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COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
AGENDA
Thursday, April 20 2023
Livestreamed via YouTube at
www.youtube.com/modcvideo
151 King Street, Chester, NS
1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (15 minutes)
4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 April 6, 2023 - Committee of the Whole.
5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
5.1 Presentation of Volunteer Awards.
6. MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Quarter 4 Quarterly Report - Infrastructure & Operations.
6.2 Request for Decision prepared April 14, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations - Potable Water
Supply Next Steps. (Material to follow next week)
7. CORRESPONDENCE
8. BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.1 Information Report prepared April 14, 2023 - Financial & Information Services - Sustainable
Services Growth Fund.
10. IN CAMERA
10.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act – Contract Negotiations -
Kaizer Meadow.
10.2 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act - Contract Negotiations -
Village Commission (Fire).
10.3 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act - Contract Negotiations -
Planning Services (Town of Mahone Bay).
11. ADJOURNMENT
129
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
Minutes of
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Council Chambers 151 King Street, Chester, NS
Livestreamed at www.youtube.com/modcvideo
On Thursday, April 6, 2023 at 8:45 a.m.
CALLED TO ORDER
Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:57 a.m.
Present: District 1 – Councillor Andre Veinotte District 2 – Deputy Warden Floyd Shatford
District 3 – Councillor Derek Wells District 4 – Warden Allen Webber
District 5 – Councillor Abdella Assaff District 6 – Councillor Tina Connors
District 7 – Councillor Sharon Church
Staff: Tara Maguire, Deputy CAO
Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk
Jennifer Webber, Communications & Outreach Officer (Via Zoom)
Emily Lennox, Executive Secretary
Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations
Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation
Solicitor: Samuel Lamey
Public: There was one member of the public in the gallery.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS
Addition: Grants
2023-138 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff the March 16, 2023
Agenda and Order of Business for the Committee of the Whole be approved as
amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Committee of the Whole (continued) April 6, 2023 130
PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (15 minutes)
There was no public input.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 Committee of the Whole – March 16, 2023 – Warden Webber.
2023-139 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the minutes of
Committee of the Whole meeting of March 6, 2023 be approved as circulated. ALL
IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
4.2 Committee of the Whole - Budget – March 16, 2023 – Warden Webber.
2023-140 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff Shatford that the
minutes of Committee of the Whole - Budget meeting of March 16, 2023 be
approved as circulated. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
There were no public presentations.
MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Request for Decision prepared March 29, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation
- Public Moorings - Request from Mahone Island Conservation Association.
The Director of Community Development & Recreation indicated that this was a follow-up
report on the request from Mahone Islands Conservation Association presented in September
of 2022. The report provided more information as requested in order for Council to determine
if they wish to move forward with the project. The estimate is $1,700 for each (purchase and
installation) of the moorings and approximately $100 per year per mooring for maintenance.
The suggestion was for six moorings to be installed near Chester (2 at Birch Island, 2 at Squid
Island, and 2 at Clay Island).
2023-141 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council
approve participation in the public mooring project and the cost associated with
the installation of six public moorings in the waters near Chester (two at Birch
Island, two at Squid Island, and two at Clay Island). ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
Committee of the Whole (continued) April 6, 2023 131
6.2 Information Report prepared March 1, 2023 - Corporate & Strategic Management -
South Shore Tourism Cooperative Confirmation (SSTC) Formula Update.
Olivia Corkum, Community Economic Development Officer indicated that she contacted SSTC
to confirm the formula and, at that time they, re-evaluated which resulted in a new amount of
$3,138.60 for this Municipality, less than was previously indicated. Council had previously
approved the request, with confirmation of the formula. There were no issues and it was
noted that staff will proceed with membership.
6.3 Grant Considerations (follow-up):
a. Request from Chester Municipal Heritage Society - Major Capital Grant $77,766.
Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation indicated this was a follow-
up from Mrs. Nauss’ presentations.
There was a lengthy discussion regarding:
Cost of the project;
Funding formula;
Percentage of the total cost of the project;
Concern regarding future requests to fund the project;
Direct impact on tourism and heritage;
Applications for other funds ($10,000 was confirmed from the Haughn Trust);
The with of taxpayers;
Concern that artifacts could be removed as they are owned by someone else;
Lack of discussion regarding long-term projects;
Recent denial of an application for a roof but then consideration of money for a train
museum;
Concern about the actual real total cost;
Suggestion of $40,000; and
Disappointment at the way the project is being proposed to be funded - after the fact.
2023-142 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Church that a Major Capital
Grant in the amount of $40,000 be awarded to Chester Municipal Heritage Society
(Train Station). FOUR IN FAVOUR, TWO OPPOSED. MOTION CARRIED.
b. Chester Art Centre - Budgeted Grant $25,000.
Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation indicated this was also a
follow-up from previous discussions.
Committee of the Whole (continued) April 6, 2023 132
It was confirmed that any organization receiving a budgeted grant is also eligible for a capital
grant.
Councillor Veinotte indicated that this organization has demonstrated their value to the
community and their outreach. He also noted that there is an exhibition right now “Asked and
Answered” by a local artist.
2023-143 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Wells that Council
approve an annual Budgeted Grant for the Chester Art Centre in the amount of
$25,000. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
The Director noted that the Chester Playhouse is also interested. In the guidelines Council
talked about discussion at budget deliberations. He asked at what time would Council accept
requests.
Warden Webber noted that organizations would not be eligible until the next fiscal year when
budget deliberations are taking place.
NEW BUSINESS
9.1 Grants - Councillor Veinotte.
Councillor Veinotte indicated that there has been a lot of discussion about restructuring the
grant criteria to better serve the community. He feels that Council has inadvertently made a
problem for those who own and maintain infrastructure. There had always been a way to help
with maintenance-type programs such as parking lot resurfacing, upgrading of washrooms,
etc. They had a way to participate in these projects. We may have made a problem for
ourselves.
If District 1 Community Centre needs to resurface their parking lot, now he doesn’t know
where to send them. The criteria for major capital grants doesn’t allow roofing to be
considered as it doesn’t fit the criteria. There previously had been a grant to be accessed that
allowed up to $10,000.
Some time ago, District 1 Community Centre wanted to upgrade washrooms at an estimate of
$9,000. They are well-managed and had $77,000 in the bank. The comment was that they
have money in the bank and Council only gave a small portion of their ask. Then they asked
for a grant for a roof estimated at $150,000 - They were then told, sorry, you don’t qualify. We
have penalized them both ways - they can’t get help from us. He did not think this was the
intent.
Committee of the Whole (continued) April 6, 2023 133
They didn’t fit the Major Capital Grant criteria as a roof does not promote growth or new
programs.
A lengthy discussion took place regarding the grants with the suggestion that there be
different categories. It was also noted that those owning facilities are struggling for a number
of reasons - prices are up and participation is down. It was also thought it was time to
consider looking at membership-based organizations. The test to apply is “are they doing
something that aligns with our mandate”? There are some faith-based facilities that also open
up their facilities for other reasons all the time.
It was also suggested that our community schools may be considered, however, they are not
community organizations. It was also noted that FHCS received funding for their atrium from
Council.
The Director wads directed to review the capital projects and criteria as well as member-based
organizations and provide a report to Council. The Director noted that Major and Capital
Grants come from 1/3 of the Wind Revenue; currently, with the $10,000 limit we may have to
increase the amount of the budget.
CORRESPONDENCE
There were no items of Correspondence.
BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
There were no by-laws or policies for consideration.
IN CAMERA
10.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act - Contract
Negotiations - Village Commission of Chester.
2023-144 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff the meeting convene
“In Camera” as per Section 22(2)(e) of the Municipal Government Act - Contract
Negotiations - Village Commission of Chester. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Following a brief meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened.
Committee of the Whole (continued) April 6, 2023 134
ADJOURNMENT
2023-145 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church, the meeting adjourn.
ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. (9:58 a.m.)
___________________________ ___________________________
Allen Webber Pamela Myra
Warden Municipal Clerk
NOTE: The recorded version of this meeting is available at www.youtube.com/modcvideo.
Carolyn J Conrad (posthumously)
Nominated by: Chester Municipal Heritage Society (CMHS)
Carolyn Jean Conrad joined the Chester Municipal Heritage Society in April of 2015 and became a Board
Member in 2016. She served in that capacity until her passing in November of 2022. Carolyn was very
active at CMHS and looked after the rentals for Lordly
Park and also took over the Afternoon Teas that were
held several times during the Summer. She took great
pride in this making sure everything was perfect for a
high tea, even to packing up her own good China to
make sure we had tea plates, cups and proper stands
for the sweets. She participated in Christmas Craft
Shows at Lordly House and was a founding member of
the knitting group. From this small group came the
thought of starting a craft shop to show off the local
crafts, not just at Christmas, but all year. She jumped
in with both feet and became the creator, designer
and manager of Station 20 Craft Shoppe. Carolyn spent every weekend volunteering at the shop and
was notorious for switching things around every week or two so everyone had a chance to have their
work displayed at the forefront of the shop. When COVID hit she was our go to person for lists, signs
and whatever was needed.
Through the creation of Station 20 life was brought back to our Train Station. Her love of the province
and municipality made her a great ambassador for tourists who dropped into the shop to visit her
homemade tourist centre. She created a truly unique place for vendors to sell their wares. Her belief
and excitement for the crafters was contagious and made you believe in yourself. She was so excited
about the caboose project, as her ancestors rode the line often to their place in Chester, and was able
to make a contribution to the planning and donated the crushed stone for the railbed before her
passing.
Wilson Fitt
Nominated by: Our Health Centre (OHC)
Wilson Fitt has been a steady, kind, and reassuring presence at OHC since the day construction started.
He was the volunteer project manager for two years
overseeing all aspects of the build until its completion in
December 2016. He ensured that the project was on time,
on budget and built to the highest standard possible!
After the doors officially opened to the public Wilson
volunteered to chair the OHC Building Committee which is
comprised of Wilson and 2 other volunteers. Since 2016 he
has helped to troubleshoot a myriad of issues, big and
small, always with calmness and a sense of humor. He is
very well respected amongst all the tradespeople,
architects, and suppliers. He makes himself available no
matter what time of day or night and always provides a way to solve a problem without any judgement
or unreasonable expectation. He gives clear directions and provides back-up to ensure the issue of the
day is resolved. OHC is on a solid foundation thanks to Wilson Fitt! Wilson's impact and legacy will be
felt for years to come because citizens of all ages from this community and beyond will benefit from
the programs and services provided by Our Health Centre and the Chester Playhouse. His keen eye and
dedication to both these projects has ensured their endurance into the future and their place in the
fabric of this Municipality. He is the type of guy that would rather see this award go to someone else,
but we feel very strongly that this award needs to go to him this year. We are very grateful to Wilson
for his time, his professional talents and his kindness.
Blair Hodgman
Nominated by: Starfish Reunites
Blair was on the original Starfish committee bringing Syrian Refugees to Chester. She completed all the
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legal applications from her law office in Chester
and does it all pro bono. Seven years later, she
continues her effects by working to bringing the
Alouch family's oldest daughter and her family
to Chester. She has a big heart and will do
anything in her power to help including
arranging transportation for English classes and
medical appointments.
Most lunch hours, Blair may be found walking
her miniature poodles Aster, Daffodil & Orchid through the streets of our Village.
Chester is a better place because of all the newcomers who reside here, and Blair has played a leading
role in getting them here. She continues to support over 25 individuals, helping them with legal
documents and citizenship applications.
Karen MacKenzie-Stepner
ROPE VICAL VOLUNTEER REPRESENTTT
Nominated by: Catherine Clute
Karen has always been a person who is very active in her professional and personal life to help those in need of assistance.
She credits her parents for instilling a strong sense of providing voluntary
service where one can, and her family who like to joke, "where is she off to
now!"At home in Chester, Karen volunteers with:
St. Augustine's Church Guild, as Co -Chairperson for the last 5 years. She
organizes and coordinates fundraising and outreach events. She oversees
the participation of the Church in the Christmas Families program as well as
the coordination of support to individuals in need in the Lunenburg area.
Karen is a member of the Church's Maintenance Committee and the Prayer
shawl knitting group. Karen reads at Church and prepares the weekly
announcements.
Karen has been an active member of the Bridgewater Red Cross Personal
Disaster team since 2011 where she assists families in the first 72 hours
following a disaster. She serves as the Member at Large of the Chandler's
Cove Condominium Board for the third year as well as several ad hoc working groups. She has been a member of the Chester
Basin, New Ross and Chester Lions Club since 2019 where she enjoys serving as the Club's Secretary. She is involved in the
monthly activities of the Club as well as selling apples in September and Christmas trees in December.
Karen recently volunteered her time to help establish a Comfort Centre at the Chester Basin Fire Station. She will be involved
in responding when the Centre opens in times of need. She enjoys teaching in many capacities; she is currently providing
tutoring to the children of the local Syrian family in English, Science & Math. She previously worked with their parents
teaching English. Karen also had volunteered to assist the other 3 Syrian families with learning English over the last 6 years.
Karen also provides teaching assistance to the Grade 4 students at the Chester District Elementary School and has done this
for the last 5 years.
Karen currently works with new immigrants to Nova Scotia who are Deaf and have no/limited English skills. Karen teaches
them both English and Sign Language. In addition to her job, Karen provides additional support to help the newcomers learn
about Canadian culture and about the city they have moved to. Karen has also taken part in handling the Red Cross phones
during National Emergencies, such as the most recent hurricanes, and the Fort McMurray Wildfires. This work has led to her
being asked to join the Lunenburg Disaster Planning committee. Karen, also volunteers Internationally, she is a frequent
traveler to Central and South America. Her purpose is to represent Team Canada Healing Hands. For this NGO, Karen serves
on the Board of Directors, as well as the Director of Communications. When not involved in policy meetings, she has been
traveling yearly to Haiti, Belize, Peru and Guatemala. She is preparing for next mission to Guatemala in March and Panama
in May. Her main task is to prepare curriculum and to "Teach the Teachers". This program is complicated as she not only
needs to prepare the curriculum in Spanish, but also needs to learn the indigenous sign language.
Karen had brought her talents and skills to other nonprofits in the past, such as Signs of Fun (three annual teaching trips to
six school programs for Deaf students in Lima, Peru) with the United Deaf International Services at a camp for deaf persons
displaced by the political situation in Haiti and with the West Tennessee Haiti Medical Partnership delivering medical services
to Deaf individuals at St. Vincent's Centre for Handicapped Children. Karen is a passionate educator and nonstop volunteer.
She finds it extremely rewarding to meet people in a variety of settings and with multiple viewpoints and abilities. She has
always had a sense of the importance of communication. Her volunteer work in developing countries and at home allows her
the opportunity to help individuals to better communicate with others. In the end, she knows she is making a lasting
impression in everything she does and proves one person can make a difference.
David Semel
Nominated by: Chester Playhouse
David Semel has been a volunteer with the Chester Playhouse for more than 10 years. During this time,
he has been involved with our Front of House production team.
The primary roles of a volunteer which
David has assisted in at the Chester
Playhouse and with our Playhouse
Without Walls events include ticket taker
greeter, usher, bartender, COVID-19
screener, Proof of Vaccination checker.
David also has played an important role
helping out at our Special Events and
Fundraisers year-round; specifically, our
Family Fun Day events, Youth activities,
Galapalooza and The Playhouse Party.
David is the first volunteer to sign up for our events, eager to help, the last to leave and never/rarely
complains. He is a fine example of a dedicated, reliable, personable volunteer and is a wonderful
ambassador for the Arts and the Chester Playhouse. He is dependable and is willing and keen to do
whatever is required to ensure a positive experience for our patrons attending our Playhouse events
and functions. David has stepped up to help, going above and beyond to assist our Mobile Playhouse
present events in, and for, the community. We are so thankful to have him on our team!
Bruce Sinnis
Nominated by: Aenon Baptist Church
Bruce is married to Anne, has 3 sons and 2 grandchildren. He is well respected at Aenon and an excellent
neighbor. Bruce has been an important long-time volunteer at Aenon
Baptist Church, Chester Basin in various capacities. Bruce is a teller for
Sunday Services; Assistant Treasurer; a very important member of the
audio-visual team putting together the volunteer roster for live -
streaming of services at Aenon. Prior to Covid, Aenon presented a
Community Fun Day for the enjoyment of all who chose to attend and
was always well received. Bruce's hardwork and effort, resulted in
great attendance, in fact, overwhelming.
Bruce is active on the Building & Grounds Committee, volunteers for
Fellowship gatherings and related events at the Church. He has completed unpaid tasks for seniors as
requested. As a member of Lakeview Cemetery Committee he is presently preparing a policy for the
cemetery operations.
Any events or responsibility for which Bruce volunteers sees him arriving always early for some, to make
sure all in "in order". He is always a willing supporter of Fundraisers for ALS, Breast Cancer and Church
related activities held at CAMS. Bruce completes much needed repairs at the Church as they are
documented and within his expertise. He is a very competent carpenter. He has a background in
financial planning and certainly an asset in the finances at Aenon.
FAMILY: Angela, Rob & Hunter McNamara
Nominated by: New Ross Wrist Rollers
The New Ross Wrist Rollers arm wrestling club in New Ross would like to nominate the McNamara
family. There would not be a club without the many efforts these
three have dedicated to helping us set up and run practices and
establish our club with the NS Arm Wrestling Association. They
travel down from their home in Timberlea every second Sunday to
run our practices, bringing and setting up their tables, training and
coaching us. They do this time and time again, donating their time,
costs and expertise just to see our club grow and prosper!
They have provided support above and beyond to every member
of the club and have championed on our behalf to raise awareness
of our club and promote it through social media and advertising.
They have financially supported our members' efforts at tournaments and have always gone above and
beyond to support the growth of our club. They do so always with positive and encouraging spirits.
Angela and Rob have immense knowledge of the sport and have encouraged the youth in our
Community and continue to do so. Hunter is always ready to help anyone strengthen their skills. Also
at our local fair, year after year, they volunteer their time to help set up and run the local tournament
that has become a community wide draw every single year! These three have been such an inspiration
to us and the best cheering squad ever!
2023-04-14
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Infrastructure & Operations
Quarter 4 Report
Solid Waste
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2
2023-04-14
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Landfill Collection Update
NOVA SCOTIA’S TREASURE
ANNUAL TOTALTONNAGE Q4TONNAGE Q3TONNAGE Q2TONNAGE Q1MATERIAL
62,757.3714,346.3916,028.9515,803.4016,578.63RESIDUAL WASTE (A)
9,522.981,481.022,585.792,840.992,615.18SEPTIC WASTE (B)
1,107.86155.89295.53307.59348.85WOOD (C)
1,280.85152.93540.82473.53113.57ASPHALT (D)
1,918.16378.70463.40543.68532.38ORGANICS (E)
727.95196.69181.04184.83165.39RECYCLABLES,
CARDBOARD & PAPER (F)
7,356.581,376.171,838.972,050.032,091.41MIXED C&D WASTE (G)
Solid Waste – Stats
Solid Waste – 5 Year Volumes
AVERAGE%TOTAL2022-232021-222020-212019-202018-19
53,784.5473.48%268,922.6962,757.3757,866.2449,894.2548,532.9249,871.91Residual WasteA
11,024.2715.06%55,121.369,522.9811,684.3912,473.9610,723.7110,716.32Septic WasteB
1,088.531.49%5,442.641,107.861,238.281,340.07851.98904.45WoodC
1,267.491.73%6,337.471,280.851,050.701,046.651,485.051,474.22AsphaltD
1,720.222.35%8,601.111,918.161,941.991,699.221,525.211,516.53OrganicsE
884.521.21%4,422.60727.95745.19879.55860.491,209.42Recyclables, Cardboard & PaperF
3,429.954.69%17,149.757,356.583,854.832,510.282,098.411,329.65Mixed Construction & Demolition WasteG
73,199.52100%365,997.6284,671.7578,381.6269,843.9866,077.7767,022.50ANNUAL TOTALS
108%112%106%99%
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2023-04-14
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Solid Waste – Wastewater
Leachate Treatment- Phase 2 design was approved by council.
Consultant (CBCL) has commenced work.
Anticipated design by end of May ’23.
Tender for construction work anticipated
to be June ’23.
Solid Waste – Buildings & Structures
Leachate Pump - Pump out of service
New pumps ordered - $93k ea.
C&D Site - Prepped and ready for new season in
anticipation of new regulations.
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6
2023-04-14
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Solid Waste – Buildings & Structures
Cell 3B - Construction work due to commence on
17th April – weather dependent.
Completion date estimated to be July ’23.
Otter Lake (HRM) has been advised the
landfill cannot accept any more waste
until Cell 3B is operational.
Solid Waste – Cell 3B Construction
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2023-04-14
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Solid Waste – Buildings & Structures
Fencing - Investigating viability of mobile steel fencing
at landfill face to contain litter.
Investigating viability of installing telephone
poles with netting on property boundary to
reduce litter encroachment onto
neighbouring land.
EVC Tower - 1 of 2 EVC towers inoperable.
Pricing new tower replacement.
Solid Waste – Vehicles & Equipment
½ Tonne Truck - Delivered in March
Loader - New loader ordered - $442k
Trade-in value $105k from CAT
Awaiting delivery date.
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10
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Solid Waste – Operations
Staff - 2x skilled labourer vacancies have been filled
One internal applicant
One external applicant
Currently at full landfill staff complement
Metals - Recycled metals realized $98,521.65
Total amount: 285.57MT ($345/MT)
Public Works
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2023-04-14
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cs for Public Works
April 14, 2023 NOVA SCOTIA’S TREASURE
Annual TotalQ4Q3Q2Q1 Activity
111415Sewer Permits Issued
13435224136Sewer Callouts (S. Business)
30003EDU Increase
183834Utility Locates
00000Berthage Permits Issued
10001Berthage Enforcement Events
61313398154228Compost Carts Delivered
00000Dead Marine Life Collections
100136Events Requiring Public Sort Station
00000Public Sorting Station Abuse
Incidents
4707319Bandstand Bookings
17760583524Maintenance Work Orders
172627Road Name Signs Installed
31002Streetlight Requests
66000Sidewalk Snow Removal Events
110623Mobile Radar Unit Deployments
72131Compliments
Public Works – Stats
Public Works – Roads
Active Transportation - First Nations responded. No issues.
(Sidewalks)
NS Power relocate power poles in
May.
Tender for construction closes in June
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2023-04-14
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Public Works – Roads
Rapid Rectangular - Awaiting written NSDPW confirmation
Flashing Beacons for approved location(s).
Speed Radar Signs - Awaiting written conformation of
approved sign location(s).
J-Class Roads - Notification not yet received from
NSDPW.
Public Works – Roads
Snow & Ice Control- Six significant snow events during which
staff and contractors were mobilized.
Salt/sanding done as required.
Deficiencies being reviewed prior to final
payment.
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Public Works – Wastewater
Lift Stations & - Initial stages of design process.
Forcemains Construction in 2023.
Chester Wastewater - Construction tender anticipated in
Treatment Plant summer 2023.
Pending council approval.
Public Works – Wastewater
Otter Point Wastewater - Final design anticipated in spring.
Treatment Plant
Construction in 2023, pending council
approval.
Sustainable Communities fund-
awaiting result of funding application
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Public Works – Wastewater
Western Shore - Capital plan to be presented to council
Wastewater Treatment Q1 in 2023/24.
Plant Upgrade
Previous ABLE designs still applicable.
Reuse the UV system from Chester
Village WWTP.
Public Works – Wastewater
Mill Cove Fire - Site visits to each site to discuss options.
Protection
Depending on discussions with the school
& two businesses will determine next steps.
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Public Works – Wastewater
Wastewater Study - Chester Basin site selection and technology
RFP closes in May.
Next steps – presentation of work
schedule and pre-design estimates to
council in June 2023/24.
Public Works – Buildings & Structures
Gold River Bridge - Geotechnical work & archeological
investigations underway.
Anticipated construction 2024 - TBC
Station Bridge - Alternative options being investigated
with NSDPW.
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Public Works – Buildings & Structures
Wild Rose - Work continues.
Accessible Anticipated opening to public in spring 2023
Washrooms
Harbour View - Purchase of lot adjacent to Chester
Lane wastewater treatment plant.
Public Works – Buildings & Structures
Building Security - Security specialist conducted walk-through.
Awaiting quotes for recommendations.
Wharves - Finger wharves have been installed.
Boat Pump - Out of order since last summer.
Quote of $27k; lead time 8-12 weeks.
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Public Works – Vehicles & Equipment
¾ Ton Truck - Delivered in March 2023
1 Ton Truck & - Specifying crane requirements with supplier
Crane
Zero Turn Mower - Delivery in April 2023
Public Works – Administration
Community Wells - Next steps to advise partners such fire
halls, community associations, legions etc.
Awaiting test well construction estimate.
Asset Management - Staff training by ESRI undertaken.
Field testing underway in April.
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Public Works – Administration
Staff - Wastewater Engineer resigned.
Recruitment underway for replacement.
2x field staff made internal moves.
Recruitment underway for replacements.
Public works staff member attended the
Maritime Provinces Water & Wastewater
Assoc. (MPWWA) workshop in PEI.
Public Works – Completed Projects
•Manhole Repairs
•Manhole infiltration reduction now in maintenance mode
•Lift station panels & generators
•Henneberry Lake watercourse
•Accessibility audit transitioned into new building options
27
28
2023-04-14
15
Active
Projects Q4Q3Q2Q1
SCHEDULEDCAPITAL SCHEDULEDCAPITAL SCHEDULEDCAPITAL SCHEDULEDCAPITAL
45454549ROADS
67511511513WASTEWATER
35373738BUILDINGS &
STRUCTURES
32303033VEHICLES &
EQUIPMENT
8392122143OPEN SPACES
43435353SOLID WASTE
611611613615ADMINISTRATION
3436343938414054
70737994TOTALS
29
INFORMATION REPORT
REPORT TO: Committee of the Whole
MEETING DATE: April 20, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Financial and Information Services
SUBJECT: Sustainable Services Growth Fund
ORIGIN: Provincial Grant Funding
Date: April 14, 2023 Prepared by: Tim Topping, CPA CA, Director of Financial and Information Services
Date: April 14, 2023 Reviewed by: Tara Maguire, CAO
Date: Authorized by:
CURRENT SITUATION
The Province of Nova Scotia has provided a new one-time transfer to Municipalities intended to support capital
infrastructure needs, called the Sustainable Services Growth Fund (“SSGF”). This information report is being
provided to provide Council with the details of what we currently know about this new funding. Further details
will be provided as they become known.
BACKGROUND
On March 31, 2023, we received a grant of $672,021 from the Province, as our share of the SSGF. This amount
has been transferred into our General Operating Reserve, to be held (with interest) until used for qualifying
expenditures.
DISCUSSION
The SSGF can be used on infrastructure projects which renew, create services, or increase capacity for housing
development, seniors and long-term care, accessibility, and active transportation. Some examples of eligible
projects include expansion or renewal of wastewater treatment systems, solid waste management
infrastructure, trails and sidewalks, and accessibility retrofits to municipal buildings.
The SSGF can be used as Municipal contributions towards cost shared projects, so long as those projects meet
the eligibility criteria of SSGF.
Some expenditures are not eligible for funding from the SSGF, such as expenditures incurred before April 1,
2023; cost of leasing of equipment, overhead costs, salaries and benefits, operating or administrative costs;
purchase of land; legal fees; and routine repair, maintenance, and operating costs.
We will be required to report on our remaining SSGF funds 2-3 times per year, as well as a final report within 60
days of completion of the program. These reports will include reconciliation of the remaining balance (including
interest earned), allocations to future projects, and project outcomes, however, we do not require approval
from the Province to proceed with a project under SSGF funding, as long as it meets the requirements.
Any amount not spent by March 31, 2025 must be returned to the Province, with any applicable interest earned.
ATTACHMENTS
None
Consider the environment. Do you really need to print this email?
From: Sue Taylor -Foley
Subject: Re: Waterfront Nauss Point
Date: April 13, 2023 at 1:08:11 AM ADT
To: Derek Wells <dwells chester.ca>
EXTERNAL EMAIL**
Please do not open attachments or click links from an unknown or suspicious origin.
Derek
Things have continued to deteriorate at the waterfront on Nauss Point Road. The
owners of the Airbnb have now basically cleared all the wild roses off the property at
the waterfront and today erected a sign in an attempt to legitimize their claim to rights
over property that is not theirs.
As you know, an adjacent property owner, Mr. Fisher had also been using the property
this past winter to store items instead of using his own property. Mrs. Cross, the owner
of the Airbnb removed some of those items and put them back on Mr. Fisher's land
thereby creating a final clearing of a path from the road to the water.
The destruction of property and now a fixing signage to a property they do not own are
brazen acts.
What are legitimate landowners to do in the face of these actions?
How can the municipality assist in addressing this issue?
Thank you for any assistance you can provide.
Sue Taylor -Foley
On Mar 21, 2023, at 9:21 PM, Derek Wells <dwells@chester.ca> wrote:
Sue, I will follow up. Derek
Derek Wells
District #3
Council
Municipality of Chester
PO Box 369
151 King Street, Chester, NS, BOJ 1J0
Office: 902-277-2263
General Inquiries: 9 02-2 75- 3 554
Web: www.chester.ca
Consider the environment. Do you really need to print this email?
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On Mar 21, 2023, at 10:12 AM, Sue Taylor -Foley
EXTERNAL EMAIL **
Please do not open attachments or click links from an
unknown or suspicious origin.
Hi Derek
Happy first day of Spring
I have not heard back from my original inquiry on this
issue.
I am wondering how the municipality can assist with
the situation at the waterfront on our road?
As you know we have a few issues with the unknown
owner property. Mrs Cross, the owner of the Airbnb
next door to me still seems to feel it is a public right
away and has started to clean out the rose bushes on
this property. I can understand that it is to her
advantage to be able to advertise waterfront access
and to not have the cost of taxes for that benefit.
She is limited in her destruction of the property
because Mr Fisher of the adjoining property is using it
for storage instead of using his own property.
Attached please find a recent picture of the property in
question.
How can the municipality assist in this situation?
Thank you
Sue Taylor -Foley
INFORMATION REPORT
REPORT TO: Committee of the Whole
MEETING DATE: April 20, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Corporate & Strategic Management
SUBJECT: Regional Anti-Racism Committee feedback
ORIGIN: Council Meeting [date/motion]
Date: April 13, 2023 Prepared by: Jennifer Webber, Communications Officer
Date: Reviewed by:
Date: April 18, 2023 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, CAO
CURRENT SITUATION
Council requested feedback from the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Advisory Committee on a proposed
Regional Anti-Racism Committee, involving all five municipal units in Lunenburg County. At their last meeting,
the EDI Committee was provided with the draft Terms of Reference, draft budget, and context. Feedback was
collected at the meeting as well as via email over the subsequent week. It is summarized below.
BACKGROUND
Council was asked to consider supporting a regional committee that addresses discrimination in Luneburg
County, both in essence and financially. All five municipal units will be represented, and the model includes the
creation of a coordinator position, very similar to the Accessibility Coordinator position.
Before making a formal decision, Council referred the matter to its EDI Advisory Committee for their
perspective.
FEEDBACK
Through in-meeting conversation and subsequent emails, we received input from most of the voting members.
Most voting members were in favour of establishing a Regional Committee for Lunenburg County if their
concerns could be resolved. Specific comments about concerns and positives are as follows:
IN FAVOUR
If modelled after the Regional Accessibility Committee, the Anti-Racism Committee could be successful.
Any action towards eliminating racism is positive.
A regional committee would not be redundant as we can work together.
A regional committee provides more opportunities to engage with marginalized communities and
expand the diversity and number of voices.
A regional coordinator can access connections that our local committee may not have and coordinate
work among municipal units and bring resources back to our committee that we may not otherwise
have.
In favour of "partnering" with others in surrounding areas to further awareness and to raise the volume
of the voices of those that believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion.
The opportunity presented by a regional anti-racism, anti-discrimination committee to create a region
where all people feel safe, respected and welcome as equal citizens is worth $40,493, MOC's 23-24 total
I n f o r m a t i o n R e p o r t P a g e | 2
contribution toward the $134,620 annual budget. It seems a small price to pay for the possible benefits
for both MOC and Lunenburg County.
AGAINST
Does not want the work that our existing EDI Committee is doing to get lost.
It is difficult to justify spending money on this initiative as our own committee is making headway.
A regional committee would be redundant.
QUESTIONS/CONCERNS
There could be an opportunity to grow this committee (EDI for MOC). What added value will this
regional committee bring to this work in addition to what we are doing now?
Will municipal units have a local committee feeding into a regional committee as well?
Concerned that there might be little to no communication between the two committees. In favour if
both committees have fluid communication and all initiatives align.
Would like to include in the section “Municipalities are responsible to:” that units have a local EDI
Committee so that a regional committee would be strengthened.
OTHER COMMENTS
People being added to the regional committee of First Nations and Acadian Communities is great but
needs to be filtered to this level as well.
Agree to regional model and if we don’t like it after the term is over, don’t renew.
Local knowledge of Regional Coordinator will be important.
Learn from best practices of the municipalities that have EDI committee in place; make sure to liaise
with those EDI committees already established to keep lines of communication open; develop a system
to share resources and reporting back and forth.
Establish stand-alone website; monthly or quarterly newsletter; social media identity.
Develop a safe space for people to report and share their experiences.
ARADAC meeting should rotate throughout the region.
Find ways to share positive stories.
STAFF FEEDBACK:
We can request that our regional rep sit on our local committee.
It is strategic to suggest the regional coordinator be based out of the Chester office. Accessing their
knowledge easily would be beneficial and would allow a dedicated resource who has experience,
expertise, and established contacts in this important work.
As the regional plan emerges, one of the requirements will be to develop individual work plans for each
unit. Some municipalities may establish a local committee or an internal resource in response.
Having a dedicated coordinator would be an asset to our EDI Committee and to staff.