Employee” means any person directly employed by the Municipality of the District of Chester as well as persons under contract who provide goods or services to the Municipality. 7.06 “Expense Report” means a report on all amounts reimbursed for a reportable municipal expense to a reportable individual during a fiscal quarter; 7.07 “Municipality” or “Municipal” means the Municipality of the District of Chester. Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 14 of 15 7.08 “Reportable Individual” means the Warden, Deputy Warden, Councillor, Chief Administration Officer (CAO), and any employee of the Municipality delegated the responsibilities of the CAO. 7.09 “Reportable Municipal Expense” means an expense for which reimbursement was provided by the Municipality for the following expense categories: (i) travel and travel related expenses, including accommodation, incidentals, and transportation; (ii) meals, (iii) professional development and training. 7.10 “Signing Authority” means an individual authorized to sign on behalf of the Municipality. VERSION LOG Version Number Amendment Description Policy Editor Policy Sponsor Approval Date 2022-02-## Policy created CAO and Director of Finance and Information Services Corporate & Strategic Management Department 2022-02-## Expense Policy P-95 Notice of Intention to Adopt – First Notice – Council: Second Notice – Council: Effective Date: Page 15 of 15 Annotation for Official Policy Book Reason for Amendment Notice of Intention to Adopt Date of First Notice at Council Date of Second Notice at Council Effective Date I certify that this Policy was amended by Council as indicated above. _______________________________________ Pamela M. Myra, Municipal Clerk Date Municipality of the District of Chester Council and Committee Procedural Policy Policy P-109 Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER POLICY P-109 1. COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE PROCEDURAL POLICY PURPOSE 1.1. In order for any organization to function smoothly, it is critical that all members clearly understand its governing rules and operating principles. This Council Procedural Policy outlines the operating principles and procedures for the municipal council and council committees of the Municipality of Chester 1.2. The objectives of the Council Procedural Policy are to: a. Clearly communicate the procedures to be used for council and committees of council in the execution of all business for the Municipality of Chester relating to meeting protocol, election of officers, committee composition, public presentations, rules of order and debate, motions and voting, choices in governance by Bylaw, policy or resolution; b. Provide a guide to procedural motions. 2. SCOPE 2.1. This policy applies to meetings of Chester Municipal Council and committees of Council. 3. DEFINITIONS 3.1. In this policy, all words shall have their meaning as described in standard English dictionaries except for the following: a. Lot" means the method of determining the successful candidate by placing the names of the candidates on equal size pieces of paper and placed in a box and one name being drawn by the Clerk as set out in the Municipal Elections Act. b. "Meeting" means a complete meeting and covers the period of time in which members are actually sitting, from the official opening of a meeting until the final adjournment thereof, regardless of the number or length of sessions which may be held and then terminated by temporary recesses or adjournments. c. "Point of Order" means: i. any breach of the rules of order of Council; or ii. any defect in the constitution of any meetings of the Council; or iii. the use of improper, offensive or abusive language; or iv. any other informality or irregularity in the proceedings of Council. d. “Presiding Officer” means the person presiding over a meeting. This may also be referred to as “chair”. e. "Procedural Motion" means any motion dealing strictly with procedure and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes the following: motions to extend the time of a meeting, Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 motions to refer, motions to amend, motions to table, motions to postpone indefinitely or definitely, motions to adjourn. f. "Session" means the proceedings of Council held on any one day. g. "Substantive Motion" means any motion other than a procedural motion, a question of privilege or a point of order. 4. PRESIDING OFFICER 4.1. The presiding officer at all council meetings shall be: i. The Warden; or ii. in the absence of the Warden, the Deputy Warden; or iii. in the absence of the Warden and the Deputy Warden, the member appointed by Council to preside; or iv. until a Warden has been elected, the Clerk. 4.2. The chair, or vice-chair in the chair’s absence, of each standing committee of council will serve as its presiding officer. The Warden may act as presiding officer at the request of the Chair if he/she desires to leave the chair for the purposes of taking part in the debate. 4.3. It shall be the duty of the presiding officer to: a. Open the meeting by taking the chair and calling the members to order; b. Ensure the meeting agenda is followed and that the meeting progresses with due efficiency; c. Receive and put to a vote all motions presented by members and to announce the results; d. Rule as out of order motions which infringe the rules of procedure or which are illegal or beyond the powers of the assembly; e. Enforce the rules of order and the observance of order and decorum among members; f. Call by name any member persisting in breach of the rules or order of the council, thereby ordering him to vacate the council chambers; g. Receive all messages and other communications and announce them to the council/committee;; h. Authenticate, by signature when necessary, by-laws, resolutions, and minutes of the Council/committee; i. Preserve order and decide points of order; j. Represent and support the Council/committee, declaring its will and implicitly obeying its decisions in all things; k. Ensure that decisions of committee/council are in conformity with the laws governing the activities of committee/council; l. Adjourn the meeting when the business is concluded; m. Adjourn the meeting, without question put, in the cause of grave disorder arising in the council chambers. 4.4. The presiding officer may recess a meeting once without a vote for up to ten minutes. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 5. ELECTION OF PRESIDING OFFICERS 5.1. The Council members shall elect the Warden at the inaugural meeting after the election of the Council, immediately after the councillors-elect have taken the Oath of Office. All nominations will be received verbally, with nominations to be closed by motion. After nominations have closed, councillors having let their names stand for election may be permitted to have an equal amount of time, as agreed by council, to address council. 5.2. Voting will take place via secret ballot with counting to take place by scrutineers approved by council. After counting, the scrutineers will announce if a majority was achieved by any candidate. 5.3. Where only one person is nominated for an office and nominations have been closed by resolution, the chair shall declare that person elected to the office in question, by acclamation. 5.4. Subject to Sections 12 and 16 of the Municipal Government Act: a. Where more than two persons are nominated for election to an office and no nominee receives, on the first vote or ballot, a majority of the votes of the Councillors present, the name of the nominee who receives the least number of votes shall be dropped from the vote or ballot and the Council shall vote again. b. In the event of a tie vote for two or more nominees having the least number of votes and the addition of one vote would entitle one or more of the nominees to remain on subsequent ballots, the Clerk shall determine the nominee to be added to the subsequent ballot by Lot. c. The Council shall vote up to three times after the number of candidates still on the ballot has been reduced to two or until one of the nominees has a majority of the votes of the Councillors present. 5.5. In the event of a tie vote for two or more candidates for the office being voted upon and the addition of one vote would entitle one or more of the candidates to be declared elected and where Council has voted up to three times to break the tie vote, the Clerk shall determine the candidate or the candidates to be declared elected by lot. 5.6. The term of office of the Warden shall be when the term of the Council expires. 5.7. If the office of Warden becomes vacant, the Council shall elect a Warden at the first meeting following such vacancy. 5.8. The Council may elect a Deputy Warden at any meeting after the election of Council and thence upon the expiry of the Term of Office for Deputy Warden. 5.9. The term of office of the Deputy Warden shall consist of two terms within a council term, with the first term expiring at the end of the second year of the Council term and the second term expiring at the end of the Council term. 6. MEETINGS 6.1. Except where some other place is designated by a resolution of Council, or as provided for in this policy, all meetings of the Council shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Administration Building. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 6.2. Except as provided in sections 6.3 and 6.4, Council members must attend Council meetings in person. 6.3. Not withstanding Section 6.1, a council meeting or council committee meeting may be conducted by videoconference, if, at least two days prior to the meeting, notice is given to the public respecting the way in which the meeting is to be conducted. a. The notice to the public must be given by: i. publication in a newspaper circulating in the municipality. ii. posting on the Municipality’s publicly accessible Internet site and in at least five conspicuous places in the municipality; or iii. such other method permitted by regulation. 6.4. Notwithstanding section 6.1, where the Warden determines that there is an emergency, a meeting may be conducted by videoconference without notice or with such notice as is possible in the circumstances. 6.5. A Council member may participate in a meeting, that is otherwise being held in person, by videoconference if: a. prior to the meeting, the Council member provides written notice to the Clerk indicating that the Council member wishes to attend the meeting by videoconference; b. the Council member has not participated in more than [2] meetings by videoconference in the preceding [12] months in addition to meetings in which all Council members participated by videoconference; c. the Council member has videoconferencing equipment available that will: i. enable the public to see and hear the Council member participate in the meeting by videoconference; and ii. enable the Council member to see and hear each of the Council members who are attending the Council Meeting by videoconference or in person. d. the Municipality has videoconferencing equipment available that will: i. enable the public to see and hear the Council member participate in the meeting by videoconference; ii. enable the Council member to see and hear each of the Council members who are attending the Council Meeting by videoconference or in person; and enable every Council member who is attending the meeting by videoconference or in person to see and hear all other Council members who are attending the meeting by videoconference or in person. 6.6. Notwithstanding 6.5(b) Council may, by motion, approve a request for a member to attend virtually in excess of 3 meetings per year for exceptional circumstances including but not limited to illness, injury or medical care, and family emergencies. 6.7. Any person who attends a council or committee meeting by videoconference, pursuant to this policy will be deemed to be present at the meeting. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 6.8. Regular meetings of council will be held held on the Second and Last Thursday of each month at a time determined by council. 6.9. Council may by resolution alter the time, day, and place of any meeting previously approved under this policy. 6.10. Meetings of Council shall be livestreamed. Those recordings shall remain on the municipal website or another selected social media channel for a period of no less than six (6) months. 6.11. In addition to regular meetings, the council may hold such other meetings as may be necessary or expedient for the dispatch of business at such time and place as the council determines, if each council member is notified at least three days in advance and the clerk gives at least two days public notice of the meeting. 6.12. Where the warden determines that there is an emergency, the council may meet without notice or with such notice as is possible in the circumstances. 6.13. The Clerk shall cause notice of each meeting of the Council to be given as required by the Municipal Government Act. 6.14. Every meeting of Council shall be presided over by the Warden or, in their absence, by the Deputy Warden. 6.15. If both the Warden and the Deputy Warden are absent, the Council may appoint a chair from the members present. 6.16. All meetings of Council and Committees of Council shall be open and public except where may be permitted to be ln Camera pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Government Act. 6.17. All or any persons not Councillors or officials, attending meeting of Council merely as spectators or otherwise, shall observe silence and order. Any such persons interrupting the proceedings of the Council after being called to order by the Warden or Chair and failing to comply, shall be ordered to leave the room. 6.18. Subject to the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, no Councillor shall leave the Council while in session without permission of the Warden or Chair. 6.19. Special Committees may retire to transact business with the consent of the Council. 7. ROLL CALL AND QUORUM 7.1. A majority of the members of Council (and the Warden or Chair is considered a member of Council) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. 7.2. At the time appointed for any meeting of the Council, if ten minutes elapses without a quorum being present, the members present shall meet, and a. Adjourn the Council; or Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 b. Extend the time for the meeting of the Council for one half hour from the hour fixed for such meetings when, if a quorum is still not present, the Council shall stand adjourned. 7.3. A Councillor not present when the meeting is called to order may have their name entered as present if he joins the Council at the place of meeting within thirty minutes after the opening of the session in questions and if the Councillor calls the attention of the Clerk to that fact immediately on arrival. 7.4. Council may excuse, by resolution, the absence of a Councillor if it feels there is just cause. 7.5. A Councillor who, without the leave of Council is absent from three consecutive regular meetings of the Council shall thereby vacate their office, and the office shall be declared vacant by the Council, whether or not the Councillor has vacated their office (Section 16(3A) of the Municipal Elections Act). 8. MINUTES 8.1. The Clerk shall verify and maintain the minutes of all council and committee meetings. 8.2. All minutes recorded for council/committee shall record all resolutions, decisions and other proceedings at a meeting of the body. 8.3. Minutes of meetings shall record: a. The type, place, date and time of meeting; b. The name of the presiding officer and the record of attendance of the members and the names of those council members attending who are not part of the committee (if applicable); c. The time of late arrival or early departure of members of committee/council; d. The substantive decisions made and actions taken; e. The results of votes on all motions; f. Attendance of staff; g. The time the meeting went in and out of an in-camera session. 8.4. The minutes of each council meeting shall be presented to council at the next regular meeting for confirmation. A copy of the minutes, corrected with any amendments shall be printed and entered into the Minute Book and shall be deemed to be the original minutes of the Council. 8.5. The minutes of each committee meeting shall be presented to the committee at the next regular meeting for confirmation. a. Minutes of Committees may be provided to Council for information and receipt b. Recommendations of Committees shall be provided to council for review and decision 8.6. The warden and the clerk shall sign minutes of council after council approval. 9. AGENDA 9.1. The clerk, under the direction of the chief administrative officer in accordance with the warden, will prepare the agenda for all regular and special meetings of council. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 9.2. The business of committee/council shall be taken up in the order in which it stands on the agenda, unless otherwise decided by committee/council. 9.3. Any business not listed on the agenda is not permitted to be introduced at a meeting unless authorized by motion of committee/council. 9.4. Generally, the Agenda shall contain the following: i. Call to order and opening ii. Reading or circulation and approval of the minutes of the last meeting(s) iii. Reports of officers, committees, boards and commissions iv. Business arising from the minutes or previous reports v. Any necessary appointments of officers vi. New Business vii. Adjournment 10. VOTING 10.1. No motion shall be voted upon unless seconded and no un-seconded motion shall be made twice in one session. 10.2. When a decision on any question is demanded, the chair shall ask for a show of hands and the Chair shall then declare the result. 10.3. When any Councillor so requests, the name of the Councillor voting on any questions, and the way they voted shall be entered in the minutes. 10.4. Subject to the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, every member of Council, including the Chair, who is present when a motion is put, shall, vote on that motion. 10.5. Any Councillor who does not vote shall be deemed as voting in the negative. 10.6. As to the proceedings of Council, all questions arising in the Council shall be decided by a majority of votes. In the event of a tie, the question voted on shall be deemed to be determined in the negative. 10.7. As to the proceedings of committees of Council, all questions shall be decided by a majority of votes. 10.8. The majority of members of a committee of Council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business of that Committee. 11. RULES OF DEBATE 11.1. The rules and regulations contained in this policy shall be observed in all proceedings of Council and any of its committees; and in any case for which provision is not made herein the procedure to be followed shall be as described in Robert's Rules of Order as revised from time to time. 11.2. The Council or a committee, by unanimous vote, may suspend any rule of order provided for in this policy and the suspension shall apply to all specified proceedings of that particular meeting other than those that may be mandatory under the Municipal Government Act. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 11.3. Every member, prior to speaking to any question or motion, shall raise their hand and wait to be recognized by the Chair. When two or more members raise their hands to speak, the Chair shall designate the member who has the floor and that member shall be the member who, in the opinion of the Chair, first raised their hand. 11.4. No Councillor shall speak more than twice on any motion except to explain a misconception of their remarks; however, the mover of a substantive motion shall have the right to speak a third time, if necessary, to reply and sum up in closing the debate. 11.5. No Councillor shall speak more than ten minutes upon any matter at any one time, without the leave of Council. 11.6. No Councillor shall stand, speak, or whisper, so as to interrupt any Councillor who is speaking in Council. 11.7. If a Councillor wishes to explain a misunderstanding of a point they have made, they shall ask leave of the chair; if permitted, they shall explain only the misunderstanding of their words, without any further comment. 11.8. When a Councillor speaks they shall address their remarks to the chair, confine themselves to the matter in question, avoid mentioning personalities, and avoid unbecoming language. 11.9. The Chair may censure any Councillor who: a. while speaking, impeaches the motives of another Councillor; b. while speaking, treats another Councillor with personal disrespect; c. passes between the chair and a Councillor who is speaking; d. uses unbecoming language; e. talks or acts so as to distract a Councillor who is speaking; f. willfully violates any rule of order. 11.10. If a Councillor considers themself to have been personally aggrieved by a censure of the Chair, they may appeal such censure to the Council. 11.11. Any such Councillor may speak on their own behalf in relation to any such censure being appealed to Council. 12. POINTS OF ORDER 12.1. The presiding officer shall decide all points of order. 12.2. The presiding officer shall call to order any member who violates any rule of order. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 12.3. When a member wishes to raise a point of order, the member shall ask leave of the presiding officer and after leave is granted, the member shall state the point of order to the presiding officer. 12.4. Once a point of order is raised, the presiding officer may decide on the point of order immediately or they may permit debate on a point of order before making a decision. 12.5. The member shall only address the presiding officer for the purpose of appealing the decision to council or committee, as the case may be. If the member does not appeal, the decision of the presiding officer shall be final. 12.6. If the member appeals to council or committee as the case may be, council/committee shall decide the question without debate and the decision shall be final. 12.7. The decision of the presiding officer may be challenged by a motion from the floor, which must be duly seconded, to dissent from the ruling of the presiding officer. Such a motion is not debatable and the presiding officer shall forthwith put the question in this manner "Shall the decision of the chair be upheld?" 12.8. If the question does not receive majority support, the ruling of the presiding officer on the point is not sustained and is overturned. 13. MOTIONS 13.1. When a motion is before the council/committee and under debate no other motion shall be entertained until the motion under debate is decided, except for the following: a. A motion in amendment to the original motion; b. A motion to refer the matter, including the motion, to any board, or committee or staff member(s); c. A motion to close the debate at a specified time; d. A motion that the motion be now put; e. A motion to lay on the table; f. A motion to adjourn. 13.2. A motion to refer a matter shall state to whom the matter is referred, what information is desired and when the matter shall be brought back to the floor of Council to resume consideration and debate. 13.3. A motion to adjourn shall always be in order, except in the following cases: a. When a Councillor/member is speaking; b. When the council/committee is voting; c. When the preceding motion was one of adjournment. 13.4. No debate shall be allowed on the following motions: a. A motion to set the time for adjournment but only as to the time of adjournment; Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 b. A motion to adjourn; c. A motion to reconsider an earlier decision of council except as allowed in section 53; d. A motion for leave for any person, not a member of council/committee, to address the council/committee; e. A motion to change or suspend the order of business; f. A motion to allow a member to speak more than the prescribed number of times; g. A motion to dissent from the ruling of the chair on a point of order. 13.5. Limited debate only shall be allowed on the following motions: a. A motion to refer a matter to a board or committee or staff and to be brought back to council/committee at a specified time may be debated only as to whom the matter is to be referred, what specific information is desired, or when the matter shall be brought back to the floor of council/committee; b. A motion that the motion be now put shall not be voted on until after every member who has not spoken on the motion already, and who wishes to speak, has been heard. 14. AMENDMENTS 14.1. An amendment must be relevant to the subject matter of the motion under debate. 14.2. An appeal shall lie to the members of the council/committee from any decision of the chair on the relevancy or acceptance of an amendment and the appeal shall be handled similarly to an appeal of the chair's decision on a point of order. 14.3. Each amendment, when properly on the floor, shall be decided before the main question is to put to a vote. 14.4. No more than one amendment and a sub-amendment shall be received by the chair or considered by council/committee at any one time. 14.5. The chair shall make all efforts to clarify the wording being voted on when council/committee is ready to vote on a sub-amendment, an amendment and then the main motion. 15. RECONSIDERATION 15.1. After a question has been decided, whether in the affirmative or the negative, and after the decision has been announced from the Chair any member of the council/committee who voted on the prevailing side may give notice at the same meeting that they will move a reconsideration of the question at the next meeting of that body. 15.2. After notice of reconsideration has been given, no action shall be taken to carry into effect the main motion until after the motion to reconsider has been disposed of at the next meeting. The main motion to be reconsidered does not come back on the floor of council/committee for debate until the motion to reconsider has been moved, seconded and has received the majority vote of Council. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 15.3. A motion to reconsider shall not be debatable except that the member who gave the notice of motion to reconsider has the privilege of stating their reasons for doing so. 15.4. Any question shall not be reconsidered more than once; nor shall a vote on a motion to reconsider be reconsidered. 16. NOTICE OF MOTION 16.1. Verbal notice of motion should be made at a meeting if a member is intending to bring up an important or complicated matter for discussion at the next meeting of the same body and failure to give such notice may, at the discretion of the Chair, result in the motion being deferred to a subsequent meeting. 16.2. When a member is absent from a meeting for which they have previously given a notice of motion, such motion may be taken up by any other member at that meeting and that other member may make a motion in accordance with the notice of motion. 16.3. When a member's notice of motion has been called for from the Chair at two successive meetings and has not been proceeded with, it shall be dropped from the agenda, and deemed to have been withdrawn, unless Council otherwise decides. 17. PETITIONS 17.1. Every ratepayer, resident or elector of the Municipality, and every corporation doing business therein, shall have the right to be heard before Council by petition and every petitioner, if there is only one, or by representative, if there is more than one, shall be entitled to be heard at the time of presentation of the petition. 17.2. Persons accompanying the petitioner may be heard, in support of such petition, if they have obtained consent by a majority vote of the Council. 17.3. Every petition shall be presented to the Council either by a member of Council or by the Clerk and the individual representing the petition shall be prepared to advise Council that the petition does not contain any impertinent or improper matter and that the petition shows due respect and reference in its language and contents. 17.4. When petitioners, or persons speaking in support of a petition, address Council, they shall exhibit the utmost of respect and reverence for the Council and its members both in speech and in action; and they shall at no time argue with the Council in answer to any question put by the Council or by a Council member, but they shall answer the same respectfully. 17.5. Every communication, including a petition designed to presented to the Council, shall be legibly written or printed and shall not contain any obscene or improper matter or language and shall be signed by at least one person and filed with the Clerk. 17.6. The filing of a petition with the Clerk shall be done at least one week before the first day of the meeting of Council at which it is to be considered, and the Clerk shall keep a book containing a record of all petitions so filed. Rules Governing Proceedings of Council Policy P-109 Notice of Intention to Adopt: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) First Notice: Council – April 28, 2022 (2022-172) Second Notice: Council – May 12, 2022 Effective Date: May 12, 2022 18. VERBAL PRESENTATIONS (DEPUTATIONS) 18.1. No person, not a member of council/committee, shall be heard without permission of the council/committee; and such person shall be limited to ten minutes in addressing the council/committee. 18.2. Any delegation, wishing to address the council/committee , shall give notice of such request to the Clerk at least seven clear days prior to the council/committee meeting at which such delegation is to appear. 18.3. All clauses in this policy, except the ones under the heading "MEETINGS" shall apply to meetings of Councillors when meeting as "Committee-of-the-Whole", and in such cases, the words "Committee- of-the-Whole" shall be read in the place of the word "Council". 18.4. By-Law #79 " Governing Proceedings of Council", and Policy P-10 “Regular Council Meetings” are hereby repealed. REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Corporate & Strategic Management SUBJECT: 2021-24 Priorities Chart Update ORIGIN: 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework Date: May 3, 2022 Prepared by: Jonathan Meakin, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator Date: Reviewed by: Date: May 4, 2022 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION That Council approves the latest version of the 2021-24 Priorities Chart (updated May 3, 2022), the summarized work plan of actions that advance the priority areas and outcomes Council established in the Municipality of Chester 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework. CURRENT SITUATION On February 15, 2022, Council and senior staff completed a detailed review of the 2021-24 Priorities Chart. Staff subsequently reviewed the Chart to update actions in response to Council’s direction. Staff also updated capital and operational priorities with particular attention to the orientation of new staff and coordination of the impact on cross-departmental work programs. Those updates are summarized here for Council’s review and information. BACKGROUND The Municipality of Chester’s 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework helps guide the focus and resources of Council during its governance term. In addition to reaffirming the Municipality’s Vision, Mission, and Values, the Strategic Priorities Framework established five Priority Areas—Economic Development, Environmental Stewardship, Governance & Engagement, Healthy & Vibrant Communities, and Infrastructure & Service Delivery—along with three outcomes for each. The accompanying 2021-24 Priorities Chart outlines projects and initiatives that will advance outcomes and provide key performance indicators documented in quarterly updates to Council and in annual reports to the community. The Chart is a summarized work plan for actions associated with strategic priorities, as well as for significant operational and capital priorities, in order to provide a thorough context for capacity, timing, and resource allocation needs and pressure points. Every four to six months, Council and staff review and update the Priorities Chart to provide a current snapshot of our collective focus and ensure our work remains relevant and viable in relation to issues, opportunities, and risks. This emphasis on ongoing process ensures Council can maintain flexibility in being able to adjust strategic priorities as reactive or proactive action, as circumstances warrant. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 Finally, its should be noted that although the Priorities Chart does not reflect the projects, programs, and services that constitute the Municipality’s day-to-day work and responsibilities, those core services are also integral to advancing Priority Outcomes. DISCUSSION As noted, this updated 2021-24 Priorities Chart captures direction from the February 15, 2022 detailed review with Council, as well as subsequent staff updates. Council’s updates to strategic priorities are highlighted in yellow. Staff’s updates, either to actions that advance Council’s strategic priorities or as changes to capital and operational priorities, are highlighted in green. SPECIFIC UPDATES SUMMARY Economic Development Priority Area Strategic Priorities  Sector Marketing Strategy o Added: options for an Arts & Culture Strategy  Rural Internet o Added: meeting with Develop NS  Sector Marketing Strategy o Updated timing to the current quarter: options for a Business Retention & Expansion program Operational Priorities  Physician Attraction & Retention Program o Added: Enhanced physician retention program Environmental Stewardship Priority Area Strategic Priorities  PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) Program o Added: priority action to bring options for a PACE program for Council direction Governance & Engagement Priority Area Operational Priorities  Asset Management System o Added: asset & maintenance management system  By-Law & Policy Development o Moved: all by-law and policy work now consolidated in one section o Added: Code of Conduct and Fund Development policies R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3 Healthy & Vibrant Communities Priority Area Strategic Priorities  Accessibility Planning o Moved: accessible washroom projects (and Enabling Accessibility Fund grant) from Infrastructure & Service Delivery here, to group all Accessibility Planning actions together o Added: accessibility audit that will help determine options for accessible washrooms, among other things NOTE: during workshop discussion, Council originally directed that “Options for Airbnb rentals” be added as a priority. This action was already included as an action under the Housing Toolbox Priority. Infrastructure & Service Delivery Priority Area Strategic Priorities  Wastewater Strategy o Added: prioritization and submission of a wastewater capital project to the April 1, 2022 ICIP intake  Growth Strategy for Exist 6 Area o Update: staff have begun defining project and timeline OTHER UPDATES In addition to these specific updates, this latest update to the Priorities Chart includes:  Updates to timing, including completed tasks  Updates to individual leads and team supports to reflect new staff, notably in the IAO Dept  Some general housekeeping to tweak the format a little, quietly correct some typos, etc. OPTIONS 1. Council approves the latest version of the 2021-24 Priorities Chart (updated May 3, 2022), the summarized work plan of actions that advance the priority areas and outcomes Council established in the Municipality of Chester 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework. 2. Council does not approve the latest version of the 2021-24 Priorities Chart (updated May 3, 2022), the summarized work plan of actions that advance the priority areas and outcomes Council established in the Municipality of Chester 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework, and provides direction to staff for additional updates. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 4 IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy None. Financial/budgetary Projects/initiatives listed in the current iteration of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Chart that have a specific budget resource allocation are captured in the 2022-23 fiscal year budget, as appropriate. Environmental None Strategic Priorities The Priorities Update will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework: Priority Outcomes: Governance & Engagement 1. Ensure municipal service delivery is efficient and effective, communicated and accessible. Work Program Implications The Strategic Initiatives Coordinator will continue to coordinate and track updates to the Strategic Priorities Chart and work with the Communications Officer & Outreach Coordinator to develop a year-end update to the community about achievements & advancements in the Municipality’s 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework outcomes. Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) Once approved, the 2021-24 Priorities Chart (updated May 3, 2022) will be communicated:  Externally through the Municipal website, the Municipal newsletter, and social media  Internally through email, staff meetings, and department work plans ATTACHMENTS  Municipality of Chester 2021-24 Priorities Chart (updated May 3, 2022) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PRIORITY OUTCOMES 2.    Promote and grow the Municipality’s economic sectors. Strategic Initiatives Sector Marketing Strategy Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Development of an Investment attraction marketing plan and  promotion material Carried over from  previous FY DONE Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr.EDO, CO, Consultant $25,000 already included in budget 100 Develop approach for Business Retention & Expansion program  2021/22  Q3 2022/23 Q1 High CSM Erin Lowe Sr.EDO, Consultant $25,000 already included in budget 75 Scope of work nearly completed - need to bring RFD to council  Arts & Culture Strategy 2022/23 Q1 2021/22  Q3 High CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO, Sr.EDO, Consultant $25,000 already included in budget 0 Rural Internet Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Options report on Rural Internet Initiatives in MOC to guide future  approach 2021/22  Q1 DONE High CSM Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator $250K allocation to support new  milestones/direction after report 100 ++ Continue to update Voices & Choices and monitor Develop NS  project progression   ++Council met with representatives from DNS on December 2, 2021 Council meeting with Develop Nova Scotia 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM  Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator 50 ++ Update on how DNS will advance its mandate and address  remaining service gaps, notably Simms Settlement to East Chester  corridor. MEETING SCHEDULED FOR MAY 12, 2002. ++ The DNS mandate: “as close to 100% of Nova Scotian homes &  businesses as possible will have access to minimum service standards  of at least target speeds required by the CRTC” Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Carried over from  previous FY DONE Normal CSM/IAO Erin Lowe Sr.EDO, DI&O, Consultant $6,000 100 Opinion of Valuation 2021/22  Q3 DONE Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr.EDO, Commercial Realtors $0 100 Standard Terms of Sale / Covenants / Pricing Policy  2021/22  Q3 DONE Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DI&O, Legal $2000 allocation in budget 95 Still to be reviewed and approved by council.  Signage Plan 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DO TBD 30 Waiting on provincial input Concept Plan Development Carried over from  previous FY 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM/IAO Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DI&O, Consultant  $100K allocation for Concept Plan but official  budget TBD 60 Scope of work near completion to bring to council.  Phase II Environmental Site Assessment 2022/23 Q1 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM/IAO Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, Consultant  $26,500 90 Atlantic Canada Site Certification Carried over from  previous FY 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr. EDO $500 allocation in budget 60 Been approved for certification.  Parade Square Beautification Project Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Phase 1 - benches, pathway, landscaping Carried over from  previous FY DONE Normal CSM Heather Hennigar CEDO, I&O public works staff $12.5K Beautification & Streetscaping Program  grant 100 Priority Outcome(s): 3 Our ongoing commitment to investment attraction, business support services, and infrastructure encourages entrepreneurship, supports sustainable development of  target sectors and strengthens the commercial tax base. 1.    Partner in the development of infrastructure and opportunities for business development and attraction. 3.      Position the Municipality as Nova Scotia’s south shore community of choice for residents, businesses, and organizations, and as an international tourism destination Priority Outcome(s): 2,3. Also identified as a priority in the Economic Development Strategy Priority Outcome(s): 1,3 Priority Outcome(s): 1,2,3 Also identified as a priority in the Economic Development Strategy Community engagement 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO, CO 80 Consultation Summary and "Decision Point" Report on future  phases 2021/22  Q3 2022/23 Q3 Normal CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO 0 Request during Council's February 15, 2022 strategic priorities update  meeting for a summary of the consultation process to date.  Business Park Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Bring forward options report for Wakeup Hill property 2022/23 Low CSM/IAO Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DCAO TBD 0 Workshop with Council to investigate approach for potential new  sites 2022/23 Low CSM/IAO Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DI&O, Consultant  TBD 0 Priority Outcome(s): 1,2,3 Operational Initiatives Physician Attraction & Retention Program Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Print marketing campaign with Canadian Medical Association  Journal 2021/22  Q1 DONE Normal CSM Erin Lowe CEDO Included in the 2020-21 Healthy Communities  Grant ($25,000)100 Enhanced physician retention program  2022/23 Q1 2022/23 Q4 Normal CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO 2022-23 Healthy Communities Grant secured  ($15,000)10 Tourism Chester Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Peak season planning and reporting Multiyear Ongoing CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO Funds allocated in annual operating budget  May-September Recruitment of mobile ambassador Multiyear Ongoing CSM Olivia Corkum CEDO Funds allocated in annual operating budget  April/May Business Retention & Expansion Initiatives Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Outdoor Dining Bylaw Carried over from  previous FY 2022/23 Q1 High CSM Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DCAO, DI&O, DO, Sr. Planner,  Accessibility Coordinator, Legal Funds allocated in annual operating budget 80 Council presentation on April 28 Vendor Licencing and Events Permitting review 2021/22  Q3 2022/23 Q3 Normal CSM Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DCAO, MC, DO, DI&O,  Director CDR Funds allocated in annual operating budget Capital Initiatives PRIORITY OUTCOMES Strategic Initiatives Water Quality Monitoring Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Presentation by external researcher on Bayswater Beach 2021/22  Q1 DONE High CDR Chad Haughn Director of CDR 100 Dr Spooner presented research to Council on July 15/21.  Coastal  Action to work in partnership with Dr Spooner on future Bayswater  monitoring. - COMPLETE Report following a one-year trial expanded water quality testing program 2021/22  Q1 2021/22  Q3 High CDR  Chad Haughn Director of CDR, Consultant (Coastal  Action) Budget allocation for external  consultant & testing $16,500 80 Monitoring started in June 2021.  Final reports received April 2022. Discussion of ongoing municipal role in water quality testing 2022/23 Q2 High CDR  Chad Haughn Director of CDR  Municipal Water Strategy Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Community Wells initiative options report 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 High IAO  Tammie Bezanson  CET, WWE, DPW Coastal Action ‘Resident Water Survey Report’ recommendations options report  2021/22  Q3 2022/23 Q2 High CSM  Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator, DCAO, Municipal Water  Strategy Working Group 25 Actions could include: educational programs; policy/[program  development; capital projects -- projects and staff TBD pending  Council's direction.  Options for Water Supply Upgrade Lending Program expansion. Consider: program  extended to commercial sector for potable water (wells, cisterns, etc. in current program  for provision of water) 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM/FIS Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator; Director of FIS Option of increasing loan amount. Additional grant option? Check  with MGA re: offering financing program to commercial sector  stakeholders. Transition 2050: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Mitigation Priority Outcome(s): 1,2,3 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Presentation of “Community Energy & Emissions Inventory & Migration Plan”  recommendations & discussion of GHG emissions target & local action plan options 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator 80 Report/action plan ideas to Council may result in specific projects to  be led by TBD PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) Program Priority Outcome(s): 1,2,3 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Request for Direction for PACE program options 2022/23 Q1 High CSM/FIS Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator; Director of FIS 75 A PACE program enables a municipality to provide low interest  financing to qualifying homeowners interested in undertaking clean  energy upgrades. Homeowners repay the municipality over time on  their property tax bill. Program will require by-law development   Landfill Business Planning Priority Outcome(s): 1 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Priority Outcome(s): 3 PRIORITY AREA: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP 2.       Explore options for integrating green energy and sustainable technologies in municipal infrastructure and program delivery. 3.       Support environmental conservation & protection initiatives and efforts to tackle the impact of climate change. Priority Outcome(s): 3 Our leadership in environmental stewardship seeks innovative approaches for sustainable community planning and decision-making that balances growth, invests in green  business and infrastructure, enhances quality of life, and responds to the environmental impacts of climate change. 1.       Seek opportunities for innovation and leadership in waste management. Development of Financial Model Scenarios 2021/22  Q2 DONE High FIS/IAO Tim Topping CAO, DI&O Engage with Grant Thornton in  developing model; additional costs for  auditors' services 100 Model is in use for budgeting, planning, and forecasting work. Equipment Replacement Policy  2022/23 Q3 IAO/CSM Christa Rafuse DSW, DI&O, Director of FIS, SW Client  Services Coordinator, PW Administrative  Coordinator 50 Landfill Equipment Replacement Policy presented to Council on 12  May. Pending result Operational Review  2022/23 Q4 IAO/CSM Christa Rafuse / Dan M Director of SW, CAO, DI&O, Consultant Consultant to be hired to conduct operation review of KM Sustane Transition  Multiyear CSM/IAO  Christa Rafuse / Dan M Director of PW, DI&O, CAO    Monitor and assess Inland Flood Plain Mapping Priority Outcome(s): 3 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Workshop with Council to review data and discuss next steps 2022/23 Q1 Low CDR/FIS/IAO Chad Haughn Director of CDR  CBCL Presentation of Report May 2022 Operational Initiatives Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Capital Projects Enviro Toilets Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Confirm the locations 2022/23 Q1 High IAO/CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW Confirm the type of toilets 2022/23 Q2 High IAO/CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, RM Procurement 2021/22  Q2 High IAO/CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, RM Installation 2022/23 High IAO/CDR Tammie Bezanson  CET, DPW Strategic Initiatives Procurement Program Priority Outcome(s): 1,2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Presentation to Council on procurement program strategy FIS to determine details re: timing, resources for various procurement components  2021/22  Q2 2021/22  Q4 High FIS  Dan Pittman RM 90 Procurement program strategy presentation drafted and run by SMT. Pending CAO  review and approval. e-Procurement Platform Carried over  from previous  FY 2022/23 Q1 High FIS  Dan Pittman RM bids&tenders 5,245 annual  subscription; Includes additional cost for secure e- signature extension for contracts 90 RFD drafted. Accompanies presentation to Council above. Pending CAO review and  approval.  PO Module Carried over  from previous  FY 2022/23 Q2 High FIS  Tim Topping FINM, AP, Director of FIS, RM 80 Installed, configured, tested. Roll-out started. Procedures to be documented. P-Cards Normal FIS  Tim Topping FINM, ISDIR, RM 10 Preliminary review. Procurement policy(ies) review and revision Normal FIS Tim Topping FINM, RM $5,000? Legal Review (LXM Law)10 Preliminary review. Village SPS and LUB Review Priority Outcome(s): 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Resident Survey  2021/22  Q2 DONE CDR Garth Sturtevant SP, summer student  $3,600 100 Survey was distributed and collected in August 2021.  Some surveys still being  received in Sept. Architectural Study 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q2 CDR Garth Sturtevant Senior Planner, RM $15,000-$20,000 50 Open competition NRFP issued on Sept. 10. Close Oct. 15th. Award Oct 25th.  Contract signed.  Work is underway. Public workshop May 2022.  Final Report July  2022. Future Development of Highway 3 (North Street) Workshop     Garth Sturtevant Senior Planner, Planner, Administrative  Assistant, other CDD&R staff  0 Need to workshop a discussion with Council and VPAC on the future of North Street.  Do we stick with Hwy 3 Streetscape or adapt to a true Highway Commercial area? Review of Existing SPS Policies   2022/23 Q3  CDR Garth Sturtevant Senior Planner, Planner  50 Reviewed existing policies with VPAC. Will require additional policies to fill-out the  document and ensure ability to enforce provisions of LUB once that work is started.  Review of Land Use Bylaws     CDR  Garth Sturtevant Senior Planner, Planner, Administrative  Assistant, other CDD&R staff  0 This is likely to be the final major piece of the review. As regulations are developed,  policies additions or changes may be required.  Public Engagement Workshops   2022/23 Q3  CDR  Garth Sturtevant Senior Planner, Planner, Administrative  Assistant, other CDD&R staff Rental fee for legion or other venue  (TBD)0   Adoption of revised SPS and LUB   2023/24  CDR  Garth Sturtevant 0   Investment Strategy Priority Outcome(s): 2,3 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Investment Policy DONE Normal FIS Malcolm Pitman Director of FIS 100 Cash-Flow Forecasts  2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q3 Normal FIS  Tim Topping Director of FIS, FINM, financial analyst Financial analyst 0 The financial analyst will provide essential support work in providing better services  for a wide range of capital and operational initiatives: solid waste; wastewater; etc. PRIORITY AREA: GOVERNANCE & ENGAGEMENT 1.   Ensure municipal service delivery is efficient and effective, communicated and accessible. 2.   Ensure municipal bylaw and policy frameworks reflect current and changing needs. 3.   Continue to develop an asset management system that will inform decisions about infrastructure, development, levels of service, risk assessment, and associated financing. Our governance and administration processes demonstrate a commitment to efficient and fiscally sustainable service delivery. Our commitment to communications & engagement provides residents, businesses, and  organizations with access to services, information, and decision-making as meaningful participation in local government. PRIORITY OUTCOMES Uniform Signage By-Law Priority Outcome(s): 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Updated draft By-Law for Council review 2021/22  Q1 DONE High CDR/CSM Emily Statton Planner, CEDO, CO, PW staff 100 Uniform Signage Bylaw comlpete.  Implementation taking place Q1 2022. Launch of Uniform Advertising Signage Program: Spring 2022 2022/23 2022/23 Q1 High CDR/CSM Sylvia Dixon CDR staff, CEDO, CO, PW staff 80 Sign Installation planned for May 2022.  Businesses have started to purchase signs.   Existing illegal signs will be removed in May 2022. Boundary Review Priority Outcome(s): 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Required boundary review 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q4 Normal CSM  Pam Myra/Tara Maguire MC, DCAO, SI Coordinator, GIS  Specialist 10 Presented first report to council, decision to proceed with current governance  model; report on council size and consultation plan in progress Municipal Salaries & Benefits Review     Priority Outcome(s): 1,2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Salaries & benefits review for Municipal staff and Council  2021/22  Q3 2022/23 High CSM/FIS Tara Maguire DCAO, MC; Director of FIS, Consultant Consultant; $35K in 2021-22 budget 25 Awarded to Gerald Walsh; working on finizalizing contract and setting up kick off  meeting Human Resources Policy     Priority Outcome(s): 1,2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Review and develop Human Resources Policy framework  2021/22  Q3 2022/23 High CSM/FIS Tara Maguire DCAO, MC; Director of FIS, consultant Consultant; $50K in 2021-22 budget 25 Awarded to Gerald Walsh; working on finizalizing contract and setting up kick off  meeting Operational Initiatives Aspotogan Wharf Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Aspotogan Wharf Community Engagement for options 2022/23 Q2 Normal CDR Gord Tate ALC Staff exploring possible options for wharf VoC Signage Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments VOC Highway Signage Business Engagement DONE Normal CDR Garth Sturtevant SP, CEDO (vacant)100 Business engagement complete and Council gave 1st ready to amendments on Jan  27/22. VoC Fire Services Contract Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Village of Chester Fire Services Contract Multiyear 2021/22  Q4 High CSM  Tara Maguire DCAO 80 Draft presented to VOC. Will be presented to Council in May for review and decision. Tax Sale Report Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Tax Sale Options Report 2022/23 Q1 Low FIS Tim Topping Director of FIS, FINM, RM 0 Fire Advisory Committee Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Provide recommendations for reinstating Fire Advisory Committee 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM Tara Maguire & Bruce  Blackwood DCAO, Fire Services Coordinator 20 Asset Management System Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Asset and maintenace management system development Multiyear Normal CSM/FIS IAO/CDR Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator, GIS Specialist, RM,  Director IAO, Director of PW, CET,  Director of CDR, DPT, Director of FIS,  FA 20 Imminent infrastructure renewal and new construction projects and access to  exsiting data management solutions, cross-fucntional team will advance asset  management practices. Defined commitment, scope, and processes will inform make  decisions project grant opportunities, external consultants, work program impacts,  etc. Staffing Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Building Inspector Recruitment 2021/22  Q2 DONE Normal CDR Chad Haughn Director of CDR, DCAO, recruiter 100 Part-time Building Inspector hired in December 2021. Recruitment of Community Economic Development Officer 2021/22  Q2 DONE Normal CSM Tara Maguire, Erin Lowe 100 Recuitment of Heavy Equipment Operators (2)DONE Normal IAO Christa Rafuse, Pam Myra 100 Recuitment of Heavy Equipment Operator/Laborer DONE Normal IAO Christa Rafuse, Pam Myra 100 Recruitment of Labourer (casual, pt landfill)2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO Christa Rafuse, Pam Myra 30 Position to be readvertized Recruitment of Certified Engineering Technician DONE Normal IAO Christa Rafuse, Pam Myra IAO Director, Venor, Director of HR 100 Recruitment of Director of Infrastructure and Operations 2021/22  Q3 DONE Normal IAO Dan McDougall CAO, DCAO, Director of HR, Venor 100 Recruitment of Director of Public Works 2021/22  Q3 DONE Normal IAO Dan McDougall CAO, DCAO, Director of HR, Venor 100 Recruitment of Project Engineer 2021/22  Q3 DONE Normal IAO Manny Blair, Pam Myra Director of IAO, DWP, Director of HR,  Venor 100 Recruitment of Financial Analyst DONE Normal FIS Tim Topping, Pam Myra 100 Recruitment of Systems Analyst 2021/22  Q1 2021/22  Q2 Normal FIS Cliff Gall, Pam Myra 50 readvertising for position. By-Law & Policy Development Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Develop Communication Tower siting policy; review MPS policy for siting cell towers  (CRINS policy)2022/23 Low CDR  Garth Sturtevant SP  Outdoor Burning By-Law Review Carried over  from previous DONE Normal CSM Bruce Blackwood FSC, DCAO 100 New Bylaw approved by council. Article in May newsletter Tax Exemption By-Law Review 2022/23 Q1 Normal FIS/CDR  Tim Topping Director of FIS, Director of CDR, ES Review completed by CDR. RFD and updated bylaw being drafted now, to come to  Council before end of Q1 ‘Municipal Election Activity’ Policy  2023/24 Low CSM Jonathan Meakin SI Coordinator, DCAO Infrastructure Development Fund Policy 2021/22  Q2 2021/22  Q2 Normal CSM Tara Maguire DCAO; Director of FIS 100 Code of Conduct Policy 2021/22  Q1 2021/22  Q2 Normal CSM Tara Maguire DCAO; SI Coordinator Capital Projects PRIORITY OUTCOMES Strategic Initiatives Accessibility Planning Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Submit Community Works Program grant for funding support of Accessibility  Coordinator 2021/22  Q1 DONE High CSM Jonathan Meakin SIC, DCAO 100 Hiring of Accessibility Coordinator  2021/22  Q1 DONE High CSM Tara Maguire DCAO 100 Accessibility Coordinator Hired Internal committee work plan 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM Ellen Johnson AC, CO, internal staff working group  Local Accessibility plan developed and  approved by Council Internal action plan  Multiyear Multiyear Normal CSM Ellen Johnson AC, CO,  internal staff working group 10 Enabling Accessibility Fund grant agreement and coordination of potential revised  project scope for design/construction of accessible washroom in administration  building, pending recommendation of accessibility audit   2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q3 Normal CSM/IAO Jonathan Meakin SIC, AC, CET $100K Enabling Accessibility Fund  grant from Employment and Social  Development Canada, confirmed in  August 2021 75 Original project submitted included  conversion of two bathrooms on second  floor of Administration building to one  accessible washrroom, as well as conversion  of Wild Rose washrooms.  Accessibility audit  2021/22  Q4 2021/22  Q3 Normal CSM Ellen Johnson AC, RM, DCAO 25 Development of RFP for accessibility audit of  MOC's administration buildings and site in  progress. RFP will be standing offer for other  municipalities in Luennburg County. Design & construction of accessible washroom in administration or annex building,  pending recommendations from accessibility audit CSM/IAO Ellen Johnson AC, CET, PW staff Design & construction of accessible washroom for Wildrose Park 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM/IAO Ellen Johnson AC, CET, PW staff Scoping poject and working on RFP for  project  Fire Protection Services Review Priority Outcome(s): 1 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Review of subcommittee feedback with consultant 2021/22  Q2 DONE Critical CSM Bruce Blackwood FSC, DCAO 100 Consultant has agreed to visit each fire  department to determine if there is missing  information.  Review of phase 3 and final report with committee - Recommendations to council Carried over from  previous FY 2021/22  Q1 High CSM Bruce Blackwood FSC, DCAO Presenting Report to Committee April 28.  Will be reviewing recommendations and  prorotizing recommendations for council  recommendation. Review final report and recommendations from committee with council 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q2 High CSM Bruce Blackwood FSC, DCAO Phased work programs 2021/22  Q3 2021/22  Q3 High CSM Bruce Blackwood FSC, DCAO Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan Priority Outcome(s): 1, 2 CSM/CDR   Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Establishment of a Committee Carried over from  previous FY DONE High CSM/CDR Tara Maguire & Nadine  Hackney DCAO, CO, CDC, MC, SIC 75 Committee set up on Teams PRIORITY AREA: HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES Priority Outcome(s): 1, 2 1. Ensure residents have access to facilities, natural assets, programs, and services that enrich a quality of life and provide safe communities for residents and visitors alike. 2. Develop an accessibility, diversity, and equity lens for municipal plans and services, and support partners in advancing accessible and inclusive communities. 3. Determine a municipal role in terms of protecting and increasing a broad range of housing stock to meet community needs. Our ongoing engagement with partners and stakeholders supports vibrant and sustainable communities throughout our Municipality. Through long range planning that creates active and safe communities, and through the  provision of accessible and inclusive programs and services, we work to improve quality of life for residents. Implementation of Action Plan initiatives approved by Council Carried over from  previous FY Multiyear High CSM  Tara Maguire & Jen Webber DCAO, CO In progress Active Living Strategy Priority Outcome(s): 1 CSM/CDR   Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Draft Active Living Strategy Carried over from  previous FY 2022/23 Normal CDR Gord Tate ALC, Director of CDR Housing Toolbox Priority Outcome(s): 3 CSM/CDR   Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Presentation to Council: 1. status of Housing Commission 2. contents of an  affordable housing toolbox 3 role of the provincial & federal governments  2022/23 Q2 Normal CDR/CSM Dan McDougall  CAO, SP Consultant / $TBD What things/tools have we done & used in  the past? Potential Lunenburg County  Partnership. Short Term Rental Regulatory Framework for Lunenburg County 2021/22  Q4 2022/23 Q2 Normal CDR Garth Sturtevant  CDR  Provincial grants Senior Planner presented to Mayors and  Wardens meeting.   Will address Airbnb rentals Village of Chester Traffic Study Priority Outcome(s): 1 CSM/CDR   Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Draft Traffic Impact Study from CBCL  2021/22  Q2 High IAO/CDR Fred Whynott DI&O, DPW, ALC 75 Recommendations to Council  2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO/CDR Manny Blair  DI&O, DPW, ALC Operational Initiatives Pride Crosswalk Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Pride Crosswalk DONE IAO/CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW 100 Pride colours painted on walkway outside  Recreation & Parks Services entrance Residential Units in VoC Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Residential units by DA in Village 2021/22  Q3 DONE High CDR Garth Sturtevant  SP 100 1st Reading took place Oct. 27th.  Public  Hearing scheduled for Dec 9th.  2nd Reading  Dec 16th. Lake-Wide Rezoning Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Lake-wide Rezoning Upon Request Carried over from  previous FY DONE Normal CDR  Emily Statton Planner 100 1st Reading took place on Oct 27th.  Public  Hearing on Jan 27th.  2nd Reading took place  Jan 27th.  New Zone comlpete. Municipal Wharf/Float Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Municipal Wharf/Float Capacity Review  2022/23 Q1 Normal IAO Tammie Bezanson Director of CDR, ALC 75 Quotes received.  RFD prepared for Council  review. Open Space/Parks Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Gold River Design 2021/22  Q2 DONE CDR Gord Tate ALC, consultant 100 Consultant (Trail Flow) has started trail  routing and design work. Haughn Property Engineering & Design 2021/22  Q2 DONE CDR Gord Tate ALC, consultant 100 Consultant (Trail Flow) has started trail  routing and design work. Moland Point Engineering & Design 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q3 CDR/IAO Gord Tate ALC, DPW  East River Trail Parking Area Construction  2021/22  Q1 DONE CDR/IAO Gord Tate ALC, DPW, consultant 100 Trail parking area construction completed.   Castle Rock Development (Design) 2021/22  Q2 DONE CDR Gord Tate ALC, consultant 100 Consultant (Trail Flow) has started trail  routing and design work. PRIORITY OUTCOMES Strategic Initiatives Wastewater Strategy Priority Outcome(s): 1, 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Wastewater Service Study from EXP to provide recommendations for future  growth.2021/22  Q1 2021/22  Q4 Critical CSM/IAO  Jonathan Meakin SIC, DI&O, DPW, CAO, DCAO, GIS  Specialist $130,358 DMA PCAP grant, confirmed 95 ++ Close-out project with EXP; digital files for ongoing  data documentation  ++ Complete & submit final PCAP reports to DMAH Review and prioritization of short-term wastewater initiatives in workshop  with Council to meet service capacity & operational issues identified  Wastewater Service Study; identify capital projects; prioritize options for an  implementation plan 2021/22  Q3 DONE Critical CSM/IAO  Jonathan Meakin SIC, DI&O, Director of PW, CET, CAO,  DCAO 100 Workshop with Council on March 10, 2022 Develop project scope, write, and submit application to the Investing in  Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) Green - Environmental Quality Stream 2021/22  Q4 DONE Critical CSM/IAO Jonathan Meakin SIC, DPW, CET, CAO, DCAO, GIS  Specialist 100 Complete application submission on April 1, 2022 Financial analysis for the implementation of recommendations (capital and  operational) from the Wastewater Service Study 2022/23 Q4 Normal IAO Shannon Lantz FA, DI&O, DPW, Director of FIS 0 5yr plan based on the WW study Review and analysis of by-law/policy framework options to support  Wastewater Strategy goals Multiyear Normal CSM/IAO Fred Whynot DPW, DI&O, SIC, DCAO 0 On-Site Septic Financing Program Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Options for on-site septic financing program for residents based on a  modified Water Supply Upgrade Lending By-Law Program By-Law 2022/23 Q2 Normal CSM/FIS/IAO Jonathan Meakin SIC, Director of FIS, DPW 0 Relationship with Wastewater Management Districts  program Growth Strategy for Exit 6 Area Priority Outcome(s): 1 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Workshop with Council & staff on growth strategy in the Exit 6 area (Simms  Settlement, Hubbards, Mill Cove) to scope the project 2022/23 Q1 Normal CSM/IAO/CDR Erin Lowe Sr. EDO, DPW, reps from IAO &  Planning, Consultant $50,000 already included in budget 10 Staff met to discuss scoping  Shared Services Priority Outcome(s): 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Building Shared Services MODC/TOL/MODL - Phase 2 options (lead agency) Carried over  from previous  FY 2022/23 Q2 Normal CDR/CSM Tara Maguire & Chad  Haughn Director of CDR, DCAO,  Consultant Consultant 10 Work plan / status of consultant? Shared IT Position with the Town of Lunenburg 2021/22  Q1 2022/23 Q4 Normal FIS Cliff Gall Director of IS, Director of FIS, RM 60/40 split MODC/TOL 75 Interviews complete. Offer pending PRIORITY AREA: INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICE DELIVERY Through asset management practices that inform annual operations and maintenance programs as well as long-term capital renewals and upgrades, we invest in public infrastructure. In response to ongoing changes in levels of service, regulatory  requirements, population, and technological innovation, we work to provide infrastructure that is cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable. 1.      Develop and implement evidence-based plans for future infrastructure and service needs, along with related funding models, to accommodate sustainable growth and levels of service. 2.      Create efficiencies through innovative service delivery, and proactive maintenance and operations of existing infrastructure. 3.      Plan for and create infrastructure that improves the connectivity of roads, multi-use trails, natural assets, and facilities as part of an active transportation network. Countway Mosher (Haughn) Property Priorty Outcomes: 1, 2, 3 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Options report to determine viable uses of house 2021/22  Q1 DONE High CDR/IAO Chad Haughn Director of CDR Estimate for demolition: $70,000 100 Follow up with Charlie Hutton DONE Normal CDR Chad Haughn, Dan  McDougall, Sam Lamey Director of CDR, CAO 100 One year agreement has been executed. Mill Cove Fire Protection System Priority Outcomes: 1, 2 Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Mill Cove FPS Options report present to council for review and approval 2021/22  Q4 High IAO/FIS Fred Whynot DI&O; DCAO, DPW, Director of FIS 60 Staff will be scoping the project and will bring forward  to council for consideration of a consultant Implementation of the selected recommendation: design; public tender;  contract award 2021/22  Q3 2022/23 Q3 High IAO/FIS Fred Whynot DI&O; DCAO, DPW, Director of FIS 0 Operational Initiatives Public Works Initiatives Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Trail Surface Upgrades: develop a process for trail inspections (Laserfiche  forms); Train multiple staff in inspections for consistency; develop processes  to convert the inspection report into MWO 2022/23 Q2 2022/23 Q3 Normal CDR/IAO Manny Blair DI&O, DPW, ALC Trail Maintenance Budget 50 Trail Inspection to be completed June 2022;  inspection matrix to be developed by Q3 J Class Roads: Confirm the roads for J-class submission with the council and  submit to NSDPW for J-class program for 2022/23 year 2022/23 Q3 2022/23 Q3 High IAO Manny Blair DI&O; DPW, Director of FIS CCBF (Gas Tax)50 3x J-Class roads recommeded to Council in Q1;  construction to be complete by Q3 Develop Manuals and Processes for Treatment plants & collection systems  2022/23 Q4 High IAO Leigh Besanger WWE, DPW, RM  Develop processes for collection including data collection and management  to ensure the validity of data in the GIS Map 2022/23 Q4 High IAO Leigh Besanger WWE, DPW, GIS Specialist Evaluate the operational performance with the industry benchmark and  optimize operations where necessary 2022/23 Q4 High IAO Leigh Besanger WWE, DI&O, DPW  Evaluate safety plan for the Treatment plans (2022/23) 2022/23 Q4 High IAO Leigh Besanger WWE, DI&O, DPW  Kaizer Meadow Landfill Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments See capital projects Streetlight Program Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Document streetlight practices and rationale for each District  Multiyear Low FIS/IAO Tim Topping Director of FIS, DI&O  GIS mapping of existing streetlights, boundaries, etc. Multiyear Low FIS/IAO Nick Zinck GIS Specialist, Director of FIS, DI&O  Wastewater TP operational efficiencies Linear Infrastructure Wastewater Treatment Upgrades Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Mill Cove WWTP – Addition of Biofilter Unit RFD to Council  2021/22  Q3 Carried over  from previous  FY Critical IAO Fred Whynot DPW, DI&O, WWE On Hold Project on-hold due to this site current compliant.  Resources redirected to more urgent sites. Mill Cove WWTP – Addition of Biofilter Unit Design work  Public Tender  Contract awarded /Execution 2021/22  Q3 Carried over  from previous  FY Critical IAO Fred Whynot DPW, DI&O, WWE On Hold External stakeholders impact on timeline Lift Station Panel Upgrades and generators Carried over  from previous  FY 2022/23 Q3 High IAO Fred Whynot DPW, DI&O, WWE Generator placement/land issue; waiting on TiR Pump Replacements -- annual program 2022/23 Q3 High IAO Fred Whynot DPW, DI&O, WWE Part of 2022-23 capital budget  RFSO closes EO May 2022. EO June supplier in place Capital Projects Sidewalks/AT Solutions (ICIP) Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Hwy 329 to trail (60m) 2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO Tammie Bezanson CET, DPW, ALC $98,000 50 Included in RFP MODC-T-2022-007. Waiting for ICIP  funding approval. Hwy 3 to Croft Road (265m) 2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO Tammie Bezanson CET, DPW, ALC $284,000 50 Our Health Centre to Pig Loop (160m) 2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO Tammie Bezanson CET, DPW, ALC $179,000 50 Included in RFP MODC-T-2022-007. Waiting for ICIP  funding approval. Duke St. to Victoria St. (660m) 2022/23 Q3 Normal IAO Tammie Bezanson CET, DPW, ALC $669,000 50 Crosswalks/Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFB’s) (ICIP) Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments HWY 329 at Hubbards Sailing Club Crossing 2021/22  Q2 CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $29,000 Hwy 3 at Walker Cut Rd trail cross 2022/23 Q3 Normal CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $29,000 Hwy 3 at East River trail cross 2022/23 Q3 Normal CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $29,000 Hwy 3 at Lawrence Hatt Rd. 2022/23 Q3 Normal CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $29,000 Hwy 3 at Hwy 12 2022/23 Q3 High CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $29,000 Trail Bridges Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Trail Bridges Evaluation 2021/22  Q1 DONE Normal CDR/IAO Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET 100 Design Point report complete. East River trail foot bridge 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q2 Normal CDR/IAO Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET $25,000 50 NSNR approval recieved.   Trail Bridges maintenance program 2021/22  Q2 DONE Normal CDR/IAO Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET 100 Complete.  Bridge repairs included in 10 year capital  budget. Gold River repair update/options to Council 2021/22  Q1 DONE High IAO/CDR Gord Tate ALC, DPW, CET 100 Complete.  Council selected bridge replacement  option.  RFP for new bridge is next step. Kaizer Meadow Landfill Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Dozer D6  2021/22  Q1 DONE High IAO Christa Rafuse DSW 500,000 100 Delivered Public Drop off Renovation 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Normal IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, Site Supervisor KM $100,000 Accessibility considerations Landfill Cell 3B Design & Construction 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q3 Critical IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, CBCL Ltd $75,000 50 Design completed. Construction tender awarded.  Construction completion due Q3 Compactor 2022/23 Q1 2022/23 Q3 High IAO Christa Rafuse DSW; DI&O $1,300,000 0 RFD to be presented to Council; budget allocated; RFP  to be distributed once RFD approved. CFC removal 2021/22  Q2 2021/22  Q3 Normal IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, Site Supervisor KM $10,000 CFC removal  by Northern Climate Curbside (Green) Carts 2021/22  Q2 2022/23 Q1 High IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, DI&O, Client Service Coordinator,  RM $65,000 100 Investigated standing offer with Wastequip / Toter.  Ordered Saunders / IPL re: compatibility with GE's  European grip. Carts received and invoiced 2022-01- 10; Assess quality of new supplier; order new bins if  necessary Leachate Treatment Plant Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Phase 1  EVC LTP Ph 1 Carried over  from previous  FY DONE High IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, CBCL Ltd $475,000 100 Phase 2 EVC LTP Ph 2 2021/22  Q1 2022/23 Q4 Normal IAO Christa Rafuse DSW, CBCL Ltd TBD (design $40,000) In progress additional sampling at leachate lift station (4 events -  biweekly) to CBCL to assess. Information Technology Action Start Completion Priority Department Lead HR Resources Financial Resources Status Comments Server Infrastructure Upgrade 2021/22  Q1 DONE Normal FIS Cliff Gall Director of IS, RM 100 Servers and Storage delivered and upgraded Corporate & Strategic ManagementQuarterly Update AccessibilityWorking with IT and communications staff on the Information and communications section of accessibility action plan. This section includes accessibility of public meetings in addition to digital accessibility and all communications with the public.Participated in drafting Outdoor Dining Bylaw to provide an accessibility lens.Supported procurement process for accessibility audits for municipal buildingsSupported process to renovate Wild Rose Park washrooms to increase accessibility. AccessibilityJoint Projects/Activities•Researching options for accessibility-related training•Funding was not received for the Rural Accessibility and Age Friendliness Assessment Project; (partnership through Dalhousie University’s School of Planning, Planning for Equity, Accessibility and community Health (PEACH) Research Unit.•Status: PEACH has allocated existing funding to support current work with TOB and MODL to get the project started with a summer student and is seeking other means of funding the full project.Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee (LCAAC)•Coordinating LCAAC, ensuring committee is fully appointed and meeting its mandate.•Supported the Lunenburg County Accessibility Nominating committee (Mayors and Wardens) in the process of nominating three community members to the committee.•Status: Once new members have been informed of their appointments, a meeting will be arranged to get this committee working again. Special Projects•Boundary Review•Report to Council on options for conducting boundary review•Phase 1 options report to be presented in May•Personnel Policy Review and Salary and Benefits Review•Low value procurement awarded to Gerald Walsh.•Kick off Meeting will be held in upcoming weeks. •Rural Internet •Joined province-wide advocacy network, led by “Better Connectivity for Inverness County”; advocacy campaign for improved internet and cellular service (March)•DNS April announcement of new project; 50 new civics in MOC & update on existing projects; VoCupdates to follow•Transition 2050•Working on Transition 2050 report on options for GHG emissions reductions targets and action plan for Council – targeting Q1 for report to Council Priorities & Grants•Wastewater Service Study•Facilitated review & completion of Wastewater Service Study•Wastewater Strategy Next Steps workshop (March)•Strategic Planning•Strategic Priorities Update workshop with Council (February)•Priorities Update Report to Council (May)•Grant Management•Culture Innovation Fund’s Healthy Communities grant for enhanced Physicians Recruitment & Retention program (January)•ICIP for VoC wastewater project (March) ProjectsPolicy Development•Vaccination Policy (Approved and Rescinded)•Expense Policy (1st reading in April)•Council Procedures (1streading in April)•Outdoor Dining (April)•Next up: Vendor Bylaw, Code of Conduct, Development Fund Policy, Outdoor Lighting options Registration (P33) summary 2021/22 submitted and approved by Council. Schedule B letters issued. This year’s documents going out to Departments/Commissions in May.Appointed new FSANS representative. Cody Stevens, Chief, Chester FD, is now alternate Director for Lunenburg County. He has also taken on position of 2nd Vice President at recent AGM.Final risk assessment report submitted to Steering Committee with copy to Council with recommendations under review. Steering Committee is working towards a presentation to Council in June.Outdoor Burning Bylaw approved by Council.Renewed Fire Department Insurance program. Remained with Gallagher (Intact). Rates are up by 15 % due to market conditions.Planning for follow-up training completed on Superior Water Shuttle Accreditation. Working towards final practice in May and accreditation later in the summer.Completed initial training with departments on fire services drone program. Received two Fire Smart Grants for Western Shore and Chester Basin events.Working on final update of boundaries and Western Shore Commission By-laws following move to Rural Fire District Act.Working on District 4 boundary review in Chester Grant area.Working on new Terms of Reference for Fire Advisory Committee.Working on trail access issues with Fire Departments and Recreation. Continued work on FD accident and Disability market survey and program review. Continuing administration of Workers Compensation Board (WCB) accounts for Fire Services.Fire Services REMOUpdating status of MOC comfort centersCouncil has requested staff to review comfort station policy and the 72-hour Shelter in Place PolicyReviewing Chester ECC requirements and facilities. By-law Enforcement Officer is now providing AEC services to Town of Mahone Bay previously this was being done by Active Living Coordinator Health and Safety Year-end safety report presented to Council and renewed MOC Safety PolicyCompleted annual site safety inspections. Corrective action in progress.Continued work on ergonomic program with WCB. Program awaiting approval.Preparing for staff recognition on 100,000 hours without serious injury milestone. Added and registered an AED to maintenance shop at Kaizer Meadow facility.Updated site emergency response plan.Winding down Covid 19 program with restrictions being lifted by Public Health. Social Media Statistics3205likes 1051448followers 2746,709website views average of 173users per dayCOVID-19 micro site removedTop 10 pagesTax SalesContact informationBuilding & Development PermitsWaste/RecyclingProperty Taxes & RatesEmploymentNewsTancook FerryEventsCouncil1004followers 51MediaInquiries 4Media releases 2Special Observances 9 Communication SupportADMIN SUPPORT•Website and social media updates•Livestreaming (Council/COW/Public Hearings/PIM)•Municipal newsletters (Feb/March)•Electronic notifications – 14•EDI Advisory Committee (2 meetings)PROJECTS/SUPPORT•Accessibility Plan Implementation Actions – Communications•Anti-Racism – training session/regional survey and presentationCAMPAIGNS•Make Your Move•Best Of Chester Municipal Business Awards•Volunteer Week•Mayfest•Chester Built Forms•Budget Investment AttractionResponded to 7business investment inquiries 485visitors to our website and 2subscribers CanadaUnited StatesUnited KingdomQatarTurkeyTop 5 Countriesto visit investchester.ca 1234Top 5 Pagesvisited on investchester.ca 5 Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park•Continued negotiations on 2-acre purchase•Started Phase II Environmental Site Assessment project•Attended information session and received initial site assessment from Turner Drake & Partners Ltd. For the Nova Scotia Innovation Hub Bioeconomy Assets of NS project Physician Recruitment & Retention Program•Received $15,000 in funding in collaboration with Our Health Centre from the Culture Innovation Fund’s Healthy Communities Stream. This for enhanced physician retention initiatives•Delivered2 welcome boxes 1. Sensea Nordic Spa2. The Legend of Oak Island3. Castle Rock Club4. Nova Scotia Fun Facts5. Stay6. Take a Trip to Tancook7. Eat8. Movie Lovers9. Events10.Contact UsTop 10 pages:4,399 visitors 123 newpage likes 324%104new followers 12% Other Ec.Dev Updates •Outdoor Dining Bylaw Development•24 interactions with local businesses•Held virtual 2022 Southwest Nova Scotia Agriculture Day including an in-person Watch Party in New Ross on March 26•70 virtual registrants with 50 attendees•20 registrants with 5 attendees•1 economic development sponsorship approved•Other municipal land sales•Completed appraisals for lots in East River Point•Conferences•ACORN Conference •Events Levy discussions Donna Whitford 181 Queen St. Chester, NS BOJ1Jo To the Chester council ; I am requesting a Dust abatement bylaw for the municipality of Chester. I have had the unfortunate experience of a demolition across the street from me In which a plum of asbestos and other stuff floating down over me like snow this morning. I sincerely hope you are able to do something so simple as have contractors wet the area they are demolishing as this is a health hazard to the community and its residents . IIZJ- , c c % Donna Whitford May 4, 22 1 Pam Myra (she/her) From:Ray Cambria Sent:May 4, 2022 11:28 AM To:Council Subject:#External: Demolition Dear Warden Webber and Council; Some years ago, the house next to mine was demolished to make way for a new home. The dust that blew onto my property was significant. This could be very dangerous for residents who suffer from any sort of medical condition that would be impacted by inhaling the dust. Older properties are liable to contain lead paint and other hazardous products. At that time, I questioned staff why the contractor was not required to implement a dust abatement protocol when doing demolition. I was told MODC has no such bylaw. Today, another property close to mine is being demolished and again there is dust everywhere. I urge council to consider the negative health impact of this type of dust on our community, and to consider a bylaw to require dust abatement on demolition sites. Yours Truly Ray Cambria 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. Présentateur officiel Remerciements à Montréal, Friday, March 25, 2022 Subject: International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, May 17, 2022 Hi, Fondation Émergence's mission is to defend the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBTQ+) people. Each year, it organizes the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (May 17), which was created by the Foundation for the first time in the world, in Quebec, in 2003. This day is now recognized nationally and internationally. For last year's International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, Fondation Émergence sent a pride flag (rainbow) to every municipality in Quebec. For this year, we’re trying to reach out to every municipality in Canada, this will send a stronger message to the government that the population stand with the LGBTQ+ community. We also invite you to adopt a resolution at City Council to mark this important day (see attached template in the email). Also, we invite you to send us a photo of the flag being raised (raja.dridi@fondationemergence.org), to make a mosaic of all the municipalities in Canada, which will be shared on our social networks. In addition, we invite you to share this same photo on your social networks by identifying @journee17mai with the #may17mai so that your municipality radiates its inclusiveness throughout Canada. If you do not have a flag in your possession, you can send us a request at the following email address: (raja.dridi@fondationemergence.org) with the complete address of the City Hall and we will be able to send you one at the price of only $15. Last year, several municipalities followed suit, so join us! Map of Municipalities - May 17 With your support, we continue to make history in Canada and internationally by taking a strong stand against homophobia and transphobia. Together, we can create a country that fully accepts sexual and gender diversity. Yours sincerely Laurent Breault General Director This document is a draft municipal resolution template for the recognition of May 17th as International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Please send a certified true copy to courrier@fondationemergence. RESOLUTION OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF “Name of your municipality” Date Resolution No. “resolution number” - International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia WHEREAS the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms recognizes that no one can be discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; WHEREAS Quebec is a society open to everyone, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people (LGBTQ+) and to all other people who identify with sexual diversity and the multiplicity of gender identities and expressions; WHEREAS, despite recent efforts towards greater inclusion of LGBT people, homophobia and transphobia are still present in society. WHEREAS May 17th is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, is celebrated as such in many countries and is the result of a Quebec-based initiative promoted by Fondation Émergence starting in 2003. WHEREAS there is reason to support the efforts of Fondation Émergence in holding this day; It is resolved to proclaim May 17 INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA AND TRANSPHOBIA and to recognize this day as such. ADOPTED UNANIMOUSLY Certified true copy SIGNATURE Name Title I,., I I C,3n ic,_I 15 VVe lei n Pky, 3VV Hodford, N,( i34 H OV1 Trevor MacLeod Director, Network Bell Mobility April 24th, 2022 Tara Maguire Deputy CAO The Municipality of Chester 151 King St, PO Box 369 Chester, NS BOJ 1J0 Dear Ms. Maguire, Thank you for your letter dated January 26, 2022 addressed to Mr. Glen LeBlanc, related to cell coverage in the Municipality of Chester. Your letter was forwarded to me for review and response on behalf of Bell Mobility. Regarding the first item, service degradation issues on the tower North of Marriott's Cove. Bell identifies this site as "Wake Up Hill". After upgrading the site in early 2021, there were some performance problems in the area caused by some interference relating to some defective hardware. This was rectified in July, 2021, If there are any further issues identified, I encourage the customer to reach out to Bell Customer Service for further investigation. Bell is happy to confirm that we have completed 2 new sites in the area, Martin's River (Jan 2022) and Gold River Oct 2021), increasing capacity, coverage & service on the 103 and areas between Mahone Bay and Chester Basin. Also in our current plans are the installation of several microcells in the town of Chester (ETA August 2022). These targeted installations will improve capacity and coverage to some specific traffic hotspots, including the Yacht Club businesses in the town. Thank you for your letter. We truly do appreciate your concerns and hope that some of the explanations offered above are helpful to you. Sincerely, Trevor MacLeod Direct, Network Bell Mobility trevor.macleod_@bell,ca 902 487-5718 REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation Dept. SUBJECT: New Road Name Assignment ORIGIN: New Private Road Name Request Date: April 22, 2022 Prepared by: Sylvia Dixon, Development & Planning Technician Date: May 2, 2022 Reviewed by: Chad Haughn, Director of CDRD Date: May 4, 2022 Authorized by: Dan McDougall, CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION It is recommended that Municipal Council approve the proposed private road name Constellation Lane. CURRENT SITUATION A private right-of-way accessed off of Mill Lake Rd W in Hubbards (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 Constellation 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 Municipal Policy 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 following road name: Constellation Lane. The proposed name was suggested by a majority of the property owners, representing 100% of the properties. DISCUSSION Constellation Lane would be a unique road name in the Municipality of Chester and Nova Scotia. It is of note that the proposed new road name is similar to the following: - Conservation Drive, Hebbs Cross, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County Comments received for Constellation Lane: - District 2 Councillor – Councillor Floyd Shatford: no objection with the proposed name - Director of Public Works – Fred Whynot: no objection with the proposed name - Hubbards Fire Dept. – Fire Chief: comment of “Everything looks good on my end. Quite unique.” OPTIONS 1. Municipal Council can approve the road name Constellation Lane. 2. Municipal Council can decide not to approve the name and direct staff to assign a name of Council’s choosing. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 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 ) ) ) 134 128 102 98 9496MillLakeRdW Rev.:Date:Description: 0 MUNICIPALITY OF THEDISTRICT OF CHESTER From Date: N /ATo Da te : N/ADate Printed: 22/04/14 ® Legend ^_Future Civic Address Civic Address Road Driveway/Trail Building Footprint Property Boundary Affected Property Waterbody 40 0 4020 Metres 22/04/14 Digital Folders Entry ID:1148413 Status: Ex istsProject ID: N/AClassification #: N/A Representation of Municipality of Chester within Nova ScotiaScale: 1:12 ,500 ,0 00 Scale: 1:2,000 New Private Road Name Requirement 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:HubbardsPID:60620663AAN:01271407Fire Dept:Hubbards Fire Dept.Description:New private road name requirement foraccess to future three or more residential dwellings. Private Driveway Requiring NameProposed: Constellation Lane 0 2 L f 2 C CL 5 P ME 2 CL 0 s Ln 7fLn / 9 m k n E ° 0 M / 0 D R 2 0 f 9 «• 6 i c & 2 / 2 & 7 O CDX7 ' k 2 y 70 9rjf m $. v REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation Dept. SUBJECT: New Road Name Assignment ORIGIN: New Private Road Name Request Date: April 22, 2022 Prepared by: Sylvia Dixon, Development & Planning Technician Date: May 2, 2022 Reviewed by: Chad Haughn, Director of CDRD Date: May 4, 2022 Authorized by: Dan McDougall, CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION It is recommended that Municipal Council approve the proposed private road name Willow Bay Lane. CURRENT SITUATION A private right-of-way accessed off of New Harbour Rd in Blandford (map attached) that will provide access for a future development of three or more addressable structures requires a name. 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 Municipal Policy 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 following road names: Oceanbound Lane (1st choice), Bayview Lane (2nd choice), Bayview Passage (3rd choice), Willow Brook Lane (4th choice) Willow Bend Lane (5th choice), Willow Bay Lane (6th choice), and Seawinds Lane (7th choice). The proposed names were suggested by a majority of the property owners, representing 100% of the properties. DISCUSSION Comments received for proposed road names: - Blandford Fire Dept. – Fire Chief Mike Schnare: has concern that the first-choice proposed name has potential to be confused with the nearby road of Oceanview Drive, preference for Willow Bay Lane “Ocean Bound and Oceanview are very similar sounding and both in the community of Blandford and close together as well. I can see the possibility of confusion happening. I would rather that particular name not be used.” “Willow Bay Lane sounds to be the most unique so I would suggest that.” - District 1 Councillor – Councillor Andre Veinotte: preference for the Willow names - Director of Public Works – Fred Whynot: has the following comment, “Bayview Passage may be the best option on their list followed by Willow Bay Lane and Seawinds Lane” It is of note that the proposed new road names are similar to the following: - Oceanview Dr, Blandford, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 - Ocean Gate Dr, Northwest Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Ocean Marina Dr, Deep Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Ocean Stone Dr, Garden Lots, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County - Oceanridge Rd, Bayswater, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Bay View Rd, Blandford, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Bayview Lane, Queensland, Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax County - Bayview Dr, Chester Basin, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Bayview Crt, Chester Basin, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Bayview Dr, Garden Lots, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County - Bayview Rd, Green Bay, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County - Bayview Dr, Lunenburg, Town of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County - Willow Lane, Western Shore, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Willowbrook Lane, Middle LaHave, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County - Willowbend Crt, Bridgewater, Town of Bridgewater, Lunenburg County - Willowbend Crt, Halifax, Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax County - Sea Glass Dr, Simms Settlement, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Sea Hawk Lane, Deep Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Sea Oaks Lane, Martins Point, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Seabreeze Lane, Chester Basin, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Seacrest Lane, Northwest Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Seafarers Way, Northwest Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Seaside Lane, East Chester, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County - Seaview Dr, Western Shore, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County OPTIONS 1. Municipal Council can approve the road name Willow Bay Lane. 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 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3 Has Legal review been completed? N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) N/A ATTACHMENTS 1. Petitions Received 2. Location Map 133142 146 151150161 160 171 173172 186 21 21460 N e w H arbour Rd O c e a n v i e w D r Rev.:Date:Description: 0 MUNICIPALITY OF THEDISTRICT OF CHESTER From Date: N /ATo Da te : N/ADate Printed: 22/04/12 ® Legend Private Driveway Requiring Name Affected Property (Prior to Sub) Civic Address Road Driveway/Trail Building Footprint Property Boundary 50 0 5025 Metres 22/03/25 Digital Folders Entry ID:1199034 Status: Ex istsProject ID: N/AClassification #: N/A Representation of Municipality of Chester within Nova ScotiaScale: 1:12 ,500 ,0 00 Scale: 1:2,500 New Private Road Name 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" Community:BlandfordFire Dept:Blandford Fire Dept.Description:New private road name request foraccess to new subdivision. New Private Road Name Page 13 NEW PRIVATE ROAD NAME PETITION Three (3) road name choices (Maximum 16 Characters/Letters including spaces and road suffix): 1st C � 16Qu� 2nd N, ui I- 3rd Signature of affected landowners: PID ##: 60068236, 60068616, 60068624, 60448339, 60448362, 60448370 60448388, 60448529, 60448545, 60702685 Names: Douglas Earle Zinck Signatures: TOE MUNICIPALITY OP CHESTER c o m- l<- c C o$ 2$$ r o e o$-< e_ m g o o m o 2 m E c G o C R a 0 K / M. 2 E y< c y e y== 7 E a) e a aq A m¥% w g g/ kn e \ c m v 0 0R v 2 v G X o n ooLAQ. o k 70 7 7 2 m n k k 7 E fD av 2 c 9 C y 00p r O C Co O O n O p R co G Q Ij pi wCL Qo 0 fDcoccrn UlUcn o 0 rn rn CD aai C o L' i rn m ON coo wuj 0a mo w rnN J O 4 za00 WW O a c F^ y CZe7 n CD C bra" a Y CD D Y y z N 2) ci n t- rCD m y Ct1. 7 W REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Municipal Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation SUBJECT: Cross Appointment of Bruce Parks ORIGIN: Appointment of Building Officials Date: May 3, 2022 Prepared by: Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation Date: May 4, 2022 Authorized by: Dan McDougall, CAO RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council appoint Bruce Parks as Building Official and Special Constable to administer and enforce the Municipality of Chester Building By-law and the Nova Scotia Building Code Act and Regulations. CURRENT SITUATION As part of the Shared Services Agreement, all building officials are cross appointed between partner municipalities. MODL staff member Bruce Parks recently qualified for Residential inspections and now needs to be appointed by MOC Council. BACKGROUND The Shared Services Joint Governance Committee made a recommendation in 2018 that all inspectors at MODL and MOC are cross appointed to help ensure continuity of service. Following this recommendation, all inspectors working at MODL in November 2018 were appointed by MOC Council. Over time, as there are building inspector staff changes, Council needs to make appropriate adjustments and appoint any new inspectors that are hired or certified. MODL staff member Bruce Parks was previously appointed by Council related to fire inspection services, however, on April 20, 2022, Bruce received his Residential Qualification from the Nova Scotia Building Code Training & Certification Board. DISCUSSION The proper Council appointments must be in place prior to any staff carrying out building inspection duties. In the scenario that MOC needs to request building inspection services support from MODL due to staff illness, vacation coverage, etc., steps need to be put in place now in preparation for that situation. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 OPTIONS 1. Appoint Bruce Parks as Building Official and Special Constable. 2. Do not appoint Bruce Parks as Building Official and Special Constable and request additional information from staff. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy Cross appointment of inspectors relates directly to the administration of the Municipality of Chester Building By- law and Nova Scotia Building Code Act & Regulations. Financial/budgetary NA Environmental NA Strategic Priorities Cross appointment of building officials will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework: Priority Outcomes: Governance & Engagement 1. Ensure municipal service delivery is efficient and effective, communicated and accessible. Work Program Implications Cross appointment of building officials will help to avoid delays in proving inspection services to local residents and business owners. There are no additions to the work program by implementing cross appointments. Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) NA ATTACHMENTS 1. Residential qualification letter for Bruce Parks. NOVA SCOTIA BUILDING CODE TRAINING & CERTIFICATION BOARD PO BOX 8102 1 HALIFAX, NS I B3K 5L8 902.850.6726 April 20, 2022 Bruce Parks 10 AIlee Champlain Drive Cookville, NS B4V 9E4 Dear Bruce, Your application for Residential Qualification has been approved by the Nova Scotia Building Code Training & Certification Board as of April 20, 2022. Congratulations! You may only administer and enforce the provisions of the Nova Scotia Building Code Act and regulations within the scope that you hold a valid Diploma of Qualification from the NSBCTCB in Nova Scotia. Your scope of practice includes field inspections of 1- & 2 -unit Group C Buildings, their accessory buildings, and decks covered under the Nova Scotia Building Code Act Part 9. Regards, Amanda Deschamps Registrar I NSBCTCB i rectorfa7nsboa, ca REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Corporate & Strategic Management SUBJECT: Resolutions for PCAP & FRIIP Submissions ORIGIN: Strategic Priorities Date: May 4, 2022 Prepared by: Jonathan Meakin, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works Date: May 4, 2022 Reviewed by: Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations Date: May 5, 2022 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION That Council approve the following Resolutions in support of the Municipality’s applications to: 1. The 2022-23 Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program (FRIIP): BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Municipality of the District of Chester submit the project titled Henneberry Lake Culvert Renewal Project for funding to the 2022-23 Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program (FRIIP); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Council supports the project and commits to provide its share of at least 50% ($44,250) of the estimated $88,500 total eligible project cost. 2. The 2022-23 Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP): BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Municipality of the District of Chester submit the project titled Otter Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Design Project for funding to the 2022-23 Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Council supports the project and commits to provide its share of at least 50% ($25,000) of the estimated $50,000 total eligible project cost. CURRENT SITUATION The Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program (FRIIP) and Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP) are annual Government of Nova Scotia grant programs. FRIIP supports investment in infrastructure needed to protect communities from flooding. PCAP supports a range of high priority municipal projects in the areas of wastewater, stormwater, drinking water, and solid waste. A Resolution of Council is required as part of a complete application for both programs. Deadline for submission to both programs is May 12, 2022. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 BACKGROUND On April 13, 2022, the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing announced that deadline for their suite of annual grant programs, including FRIIP and PCAP, would be May 12, 2022. The Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program Overview Eligible Projects:  River Training and Floodway Improvements  Floodwater Containment and Flood Intensity Mitigation  Study work including mapping to identify flood prone areas; and identification of potential solutions to mitigate flood impacts Preference will be given to projects that have been identified as part of the Municipal Climate Change Action Plan (MCCAP) or other infrastructure risk assessment studies. Eligible Costs:  Cost of preliminary engineering studies  Cost of preparing design drawings and specifications  Costs of construction inspection and administration  Cost of construction and equipment acquisition as per plans and specifications  Cost of acquiring land and property easements Provincial Capital Assistance Program Overview Eligible Projects:  Construction or expansion of facilities for the treatment and disposal of sanitary sewage.  Construction of sanitary sewage collection systems.  Construction of storm sewer systems.  Installation of individual and communal in-ground sewage disposal facilities within a Wastewater Management District.  Construction of water intake, treatment, pumping and storage facilities.  Well field exploration and development.  Installation of water transmission and distribution systems.  Construction, acquisition, upgrading or expansion of solid waste management facilities and equipment.  Municipal infrastructure engineering and research studies related to eligible project categories. Eligible Costs:  Cost of preliminary engineering studies  Cost of preparing design drawings and specifications R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3  Cost of construction inspection and administration  Cost of construction and equipment acquisition as per plans and specifications  Cost of acquiring land and property easements DISCUSSION The Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, Director of Public Works, and Director of Infrastructure & Operations identified the following projects as meeting critical priority and eligibility requirements for the FRIIP and PCAP grant opportunities. PROPOSED PROJECT DETAILS FOR FRIIP Project Title: Henneberry Lake Culvert Renewal Project Project Eligibility: The Henneberry Lake Culvert Renewal Project addresses a critical need to correct a watercourse culvert installed in 2013 that does not meet provincial and federal regulatory requirements for protecting fish migration in the watercourse between Henneberry Lake and Mahone Bay. Although the proposed project serves an environmental conservation measure and, to that end, has received a Department of Environment & Climate Change order to assess, the catalysis for the project is a complaint about localized flooding. The need to assess and construct watercourse infrastructure that mitigates flood risk (as well as provide a fish passage that complies with Fisheries & Oceans Canada regulations) is what makes the project eligible for FRIIP. Project Scope: MOC has a Letter of Authority from the province to operate the former rail corridor as a multiuse trail. In 2013, there was a significant culvert failure at Henneberry Lake in East Chester, disrupting the watercourse from Henneberry Lake as it empties into Mahone Bay. At that time, all appropriate provincial approvals were received from the province and a new 48” culvert was installed. Recently, we have been informed that the culvert installed in 2013 may be inadequate as both a watercourse and as a fish passage. The resulting project scope to be submitted to FRIIP is a corrective action that includes environmental assessment of the watercourse, engineering design, and construction of the new culvert or new bridge and fish passage. Project Costs: $88,500 net HST, of which FRIIP would fund a maximum of 50%. If the grant is approved, the project will be brought back to Council prior to proceeding. Project Timeline: TBD between June 1 to September 30, 2022 R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 4 PROPOSED PROJECT DETAILS FOR PCAP Project Title: Otter Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Design Project Project Eligibility: The Otter Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Design Project addresses a critical need to address the Otter Point Wastewater Treatment Plant’s effluent quality issues. NS Environment & Climate Change has determined that the Otter Point system is non-compliant and unable to meet requirements on chlorine residuals in effluent. As PCAP is a competitive program with budget limitations, the PCAP program officer recommended submitting an application for the design phase of the project only. Detailed design of these upgrades this fiscal year is critical step and will ensure the project is shovel ready for construction during the 2023-24 fiscal year. Project Scope: The Wastewater Service Study confirmed that the Otter Point Wastewater Treatment System effluent non-compliance is a critical priority. The project scope to be submitted to PCAP is for the engineering design of upgrades that eliminate chlorine in the treatment process, ensure compliance for existing capacity as well as capacity for existing local units that could be connected, and assessment of the treatment plant’s viability for future expansion. Project Costs: $50,000 net HST, of which PCAP would fund a maximum of 50%. If the grant is approved, the project will be brought back to Council prior to proceeding. Project Timeline: August 1 to October 31, 2022 OPTIONS  Option 1 – Approve and adopt the Resolutions as drafted and direct staff to complete and submit applications to the 2022-23 Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program for the Henneberry Lake Culvert Renewal Project and to the 2022-23 Provincial Capital Assistance Program for the Otter Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Renewal Design Project as outlined in this Request for Decision.  Option 2 – Direct staff to submit alternate projects to the 2022-23 Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program and the 2022-23 Provincial Capital Assistance Program. IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy N/A Financial/budgetary Costs for both the Henneberry Lake Culvert project and the Otter Point WWTP project are unbudgeted items. If these grants are approved, the projects will be brought back to Council prior to proceeding. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 5 Environmental Both projects address climate resilience and environmental protection goals that are important considerations to FRIIP and PCAP respectively. In addition, both grant programs prioritize project outcomes to address provincial/federal regulations in their assessment of applications. Strategic Priorities The FRIIP and PCAP grant submissions will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework: Priority Outcomes: Environmental Stewardship 2. Explore options for integrating green energy and sustainable technologies in municipal infrastructure and program delivery. 3. Support environmental conservation & protection initiatives and efforts to tackle the impact of climate change. Priority Outcomes: Healthy & Vibrant Communities 1. Ensure residents have access to facilities, natural assets, programs, and services that enrich a quality of life and provide safe communities for residents and visitors alike. Priority Outcomes: Infrastructure & Service Delivery 1. Develop and implement evidence-based plans for future infrastructure and service needs, along with related funding models, to accommodate sustainable growth and levels of service. 2. Create efficiencies through innovative service delivery, and proactive maintenance and operations of existing infrastructure. Work Program Implications The FRIIP and PCAP project grant submission will be prepared and submitted by the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator with support from Department of Infrastructure & Operations staff. Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) N/A ATTACHMENTS  Draft Resolution for MOC’s 2022-23 Flood Risk Infrastructure Investment Program  Draft Resolution for MOC’s 2022-23 Provincial Capital Assistance Program District Grants 2022-2023 Updated May 5, 2022 Requested Approved Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ Hubbards Area Lions Club: Septic System Repairs 2,000.00$ Through the Years Day Care and Community Centre: Heat Pumps 4,000.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Chester Municipal Heritage Society: July 1 & 9 Celebrations (Canada Day & Garden Party)3,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ Forties Community Centre: Oktoberfest 500.00$ TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Forest Heights Community School: Prom 2022 300.00$ District 7 TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$ TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 10,000.00$ Total Funds Approved -$ District Grant Budget 2022-2023 70,000.00$ Remaining Funds 70,000.00$ District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER GRANT APPLICATION FORM District Council Grant Request Name of Organization: Contact Person: C. Mailing Address: Email: Phone: Name Signature Date 12(11 0aC12 Amount Requested:$ 30c) 'K Municipal District# ri,00 I Please provide a brief description of your project or event: J,. ) cc,\J,-,r 4VU Qc),-A t, 0, kd C .-Ta )-c d 0 d, -a cz, 4 4k, 43 C, f-f 1-4 V)c"A --5 (f4- t1,J,5 izi rn, Please provide a brief description of how you plan to spend any Council Grant funding received: o 0e ) . 01, - j--) P1 (-k 5 1,i k t5 " 1( C k 5 <::,,Ci , 0 e fu If funding is approved, who should the cheque be made payable to: commit 411114—,5d, I CXJ I Please forward applications to the following: Director of Community Development and Recreation District Council Grant" Municipality of the District of Chester PO Box 369 Chester NS BOJ IJO Email: 1S5u€S �vh ‘Ch need -1 b� , UuG fSP ci— o- -�Y� SAS -kern) Clean ©L -t- dF Sr.>ts�exr V-5 4 e to Gt-r CI I ESTER MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER GRANT APPLICATION FORM District Council Grant Request Name aturganizanon: iA„ btyon('rcis Sec Lions °I ib Contact Person' u1 I icm PPC\ 't j., (6,0csas v Mailing Address: i"� yLIC;- l •1 or, �'� - �1 ►t±Ct Y-C�C i1tS •-� ��J LTti ,.:oe Signature 1 n.t\na.� ` k__ 42)022-4/1 122•,,r cNS^- , .�2no— lJ Amount Requested: $ 0)000 Please provide a brief description of your project or event: We care QL�e. t nC (1c7 too � p 2 e 6V I Ve p\ace �� d o 1pe 4, e Please provide a brief description c. my you plan to spend any Council Grant fundmc received: Pa i r et ]'ii Date Municipal District u z �fh, aoaa. teo� Cqm ci2t��5 ncre -t- r -Inez-' b cover -C� _ccx,m�s-rPo �v��i---s�.� ia-gip- ` 'pcvx- k- o -c 1011-'•c\s ► b \KA U Cover W o re m �,n i,�3 cyc 51(1 . If funding is approved, who should the cheque he made payable to: .1-i rl L_tons \ �5,> b Please forward applications to the following: Director of Community Development and Recreation 'District Council Grant' Municipality of the District of Chester PO Bon 369 - Chester NS BO i in limafl: �1C} 1e au 4es i cICL..vided P� Q vv cLui S I v\J c' CkCu\C ypiL -k D( Cu) C\Q.), Cd-t -y-\ rnaA 1c r 4 L< ,1:;r C onkt CALI,Cd -0r -!° r �Y t kAwdooxds Brea Li 6ns C_ULLb. , South Shore Septic Services Santsouthshoreseptic.ca !902-527-0760 GSTIHST: 7941 f1203RT000f Invoice #000406 Bill To Lions Club Hubbards 902-225-1024 43 lions club road hubbards, NS BOJ ITO Item Lunenburg District I Lame Tank Lunenburg District I Sntal1 Tank Surnp pump Installation Labour Risers Camera Inspection Subtotal Included Tax ($383.481 Invoice Details PDF created Maroc 25, 2022 S2,940.00 Date of service March 26, 2022 Quantity 2 1 1 1 4 1 Payment Due Aped 2. 2022 $2.940.00 Price 1700.00 $300.00 1590.00 $250.00 50.00 $200.00 50.00 Invoice !-600406 Issue date %Aar 26. 2022 Amount $1,400.00 5300.00 5590.0-0 S250.00 $0.00 5400.00 $0.00 $2,940.00 Total Due $2,940.00 t McCulloch Rod 5ridcewater, IlS 52rN 24."V I t Pr 932 via ;x F:, 92.54322.77 rtoun,,r,, ;:s ca 'ation for: Tyne: Sea tic repair James Dean Disposal Lions Club Thank you for the opportunity to offer We propose :o perform the following Sum Price shown b&lot'_' i MG./or/al. Lobe it & Equipment 1P/Citified 1A prlCe 'Priced To ir leak in pump tank as discussed hang of of Hubbards r project. We apprr . is e the. rktocom l to +our pre} tch cut Area Guarantee Un'.ass otherwise soecified herein any at done wkIl be done in cc u portormance is guaranteed for one {1 year from the date of completion. Acceptance of Quote Date Fr in;snf on 2022 03-'e t. OPEllt`I'V IMPIROWWIEPITS LIMITED EP Dv. nanccountry 4 mars S gnature These items LUMP SUM PRICE HST TOTAL PRICE n -like manner Phone' 527-0700 Y loch Road 4. ookville is one: q02..A {. 2- 54 CI -TESTER MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER GRANT APPLICATION FORM District Council Grant Request Name of Organization: Contact Person: r<1 C r L.Ilr_<� L.[tt .][:_• -,.i‘1 rC S i-\L** 1 Mailing Address: a0 7a --e , i'�' d, q r 0 C7,-) c e e ,-, Email: IIrvro uCk0k-h e_. e_c( ( - ca i rc c { c ' (a) Kot-m c .,. I . Name n'1Cl rt) ✓✓I 1 -en rn . Shczi �r r c� Si• atre Amount Requested: $ (— Ci L_CO3nf 1-\Lk.bbcr._rc'IS iNf`> Phone: Date Municipal District # Please provide a brief description of your project or event: lie u re 1 t ft el 2-r1 r Ce f c eCA.- e *\ c- O L- ( - o...Y:k 4-V\ C'fn-\-cf , •er- I 1-,cc.t c_-,(Dusr(Lc 0copafl '.s ctrl ci, (Es( wGlynn to m Wit-&-r0rrl trYr. Wi W C C Lk- S\+1G' tl lir�C .i- ) c.Ll or')t' t_LSC_h C�C.S�,. M ve vNe.at sh \ ,c-‘ *cc), us n c l- 1 u u.5c -1--1--, est 0, \-Icie,..., cA L•\rnvic . m- u3 re pL 7)cyed \n-\ e. x§-a~ c_or-cAS, h [.t 2 [NJ -0k •('D'r C_. t Rc, u S r1-t, c1-1 3rt-n' C. coo l . - , S e t u i Gn Please provide a brief description of how you plan to spend any Council Grant funding •f ec ived; • l,Vt as( r t C-. V s nc) CV -0 C -C411 C LC_n C%,_A N t Tvei Sc ilICA 1 r c cy r+) c7-C- `�' h C, OSA- . Pr-rx tI CIA. CAL i (-15 w f c W t. 1 c 6).0 -i-D-,_.J c ck o u c p C, (-k, h c-4-3 1.c---%•-\ .15 ►n c c \QOC). ck.tr1c l J ) \J \ C� t(J{' VA-LI tJ el -AA Cal clo+ G If funding is approved, who should the cheque be made payable to: -11-,.( otkos1", e �t'u� C re- d - Please forward applications to the following: Director of Community Development and Recreation "District Council Grant" Municipality of the District of Chester PO Box 369 Chester NS BOJ 1J0 Email: cbaugh n cr chester.ca MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER GRANT APPLICATION FORM - District Council Grant Request Name of Organization: Chester Municipal Heritage Society Contact Person: Carol Nauss Mailing Address: 80 Main Street, Chester NS B0J 1J0 Email: Phone: Name Signature Carol Nauss Date ____February , 2022___________________________________ ___Amount Requested: $3000.00_____Municipal District # three________________ Please provide a brief description of your project or event: The money I am requesting is to help cover the cost of mounting two celebrations this year. The celebration of Canada Day 2022, the Queen’s Jubilee. One on July 1st and the other, July 9th in the park will be a formal garden party Please provide a brief description of how you plan to spend any Council Grant funding received: The funding will be used to pay for the cost of mounting these celebrations within District Three. _ If funding is approved, who should the cheque be made payable to: _Chester Municipal Heritage Society Please forward applications to the following: Director of Community Development and Recreation “District Council Grant” Municipality of the District of Chester PO Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 Email: chaughn@chester.ca Description of Projects Chester Municipal Heritage Society It is our intent to combine July 1st celebrations for Canada and the Queen’s Jubilee on July 1, 2022. This celebration will include members of the entire Municipality of the District of Chester, focusing on the changes over the last 70 years in Canada and our Municipality. Culturally we will hold a formal tea party with toasts to the Queen and Canada. During this tea party information about the seven different decades of the Queen’s reign will be told featuring a seven- period fashion show, music of that decade and information regarding the important events of each of the seven Canadian decades. The Chester Drama Society, St. Stephen’s Children’s Music Program will provide support for these events. For the younger participants we will share educational information about our national symbols and the history behind their use. This event will be held in conjunction with a garden party, band concert, fireworks during the evening from the harbour and include other celebrations planned by our different municipal areas, completing a full day of celebration and recognition for the Queen’s Jubilee and Canada. It is anticipated that other groups within the municipality will add additional events to the day as time grows nearer to the event. Fax Cover Sheet ,Forties Community Centre 1787 Forties Road; New Ross, N.S. 02 689 2000 haCC 902 68,E 2612 , arsha/fax 'o: Chad From: Marsha ' e met with Tina yesterday n "'s e is exyecting to receive this. Just a note, we have hada very Carge screen at the, Forties Community Centre because of our high ceiCings. The woo Cot owners had- it. Thanks for the info.. MUNICIPALITY OF TIME DISTRICT OF CHESTER GRANT APPLICATION FORM District Council Grant Request Name of Organization, :Forties Community Centre Contact Person: Marsha Yeaton Mailing Address: 1787 Forties Road, New Ross, N,S, 8012M0 Email: fortiescc@gmail.com Name _Marsha Yeaotn Phone: 902 689 2612 Signature Date . Feb 4, 2022 Amount Requested: $ _500.00 „., Municipal .District # Please provide a brief description of your project or event: Each year the Fortis Community Centre endeaours to celebrate the German heritage of Lunenburg County, We do this by hosting different activities such as a Turkey Supper with Harvest sale and vendors and musicians and demonstrations taking place to create an inviting atmosphere. Most years a variety show took place during this month but for the past years we have had to do that virtually. There are many positive reactions to both methods. A sauerkraut supper is the final activity with traditional Oktoberfest Sausage, This festival is a nice pre winter event. �.. Please provide a brief description of how you plan to spend any Council Grant funding received: ,The budget for Oktoberfest is 3350. Coasts include advertising, promotion, entertainment such as musicians and demonstrations, volunteers shirts, insurance etc, Full disclosure of bow funds are spent are sent with the final rport each year. _Who should the cheque be made payable to; _Forties Community Centre Please forward applications to the following: Director of Community Development and Recreation "District Council Crant'" Municipality of the District of Chester PO Sox 369 Chester NSW 1]0 Email: eation[ ch tetc REQUEST FOR DECISION REPORT TO: Council MEETING DATE: May 12, 2022 DEPARTMENT: Infrastructure and Operations SUBJECT: RFP for Sidewalk Design ORIGIN: Modal Shift and New Connections 2020-2027 Date: May 5, 2022 Prepared by: Tammie Bezanson, CET Date: May 5, 2022 Reviewed by: Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure and Operations Date: May 5, 2022 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO RECOMMENDED MOTION That council award the design of the four (4) new sidewalks detailed in the RFP to EXP Services Inc. CURRENT SITUATION The Department of Infrastructure & Operations issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for four (4) new sidewalks identified in the Modal Shift and New Connections Report. The sidewalks in question are located in: 1. Hubbards – Hwy 329 to trail – 60m 2. Chester Basin – Hwy 3 to Trail Head – 370m 3. Chester – Duke St. to Victoria St – 660m 4. Chester – Our Health Centre to Pig Loop Road – 160m BACKGROUND The initial project list of sidewalks was approved by Council on September 3, 2020. Council also incorporated those projects into the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan that was approved in December 2020. This RFQ covers the first four (4) of a planned eleven (11) sidewalks to be completed by December 2027. The approved project budget amount for the fiscal year 2022/23 is $107,147. The contract award amount is $99,959 plus HST. Both submissions amounts were below the budgeted amount. The 5% local bonus did not apply as the contract amount was over $50,000. In summary, the RFP scoring criteria is split 70% for experience, qualifications, and references and 30% is based on the price. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2 Criteria Title Section Weight Experience and Qualifications D.2.1(a. Corporate History) 10 D.2.1(b. Methodology) 30 D.2.1(c. Proposed Project Team) 20 D.4.1 Sub 60 References D.2.2 10 D.4.2 Sub 10 Price D.2.3 30 D.4.3 Sub 30 DISCUSSION MoC Infrastructure & Operations received two (2) submissions for design. During evaluation it was determined that more clarification from the two proponents was needed to compare them evenly. Scoring clearly showed that EXP had presented the design that most fully addressed the project task. Clarification was requested for the individual pricing that didn’t quite meet our requirements listed in the RFP. OPTIONS Option A – Direct Staff to award the contract to EXP Services. Option B – Direct back to staff for further information. R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3 IMPLICATIONS By-Law/Policy Not Applicable Financial/budgetary This project has been approved in the 2022-2023 Capital Budget Environmental Not Applicable Strategic Priorities The design and future construction will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework: Priority Outcomes: Economic Development 1. Position the Municipality as Nova Scotia’s south shore community of choice for residents, businesses, and organizations, and as an international tourism destination. Priority Outcomes: Environmental Stewardship 1. Support environmental conservation & protection initiatives and efforts to tackle the impact of climate change. Priority Outcomes: Governance & Engagement 1. Ensure municipal service delivery is efficient and effective, communicated and accessible. Priority Outcomes: Healthy & Vibrant Communities 1. Ensure residents have access to facilities, natural assets, programs, and services that enrich a quality of life and provide safe communities for residents and visitors alike. Priority Outcomes: Infrastructure & Service Delivery 1. Develop and implement evidence-based plans for future infrastructure and service needs, along with related funding models, to accommodate sustainable growth and levels of service. 2. Create efficiencies through innovative service delivery, and proactive maintenance and operations of existing infrastructure. 3. Plan for and create infrastructure that improves the connectivity of roads, multi-use trails, natural assets, and facilities as part of an active transportation network. Work Program Implications Will the subject of this report have an impact on staff’s work programs? Are additional resources needed or will the action delay or change any timelines of the departmental work program? Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 4 COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) No communication needs are anticipated at this stage of the project. ATTACHMENTS None