HomeMy Public PortalAbout2022-04-07_COW_Website Agenda Package_Updated 2022-04-05Page 1 of 1 (Cover Pages)
Committee of the Whole AGENDA
Thursday, April 7, 2022
Livestreamed via YouTube at
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_uKlob3qOA6eD62x1kK5Kw
151 King Street, Chester, NS
1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (9:00-9:15 a.m. if any)
4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 March 24, 2022.
5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
6. MATTERS ARISING
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 Correspondence dated March 22, 2022 from the Town of Mahone Bay regarding Regional
Housing Strategy for Lunenburg County.
8. NEW BUSINESS
8.1
9. IN CAMERA
9.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(e) - Contract Negotiations – Village of Chester.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Budget 2022/23.
113
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
Minutes of
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Via YouTube Live from 151 King St, Chester, NS
On Thursday, March 24, 2022
CALLED TO ORDER
Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:49 a.m.
Present: District 1 – Councillor Andre Veinotte District 4 – Warden Allen Webber
District 2 – Deputy Warden Shatford District 3 – Councillor Derek Wells
District 5 – Councillor Abdella Assaff District 7 – Councillor Sharon Church
District 6 – Councillor Tina Connors
Staff: Dan McDougall, CAO Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO
Jennifer Webber, Communications Officer Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk (via Zoom)
Jonathan Meakin, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator
Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS
Additions:
NSFM Conference added.
2022-074 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford the March 24,
2022, Agenda and Order of Business for the Committee of the Whole be approved as
amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Birthday greetings were extended to Jennifer Webber, Tammy Harnish, and Pam Myra.
PUBLIC INPUT
No public input received.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 114
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 Committee of the Whole – March 3, 2022 – Warden Webber.
2022-075 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff the minutes of the
March 3, 2022, meeting of Committee of the Whole be approved as circulated. ALL
IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Wastewater ICIP application.
Jonathan Meakin, Strategic Initiatives Coordinator reviewed the Request for Decision
regarding the on the ICIP application outlining that the Department of Municipal Affairs and
Housing (DMAH) is currently accepting grant applications to the Green: Environmental Quality
Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP). The deadline for submissions
is April 1, 2022.
The Green: Environmental Quality Stream is focused on infrastructure that will support quality
and management improvements for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater, as well as
reductions to soil and air pollutants through solid waste diversion and remediation.
A Council Resolution supporting the submission of this project to the April 1, 2022 ICIP intake
is required as part of the complete application package and projects should start in 2022-23
or 2023-24 and must be complete by March 31, 2027.
Council has been engaged in the development of the Wastewater Service Study, a process that
included EXP’s presentation to Council of preliminary findings on February 3, 2022, and,
following receipt of a complete second draft of the Study, a workshop on March 10, 2022, with
staff to explore possible wastewater projects.
During the workshop, staff outlined several possible wastewater projects throughout the
Municipality. To prioritize projects for the ICIP application, Council considered those that
would best meet ICIP Green: Environmental Quality Stream objectives and outcomes:
increasing capacity to treat and manage wastewater, climate resiliency and GHG mitigation,
and ensuring regulatory compliance for effluent. Council also considered provincial priorities
around housing supply and availability.
It was determined that an expansion of the Village of Chester Wastewater system would best
meet ICIP objectives and outcomes and would have the highest probably of successful funding.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 115
financial plan to advance additional wastewater projects identified in the Wastewater Service
Study over the next five (5) years. These additional wastewater projects, which staff will bring
to Council for discussion and direction, include:
Chester Basin Wastewater System – siting study and design for new treatment plant and
first phase of an expanded collection and pumping system.
New Ross Wastewater System - design for enhanced or new treatment plant and first
phase of an expanded collection and pumping system.
Otter Point Wastewater System – regulatory compliance and safety upgrades
development of collection system based on existing treatment plant capacity.
Western Shore Wastewater System – phased upgrades to collection, pumping, and
treatment systems.
Mill Cove Wastewater System – construction of next treatment plant module based on
development demand.
Hubbards/Simms Settlement – completion of growth strategy project for the area to
help inform siting study and design work for possible location and type of system.
It was also noted that although the proposed phase of system expansion will provide service to
potentially 150+ new connections, the capacity upgrades to the three existing lift stations and
the WWTP will be designed and constructed to accommodate 500+ new connections identified
in the Wastewater Service Study as possible future development and future flows for the
Village of Chester as a whole. This will maximize the return on investment for core wastewater
infrastructure.
Project costs were outlined for the proposed Village of Chester Wastewater System
Expansion Project as follows:
Total ICIP project cost $11,488,488
Federal ICIP contribution (max. 40%) $4,595,395
Provincial ICIP contribution (max. 33.33%) $3,829,113
Municipality’s contribution (26.67%) $3,063,980
Councillor Wells clarified that there are other areas, and this just does not focus only on the
Stanford Lake area and the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator indicated that, yes, it would
accommodate any kind of future development.
In staff’s initial consultation with DMAH, the provincial senior engineer stressed that ‘project
readiness’ will be a factor in funding allocation, especially given the available pool of funding
and the need for project initiation in 2022-23 or 2023-24. The implication is that provincial and
federal assessment will be looking for viable projects that can be completed within a shorter
timeframe to minimize inflationary pressures as much as possible.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 116
As a result, our ICIP application will outline the proposed phased approach as a logical approach
to ensuring viable project advancement:
Phase 1: Upgrades & Preparation for System Expansion
Upgrade to the Village of Chester Wastewater Treatment Plant, three core Lift
Stations at 264 Pig Loop Road, 10 Mallard Lane, and 3947 North St Lift Station,
and related collection systems to address and improve existing
condition/performance and capacity issues.
Phase 2: System Expansion and Service Growth
Installation of 3 new Lift Stations, associated force mains, and collection gravity
systems to provide service for new development agreement and for encouraging
future housing development.
2022-076 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the Committee
of the Whole recommend to Council the following be approved:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Municipality of the District of Chester submit the project
titled: Village of Chester Wastewater Service Expansion Project for funding through the
Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Green: Environmental Quality Stream; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Council supports the project and commits to provide its
share ($3,063,980) toward the $11,488,488 project cost.
ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Councillor Connors asked about the timeline for the additional wastewater projects listed and
it was noted that staff will provide more information.
Councillor Veinotte suggested that a growth strategy should include other areas as well.
Although all projects can’t be done at the same time, if a growth strategy could be provided
for all areas where infrastructure may be required, that would make sense.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
5.1 David Murdock and Staff Sgt. Victor Whalen (RCMP) regarding Lunenburg County
Seniors’ Safety Program.
Present were David Murdock and Staff Sgt. Victor Whalen to review the work of the Lunenburg
County Seniors’ Safety Program.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 117
Mr. Murdoch thanked Council for the opportunity to speak and review the need for the
increased funding this year for the program from Municipalities. The Province has already
increased its funding by 100%. The request from Municipalities is an additional 75% (amounts
vary per unit as per the funding formula).
Mr. Murdoch reviewed the presentation which included the services provided to seniors,
staffing and the need for increased demand (COVID, home visits, fraud, abuse). This will
provide stability, retain staff, reduce burnout, and support policing. At this time, there is no
staff; the coordinator will be returning in April and the funding for part-time staffing ended in
December of 2021.
Staff Sgt. Vic Whalen thanked Council for the time to speak. He noted that our seniors are the
most vulnerable because they trust people and are often targets of people who have
defrauded them of tens of thousands of dollars. They are hoping to provide additional
presentations to seniors to reduce the number of victims of fraud. This is a very valuable
service to the seniors of the area. The Senior Safety partnerships with the RCMP have been
fantastic. A lot of time the RCMP deal with seniors who are dealing with abuse – physical,
fraud, and emotional – and the Seniors’ Safety Program steps up to provide additional support
for the vulnerable population. He hopes the program will have the support of Council.
Mr. Murdoch reviewed the budget and what would be available at the various funding levels.
He noted that they are fairly confident of the support of other units.
Councillor Connors, as this Council’s representative, offered to provide information to
Councillor Wells.
Councillors agreed that the funding was not an issue; the program is a good one for seniors
throughout the County.
2022-077 MOVED by Councillor Connors, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to increase the funding to the
Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Program from $6,100 to the amount of $10,651
in the 2022/23 Budget. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
A break was held from 9:34 a.m. to 9:47 a.m.
6.2 Request for Decision prepared March 21, 2022 – Financial & Information Services –
Establishment of a Development Fund.
Tim Topping, Director of Financial & Information Services was present to review the
information provided for the establishment of a development fund.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 118
Under By-Law No. 137, The Municipality of the District of Chester (“MODC”) charges a tax on
all deed transfers, in the amount of 1.5% of the value of the property transferred. Current
practice is to not allocate this revenue to any particular use, and to include it 100% as a part of
the annual operating budget.
Infrastructure projects are funded from a variety of different sources, including grants from
other levels of government, current operating funds (property taxes), reserve funds (savings),
and debt financing. This list is not intended to be exhaustive.
To prepare for and induce growth in the Municipality, MODC will be considering a number of
significant infrastructure projects in the coming years, and there is a benefit in identifying and
allocating sources of funding for these projects.
The amounts over the past few years were reviewed and discussed as well as the proposed
percentages to transfer to the fund from the Deed Transfer Tax received. It was suggested
that the entire amount from this present year be used and from then onward, 50% be used to
increase the fund.
The intent is for staff to develop a policy, however, the reason it was before the Committee
today was to deal with it before the end of the fiscal year as a transfer rather than a
contribution from reserves after the fiscal year.
2022-078 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Wells that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to reject the proposal outlined in
the Request for Decision prepared March 21, 2022, and propose that 100% of the
Deed Transfer Tax for 2021/22 be transferred into the new Development Fund, and
staff be directed to develop a policy outlining that 50% of Deed Transfer Tax
received would be transferred to the fund in future years. ALL IN FAVOUR.
MOTION CARRIED.
Discussion:
Deputy Warden Shatford noted that this is a better way to support housing as an
investment.
Councillor Assaff asked if a policy would be developed – it will be developed for
Council’s review and approval.
ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
It was agreed this was a way to demonstrate to developers that we are ready for development.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 119
CORRESPONDENCE
There were no items of correspondence.
NEW BUSINESS
8.1 Request for Decision prepared March 7, 2022 – Corporate & Strategic Management –
Cost of Living Consideration for 2022/23.
The Deputy CAO reviewed the Request for Decision regarding the annual consideration of the
Cost of Living
2020-079 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to approve the Cost of Living at
4.1% by:
• Approving the Draft 2022/23 Employee Salary Bands - Approve the Cost-of-Living
increase by the Consumer Price Index – All Items for Nova Scotia Annual Average
2021 by 4.1% Effective April 1, 2022; and
• Recommending the amendment to Policy P-09 Warden, Deputy Warden, and
Councillors Salaries - Give Notice of Intention to Amend Policy P-09 Sections A, B,
and C to increase annual remuneration Cost of Living by the Consumer Price Index
– All Items for Nova Scotia 2021 by 4.1% Effective April 1, 2022.
ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
8.2 Conferences in 2022.
The NSFM Conference will be held at White Point Lodge and is an in-person FCM Conference.
The FCM Conference will be held in Regina this year from June 2-5.
Warden Webber noted that traditionally the Warden and two Councillors attend the FCM
conference, however, he does not wish to attend the FCM Conference.
Councillor were asked to advise staff which conferences they were interested in attending.
8.3 Cannabis Growing Centre – Councillor Church.
Committee of the Whole (continued) March 24, 2022 120
Councillor Church indicated that she had received an email from the owner of a cannabis
growing business on Windsor Road. They have asked if Council is interested in a tour of the
facility before it is opened. They would like to show the facility and explain what they are doing.
Councillors agreed to attend a tour.
IN CAMERA
There were no “In Camera” items.
ADJOURNMENT
2022-080 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the meeting
adjourn. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. (10:09 a.m.)
___________________________ ___________________________
Allen Webber Pamela Myra
Warden Municipal Clerk
TOWN OF 8 4.
Warden Allen Webber
PO Box 369
Chester, NS
BOJ 1J0
PO Box 530, 493 Main Street
Mahone Bay NS, BOJ 2E0
Phone 902-624-8327 1 Fax 902-624-8069
townofmahonebay.ca
March 22nd, 2022
RE: Regional Housing Strategy for Lunenburg County
Dear Warden Webber and Council,
This letter follows our prior letter dated January 25th, 2022. In that letter the Mahone Bay
Town Council encouraged the municipal units in Lunenburg County to support a regional
approach to housing needs assessments as a necessary step towards the development of
a regional housing strategy for Lunenburg County.
The Province has since issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for housing assessments to be
conducted across Nova Scotia, which closed on March 7th, 2022. According to the RFP the
final housing needs assessment report is anticipated in December of 2022.
The Town of Mahone Bay is proposing the municipal units of Lunenburg County agree to
a process for the development of a regional housing strategy, building on the Province -led
needs assessment.
Please respond indicating if you and your Council support such an approach.
Best regards,
Mayor David Devenne
Town of Mahone Bay
Municipality of Chester
2022-23 Draft Budget
Committee of the Whole
April 7, 2022
1
2022-23 Draft Budget
CONTENTS by Section
1. Budget Highlights (pages 3-5)
2. Departmental Budget Presentations
a) Department Operating Budget Summary
b) Program Operating One-Pagers + Capital Projects
•Deputy CAO (pages 6-16)
•Community Development & Recreation (pages 17-36)
•Infrastructure & Operations (pages 37-59)
•Financial & Information Services (pages 60-68)
3. Strategic Priorities (pages 69-73)
4. 5-year Capital budget (pages 74-77)
5. Debt Servicing Projections (page 78)
6. Reserves
a) 2022-23 Summary (page 79)
b) 5-year Projections (page 80)
7. Rate Setting (pages 81-87)
8. Operating & Capital “Parking Lot” (page 88)
9. Motions (page 89)
10. Next Steps (page 90)
2
-Taxes:
-Property Taxes: $13,800,393 (up $1,104,189 from 21/22)
- Residential Assessments up 9.3% (average 7.9%, capped at 5.4% for eligible properties)
- Average assessed value $178,786 (21/22 $165,621)
- Tax bill increase on average property is $93 ($63 if capped)
- Commercial Assessments up 4.9%
- Resource Assessments up 5.1%
-Deed Transfer Tax: $1,790,000 (up $418,918 from 21/22 Budget)
- 50% allocated to Infrastructure Development Fund
-Landfill Fees: $3,469,402 (down $130,532 from 21/22)
- Reduced volumes from controllable sources due to capacity until new Cell is completed
-Gas Tax: $599,418 (down $570,582 from 21/22)
- Payments were doubled in 21/22
-Private Roads Admin Fee: $6,019 (down $4,595 from 21/22)
- Charge reduced from 10% to 5%
Budget Highlights - REVENUE
3
- Total Expenditures: $29,269,176 (3.5% increase from 2021/22 budget)
- Salary, Wage, and Benefits: $5,377,124 (up $626,583 from 21/22)
- Previously approved org structure changes: $434,108
- Cost of Living Adjustments (approved March 31, 2022): $194,772
- Movement within ranges: $106,860
- 2.0% vacancy allowance for turnover & recruitment: $109,157
- 21/22 projected: 5.5%
- 20/21 actual: 1.4%
- Non-Discretionary Expenditures:
- Transfers to RCMP: $2,206,780 (up $219,406 from 21/22)
- Insurance Premiums have gone up an average of 18.1% from 21/22
- School Board Contributions have increased along with assessment values
- Library Contributions are up 26%
- No amount budgeted for Sustane operations ($1,020,000 in 21/22)
- Transfers to Reserves increasing due to allocation of Deed Transfer Tax
Budget Highlights - EXPENDITURES
4
-Grants:
- Budgeted: $113,190
- Council: $25,000
- Tourism: $8,000
- District: $70,000 ($10,000 per District)
- Recreation: $20,000
- Youth Sponsorship: $4,000
- Leadership: $4,000
- Economic Development Sponsorship $6,000
- Wind Energy Reserve: $439,000
Budget Highlights – EXPENDITURES (cont’d)
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
Project: Trail Bridge
Inspections -
King Street, Barry’s
Brook #1 & East River
Background:In September 2021 Design Point Engineering Services
completed a Level II visual inspection of 11 trail bridges and provided a
report that included a summary of the bridge conditions and
recommendations for inspections, maintenance and repairs. The capital
recommendations have been included in the 10-year capital investment
plan. For 2022-23 there are three recommendations:
1. King Street Bridge, Concrete Condition Study $10,000
2. Barry’s Brooke #1, Level III Inspection $20,000
3. East River, Level III Inspection $25,000
Total $55,000
Objective: Provide safe trail infrastructure for the public through a
comprehensive plan for trail bridge inspections and maintenance.
Estimated Cost: $55,000
Source of Funds: Operating
Reserve
Timing:Completion of
Inspections by Fall 2022.
Back to Council?:Inspection
report will be provided.
24
Project: East River
Foot Bridge
Background:The Municipality owns a small parcel of land adjacent to
the East River, between HWY 3 and the Rum Runners Trail.
Recreation & Parks staff have built a short semi-rustic trail and have
conducted several guided hikes on this property over the past few
years. In order to connect the property to the rail trail a small bridge
over Barry’s Brook needs to be built.
Objective: To provide a connection from the Rum Runners Trail to the
Municipal property by installing a footbridge. The bridge allows trail
users to explore of the riverbank area and fits into the larger trail
connectivity for the area including to the north side of the Rum
Runners Trail where hikers will be able to visit a small waterfall.
Estimated Cost: $25,000
Source of Funds: $16,000
Grant & $9,000 Gas Tax
Timing:Construction Planned
for August 2022.
Back to Council?:No.
25
Project: Paved Shoulders
Background:The Municipality has recent history of partnering with
Nova Scotia Public Works to add paved shoulders to planned paving
projects outlined in the 5-Year Highway Improvement Plan. NSPW is
scheduled to complete paving in 2022-23 on Highway 3 from Trunk
12 Chester Basin to Vaughn Road Western Shore (6kms).
Objective: To pave the shoulder of the road (1.2 meters) in order to
provide Active Transportation options for residents. The Municipality
has been interested in paved shoulders to make HWY 3 more
accessible, safe and comfortable for more users (walking & biking).
HWY 3 spans 37 kilometers from east to west and completion of this
section would add 6 kilometers of paved shoulders to the existing
18.7 kilometers.
Estimated Cost: $762,881
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $305,153
Prov - $254,268
MOC - $203,460 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:No
26
Project: Sidewalk &
Trail Construction
Background:Improve Active
Transportation infrastructure
through construction of sidewalks
and trails.
Objectives:
•Improve the walkability of
neighborhoods.
•Create a safe space for
pedestrians and an AT friendly
community.
•Build a healthy, active
community.
Estimated Cost: $1,263,598
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $505,439
Prov - $421,157
MOC - $337,002 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:RFD
27
Project: Sidewalk &
Trail Construction
(continued)
Estimated Cost: $1,263,598
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $505,439
Prov - $421,157
MOC - $337,002 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:RFD
1.Highway 329 to Trail: 60 meters
This short sidewalk extension will connect the existing
sidewalk to the Rum Runners Trail Head and will create
a safer crossing of HWY 329.
Budget: $98,154
If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is
$26,178
2.Highway 3 to Croft Road: 265 meters
Connect existing sidewalks in Chester Basin and will
provide a triangle of sidewalks in the core of the
community.
Budget: $283,769
If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is
$75,681
28
Project: Sidewalk &
Trail Construction
(continued)
3. Our Health Centre to Pig Loop Road: 160 meters
•This project fills in the gap between the existing sidewalk and Pig Loop Rd
creating better access to this busy section of HWY 3.
•Budget: $178,411
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $47,582
4. Duke St to Victoria St: 660 meters
•The current sidewalk ends at Duke St. This project extends the sidewalk to
Victoria Rd.
•Budget: $668,848
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $178,382
5. Middle River (Haughn Property) Connector Trail: 700 meters
•This new trail will serve as a connector for all users from the Rum Runners
Trail to HWY 3 through the Municipal property.
•Budget: $34,416
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $9,179
Estimated Cost: $1,263,598
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $505,439
Prov - $421,157
MOC - $337,002 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:RFD
29
Project: Gold River
Bridge Replacement
Background:Based on an engineer report, the decision was made to
close the Gold River Trail Bridge in September 2021. After some
preliminary research and discussion with Council, direction was given
for staff to pursue options to replace the existing bridge with a new
bridge.
Objectives:
•Reinstate the trail connection over the Gold River so that all trail
users have a river crossing.
•Work with various partners to successfully reestablish the full
connection of the Rum Runners Trail through the Municipality.
•Seek bridge building professional opinions through an RFP
process.
Estimated Cost: $1,852,217
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $740,887
Prov - $617,344
MOC - $493,986
Timing:Construction TBD based on
solution identified.
Back to Council?:Options for solutions
following Consultant work.
30
Project: Rapid
Rectangular Flashing
Beacons (RRFB’s)
Background:One method to improve the safety of
pedestrians crossing the road is by adding safety treatments
to improve choke points. The addition of flashing lights
(RRFB’s) at crossings will make drivers more aware of
pedestrian activity.
Objectives:
•Improve road crossings for pedestrians.
•Create an AT friendly community.
•Support active, healthy lifestyles.
1. Highway 3 at Walker Cut Road Trail Crossing
•Budget: $28,358
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $7,563
Estimated Cost: $117,563
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $47,025
Prov - $39,185
MOC - $31,353 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:No.
31
Project: Rapid
Rectangular Flashing
Beacons (RRFB’s)
(continued)
2. Highway 3 at East River Trail Crossing
•Budget: $29,735
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $7,930
3. Western Shore Highway 3 at Lawrence Hatt Rd
•Budget: $29,735
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $7,930
4. Chester Basin Highway 3 at Highway 12
•Budget: $29,735
•If ICIP application approved, MOC Contribution is $7,930
Estimated Cost: $117,563
Source of Funds: (ICIP Project)
Fed - $47,025
Prov - $39,185
MOC - $31,353 (Operating
Reserve)
Timing:Construction Planned for
Construction Season 2022.
Back to Council?:No.
32
Project: Open Space
Implementation
Background:Continued implementation
of the “Plan For Our Open Spaces”. 2021-
22 included the design phase and 2022-
23 the focus will be construction.
Objectives:
•Create exceptional open spaces that
people will love and want to explore.
•Protect and value the natural landscape
while providing outdoor recreation
opportunities.
•Develop our campus of 5 gem
properties.
Estimated Cost: $302,750
Source of Funds: Operating
Reserve
Timing:Completion Scheduled
for 2022
Back to Council?:No.
33
Project: Open Space
Implementation
(continued)
1. East River
•ATV and bicycle parking, picnic area, wayfinding signage and trail
construction.
•Budget: $17,300
2. Castle Rock
•Addition of new trail route to complement existing trails, additional
signage, trail enhancements and new amenities.
•Budget: $45,200
3. Gold River
•Construct parking area, professional trail construction, signage and
amenities.
•Budget: $68,100
Estimated Cost: $302,750
Source of Funds: Operating
Reserve
Timing:Completion Scheduled
for 2022
Back to Council?:No.
34
Project: Open Space
Implementation
(continued)
4. Haughn Property
•Construct parking area, professional trail construction, signage
and amenities.
•Budget: $98,600
5. Moland Point
•Construct parking area, trail construction, signage, amenities and
all accessibility features.
•Budget: $73,550
Estimated Cost: $302,750
Source of Funds: Operating
Reserve
Timing:Completion Scheduled
for 2022
Back to Council?:No.
35
36
37
38
Project: ¾ Ton Truck -
Municipal Properties Background:Infrastructure and Operations maintains a fleet of trucks
that are maintained by a vehicle maintenance service contract. A new
vehicle is typically purchased ….
Objective: The truck will be used by the Public Works staff to perform
ongoing maintenance and operations activities on various Municipal
owned properties.
Estimated Cost: $85,000
One-Time Cost
Source of Funds: Operating
Timing:
Back to Council: Yes, prior to
awarding tender
39
Project: Zero-turn
Replacement - Municipal
Properties Background:The Public Works staff utilize a zero-turn mower to
complete lawn care on various municipal owned properties from Spring to
Fall.
Objective: To provide adequate equipment required to maintain the
municipal properties and to provide the public with good service.Estimated Cost: $20,000
One-Time Cost
Source of Funds: Operating
Timing: 2022
Back to Council: No
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Project: Trail Surface
Upgrades - Municipal
Properties
Background:Trail surface conditions are assessed annually to identify
priorities & timing. This section is scheduled for resurfacing in 2022 is 3
km’s in the Goat Lake area.
Objectives:
•Smooth & consistent trail surface that accommodates all trail
uses. Activities include grading, pothole repair, ditching, etc.
•Support active, health lifestyles.
•Attract visitors to the Municipality/Province to experience trail network.
Estimated Cost: $26,000
Recurring Maintenance Cost
Source of Funds: Operating
Timing: 2022
Back to Council: No
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Project: Wild Rose Park
Washroom Renovation
Background:
The Municipality of Chester owns
and operates Wild Rose Park in
Western Shore. The property
includes two buildings, a storage
shed as well as a public
washroom. The public washroom
building is old, in poor condition and
needs significant renovation.
Objective:
•Continue to provide a washroom
facility for park users and the
public at large.
•Improve the overall condition of
the washroom so that it is user
friendly.
•Construct so the washroom
facility is fully accessible.
Estimated Cost: $100,000?
Source of Funds: Enabling
Accessibility Grant
Timing:Summer 2022.
Back to Council?:RFD.
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Project: Manhole Repairs
& Infiltration Reduction -
Universal Sewer Projects
Background:The current wastewater collection infrastructure is over 40
years old and requires repairs. Annually various section on sewer lines are
cleaned and videoed as preventative maintenance. In addition manholes have
been inspected and repairs documented. Over the year’s manholes have been
undergoing repairs at the surface to prevent infiltration (groundwater entering
the system through defects in sewer) and to bring to grade to provide
accessibility for cleaning and any issues that may occur.
An asset management plan is underway in which we will identify potential
failures, infiltration etc. this will assist with budgeting long-term to maintain the
collection system.
Objectives:
- Prevent infiltration into the system which reduces capacity and increases
costs.
- Prevent the release of untreated wastewater into the environment.
- Prevent and possibly reduce sources of inflow through improper
connections.
Estimated Cost: $52,500
Multiyear Cost
Source of Funds: EDU
Timing: 2022
Back to Council: No.
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Project: Pump
Replacements -
Universal Sewer Projects
Background:The Municipality owns and operates six (6) Wastewater
Treatment Plants of various sizes in the following communities: Chester
Basin, Chester, Mill Cove, New Ross, Otter Point and Western Shore.
Mechanical upgrades will ensure continued operation and maximize the
lifespan of the pump stations
Objective: The pump replacement ensures pumps are kept up to date,
properly maintained and are able to ensure the system is working as
designed.
Estimated Cost: $31,500 –
Recurring Maintenance Cost
Source of Funds: EDU
Timing: 2022
Back to Council: No.
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Project: Mill Cove
Wastewater collection
extension - Universal
Sewer Projects
Background:The MOC approved a development agreement between the
MOC and Aspotogan Ridge Golf Village Inc. The Municipality agrees to
extend the service lines of the Mill Cove Wastewater System from the
current location to the edge of the Developers property on Parkwood
Drive to service Phase q of the development
The design and engineering drawings for this wastewater sewer
extension are complete.
Objective: To provide wastewater service to Aspotogan Ridge upon
confirmation of construction of the proposed development., as noted
above.
Estimated Cost: $52,000 (carried
forward from 21-22)
One–Time Cost
Source of Funds: $26,000 Gas
Tax & $26,000 EDU
Timing: 2022 Construction
Season
Back to Council: For award
following tender.
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Project: Mill Cove
Biofilter - Universal
Sewer Projects
Background:The Mill Cove Wastewater treatment plant will require
additional capacity for the additional proposed development in the area.
The exact timing unknown presently but appears to be imminent. Design
in 2022/23 with the potential to construct thereafter, Budget may require
adjustment. Further investigation as to any possibility on site to expand
following this last biofilter addition. I&I investigations are an important part
of the capacity for this plant as per design scope.
Objective: To provide capacity to serve the growth within the area for up
to an additional 35-50 units to be confirmed
Estimated Cost: $325,000
Source of Funds: Borrowing
One–Time Cost
Timing: 2022 design &
construction
Back to Council: RFD - Scope
to be approved before
tendering
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Project: Green carts 250
– Solid Waste
Background: The Municipality provides green carts for organics collection
to all residents of MODC. The increase in budget is due to demand of
repairs and replacements required.
Objective: To provide residents of the Municipality a means to sort
organics and provide collection service at the curb
Estimated Cost: $35,000
Ongoing Cost
Source of Funds: Solid Waste
Area Rate
Timing: Ongoing, underway
Back to Council: No
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Project: Landfill cell 3B
design & construction –
Solid Waste
Background:The newest cell 4A had an estimated life of 20 plus years
when Sustane was to be up and running two years ago. However, with
Sustane not in operation the cell is filling up quickly and a new cell is
needed.
Design work is underway. Existing sedimentation ponds will need to
be reconfigured and the additional leachate to be treated. This further
justifies phase 2 of the leachate treatment upgrades to add a second
equalization pond.
Objectives:
To provide the Municipality of Chester and its clients landfill capacity and
uninterrupted and environmentally responsible service.
Estimated Cost: $6,168,385
Source of Funds: Borrowing
Multi-year project
Timing: Construction Planned
2022
Back to Council: Yes, prior to
construction award
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Project: Leachate -
Phase 2 (design work) –
Solid Waste
Background:An assessment of the Kaizer Meadow Landfill leachate
treatment systems identified limiting factors for the system now and in
future. Newer cells have higher strength and require additional capacity
for treatment. In addition, there is leachate currently being stored in the
landfill cells and volume reduction needed.
Proposed upgrades were broken into phasing and Phase 1 was approved
to be completed in 2020/21. Phase 2…..
Objective: Maintain compliance and due diligence as per NSE permits and
regulations.
Phase 2: The addition of a second equalization lagoon and aeration
equipment to increase treatment capacity by ensuring adequate retention
time of the leachate before dispersal.
Estimated Cost: $100,000
Source of Funds: Borrowing
Multi-year project
Timing: design 2022,
construction 2023
Back to Council: RFD to
authorize design.
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Project: Heavy
Equipment Compactor –
Solid Waste
Background:The Kaizer Meadow Landfill is operating aging heavy
equipment that requires ongoing maintenance and repairs. Operational
changes have been identified with the impending opening of Sustane has
influenced decision making, in conjunction with our partnership with Valley
Waste.
Staff have drafted an equipment replacement plan with general rules to
identify decisions as such based on the hours and/or usage (high/low).
Objective: To maintain dependable and adequate heavy equipment to
maintain the landfill site.
Estimated Cost: $1,145,000
Source of Funds:$200,00
from Landfill Equipment
Reserve, $200,000 from Solid
Waste Area Rate & $745,000
from borrowing
One-Time Cost
Timing: purchase 2022
Back to Council: For award,
following tender
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Project: ¾ Ton Truck –
Solid Waste
Background: :Infrastructure and Operations maintains a fleet of trucks
that are maintained by a vehicle maintenance service contract. A new
vehicle is typically purchased as needed at the Kaizer Meadow Landfill. A
new fleet management policy is being drafted and this truck is part of the
new policy.
Objective: Staff require trucks to complete various activities on and off
the site, sampling, delivery and pickup of materials/parts, meetings, tours
and movement on site. This truck will be needed to continue to maintain
the fleet as older vehicles are retired.
Estimated Cost: $85,000
Source of Funds: Solid Waste
Area Rate
One-Time Cost
Timing: 2022
Back to Council: For award
following tender.
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Transfers from Operating Reserve - $234,000
•Salary & Benefits Review (CAO) - $85,000
•Ergonomics Assessment (CAO) - $12,000
•Contingency (Contingency) - $50,000
•Engineering Services – Community Wells (Municipal Properties) - $50,000
•Consultants (Planning) - $20,000
•Village Plan Review (Planning) - $15,000
•Procurement Policy Review - $2,000
Operating Transfers from Gas Tax Reserve - $128,300
•Broadband internet (Economic Development)
Transfer from Sewer Reserve - $24,405
•Budgeted Net Operating Cost (Sewers)
Transfers from Wind Energy Reserve - $674,500
•Major Grants approved by Council on March 10, 2022 (Comm. Dev.) - $289,000
•Major Grants/Sponsorship approved by Council on March 10, 2022 (Econ. Dev.) - $150,000
•Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park Concept & Phase 2 Site Assessment (Econ. Dev.) - $130,500
•Business Retention & Expansion (Econ. Dev.) - $25,000
•Arts, Culture & Recreation Strategy (Econ. Dev.) - $25,000
•Exit 6 Growth Strategy (Econ. Dev.) - $50,000
•Invested in Operating Reserve - $5,000
Transfers from Reserve and Prior Years Surplus
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Transfers to Operating Reserve - $2,019,343
•Landfill Host fees (Landfill) - $210,726
•Solid Waste surplus (Landfill, Waste Collection, & Recycling) - $859,617
•Municipal Roads - $35,000
•Elections - $19,000
•50% of Deed Transfer Tax - $895,000
Transfer to Gas Tax Reserve (Fed & Prov Grants) - $599,418
Transfer to IT Equipment Reserve - $34,150
Transfer to Parkland Reserve - $2,500
Transfer to Wind Energy Reserve - $1,000,702
•Wind Turbine net gain (Wind Turbine) - $303,771
•Wind Farm Developer Tax (Property Taxes & GIL) - $696,930
•1/3 Allocated to each of Economic Development, Community Grants, and Operating Reserves
Landfill Equipment Reserve - $0
•The 22/23 contribution of $200,000 will be used to purchase a Compactor within the same year,
so it is reflected as a Capital from Revenue item
Transfers to Reserves
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Strategic Priority Area – Economic Development
Description:
Our ongoing commitment to investment attraction, business
support services, and infrastructure encourages entrepreneurship,
supports sustainable development of targets sectors and
strengthens the commercial tax base.
Priority Outcomes:
1. Partner in the development of infrastructure and
opportunities for business development and attraction.
2. Promote and grow the Municipality’s economic sectors.
3. Position the Municipality as NS’s south shore community of
choice for residents, businesses, and organizations, and as an
international tourism destination
2022/23 Budget Initiatives:
$25,000 Business Retention and Expansion
$25,000 Arts, Culture and Recreation Strategy
$128,300 Rural internet
$100,000 Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park concept plan
$30,000 Kaizer Meadow site assessment (phase 2)
Funding sources other than tax revenue or debt:
$128,300 Rural internet – Gas Tax Reserves
$100,000 Kaizer Meadow Ind. Park concept plan – Wind Reserve
$30,000 Kaizer Meadow site assessment (phase 2) – Wind Reserve
$25,000 Business Retention and Expansion – Wind Reserve
$25,000 Arts, Culture and Recreation Strategy – Wind Reserve
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Strategic Priority Area – Environmental Stewardship
Description:
Our leadership in environmental stewardship seeks innovative
approaches for sustainable community planning and decision-
making that balances growth, invest in green business and
infrastructure, enhances quality of life, and responds to the
environmental impacts of climate change.
Priority Outcomes:
1. Seek opportunities for innovation and leadership in waste
management.
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.
2022/23 Budget Initiatives:
$38,500 Water Quality Monitoring
$50,000 Municipal Water Strategy (Community Wells Consultant)
Financing Program for Home Water Services - $150,000 allocated for loans
Funding sources other than tax revenue or debt:
$50,000 Municipal Water Strategy (Community Wells Consultant) – General Operating Reserve
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Strategic Priority Area – Governance & Engagement
Description:
Our governance and administration processes demonstrates 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:
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.
2022/23 Budget Initiatives:
$2,000 Procurement Strategy – expert review of revised policy
$15,000 Village SPS & LUB policy – consultant to complete study
Uniform Signage Bylaw (internal allocation of resources)
$35,000 Municipal Salaries & Benefits Review
$50,000 Human Resources Policy Review
Funding sources other than tax revenue or debt:
$2,000 Procurement Strategy – General Operating Reserve
$15,000 Village SPS & LUB policy – General Operating Reserve
$85,000 Municipal salaries & HR policy review – General Operating Reserve
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Strategic Priority Area – Healthy & Vibrant Communities
Description:
Our ongoing engagement with partners and stakeholders supports
vibrant and sustainable communities throughout our Municipality.
Through long range planning that crates active and safe
communities, and through the provision of accessible and inclusive
programs and services, we work to improve quality of life for
residents.
Priority Outcomes:
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 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.
2022/23 Budget Initiatives:
$94,233 Accessibility Plan – Internal Action Plan
Active Living Strategy (internal allocation of resources)
Housing Toolbox (internal allocation of resources)
Funding sources other than tax revenue or debt:
$69,155 Accessibility Plan – Other Municipal Units
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Strategic Priority Area – Infrastructure & Service Delivery
Description:
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.
Priority Outcomes:
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.
2022/23 Budget Initiatives:
$50,000 Growth Strategy for Exit 6
Numerous Capital Budget Projects
Funding sources other than tax revenue or debt:
$50,000 Exit 6 Growth Strategy – Wind Reserve
Capital Budget Infrastructure Project Funding includes Fed/Prov grants, and reserves (General Operating, Gas Tax, Landfill Equipment)
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Budgeted Rates:
•2022/23 = $675 (3.8% increase)
•Subsequent increase $5/year
•As budgeted, Reserve balance will
remain between $900K and
$1million
Factors affecting future years:
•Expansion!
•Increased EDU count
•Increased Operating Expense
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Undepreciated Asset Costs
•Streetlight invoices from NS Power include usage & capital charges
•In 2012, Province mandated transition to high-efficiency LED lights
•Project was completed in 2021 and remaining capital charges on old lights were invoiced
•Total cost = $15,628
•Data provided not sufficient to allocate accurately to individual area rates
•Recommend funding with general funds (Streetlight rates would remain as presented on previous page)
•Alternative options:
•Apply cost evenly to all non-intersection rates in 22/23 - $0.0034/$100 increase to presented rates
•Apply evenly over 5 years - $0.0007/$100
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Rates
Rate description 2022-23 2021-22
Residential / Resource $0.705 $0.705
Commercial $1.53 $1.53
Area rate – Solid Waste $0.1205 $0.1205
Sewer EDU fee $675.00 $650.00
Area rate - Mill Cove hydrant $0.28 $0.28
Area rates – streetlights - various see page 84
Others
Area rates – fire protection - various TBD
Area rate – Village commission rate TBD
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Capital and Operating “Parking Lot”
CAPITAL
•Wastewater Upgrades & Expansion
•Mill Cove Fire Protection
•Aspotogan Wharf
•Speed Radar
OPERATING
•South Shore Regional Hospital
•Art Centre
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That Municipal Council:
•Approve the 2022-23 Capital budget in the amount of $12,694,394
•Approve the 2022-23 Operating budget, as presented, in the amount of $29,219,176
•Approve the 2022-23 reserve transfers as noted, for both capital and operating budgets
•Set the residential tax rate at $0.705 per $100 of assessment
•Set the commercial tax rate at $1.53 per $100 of assessment
•Set the solid waste rate at $0.1205 per $100 of assessment
•Set the sewer EDU rate at $675 per EDU
•Set the streetlight rates as noted on page 84
•Set the Mill Cove Hydrant rate at $0.28 per $100 of assessment
REQUIRED MOTIONS
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Obtain feedback from Council.
Incorporate feedback into 2022-23 budget.
Revised 2022-23 budget to Council on April 14, 2022.
Next Steps
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