HomeMy Public PortalAbout2023-08-03_Council_Website Agenda Package.pdf
Page 1 of 2 of Agenda Cover Page(s)
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
AGENDA
Thursday, August 3, 2023
Livestreamed via YouTube at
www.youtube.com/modcvideo
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 – July 27, 2023.
5. PROCLAMATIONS
6. COMMITTEE REPORTS
7. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
8. BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
9. MATTERS ARISING
9.1 Request for Decision prepared July 21, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations (Public Works) -
Former Highway 3 Right-of-Way Acquisition (Otter Point).
9.2 Request for Decision prepared July 24, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations (Public Works) -
Facilities Study Award for Tender. (Information to follow next week)
10. CORRESPONDENCE
11. NEW BUSINESS
11.1 Request for Decision prepared July 27, 2023 - Corporate & Strategic Management -
Housing Accelerator Fund.
Page 2 of 2 (Agenda Pages)
11.2 Request for Decision prepared July 24, 2023 - Financial & Information Services -
Temporary Borrowing Resolutions for Fall 2023 Debenture Issuance.
11.3 Request for Decision prepared July 24, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation -
New Road Name Assignment - The Cove Loop, Fox Point.
12. IN CAMERA
12.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(g) - Legal Advice.
13. ADJOURNMENT
317
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
Minutes of
COUNCIL MEETING
Livestreamed via YouTube www.youtube.com/modcvideo
from 151 King Street, Chester, Nova Scotia
On Thursday, July 27, 2023
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
Warden Webber called the meeting to order at 8:47 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, CAO
Erin Lowe, Deputy CAO
Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk
Jennifer Webber, Communications & Outreach Coordinator (Via Zoom)
Emily Lennox, Executive Secretary
Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development and Recreation
Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works
Tim Topping, Director of Financial & Information Services
Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure and Operations
Christa Rafuse, Director of Solid Waste
Tammie Bezanson, CET
Olivia Corkum, Economic Development Officer
Gord Tate, Active Living Coordinator
Solicitor: Samuel Lamey, Municipal Solicitor
Public: There were no members of the public in the gallery.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 318
Addition:
Email dated July 27, 2023 from Gerrie Masters of Marriotts Cove Residents Association.
9.5 Add In Camera - Legal Advice (Rezoning Request).
In Camera - Contract/Human Resources.
Item 11.2 was moved to beginning of meeting.
2023-347 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford Assaff the
agenda and order of business for the July 27, 2023, Council meeting be approved
as amended. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Warden Webber read statement regarding the past storm over the weekend acknowledging the
work of staff during the height of the storm and afterward. They also helped the Regional
Emergency Measures Organization, which was opened twice.
PUBLIC INPUT
There was no public input.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
4.1 Council – July 13, 2023.
2023-348 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the
minutes of the July 13, 2023, Council Meeting be approved as circulated. ALL IN
FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
4.1 Public Hearing - July 6, 2023.
2023-349 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the
minutes of the July 5, 2023 Public Hearing - Housekeeping Amendments be
approved as circulated. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS
11.2 Request for Decision prepared June 30, 2023 - Corporate & Strategic Management -
Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park Realtor Services.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 319
Present was Olivia Corkum, Economic Development Officer to review the Request for Decision
prepared June 30, 2023 - Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park Realtor Services.
2023-350 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council approve
and direct staff to issue Appendix II: Draft RFP Particulars - KMIP Realtor in a
Request for Proposals for the professional services of a commercial real estate
broker to facilitate further sales, marketing, and general awareness of available land
at Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park without amendments. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
PROCLAMATIONS
5.1 Right to Know Week September 25 to October 1, 2023 - Email dated June 13, 2023 from
Information Privacy Commissioner for Nova Scotia requesting Council to participate in
Right to Know Week.
2023-351 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that Council proclaim
the week of September 25 to October 1, 2023 as Right to Know Week. ALL IN
FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
6.1 Recreation & Parks Committee - July 24, 2023 - Councillor Church.
2023-352 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that Council
approve the award of $240 to Seth Evans to participate in the National Youth Track
and Field Championships in Sherbrooke, Quebec from August 11 to 13, 2023. ALL IN
FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
8.1 Request for Decision prepared July 7, 2023 - Financial & Information Services -
Amendment to Tax Exemption Policy P-25.
Present was Tim Topping, Director of Financial & Information Services who reviewed the annual
update to Policy P-25 Tax Exemption Policy.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 320
2023-353 MOVED by Councillor Wells, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council conduct
First Notice to amend the Tax Exemption Policy P-25 to increase the income
threshold by 4.1% and the exemption amounts by 6.4% and refer the amendment to
Second Notice at the September 14, 2023 meeting. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
MATTERS ARISING
9.1 Request for Decision prepared June 28, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations - Purchase of
¾ ton service vehicle for Kaizer Meadow.
Present were Tammie Bezanson, CET, and Christa Rafuse, Director of Solid Waste to review the
Request for Decision prepared June 28, 2023 - Purchase of ¾ ton service vehicle for Kaizer
Meadow.
2023-354 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council approve
the purchase of one ¾ ton 4x4 diesel truck from South Shore Chevrolet in the
amount of $76,207.65 plus HST. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
9.2 Request for Decision prepared June 28, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations (Solid Waste) -
Mobile Evaporization Crystallization (EVC) Unit.
Present was Christa Rafuse, Director of Solid Waste to review the Request for Decision prepared
June 28, 2023 - Mobile Evaporization Crystallization (EVC) Unit which is needed for site
operations and is part of the environmental permit.
2023-355 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council authorize
the purchase of a new mobile Evaporization Crystallization (EVC) Unit at a cost of
approximately $54,000 plus HST. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
9.3 Request for Decision prepared June 28, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations (Solid Waste) -
Public Drop Off/HHW Sandblast and Painting.
Present was Christa Rafuse, Director of Solid Waste to review the Request for Decision prepared
June 28, 2023 - Public Drop Off/HHW Sandblasting and Painting. It was noted this project was
to happen previously but was put off due to COVID and other priorities. This requires approval
of an unbudgeted cost of approximately $100,000 plus HST.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 321
2023-356 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council
approve a budget amendment of $100,000 and authorize staff to tender the
sandblasting/painting of the Public Drop Off (PDO) and the Household Hazardous
Waste (HHW) Structures for Kaizer Meadow Landfill with the award of the project to
be returned to Council at a later date. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
7.1 Chris Bandak and Simon Webb - BR+E Presentation (Via Zoom).
Erin Lowe, Deputy CAO introduced Simon Webb, Project Manager for the Business Retention &
Expansion project.
Mr. Webb provided information on the material provided, outlining the results of the focus
groups and findings of the survey. As part of the economic and policy advisory, they conduct
market research all across Canada. He outlined how the material was obtained and how it was
disseminated through a scientific approach. He noted that the actions will come to Council later
through staff. The details are in the material provided to Council and are online.
There were some questions and answers on the following:
Knowing which businesses want to grow or sell is helpful information.
Housing and staffing are commonplace issues across the country.
The action plan draft will be brought back to Council for discussion.
Business communication - elected officials - is that municipal, provincial, or federal?
Residents call municipal Councillors for a variety of reasons, some of which may not be
municipal.
Warden Webber thanked Mr. Webb for the presentation.
MATTERS ARISING (continued)
9.4 Request for Direction prepared July 20, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation
Department - Recreation Strategic Priorities.
Present were Gordon Tate, Active Living Coordinator, and Chad Haughn, Director of Community
Development & Recreation to review the Request for Direction prepared July 20, 2023 regarding
Recreation Strategic Priorities.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 322
They reviewed the Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles, Strategic Priorities, Strategic Action Areas,
and Next Steps (obtaining feedback from Council and the public).
There was some discussion regarding recreation facilities which were not specifically on the list
and the Director noted that didn’t intentionally include facilities. There are other examples, i.e., a
pickle ball facility. It was suggested that libraries be pulled onto the list as they are a part of
recreational facilities. It was noted that recreation has changed significantly in the past ten
years. The intent of the exercise is to determine where we want to go. It was agreed that the
purpose is to support mental and physical health, i.e., dance, music, art, sailing, and libraries. An
explanation of earth education took place. It was asked if there was a measure of how much we
have enriched the lives of our residents - it would be nice if we could distill it and measure the
enrichment we are providing to the lives of our residents.
A break was held from 10:07 a.m. to 10:23 a.m.
9.6 Information Report prepared July 11, 2023 - Infrastructure & Operations - Possible
Funding Options for the Church Memorial Park Feasibility Study.
Present were Gordon Tate, Active Living Coordinator, and Chad Haughn, Director of Community
Development & Recreation to review the Information Report prepared July 11, 2023 - - Possible
Funding Options for the Church Memorial Park Feasibility Study. The material included the
grants available.
They did receive some similar feasibility studies from recent recreational facilities built across the
province, however, suggested that Church Memorial Park request permission to obtain a copy of
those to review.
There was a lengthy discussion regarding the life expectancy of the facility, what the feasibility
study would include, the cost of the study, what should come first, what the community wants,
recreation helping with physical and mental health, recreation facilities is one of the top three in
site selection for businesses, determining whether to invest in the current facility or build a new
facility, what other multi-use facilities offer, scope of the feasibility study, roof reinforcement
providing 25+ years to the facility addressing the question of urgency, issues with renovating an
older building and the problems that could happen, funding of a new facility and operations,
taxes, does it make more sense to invest in new facility, determining the interests of the public,
thinking ahead (ages, abilities, programming, etc.), asking the Chairman in to answer some
questions, determine if there is to be a new facility and not muddy the issue with whether the
current building will last or not, ultimately there will be a need for a new facility.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 323
Council would like to see the call for proposals before committing to funding the study. The
CAO noted that the scope of work would clarify what exactly Church Memorial Park and Council
would be looking at.
It was agreed to have staff work with Church Memorial Park to create a scope of work for the
feasibility study for consideration by Council.
9.7 Summer 2023 Agenda Planning.
The CAO outlined some changes to the agenda planning document.
Unopened Roads will be on the September agenda. The Director of Infrastructure &
Operations is meeting with GIS this afternoon and will be approaching the province to
determine what we need to do get ownership of unopened roads. Councillor Wells asked to see
the map of unopened roads before it goes to the province.
Councillor Veinotte noted that staff were going to provide some estimates for sidewalks on the
Old Commons Road and would prefer to see it before budget discussions begin.
9.8 Streetlight Discussion - Councillor Veinotte.
Councillor Veinotte asked to have a policy with regard to streetlight installations. His resident
was directed to contact him; however, he does not know the process to have streetlights
installed.
Following a lengthy discussion, it was agreed to have staff develop a policy for streetlighting
that includes the current practices in districts with streetlights and what the charge areas are
along with mapping, and the type of charge (flat rate or area rate).
2023-357 MOVED by Councillor Veinotte, SECONDED by Councillor Wells that Council direct
Staff to draft a streetlight policy that includes the administration and funding of the
current streetlight areas for consideration. FIVE IN FAVOUR. TWO OPPOSED.
MOTION CARRIED.
CORRESPONDENCE
10.1 Thank you letter from Ava Gates for the Municipal Bursary for a graduating high school
student attending university.
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 324
Councillor Assaff noted that he presented the Municipal Merit Award to Ms. Gates and what he
was most impressed with was the handwritten note she sent to Council.
10.2 Email dated July 24, 2023 from Mildred Royer regarding Traffic on Highway 3.
The CAO noted that she has responded to Ms. Royer and is in process of setting up a meeting
with the RCMP and MLA to get some measures in place to control the volume of traffic.
Councillor Wells noted that speed is also a factor and asked to have that addressed as well.
10.3 Email dated July 26, 2023 from Gerrie Masters, Marriotts Cove and the washout conditions
on Marriotts Cove Road.
Warden Webber noted that access during emergencies was recently discussed at REMO
following the wildfires and will be dealt with regionally.
Councillor Church noted that Councillors are aware of REMO and what happens in an
emergency. She felt it would be a good idea to have one central number to report issues to.
She knows there will be debriefing with REMO and asked that the phone number for
emergencies be considered.
It was unknown how long the closure will be between exits 7 and 8 due to the bridge being
compromised.
Councillor Wells noted that the washout at Valley Road meant that big trucks had to go through
the village - that was problematic and felt there needed to be some way to have some control
over the increased traffic in the village. He was concerned about the large trucks passing over
municipal infrastructure as well as the bridge on Walker Road.
It was noted that the residents on Middle River Road who have no access to Highway 3 are now
able to access the road via an exit at Highway 103. Otherwise, they would be landlocked.
Councillor Wells voiced concern about Goat Lake Bridge. At this time, it is a critical piece of
infrastructure, and he asked if there was any way to divert some of the heavy traffic. No one was
aware of an alternate route at this time.
NEW BUSINESS
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 325
11.1 Request for Decision prepared July 6, 2023 - Financial & Information Systems Department
- Reduction of Taxes Under Reduction of Taxes Policy P-23 (AAN 02522209 destroyed by
fire February 2023).
Tim Topping, Director of Financial & Information Services was present to review the Request for
Decision prepared July 6, 2023 - Reduction of Taxes in the amount of $414.56 Under Reduction
of Taxes Policy P-23 (AAN 02522209 destroyed by fire February 2023).
2023-358 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council
approve a reduction in the 2023/24 taxes payable for assessment account number
02522209 in the amount of $414.56 to be written off to Allowance For Uncollectible
Taxes 01-00-000-451100. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
IN CAMERA
12.1 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(g) of the Municipal Government Act - Legal Advice (Rezone
properties on Sawler Lake).
12.2 In Camera as per Section 22(2)(c) of the Municipal Government Act - Personnel/Legal
Advice.
2023-359 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council
convene In Camera as per Sections 22(2)(g) and (c) of the Municipal Government Act
- Legal Advice and Personnel. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
Following a brief meeting held “In Camera” the meeting reconvened in regular session.
Due to a potential CONFLICT OF INTEREST Councillor Veinotte left the meeting room and
did not return to the meeting.
9.5 Planning Matters Report prepared July 10, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation -
Request to rezone Sawler Lake to Lakeside Residential.
Present were Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation, and Garth
Sturtevant, Senior Planner to review the request to rezone Sawler Lake to Lakeside Residential.
potential option to give first reading to rezone lands around Sawler to the lakeside zone.
The Senior Planner reviewed the background on readings and the process. There was a request
from the property owner to postpone the public hearing to allow a discussion with staff
regarding possible parkland. The item was deferred in June until staff met with the developer
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 326
regarding their intention for subdivision and is now at this meeting for consideration. The
developer indicated that he intended to retain some portion of the waterfront property and not
deed the entire length of the waterfront to the municipality.
Staff recommended against rezoning the property as it was inconsistent with the Municipal
Planning Strategy. However, the Municipal Planning Advisory Committee did not concur with
the staff recommendation and recommended the Lakeside Zone at the 20 m mark.
2023-360 MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council reject
the request to rezone the request to rezone properties on Sawler Lake within the
Municipality of the District of Chester, and maintain the existing Mixed Use Zone
and Lakefront Overlay.
DISCUSSION:
o It was confirmed that the rejection is a staff recommendation, however, PAC
recommended to rezone the area (not a unanimous decision).
o A letter was received from the applicant by the Senior Planner dated July 25, 2023
indicating they are “withholding their application”.
o Deputy Warden Shatford was against the motion to reject the rezone request. The
main purpose would be to protect the portion of the lake within the Municipality of
the District of Chester.
o Councillor Connors respected the Staff recommendation and indicated previously
that she would support the Councillor representing the area and the wishes of the
community.
o The applicant wishes Council to delay the application, however, delaying means the
required 120 days will not be met and the process would have to begin again. If
Council proceeds anyone can appeal the decision.
TWO IN FAVOUR. FOUR OPPOSED. MOTION DEFEATED.
The Senior Planner noted that Council will need to renew the 120 day timeline.
2023-361 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that Council
approve the renewal of the 120 day timeline for the Land Use By-Law Amendment -
Request to rezone Sawler Lake to Lakeside Zone. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION
CARRIED.
2023-362 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Connors that Council
give first reading to the amendment to rezone properties on Sawler Lake to the
Lakeside Zone with the zone beginning at the ordinary High Water Mark and
Council (continued) July 27, 2023 327
extending 20m inland. And further set a public hearing date on September 14, 2023
beginning at 8:45 a.m. in the Municipal Council Chambers. ALL IN FAVOUR.
MOTION CARRIED.
ADJOURNMENT
2023-363 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the
meeting adjourn. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. (12:19 p.m.)
_________________________ _________________________
Allen Webber Pamela Myra
Warden Municipal Clerk
NOTE:
The minutes are a record of decisions made at meetings. For more details on the
discussions, a recording of the minutes can be viewed at www.youtube.com/modcvideo.
REQUEST FOR DECISION
REPORT TO: Municipal Council
MEETING DATE: August 3, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public works
SUBJECT: Former Hwy #3 ROW Acquisition, Otter Point
ORIGIN: Wastewater Systems Overview Workshop
Date: July 21, 2023 Prepared by: Fred Whynot, P. Eng., Director of Public Works
Date: July 24, 2023 Reviewed by: Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations
Date: July 28, 2023 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, CAO
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Recommend Council, direct Staff to proceed with the required legal survey subject to legal review of the
agreement, authorize execution of the agreement signatures for the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point, estimated at $15,000 including our HST, to be funded from General Reserves.
CURRENT SITUATION
Staff made an inquiry to the Province of Nova Scotia regarding the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point. Documentation regarding the purchase and conditions of the same have now been received
(attached).
BACKGROUND
During the Wastewater Systems Overview Workshop on November 23, 2022, the Otter Point Wastewater
System section identified the former Highway 3 Right of Way situated north of a large parcel of land that could
be developed. The large parcel of land in question has very limited development potential due to the location of
the former right of way. Municipal ownership of this parcel would create opportunity to open the large parcel
so that development of the parcel could be realized, which would benefit the Municipality. After the workshop,
Staff approached the Province to see if acquisition was possible.
DISCUSSION
Ongoing correspondence has resulted in confirmation that the Province is willing to sell the right of way to the
Municipality of the District of Chester should certain conditions be met. Essentially, the Municipality would be
responsible for all legal survey costs and associated documentation necessary to complete the transfer of the
former right of way from the Province to the Municipality. Once the right of way becomes municipal property,
potential development could be considered. Some private access is currently allowed within the right of way,
which is maintained by private properties and/or road associations. Permitted access would remain, with details
noted in a future legal land survey and deed. The necessary legal survey and associated paperwork to allow
transfer of the road right of way is estimated at $15,000 including our portion of HST.
OPTIONS
Option 1 – Council, direct Staff to proceed with the required legal survey subject to legal review of the
agreement, authorize execution of the agreement signatures for the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point, estimated at $15,000 including our HST, to be funded from General Reserves.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2
Option 2 – Council maintain Status Quo and not proceed with the purchase of the right of way.
Option 3 – Council request Staff to provide further information.
IMPLICATIONS
Financial/budgetary
Budget of $15,000 to be funded by General Reserves.
Environmental
Purchase of the former Highway 3 right of way would add to assets already managed by the Municipality of the
District of Chester.
Strategic Priorities
The purchase of the former Highway 3 right of way will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority
Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework in the near or longer term:
Priority Outcomes: Economic Development
1. Partner in the development of infrastructure and opportunities for business development and
attraction.
Priority Outcomes: Healthy & Vibrant Communities
3. Determine a municipal role in terms of protecting and increasing a broad range of housing stock to meet
community needs.
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
Acquiring this asset will require asset management related to potential development. For example, any new municipal
roads developed within the right of way and new roads connecting to the same will require management by the
Municipality should they be constructed to our standards.
Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes X No ___ N/A
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
Once acquired, the Municipality would reach out to abutting land owners to discuss any concerns or
development opportunities.
ATTACHMENTS
Wastewater Systems Report – November 23, 2022
Initial Plan – Sketch of Old RD
Subject Property
Old Highway Alignment - Municipality of Chester
Service Nova Scotia
[GeoNOVA] Property Parcels (NSPRD)
2023-07-21, 11:01:08 a.m.
0 0.1 0.20.05 mi
0 0.2 0.40.1 km
1:5,000
Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS
Source: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics, and the GIS User Community | Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources | Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services | Geocoded - Matthew King (February 2012) | Asset Information Services
REQUEST FOR DECISION
REPORT TO: Council
MEETING DATE: August 3, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Infrastructure & Operations &
Corporate & Strategic Management
SUBJECT: Housing Accelerator Fund
ORIGIN: Strategic Priorities; Growth Plan
Date: July 27, 2023 Prepared by: Jonathan Meakin, Manager, Sustainability & Asset Management
Date: July 28, 2023 Reviewed by: Erin Lowe, Deputy CAO
Date: July 28, 2023 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, CAO
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Staff recommend that Council approve the Municipality of the District of Chester’s submission of an
application to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF)
program, which includes the Action Plan initiatives summarized in this Request for Decision along with
all additional required documentation.
CURRENT SITUATION
The Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) is a new federal program administered by the Canada Mortgage
and Housing Corporation (CMHC) that will provide $4 billion in funding directly to municipalities to
support initiatives, appropriate to the mandate of local governments, that accelerate the supply of
housing in their jurisdictions. HAF will support eligible program activities from September 2023 until
September 2026, with a national target of 100,000 net-new permits for housing units to be issued
during that program timeframe for throughout Canada. A cross-functional, inter-departmental staff
team have attended online webinars over the last month and are currently developing the required
HAF Action Plan discussed below. The deadline for submissions is August 18, 2023.
BACKGROUND
About the Housing Accelerator Fund
The Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) provides incentive funding to local authorities for local initiatives
that will achieve one or more of the following broad objectives:
Create more housing supply at an accelerated pace and enhance certainty in the approvals and
building process.
Support the development of complete communities that are walkable and consist of
appropriate residential density and a diverse mix of land uses that provide access to a wide
variety of amenities and services through public and active transportation.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2
Support the development of affordable, inclusive, equitable, and diverse communities that
encourage clear pathways to achieving greater socio-economic inclusion largely achieved
through the equitable provision of housing across the entire housing spectrum.
Support the development of low-carbon and climate-resilient communities.
There are two HAF program streams, and the Municipality of the District of Chester must apply to the
large/urban stream, which is defined as a “jurisdiction located anywhere in Canada with a population
equal to or greater than 10,000”. For this ‘large/urban stream’, applicants must submit an HAF Action
Plan that includes seven (7) initiatives.
Application Requirements for the Housing Accelerator Fund
A complete application to HAF must include:
A completed application form, including an Action Plan that will outline housing stock growth
targets and specific initiatives to grow housing supply and speed up housing approvals.
A completed & signed integrity declaration.
A current Municipal Housing Needs Assessment report.
A completed & signed Attestation letter from our Director of Finance on the viability of the
Action Plan.
Funding Methodology
Funding support through HAF is different than most other grant programs. Grant programs generally
award a specific percentage share of defined project costs. HAF, however, provides incentive funding
for initiatives that provide broad system support, which can take many forms, to accelerate housing
supply. Should MODC receive HAF funding, there would be considerable flexibility in how those funds
may be used, providing those uses conform with a broad range permitted by the HAF program.
Although HAF funding must be used for the initiatives committed to under the Action Plan, the
estimated costs for those initiatives will likely be much less than the amount awarded by the HAF per
housing unit formula. Beyond the Action Plan initiatives, HAF support can be applied to broader capital
investments in housing infrastructure and community-related infrastructure that supports housing. In
addition, the funding is stackable with most other federal funding and can also be used in lieu of
municipal funds already committed in the budget.
DISCUSSION
The HAF Action Plan
The Action Plan forms the basis of an application to the HAF program and must set out a housing
supply growth target as well as specific initiatives to meet that growth target.
The Action Plan must identify a minimum of seven initiatives that will be undertaken to meet the
committed growth target. HAF provides a comprehensive list of potential initiative areas and staff have
reviewed that list to arrive at a provisional list that fits our local context.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 3
At this time, a cross-functional, inter-departmental staff team have attended several HAF information
sessions, have reviewed the HAF application support material and the recently released (though still
embargoed) Municipal Housing Needs Report for MODC, and are currently developing and defining
initiatives for our HAF Action Plan.
Below is a draft overview of one sentence summaries for MODC’s HAF Action Plan Initiatives:
1. A comprehensive review of the Subdivision By-Law, Sewer By-Law, Municipal Specifications to
reduce the burden on developers where possible and speed up approvals, provide updates,
ensure consistency among regulatory frameworks, incentives for affordable housing, climate
adaptation lens, infrastructure requirements, etc.
2. A strategy for enabling high density development without rezoning, including promoting
‘missing middle’ housing forms.
3. A plan for identifying, servicing, promoting development-ready municipally owned land for
affordable housing projects as-of-right.
4. Development and implementation of a new centralized, streamlined e-permitting system for all
MODC permits.
5. Hiring a consultant to lead an engagement campaign with developers to generate leads, sales,
insight into what generates developers’ investment decisions.
6. Development of a housing infrastructure plan that draws on the growth plan, wastewater
strategy, and sustainability strategy in order to identify and map catchment areas, potential
new wastewater treatment sites, service boundaries, sites we can comfortably service with
wastewater and water, watersheds, flood risks, etc.
7. A strategy and actions to reduce the adverse impact of short-term rentals on housing stock.
8. Recruitment and training of a new building inspector. This project has already been initiated.
CMHC has indicated that they may be willing to consider initiatives that started after the
2022 federal budget (April 7, 2022). This would be a recovery of costs already incurred (i.e.
hiring of recruitment firm and advertising costs) as well as future costs.
At this time, the cross-functional staff team are developing these initiatives to define timelines,
detailed descriptions, milestones, housing supply impacts, housing system impacts, implementation
costs (most of which will be for consultant services, staff time, and perhaps some software
applications), and estimated number of permits each initiative will incent.
Housing Supply Growth Target
As noted, HAF Action Plans must include a calculation of a growth target, which is determined by
calculating:
A. the number of housing unit permits that are anticipated, based on historical data, without the
support afforded by the HAF program (baseline), and
B. the number of housing unit permits that are anticipated with the support afforded by the HAF
program (growth target).
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 4
The difference between the two (B- A) is the growth rate the Municipality must commit to, which must
be a minimum of 10 per cent over the next three years.
HAF Incentive Funding
HAF funding awarded is based on a formula which assigns a dollar value for each net-new permit set
out in the housing supply growth target. There are three (3) components of the HAF funding formula to
determine the amount of funding for a successful applicant:
Base funding
$20,000 per housing unit
Top-up funding (4 types)
o Single-detached homes
o Multi-unit housing (in close proximity to rapid
transit)
o Multi-unit housing (‘missing middle’)
o Multi-unit housing (other)
o $0 per housing unit
o $15,000 per housing unit (not applicable)
o $12,000 per housing unit
o $7,000 per housing unit
Affordable housing bonus
$19,000 per housing unit
Single-detached homes refers to a building containing 1 dwelling unit, which is completely separated on all
sides from any other dwelling or structure. This includes link homes, where 2 units may share a common
basement wall but are separated above grade. It also includes cluster-single developments.
Multi-unit housing in close proximity to rapid transit refers to any form of multi-unit housing in close
proximity (1500m) to rapid transit, which operates frequent service with high capacity and priority over
other modes of transportation typically achieved through an exclusive right-of-way.
Multi-unit housing characterized as missing middle refers to ground-oriented housing types, such as garden
suites, secondary suites, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, row houses, courtyard housing, low-rise apartments
(4 storeys or less).
Other multi-unit housing refers to all multi-unit housing excluding missing middle and multi-unit housing in
close proximity to rapid transit.
Affordable housing refers to housing units that are intended for households whose needs are not met by
the marketplace. The local definition will be used for the purposes of HAF or in the absence thereof the
provincial/territorial definition. For the purposes of the HAF application, staff may need to further define
our working term ‘attainable housing’ or use a provincial definition.
All units created from HAF initiatives will receive the base funding of $20,000 per unit. As outlined in
the table above, additional incentives are provided for certain types of units, whether for top-up
funding categories and/or affordable housing. Similarly, certain housing types are essentially de-
incentivized by this formula, notably single detached homes.
Below is an example (using made up numbers for the purpose of this exercise in terms of
implementation costs and anticipated housing unit permits) to illustrate how implementation costs for
an initiative and the resulting formula calculation for a hypothetical of 30 new housing units, with
some of those units receiving formula amounts, could provide a potentially significant return.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 5
Initiative Timeline Implementation
Budget
Units / unit cost Estimated
HAF Funding
1. Comprehensive review of the
Subdivision By-Law, Sewer
By-Law, Municipal
Specifications
$75,000 (staff
time/consulting
services)
30 (base) x $20K
15 (MM) x $12K
10 (AF) x $19K
$600K
$360K
$190K
$1,150,000
As noted, any funds not used to achieve the HAF Initiatives outlined in the Action Plan can be used for
other project areas outlined by CMHC, including, but not limited to:
wastewater infrastructure that supports housing
disaster mitigation that supports housing
capacity building that supports housing
site preparation for housing developments
Investments in Community-related Infrastructure that supports housing, such as local roads,
bridges, sidewalks, lighting, bicycle lanes, firehalls, landscaping, and green space
Staff are currently assessing possible capital projects that could be achieved and funded during the HAF
program timeframe, notably wastewater projects as prioritized by Council.
HAF Program Dates
HAF application deadline: August 18, 2023
HAF results: Summer/Fall 2023
First advance processed: Summer/Fall 2023
First reporting period: six months following the date agreement is signed
Second reporting period: first anniversary of the agreement
Second advance processed: Summer/Fall 2024
Third reporting period: second anniversary of the agreement, reports due within 60 days
Third advance processed: Summer/Fall 2025
Fourth reporting period: third anniversary of the agreement, reports due within 60 days
Fourth advance processed: Summer/Fall 2026
Fifth reporting period: fourth anniversary of the agreement, final use of funds report due within
90 days
OPTIONS
Option 1 – Adopt a Motion that Council approve the Municipality of the District of Chester’s
submission of an application to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator
Fund (HAF) program, which includes the Action Plan initiatives summarized in this Request for Decision
along with all additional required documentation. Note: should MODC’s HAF application be successful,
staff would bring the HAF draft Contribution Agreement and detailed Action Plan approved by CMHC
to Council for review before signing.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 6
Option 2 – Defer providing a Motion to support an application to Canada Mortgage and Housing
Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) program until the HAF Action Plan is complete. This
would require Council to schedule a special meeting of Council during the week of August 14-18, 2023.
Note: the HAF application deadline is August 18, 2023.
Option 3– Direct staff not to submit an application to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s
Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) program. This decision is not recommended as participation in the HAF
program is well aligned with several Council priorities and presents an opportunity for the municipality
to receive significant federal funding that can be put towards a broad range of municipal projects.
IMPLICATIONS
By-Law/Policy
N/A
Financial/budgetary
Budgetary impact will be determined by what initiatives are approved by CMHC through HAF and the amount of
formula funding provided. Given that the HAF program is not a shared cost program, any budgetary impact will
be net positive. There is a degree of risk should the Municipality fail to meet its stated housing unit permit target
goal with HAF supported initiatives. And while CMHC reserves the right to reduce or withhold payment of
advances should targets not be met, CMHC is also invested in actively helping HAF recipients address any
challenges in achieving its stated initiatives and associated housing growth targets.
Environmental
N/A
Strategic Priorities
If successful, the HAF submissions will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority Outcomes of the
2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework:
Priority Outcomes: Economic Development
1. Partner in the development of infrastructure and opportunities for business development and
attraction.
Priority Outcomes: Environmental Stewardship
1. Explore options for integrating green energy and sustainable technologies in municipal infrastructure
and program delivery.
2. Support environmental conservation & protection initiatives and efforts to tackle the impact of climate
change.
Priority Outcomes: Governance & Engagement
3. Continue to develop an asset management system that will inform decisions about infrastructure,
development, levels of service, risk assessment, and associated financing.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 7
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.
3. Determine a municipal role in terms of protecting and increasing a broad range of housing stock to meet
community needs.
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.
Work Program Implications
A cross-functional staff team is currently working on the HAF Action Plan, including: Deputy CAO, Economic Development
Officer, Director of Public Works, Senior Development Officer, Senior Planner, and Manager, Sustainability & Asset
Management.
Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes _ _ No _X_ N/A
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
N/A
REQUEST FOR DECISION
Prepared By: Tim Topping, CPA, CA, Director of
Finance & Information Services
Date July 24, 2023
Reviewed By: Date
Authorized By: Tara Maguire, CAO Date July 28, 2023
CURRENT SITUATION
In preparation for the Fall 2023 debenture issuance, Ministerial approval of our intent to borrow is required,
by way of Temporary Borrowing Resolutions (“TBR”).
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approves both attached TBRs.
BACKGROUND
The first TBR is for the refinancing of a balloon payment on Debenture #28-A-1. This debenture was initially
issued in October 2008 to fund expenses incurred for landfill building and leachate system. The initial
debenture was for $942,670 to be repaid over a 17-year term, however, debenture terms are limited to a
maximum of 15 years. The remaining amount of $110,902 will be funded with a new denture over a term of 2
years.
Additionally, staff are anticipating that 4 capital projects/purchases will be completed in time for funding
through the Fall 2023 debenture issuance. These four projects are budgeted to be funded by debt, with a total
amount of $6,743,385. The capital projects and their related capital budget amounts are as follows:
Project Timing of
Debenture
Budget
Year
Budget Total
Expenditures
Borrowing
Estimate for
the TBR
Landfill – Cell 3B Design and Construction Fall 2023 2022-23 6,168,385 6,168,385* 6,168,385**
Landfill – Heavy Equipment – Front Loader Fall 2023 2023-24 450,000 400,911*** 450,000**
Landfill – Heavy Equipment – Skid Steer Fall 2023 2023-24 110,000 123,067*** 110,000**
Public Works – Dump Trailer Fall 2023 2023-24 15,000 15,359 15,000****
Total 6,743,385 6,707,722 6,743,385
* Estimated final cost
** Actual funding amount will be based on final net cost
*** Outstanding trade-in will reduce amount to be borrowed
**** Debenture amount limited to budgeted amount (excess $359 will be paid from Sewer EDU fees)
REPORT TO: Municipal Council
SUBMITTED BY: Finance Department
DATE: August 3, 2023
SUBJECT: Temporary Borrowing Resolutions
ORIGIN:
2 Request For Decisio
DISCUSSION
The TBR agrees with the planned source of funding in the approved capital budgets. All debt servicing costs
related to Landfill purchases included in the annual setting of landfill tipping fees.
Once approved the TBR is valid for one year from the date of approval by the Minister of Municipal Affairs.
Once this TBR is approved, the Municipality will make a submission to participate in the Fall 2023 debenture
issuance.
Estimates have been used in the preparation of the TBR for capital projects. Final debenture amounts will be
based on actual final net costs for each project (up to the amount budgeted).
The attached TBRs will be used for obtaining ministerial approval to participate in the debenture issuance.
Prior to participation (in September 2023), a Resolution for Pre-Approval of Debenture Issuance Subject to
Interest Rate, will be brought to Council for approval and subsequent submission to the Treasury and Finance
Board, including final actual total amounts to be borrowed, and maximum interest rate.
IMPLICATIONS
Policy – n/a.
Financial/Budgetary – Borrowing agrees with approved capital budgets
Environmental – n/a
Strategic Plan – n/a
Work Program Implications -n/a
OPTIONS
1. Approve the two attached TBRs
2. Revise the approved capital funding source for the above projects
REFERENCES
The approved capital budgets for 2022-23 and 2023-24.
ATTACHMENTS
TBR RESO – NEW CAPITAL – MODC Fall 2023
TBR RESO – REFINANCE A (Balloon Payment) – MODC Fall 2023
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
Internal – n/a
External- Forward approved TBR to Municipal Advisor
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE
Municipality of the District of Chester
TEMPORARY BORROWING RESOLUTION
Amount: $ 6,743,385 Capital Projects: Detailed in Schedule "A"
WHEREAS Section 66 of the Municipal Government Act provides that the Council of the
Municiplaity of the District of Chester , subject to the approval of the Minister
of Municipal Affairs and Housing, may borrow to expend funds for a capital purpose as authorized by statute;
WHEREAS the Council of the Municiplaity of the District of Chester has
adopted a capital budget for this fiscal year as required by Section 65 of the Municipal Government Act and are
so authorized to expend funds for capital purposes as identified in their capital budget; and
WHEREAS the specific amounts and descriptions of the projects are contained in Schedule "A" (attached);
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED
THAT under the authority of Section 66 of the Municipal Government Act, the Council of the
Municiplaity of the District of Chester borrow a sum or sums not exceeding
six million seven hundred forty-three thousand three hundred eighty-fi Dollars ($ 6,743,385 ) for the
purpose set out above, subject to the approval of the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing;
THAT the sum be borrowed by the issue and sale of debentures of the Council of the
Municiplaity of the District of Chester to such an amount as the Council
deems necessary;
THAT the issue of debentures be postponed pursuant to Section 92 of the Municipal Government Act
and that a sum or sums not exceeding six million seven hundred forty-three thousand three hundred eighty-fi
Dollars ($ 6.743,385 ) in total be borrowed from time to time from any chartered bank or trust company
doing business in Nova Scotia;
THAT the sum be borrowed for a period not exceeding Twelve (12) Months from the date of approval
of the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing of this resolution;
THAT the interest payable on the borrowing be paid at a rate to be agreed upon; and
THAT the amount borrowed be repaid from the proceeds of the debentures when sold.
THIS IS TO CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a resolution read
and duly passed at a meeting of the Council of the
Municiplaity of the District of Chester
held on the 3rd day of August , 2023.
GIVEN under the hands of the Clerk and under the seal of the Council of the
Municiplaitv of the District of Chester
this 3rd day of August , 2023.
Clerk
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE
Municipality of the District of Chester
TEMPORARY BORROWING RESOLUTION
Amount: $ 6,743,385
Capital Projects: Detailed in Schedule "A"
SCHEDULE"A"
CAPITAL PROJECTS
Estimates $
Heading / Category: Landfill Equipment
Item
Cell 3B Design & Construction
6,168,385
Item
Front Loader
450,000
Item
Skid Steer
110,000
Item
Heading Sub Total: 6,728,385
Heading /
Category: Public Works
Item
Dump Trailer
15,000
Item
Item
Item
Heading Sub Total: 15,000
Heading / Category:
Item
Item
Item
Item
Heading Sub Total: 0
Heading / Category:
Item
Item
Item
Item
Heading Sub Total: 0
Heading / Category:
Item
Item
Item
Item
Heading Sub Total: 0
Heading / Category:
Item
Item
Item
Item
Heading Sub Total: 0
TOTAL REQUEST CONTAINED WITHIN THIS RESOLUTION 6,743,385
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE
Municipality of the Disctrict of Chester
TEMPORARY BORROWING RESOLUTION
Amount: $ 110,902 Refinance Debenture: 28-A-1
WHEREAS Section 66 of the Municipal Government Act provides that the Council of the
Municipality of the District of Chester subject to the approval of the Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing, may borrow to expend funds for a capital purpose as authorized by statute; and,
WHEREAS clause 66 (4)(b) of the Municipal Government Act authorizes the Municipality to expend funds for
the purpose of paying or retiring debentures;
BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED
THAT under the authority of Section 66 of the Municipal Government Act, the Council of the
Municipality of the District of Chester borrow a sum or sums not exceeding
one hundred ten thousand nine hundred two Dollars ($ 110,902
for the purpose set out above, subject to the approval of the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing;
THAT the sum be borrowed by the issue and sale of debentures of the Council of the
Municipality of the District of Chester to such an amount as the Council deems necessary;
THAT the sum be borrowed for a period not exceeding Twelve (12) Months from the date of the approval of the
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing of this resolution;
THAT the interest payable on the borrowing be paid at a rate to be agreed upon; and
THAT the amount borrowed be repaid from the proceeds of the debentures when sold.
THIS IS TO CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a resolution read
and duly passed at a meeting of the Council of the
Municipality of the District of Chester
held on the 3rd day of August , 2023.
GIVEN under the hands of the Clerk and under the seal of the Council of the
Municipality of the District of Chester this
3rd day of August , 2023.
Clerk
REQUEST FOR DECISION
REPORT TO: Municipal Council
MEETING DATE: August 3, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Community Development & Recreation Dept.
SUBJECT: New Road Name Assignment
ORIGIN: New Private Road Name Request
Date: 2023-07-24 Prepared by: Sylvia Dixon, Development & Planning Technician
Date: 2023-07-27 Reviewed by: Chad Haughn, Director of CDRD
Date: 2023-07-28 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, CAO
RECOMMENDED MOTION
It is recommended that Municipal Council approve the proposed private road name of The Cove Loop.
CURRENT SITUATION
A private right-of-way accessed off of Highway 329 in the community of Fox Point (map attached) that will
provide access for the future development of three or more addressable structures requires a name. The
landowner has proposed the road name of The Cove Loop.
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 Cove Loop as the
first choice, Cove Crescent as the second choice, and The Cove Road as the third choice.
DISCUSSION
The proposed road name of The Cove Loop would be a unique road in the Municipality of Chester and within
Nova Scotia. It is of note that the proposed new road names are similar to the following:
- Cove Crescent, Head of St. Margarets Bay, Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax County
- Cove Lane, Black River Lake, Municipality of the County of Kings, Kings County
- Cove Loop, Ecum Secum, Municipality of the District of St. Mary's, Guysborough County
- Cove Pl, Dover, Municipality of the District of Guysborough, Guysborough County
- Cove Ridge Road, Marriotts Cove, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County
- Cove Road, Conquerall Bank, Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Lunenburg County
- The Lodge Road, The Lodge, Municipality of the District of Chester, Lunenburg County
Comments received for proposed road names:
- District 2 – Councillor Floyd Shatford: No objections to the proposed new private road name
- Municipal Public Works – Fred Whynot: preference for The Cove Loop
- Hubbards Fire Dept. – Fire Chief Clary Coolen: Comments “The Cove Loop should be ok.”
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. Municipal Council can approve the one of the proposed road names.
2. Municipal Council can decide not to approve the name and direct staff to assign a name of Council’s
choosing.
IMPLICATIONS
By-Law/Policy
Policy P-44 – New Road Names and Road Name Changes.
Financial/budgetary
A new road sign (with accessory materials) will be purchased and posted by the Infrastructure & Operations
Department.
Environmental
N/A
Strategic Priorities
N/A
Work Program Implications
N/A
Has Legal review been completed? N/A
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
1. Petitions Received
2. Location Map
146 162
150120132
134
136 150142
161
102
110
114
86
124
94
106
11421
98
Highway329
H u b b a r d s E s t a t e s R d
Rev.:Date:Description:
0
MUNICIPALITY OF THEDISTRICT OF CHESTER
From Date: N/ATo Date: N/ADate Printed: 23/07/20
®
Legend
^_New Civic Address
Civic Address
Road
Driveway/Trail
Building Footprint
Property Boundary
40 0 4020
Metres
23/07/20
Digital Folders Entry ID:1389207
Status: ExistsProject ID: N/AClassification #: N/A
Representation of Municipality of Chester within Nova ScotiaScale: 1:12,500,000
Scale: 1:2,000
New Private Road NameRequirement
New Private Road Naming
Sources:Digital Base Map Data from Service Nova Scotia andMunicipal Relations
Prepared by the Municipality of the District of Chester
Coordinate System/Datum: UTM NAD83 CSRS ZONE20N
Map Disclaimer: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 errors, omissions ordeficiencies in these drawings. Date printed does notreflect date ofdata.
Actual Map Size: w 11" x h 8.5"
)
Community:Fox PointPID:60503893AAN:08238839Fire Dept:Hubbards Fire Dept.Description:New private road name requiredfor access to future development with three ormore civic addresses.Building Permit Reference No.: CM-B2023-007Subdivision Reference No.: CM-S2022-033
25
New Private RoadName Proposed:The Cove Loop
27
29 31)))
Subject Property
Old Highway Alignment - Municipality of Chester
Service Nova Scotia
[GeoNOVA] Property Parcels (NSPRD)
2023-07-21, 11:01:08 a.m.
0 0.1 0.20.05 mi
0 0.2 0.40.1 km
1:5,000
Web AppBuilder for ArcGIS
Source: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics, and the GIS User Community | Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources | Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services | Geocoded - Matthew King (February 2012) | Asset Information Services
REQUEST FOR DECISION
REPORT TO: Municipal Council
MEETING DATE: August 3, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Department of Public works
SUBJECT: Former Hwy #3 ROW Acquisition, Otter Point
ORIGIN: Wastewater Systems Overview Workshop
Date: July 21, 2023 Prepared by: Fred Whynot, P. Eng., Director of Public Works
Date: July 24, 2023 Reviewed by: Matthew Blair, Director of Infrastructure & Operations
Date: July 28, 2023 Authorized by: Tara Maguire, CAO
RECOMMENDED MOTION
Recommend Council, direct Staff to proceed with the required legal survey subject to legal review of the
agreement, authorize execution of the agreement signatures for the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point, estimated at $15,000 including our HST, to be funded from General Reserves.
CURRENT SITUATION
Staff made an inquiry to the Province of Nova Scotia regarding the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point. Documentation regarding the purchase and conditions of the same have now been received
(attached).
BACKGROUND
During the Wastewater Systems Overview Workshop on November 23, 2022, the Otter Point Wastewater
System section identified the former Highway 3 Right of Way situated north of a large parcel of land that could
be developed. The large parcel of land in question has very limited development potential due to the location of
the former right of way. Municipal ownership of this parcel would create opportunity to open the large parcel
so that development of the parcel could be realized, which would benefit the Municipality. After the workshop,
Staff approached the Province to see if acquisition was possible.
DISCUSSION
Ongoing correspondence has resulted in confirmation that the Province is willing to sell the right of way to the
Municipality of the District of Chester should certain conditions be met. Essentially, the Municipality would be
responsible for all legal survey costs and associated documentation necessary to complete the transfer of the
former right of way from the Province to the Municipality. Once the right of way becomes municipal property,
potential development could be considered. Some private access is currently allowed within the right of way,
which is maintained by private properties and/or road associations. Permitted access would remain, with details
noted in a future legal land survey and deed. The necessary legal survey and associated paperwork to allow
transfer of the road right of way is estimated at $15,000 including our portion of HST.
OPTIONS
Option 1 – Council, direct Staff to proceed with the required legal survey subject to legal review of the
agreement, authorize execution of the agreement signatures for the purchase of the former Highway #3 Right of
Way in Otter Point, estimated at $15,000 including our HST, to be funded from General Reserves.
R e q u e s t f o r D e c i s i o n P a g e | 2
Option 2 – Council maintain Status Quo and not proceed with the purchase of the right of way.
Option 3 – Council request Staff to provide further information.
IMPLICATIONS
Financial/budgetary
Budget of $15,000 to be funded by General Reserves.
Environmental
Purchase of the former Highway 3 right of way would add to assets already managed by the Municipality of the
District of Chester.
Strategic Priorities
The purchase of the former Highway 3 right of way will assist the Municipality in advancing the following Priority
Outcomes of the 2021-24 Strategic Priorities Framework in the near or longer term:
Priority Outcomes: Economic Development
1. Partner in the development of infrastructure and opportunities for business development and
attraction.
Priority Outcomes: Healthy & Vibrant Communities
3. Determine a municipal role in terms of protecting and increasing a broad range of housing stock to meet
community needs.
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
Acquiring this asset will require asset management related to potential development. For example, any new municipal
roads developed within the right of way and new roads connecting to the same will require management by the
Municipality should they be constructed to our standards.
Has Legal review been completed? ___ Yes X No ___ N/A
COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL)
Once acquired, the Municipality would reach out to abutting land owners to discuss any concerns or
development opportunities.
ATTACHMENTS
Wastewater Systems Report – November 23, 2022
Initial Plan – Sketch of Old RD