HomeMy Public PortalAbout2023-09-07_COW_Website Agenda Package_Updated September 6, 2023 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
AGENDA
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Livestreamed via YouTube at
—� www.youtube.com/modcvideo from
THE MUNICIPALITY OF
CHESTER 151 King Street, Chester, NS
1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS
3. PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (15 minutes)
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 June 22, 2023 - Committee of the Whole Minutes.
S. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
6. MATTERS ARISING
6.1 Request for Direction prepared August 21, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation
Department - Small Option Dwellings (Department of Municipal Affairs & Housing).
6.2 Request for Decision prepared August 26, 2023 - Corporate & Strategic Management -
Business Retention & Expansion Action Plan.
New 6.3 Draft letter to Minister regarding Service Exchange.
7. CORRESPONDENCE
7.1 Letter dated August 10, 2023 from Municipality of the District of Lunenburg regarding
2023/24 REMO Budget Allocation.
7.2 Letter dated July 19, 2023 from NS Public Works (Highway Planning and Design) regarding
future Highway 103 twinning project (Hubbards to Chester) and request to complete
consent form.
7.3 Email dated August 3, 2023 from Chris Campbell regarding Stanford Lake flooding.
New 7.4 An open letter to Council dated August 24, 2023 regarding Village Plan Review.
BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
Page 1 of 2 (Cover Pages)
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.1 Consideration - Cancellation or rescheduling of upcoming meetings:
• September 21 - Committee of the Whole - Chambers upgrade (week of September 18 to
22).
• October 19 - Committee of the Whole - NS Association of Municipal Administrators
Conference.
• November 9 - Council - NS Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference.
• December 21 - Cancel or hold a Committee of the Whole or Council meeting.
9.2 Cell Phone Service (discussion) - Councillor Veinotte.
10. IN CAMERA
11. ADJOURNMENT
Page 2 of 2 (Cover Pages)
4.1
253
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, June 22, 2023 at 8:45 a.m.
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 Officer (Via Zoom)
Emily Lennox, Executive Secretary
Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works
Chad Haughn, Director of Community Development & Recreation
Garth Sturtevant, Senior Planner
Solicitor: Samuel Lamey
Public: There were no members of the public in the gallery.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS
Addition - Dry Hydrant - Councillor Church.
2023-299 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church the June 22,
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) June 22, 2023 254
PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (15 minutes)
There was no public input.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
4.1 Committee of the Whole- June 1, 2022 -Warden Webber.
2023-300 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the minutes of
Committee of the Whole of June 1, 2023 be approved as circulated. ALL IN FAVOUR.
MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS/APPOINTMENTS
There were no public presentations.
PROCLAMATIONS
6.1 Proclamation thanking Fire Services for their contribution to the NS Wildfires.
2023-301 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Connors that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to donate $5,000 to the Red Cross
to assist residents affected by the Nova Scotia Wildfires. ALL IN FAVOUR.
MOTION CARRIED.
The CAO will provide the proclamation to the Fire Departments as well as certificates of thanks
the new Fire Advisory Committee's first meeting next week.
2023-302 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff the proclamation as
read by Warden Webber recognizing the exemplary service from our Volunteer
Fire Departments during the Wildfires in 2023 in Beech Hill, Halifax, and
Shelburne. The proclamation also recognizes the families and employers of the
Fire Departments for their support. ALL IN FAVOUR.
MATTERS ARISING
7.1 Property Maintenance Update - Infrastructure and Operations.
Committee of the Whole (continued) June 22, 2023 255
Present was Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works who reviewed the Information Report
regarding summer maintenance properties.
A discussion was held with regard to agreements with the province, summer work activities,
Wild Rose Park, and the Gold River Park. It was asked how/when it was decided to take care of
properties that are not our own.
CORRESPONDENCE
8.1 CDS Inclusion Club thank you letter.
Councillor Connors noted that she will add this to the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Agenda for
June 27t" and Councillor Wells asked that a letter be sent to the students thanking them for their
involvement in inclusion and diversity.
BY-LAWS AND POLICIES
There were no by-laws or policies for consideration.
NEW BUSINESS
10.1 Information Report prepared May 29, 2023 - Community Development & Recreation -
Village Plan Review: Proposed Engagement Schedule.
a. Proposed Final Engagement Schedule.
Present was Garth Sturtevant, Senior Planner to review the Information Report regarding the
engagement schedule for the Village Plan Review. Councillors had no issue with the outlined
schedule.
10.2 Information Report prepared June 12, 2023 - Corporate & Strategic Management -
Economic Development Sponsorships Update.
a. Correspondence.
Erin Lowe, Deputy CAO outlined the sponsorship for a Golf Tournament.
10.3 Request for Decision prepared June 15, 2023- Infrastructure and Operations - Uniform
Business Signage Next Steps — Revised Budget.
Committee of the Whole (continued) June 22, 2023 256
Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works was present to review the Request for Decision prepared
June 15, 2023 - Uniform Business Signage Next Steps— Revised Budget.
There was discussion on the type of material used for the installation as well as permissions
required from the NS Department of Public Works. The Director noted that he would
investigate the suggestion of foam to fill the holes around the columns.
It was noted that the intention is to move on to Exits 7 and 8 once the issues are ironed out in
the pilot project for Exit 6. It was also noted that brush will be removed from around the signs
in the near future.
2023-303 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the
Committee of the Whole recommend to Council to direct staff to have staff prepare
public tender documents for installation of the Uniform Business Signage Program
at Exit 6, subject to the discussions held regarding options for the posts of the
signage. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED.
10.4 Request for Decision prepared June 13, 2023- Infrastructure and Operations—Addition of
Public Sewer—Western Shore.
a. Request from Developer.
b. Map.
Fred Whynot, Director of Public Works outlined the request from the potential owner as they
want to ensure connection is a possibility before they purchase the property. There is no issue
with capacity for the number of potential connections, however, some slight modification will be
required, i.e., UV lighting.
As the development is outside of the catchment area, an approval of Council is required. It was
agreed to have staff prepare a motion for review and approval at the June 291" meeting.
Councillor Veinotte suggested a review of the process to ensure it is clean and smooth so that
the Municipality and potential developers understand how to open new lands for the sewer
systems.
10.5 Dry Hydrant - Saw Island - Councillor Church.
Committee of the Whole (continued) June 22, 2023 257
Councillor Church noted that residents from Shaw Island would like to have a dry hydrant
installed and are willing to share the costs. They are concerned in light of the recent wildfires. It
was noted that there are dry hydrants already in place in other districts.
Following discussion, it was suggested that the matter be raised at the upcoming Fire Advisory
Committee meeting next week.
IN CAMERA
There were no In Camera items requiring attention.
ADJOURNMENT
2023-304 MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Church, the meeting
adjourn. ALL IN FAVOUR. MOTION CARRIED. (9:35 a.m.)
Allen Webber Pamela Myra
Warden Municipal Clerk
NOTE: The recorded version of this meeting is available at www.youtube.com/modcvideo.
6.1
REQUEST FOR DIRECTION
REPORT TO: Committee of the Whole
MEETING DATE: September 7, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Planning & Development
THE MUNICIPALITY of
CHESTER SUBJECT: Small Option Dwellings
ORIGIN: Department of Municipal Affairs & Housing
Date:August 21, 2023 Prepared by: Paul Riley, Planner
Date:August 22, 2023 Reviewed by: Garth Sturtevant,Senior Planner&Chad Haughn, Director of CDD&R
Date:August 23, 2023 Authorized by: CAO
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Municipal Council direct staff to review and prepare amendments to the Municipal Land Use By-
law to add 'small options homes' provisions.
CURRENT SITUATION
In accordance to recent Municipal Planning Act and Statements of Provincial Interests Regarding Housing
changes, the Municipal Land Use By-law and the Village of Chester Land Use By-law require amendment to
include provisions related to small option dwellings,which are licensed by and have been defined and
recognized by the province as being a distinct form of residential land use that is similar in nature and function
to conventional residential land use.
BACKGROUND
On June 2, 2022,the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing circulated an information bulletin and letter,
included below as Attachment 1,to municipal CAOs and Clerks explaining that municipalities are required to
treat 'Small Option Homes' consistent to similarly functioning residential land uses.
This information bulletin defines small option homes as follows:
". . . a type of community residential placement licensed under the Homes for Special Care Act.
They house three or four residents with developmental, mental health or physical disabilities.
Residents live independently in community homes and receive support services from staff."
Further to the bulletin/letter from the provincial ministry, small option dwellings are a group home that retains
the physical characteristics of a conventional residential dwelling and functions as a home-like environment,
therefore,they should be treated as such.
From a land use perspective,this means that small option dwellings should be subject to the same development
requirements (such as development permits, building and lot requirements, etc.) as any other conventional
residential dwelling in the same zone. Conventional residential dwellings would include single-unit dwellings,
duplexes,townhouses, or multi-unit dwellings.As such, municipal staff must now ensure that the Municipal and
Village Land Use By-laws allow for small option dwellings in all zones where "equivalent" residential uses are
permitted.
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 12
DISCUSSION
To ensure small option dwellings are suitably accounted for in the land use by-laws, a standalone definition for
small option dwellings will need to be added, in addition to either listing it as a permitted use in certain zones or
adding it to the general provisions section in some fashion to permit it more broadly or specifically.
The bulletin also indicates that "planning documents adopted after the adoption of a Statement of Provincial
Interest must be consistent with the Statement", therefore,the Municipality would be required to include the
amendments in the Village LUB review process and the Municipal LUB would need to be amended prior to or
during the next Municipal MPS and LUB Review. Based on the necessity to include the amendments in the
Village By-law as part of the review and the undetermined timing of a future review of the Municipal MPS and
LUB, it is recommended that a municipality-led amendment to the Municipal Land Use By-law be processed in
the near future.
OPTIONS
1. That Municipal Council direct staff to review and prepare amendments to the Municipal Land Use By-
law to add `small options homes' provisions.
2. Other(Please specify)
IMPLICATIONS
By-Law/Policy
The Municipal Land Use By-law will align with the Statement of Provincial Interest Regarding Housing.
Financial/budgetary
None
Environmental
None
Strategic Priorities
Health &Vibrant Communities
2. Develop an accessibility, diversity, and equity lens for municipal plans and services, and support partners in
advancing accessible and inclusive communities.
Work Program Implications
None
Has Legal review been completed? —Yes X No_N/A
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 3
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1:June 2022 Small Option Homes Information Bulletin
TL
NOVA`S%TIN
Department of Munidpal Affairs and ng
INFORMATION BULLETIN
STATEMENT OF PROVINCIAL,INTEREST REGARDING HOUSING
AND APPLICATION TO SMALL OPTION HOMES
Summary.
The Statement of Provincial Interest regarding Housing requires that planning documents treat
Small Option Homes Iicensed under the Homes for Special Care Act consistently with their
residenbai nature.
Legislation:
Municipal Government Act(MGA) -Sections 198, 208. 212
Halrfax Regional Municipality Charier JHRMC)-Sections 214,223. 227
Statements of Provrncml Interest. N.S. Reg 10112001 -Statement of Provincial Interest
regarding Housing
Discussion:
The Statement of Provincial Interest(SPI)regarding Housing states: 'There are different types
of group homes. Some are essenwity single detached homes,and planning documents must
treat these homes consistently with their residential nature. Other group homes providing
specialized services may require more specific locabonal cntena.'
This means that when a group home retains the physical characteristics of a conventional
residential dwelling and functions as a home-like environment. it must he treated as such The
definition or use of a term such as 'family dwelling"cannot be used to exdude group homes
from residential neighbourhoods.
Small option homes are a type of community residential placement licensed under the Homes
for Special Care Act. They house three or four residents with developmental. mental health or
physical disaNIrties. Residents live independently in community homes and receive support
seances from staff.
For the purposes of planning documents.the term'group home- is mclusrve of small option
homes as outlined in this Bulletin.
On this basis, small option homes are to be permitted in all residential zones where the building
and lot meet the requirements of that zone. While municipalities may opt to provide for these
group homes through a development agreement or site plan approval process. they cannot
require any studies.design criteria or restrictions that would not also be applicable to a similar
residential use. For clarity. if a single detached home that is owner occupied and one that
functions as a small option home are not treated with the same development permit
requirements. then this is an inconsistent application of policy and is inconsistent with the SPI
regarding Housing.
tl
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 4
Planning documents adopted after the adoption of a Statement of Prownoal Interest must be
consistent with the Statement. Ministerial approval of new planning documents may be refused
on the basis that the planning documents are not reasonably consistent with a Statement of
Provincial Interest. Additionally,the Minister may request that a counral amend existing
planning documents to be,or adapt new planning document that are. reasonably consistent with
a Statement of Provincial Interest.
Resources: Implementing Statements of Provincial Interest:guide for municipalities
https:Irbete-riovascotte-cafdocumentsfrmpremenhng-statements-provincial-interest-guide-
munecipalities
Date Produced: June 2,2022
Nate: The reader is cautioned that preparation of this and subsequent Information Bulletins
containing practical suggestions or direct guidance must necessarily involve interpretation of
legislation as it applies in general situawns. Specific situations may require careful legal
analysis and, therefore. reference should be made to the Municipal Government Act. the Halifax
Regional Mumcipalrty Charter, other relevant legislation. and to legal admors.
21
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page � s
Attachment 2: October 2022 Small Option Homes Information Bulletin
A _
NVVA SC TU 1505 Bvnrxyron Sweet Centre T 4'_ 902.943.0408
PO Box 216 Fax: 902,424.0821
Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing Hahrax,NS gar 2M4 E rnail prsnna.uHintsr>ovarmta ca
October 21, 2022
TO: CAOs&Clerics?Municipal Planning Staff
RE: Statement of Provincial Interest Regarding Housing and Small Option Homes-
Bulletin of June 2022
The Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing has received questions seeking clarification
regarding the letter and Information Bulletin released on June 6. 2022.clarifying the Statement of
Provincial Interest regarding Housing and the application to small option homes. This letter is to
provide that clarification to all municipalities.
Small option homes are a type of home,licensed under the Homes for Special Care Act. that
house three or four residents with developmental. mental health or physical disabilities. Residents
live independently in community and receive assistive support from staff. In land use matters.
small option homes function in the same manner as other residential dwellings. Regulation that
restricts access to classes of persons where the building use,land use. structure,and lot geometry
are the same as for any other dwelling within a zone are inappropriate and. in the case of small
option homes, would be considered inconsistent with the Statement of Provincial Interest
regarding Housing.
Small option homes typically exist as single-unit dwellings, tut may also exist as other types of
dwellings,such as duplexes or other conventional housing forms(triplexes. multr•urnt residential,
etc.)_ Based on this,where a type of dwelling is permitted.a small option home of that same type
of dwelling is to also be permitted. This applies to all zones that permit residential uses and is not
limited to zones classified as 'Residential.'
We encourage municipalities to review their Municipal Planning Strategy andlor Land Use Bylaw
with the intent to remove any possible exclusionary language or other barriers for small option
homes that may currently exist within the planning documents.
Should you have any questions pertaining to small option homes as they relate to your planning
documents, please feel free to contact me.
Kind regards,
e��
Christina Lovrtt.MCIP. LPP, PMP
Provincial Director of Planning
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
6.2
REQUEST FOR DIRECTION
REPORT TO: COW
MEETING DATE: September 7, 2023
f DEPARTMENT: CSM
THE MUNICIPALITY OF
CHESTER SUBJECT: BR+E Action Plan
ORIGIN: Economic Development Strategy
Date:August 25, 2023 Prepared by: Olivia Corkum, Economic Development Officer
Date:August 28, 2023 Authorized by: Erin Lowe, Deputy CAO
RECOMMENDED MOTION/ACTION
Staff are looking for Council's feedback and approval on the proposed Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E)
Action Plan.
CURRENT SITUATION
Staff have attached an action plan (see Figure 1: BR+EAction Plan), prepared by Deloitte in consultation with
staff,to mitigate pain points addressed by businesses within the Municipality of Chester(MOC).
BACKGROUND
Data informing the BR+E Action plan was obtained through Deloitte's signature Triage BR+E Survey—conducted
in Fall of 2022 and two focus groups held in Winter 2023.The survey data was presented by Deloitte's team
during Council session on August 3, 2023.
DISCUSSION
The action plan supports top priorities for businesses in the MOC,which were identified as:
1. Adequate housing;
2. Availability of skilled labour;
3. Funding programs;
4. Development/permitting processing;
5. Availability of warehouse space
The actions within the plan underpin these top priorities.The plan also outlines insights from the businesses
and/or rationale for the action as well as practical examples for how the action will be undertaken.The plan is
divided into three sections: short-, medium-and long-term items and seeks to mitigate issues MOC businesses
are facing.
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 12
Figure I:BR+E ACTION PLAN
Short Term Action Plan Business Examples Budget Impact
Items Insights/Rationale
Communicate Municipal Provide information (ex: - Inform business community No direct cost
initiatives to local status/progress updates) of economic development
businesses that will affect or impact and Council priorities,
the local business initiatives, and projects via
community. social media, Municipal
Insights, etc.
- Forward grant/program
distribution list from other
levels of government via
Organize business In the absence of a - "Lunch n' learns" Included in current
networking events and municipally wide Chamber - Hosting sector specific budget
conferences of Commerce,the MOC conferences(ex.,
could organize Southwest Nova Scotia
opportunities for Agriculture Day event)
businesses to connect, - Breakfast with council
learn and explore event
opportunities to work - Business after hours
together. networking
Provide detailed Clearly communicate - Work with planning and No direct cost
information on the planning permitting communications staff to
Planning Permit Process process to ease burden on develop information
businesses. sheets detailing the
permit process that
includes information
required from business
owners/investors,forms
that need to be fully
completed, and an
estimate of timeframes
and legislative
procedures.
Meet with business The availability of skilled - Determine existing labour Included in growth plan
community to and unskilled labour force characteristics budget
determine specific were identified as low - Identify skills gaps
workforce issues preforming business - Include in Municipal
factors as well as access Growth Plan (Element#1)
to related training. to hire a consultant to
conduct population and
workforce projections
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 13
Enhance existing asset Make information - Update Invest Chester No direct cost
inventory available to potential website and include
developers/investors. information such as
Availability of warehouse land/space size,
space was identified as a ownership or lease
top priority. structure, existing/future
infrastructure,
transportation access,
cost, current zoning
- Continue to update and
promote the use of the
MOC business directory
Medium Term Action Plan Business Examples Budget Impacts
Items Insights/Rationale
Exploring potential Determining - Conduct a supply chain Not included in budget:
business "leakages" within opportunities for local analysis this project would be
the municipality businesses to work - Leaky bucket economy brought forward with
together improves exercise an estimated budget in
operational a Request for Decision
efficiencies and to Council at a future
supports local date.
businesses to keep
spending in our
community.
Connect businesses with Businesses addressed - Develop an No direct cost
relevant services to address availability of skilled understanding of
labour gaps. labour as a top immigration programs
priority. - Establish a primary
contact person to ensure
access to accurate and
up-to-date information
- Identify any training or
education programs that
can address the skills gap
that local businesses
require
Complete a workforce To provide a fulsome - Investigate Local Included in growth plan
development analysis picture of present Immigration Partnership budget
workforce challenges - Establish a program to
facing businesses, attract new talent to the
including forecasting municipality and how
the impacts of MOC can play a role in
external challenges this initiative
that will affect local
businesses.
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 14
Improve access to In consultation with - Host a job fair. Included in budget
workforce training the local business
community,
determine skills and
training gaps.
Promote MOC to targeted Continue to optimize - Track inquiries and site Included in budget
investors the Invest Chester visits to Invest Chester
website for targeted - Establish follow up
online marketing. Use protocols using Hubspot
examples to highlight to measure KPIs
the high rate of - Create business
business satisfaction testimonials highlighting
in the Municipality of areas of satisfaction from
Chester(87%at time businesses in our
of survey). community
- Publish on Invest
Chester, Municipal
Insight and other media
as appropriate
Conduct a review of the To help address - Work with other No direct cost
vendor licensing process access to commercial municipal departments
lands. to assess the vendor
licensing program.
Addressing lack of housing Local businesses face - Housing is incorporated Included in Growth Plan
in MOC labour strains due to a into the Municipal budget
lack of attainable Growth Plan
housing. - Continue applying for
grant/shared cost
programs from other
levels of government
(ex., CMHC's HAF)
Long Term Action Plan Business Examples Budget Impacts
Items Insights/Rationale
Investigate the potential Businesses have - Annual beautification Not included in budget:
to develop a identified the availability grants for business this project would be
beautification or of funding programs for associations brought forward with
property improvement business and property - Continue passing on an estimated budget in
program improvement as a high grants from other levels a Request for Decision
priority.This could draw to business associations to Council at a future
more customers and date.
visitors to the
municipality.
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
Request for Direction Page 15
Enhance parking options Pinpoint available land - Identify the timeframe for Not included in budget:
to facilitate tourism (year-round, or when the lands at the this project would be
seasonally) where Tancook Ferry further brought forward with
parking is feasible. potential for parking area an estimated budget in
/placemaking project a Request for Decision
- Explore the possibility of to Council at a future
providing parking in areas date.
where seasonal demand
could be present (ex: rink,
schools)through
agreements with relevant
parties.
Shuttle services
OPTIONS
1. Approve BR+E Action Plan with amendments.
2. Reject BR+E Action Plan and consult with the business community further.
3. Approve the BR+E Action Plan and direct Staff to carry out action items.
IMPLICATIONS
By-Law/Policy
Identify links/references to/impacts on any MOC By-Law or Policy.
Financial/budgetary
Included in table
Environmental
Will the subject of this report have an environmental impact on municipal operations, infrastructure,
communities, etc.? N/A
Strategic Priorities
The BR+E Action Plan 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.
2. Promote and grow the Municipality's economic sectors.
3. Position the Municipality as Nova Scotia's south shore community of choice for residents, businesses,
and organizations, and as an international tourism destination.
Work Program Implications
Hiring CEDO will determine timeliness of roll out.
Has Legal review been completed? _Yes_No_N/A
NOVA SCOTIA'S TREASURE
6.3
DRAFT LETTER
September 2023
Andrew Atherton
Executive Director
Nova Scotia Municipal Affairs and Housing
PO Box 216
Halifax NS 133J 2M4
Dear Mr.Atherton:
RE: FEEDBACK ON MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING/SERVICE EXCHANGE
The Municipality of Chester would like to express its concerns and strong opposition to the current
proposal for local roads,which was presented as part of the consultation sessions on the Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU)between the Province and municipalities.The current proposal provides three
'options'for local roads in rural areas. These options, while presented as optional, are anything but. For
local Councillors,this would create the public expectation that the Municipality should partner on paving
projects and take ownership of a road without having the public's full understanding of tremendous
financial impacts this would have on rural municipalities. Roads are a critical part of the infrastructure in
rural communities, in areas that are both rural and more developed. In most cases, by requiring
municipalities to take over the local roads and once we agree to partner in paving projects,the burden
shifts from the Province to the municipality with no corresponding offset provided in the remainder of
the MOU.
For years, municipalities have expressed concern that maintenance of the local roads is underfunded.
Data is not provided to municipalities on the current condition of each of these roads, nor is an overall
plan that outlines the Province's capital investment strategy or maintenance plan for each of these
roads.The current condition of the roads remains unknown as does the schedule for repaving. If
municipalities are not interested in maintaining the status quo at the current underfunded provincial
standards, we will be forced to partner on the repair and then own the roads indefinitely. Road
maintenance requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Rural municipalities lack the necessary
expertise to effectively carry out tasks, such as repairing major infrastructure, addressing complex
drainage issues and managing large-scale road improvement projects. With this proposal,the Province
will add to the already challenged labour availability affecting the construction industry in the Province
due to municipal public works departments needing to be built out in addition to the already established
provincial public works department.This would have a monumental impact on our municipal public
works departments and, again, comes with no offset funding arrangement to accommodate these labour
and rising construction costs. Presenting the current proposal as optional is misleading.The majority of
our residents will surely not understand the full implications when their one road will be cost-shared and
transferred to the municipality.This opens the floodgates to all other local roads and goes far beyond
our role in a J-class road program.
We believe that a more fair and flexible arrangement is needed.Additional funding should be put into
the current J-class road program. In a more fair and properly funded system,this program could
potentially be expanded to include all local roads, but this would require the Province to also look at
areas where such costs would be offset.
We believe that a collaborative approach, where the Province and municipalities work together to
address road maintenance challenges, would be more effective in achieving our shared goal of safe and
well-maintained road networks. We respectfully urge you to reconsider the proposed downloading of
road maintenance responsibilities and instead focus on enhancing the J-Class program through increased
cooperation,funding, and support.
The Municipality of Chester Council is committed to the wellbeing of our residents and the sustainable
development of our community. We believe that by working together, we can ensure the continued
safety and efficiency of our road infrastructure.
Thank you for considering our perspective. We look forward to the opportunity to engage in further
discussions on this matter.
Sincerely,
Allen Webber
Warden
cc Paul LaFleche, Deputy Minister, NS Municipal Affairs and Housing
MLA
Municipal Units
7.1
Municipality of the District of Lunenburg
10 Allee Champlain Drive Cookville Nova Scotia Canada B4V 9E4
Administration
Phone: 902.543.8181 Fax: 902.543.7123 Web Site: www.modl.ca
August 10, 2023
Warden Allen Webber & Council
Municipality of the District of Chester
151 King St PO Box 369
Chester NS BOJ 1.10
Dear Warden Webber:
RE: 2023/24 REMO Budget Allocation:
At the July 17, 2023, Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) Advisory Committee
meeting,the Committee passed the following motion:
"that the REMO Advisory Committee recommend to the partner Councils that at the end of
each fiscal year, any unspent REMO funds remain with REMO,to be placed in a reserve for
emergency spending."
Please forward this motion to your Council for consideration and approval. Once approved,
please forward a copy of Council's motion to Angela Henhoeffer, Lunenburg County Emergency
Management Coordinator (angela.henhoeffer@ mod Lca) for insertion on a future REMO agenda.
Sincerely,
r�
Tom MacEwan
Chief Administrative Officer
/Jgp
cc: Angela Henhoeffer, REMC
7.2
7 A
NOVA SC 1 TIA 1672 Granville Street
Public Works Halifax,Nova
Box 186
Scotia
Highway Planning and Design Canada B3J 2N2
July 19, 2023
Dear Sir/Madame,
You are receiving this letter because your property is within the project area of the future Highway 103
Hubbards to Chester (Exit 6 and Exit 8) twinning project. The Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
(DPW) is currently in the planning stages for this project and the consultants will complete non-invasive
environmental and archaeological surveys on the project area in Summer 2023.
The existing two-lane highway between Exit 6 and Exit 8 warrants twinning due to increased traffic volumes.
Two new twinned lanes will be constructed to the north of the existing lanes separated by an open median.
The Highway 103 Hubbards to Chester Twinning Project will greatly improve highway safety through the
following project components:
• A new interchange structure at Exit 7. Exit 7 will be converted from the trumpet shaped interchange
to a more traditional diamond interchange,
• Two new roundabouts at the North-East and South-West of Exit 8 eastbound and westbound
ramps,
• Twinned highway lanes continuing from the Ingramport to Hubbards section to Exit 7 and eventually
Exit 8 will increase efficiency and allow passing opportunities,
• The separation of eastbound and westbound vehicles by an open median will significantly reduce
the potential for head-on collisions,
• Elimination of all existing at-grade access points to make it a controlled access highway will reduce
potential collisions.
The current preliminary project layout is shown in Figures 1, 2 (attached).
Our consultants, Dillon Consulting, Stantec, Englobe and Davis Maclntyre&Associates will be working on
behalf of DPW and will be conducting non-invasive environmental and archeological field studies
throughout the project area. Dillion Consulting will be contacting and following up with the homeowners on
behalf of DPW. These field studies will begin in the Summer and follow through to the end of 2023. To
support the planning work for the project we are seeking permission for DPW and the consultants, to
complete general walkovers with no ground disturbance throughout this period. To provide consent for
the walkovers please complete and return the consent and property owner information form on
page 5 at your earliest convenience.
As the project progresses, additional details will be shared with the public and an opportunity to leave
comments will be provided. Please note that the environment studies represent continued planning efforts
of the proposed project, which is currently programmed to start construction in 2024-25 as a major
construction project on the Five-Year Highway Improvement Plan.
If you have any questions or concerns related to the environmental or archeological field studies, please
contact:
Page 1 of 5
NOVA S%TIA 1672 Granville Street
Public Works PO Box 186
Halifax,Nova Scotia
Highway Planning and Design Canada B3J 2112
DPW Contract Manager: Dillon Consulting:
Shivani Gilhotra Olivia Butty
Environmental Engineer Project Manager
(902) 399-4315 (902)450-5015 (ext. 5071)
Shivani.Gilhotra(aD-novascotia.ca obuttyC@dillon.ca
Land requirements for the project are still under review and are expected to be established by Fall/Winter
2023. DPW property representatives will be in contact with landowners impacted as property requirements
are confirmed following the planning work.
General enquiries about that project can be sent to Hwy103Twinning(cD_novascotia.ca
Sincerely,
Nova Scotia Department of Public Works
Page 2 of 5
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Please complete the form below and return in the prepaid envelope or
scan and email to Hwy103Twinning(abnovascotia.ca
Name Municipality of the District of Chesterr
Civic Address
Property PID (If known)
Mailing Address (If different) PO Box 369
City/Town Chester, NS
Postal Code BOJ 1 JO
Phone No. Home ( ) Mobile ( )
Email
X I would like to be notified by email with future project information such as public information sessions.
Consent Form
Please complete and check one of the following options.
I, , am the owner of the property identified above and am aware that DPW
and their consultants, Dillon Consulting, Stantec, Englobe and Davis Maclntyre &Associates will be
completing non-invasive environmental and archeological field studies respectively within the project
area for the proposed new Highway 103 Hubbards to Chester Twinning between the period of spring
2023 and December 2023.
I hereby grant permission to DPW and DPW's employees, contractors, and invitees to enter
on and have access to the property for non-invasive environmental and archeological field
studies (the "Work"). The Work shall be conducted in a manner so as to not unreasonably
interfere with the owner's use of the property.
It is understood that the property owner shall not be responsible or liable for any damage to
property or injury or death of persons caused by the willful act or negligence of DPW and
DPW's employees, contractors and invitees occurring on the Property during the performance
of any part or portion of the Work by DPW or its employees, contractors, or invitees.
I do not grant permission to DPW and DPW's employees, contractors, and invitees to enter
on and have access to the property for non-invasive environmental and archeological field
studies (the "Work").
Signature of Owner
Page 5 of 5
7.3
Pam Myra (she/her)
From: Sharon Church
Sent: August 3, 2023 10:34 AM
To: Chris Campbell
Cc: Allen Webber; Pam Myra (she/her); Tara Maguire
Subject: Re: Stanford Lake
Chris:
Thank you for the comments. I am forwarding this on so it can be added to the council agenda in September.
Regards,
Sharon Church
Sent from my iPhone
SHARON CHURCH
District #7
' 902-275-2281
902-277-1301
JIL Consider the environment. Do you really need to print this email?
> On Aug 3, 2023, at 10:22 AM, Chris Campbell
> ** EXTERNAL EMAIL **
> Please do not open attachments or click links from an unknown or suspicious origin.
> Hi Sharon and Allen,
> I would like to request that something be done about the water exit from Stanford Lake. Since I moved here in 2010 it
has flooded on three occasions,the first two didn't flood me but did flood some other folks basements, and this last
event flooded many people on the lake, me included. If the railway bed had more culvert cut through it the lake
wouldn't flood, which is what I'd like to see. Whether it's replacing the culverts with an opening and a bridge, or adding
a third culvert higher up on the causeway or some other solution,there needs to be a way to let water out of here
before it floods us out.
> Recognizing that,there also needs to be a better way to handle the water downstream of the rails-to-trails, as it needs
to get out under the 3 and Victoria Rd. bridge -so I believe a comprehensive solution to the upland water getting to the
sea is required.This won't be the last time this sort of event happens, and if we don't act now we are just setting
ourselves up for a bigger disaster down the road.
> I would like to hear what the council plans to do about this situation, and how I can help.
>Thanks,
> Chris
1
7.4
AN OPEN LETTER TO COUNCIL:
24 August 2023
Municipality of Chester Council
Municipality of the District of Chester
151 King Street, Chester NS BOJ 1 JO
Dear Municipality of Chester Council:
re.Village Planning Review
We are writing to express our concerns with the progression of the Village of Chester Planning
Document Review process and proposed Village Plan to date. We call upon Council to take
immediate action on behalf of Chester citizens by requesting further undertaking of professional
due diligence and public consultation by the Municipal Planning Department.
In particular, we ask that Council work with Municipal Planning to ensure appropriate steps
are taken to: 1. Adapt the proposed Plan to address the expressed concerns of Residents; 2.
Engage independent professionals to conduct any research or consultation required to ensure
Chester Residents are provided with an informed and transparent proposed Village Plan; and 3.
Allow for further adequate public consultation of the revised proposed Plan prior to allowing
the matter to proceed to Council for a final hearing.
Core Planning Process Concerns
Timelines + Communication
According to Municipal published timelines, the Village Plan Review commenced in December
2019.t The majority of the Village Plan Review was conducted throughout the global pandemic,
a period in which society was focused on survival. Throughout this period traditional forms of
community interaction, engagement, and communication were severely restricted by the
requirement to stay Home. As the community then transitioned out of rigid pandemic
restrictions, the Village was faced with further significant socioeconomic burdens, (such as rapid
rising rates of inflation and severe weather events), which continued to require the immediate
attention and resources of Chester Residents.
Given the novel social conditions during this period, it was pertinent that the Municipal Village
Plan Review Communications Strategy and Timelines proactively ensured that all Residents
were made aware of the proposed Village Plan, and were given fair and reasonable opportunity
1 Municipality of the District of Chester,Voices and Choices Website,(hftps://www.voicesandchoices.ca/villagereview)at"Timeline"
Page 1 of 8
to express their views, and receive assurances that their voices had been heard, before the Plan
neared finalization.
On June 22, 2023, Council approved the public consultation meeting schedule, a key component
of the public consultation process, with less than five weeks notice.z No mail outs were sent to
Village Residents advising them of the scheduled meetings, and the voluminous proposed Plan
documents were not made publicly available until July 05, 20233, (less than three full-weeks
before the first scheduled meeting). Given the Municipality has mailed out notices and surveys to
the entire Municipality without issue on several occasions, (such as the 2020 Coastal Action
Resident Water Survey, which was sent to 6,100 addresses, along with paid pre-paid return
envelopes, and further reminder postcards)4, there is no justifiable reason as to why the much
smaller Village core resident population, of approximately 800 people, were not provided with
mailing notice of the public consultation meetings.
The four public meetings were all scheduled within the same two week periods, which restricted
attendance opportunities for many residents, and allowed little time for residents to reflect on the
meetings or share future dated meeting dates with those in the community. One of the meetings
took place immediately after the Village had experienced extreme weather conditions, and the
fourth supplemental meeting was scheduled with little notice, was not contained on public
posters, and involved a last minute change of meeting location. The public.meetings were also
not clearly signed from the Roadside prior to, or during, the meetings, which limited
opportunities for Residents to walk in or drop into the meetings as they moved through the
community. The Planning Department also failed to ensure all meetings were recorded so that
there was a clear and objective record of meeting discussions. It was also not made clear how
objective records of the meeting would be reported to the Planning Advisory Committee, related
municipal departments, and relevant stakeholders.
Consultation Processes
At the meetings, the Planning Department cited that approximately 25-35 individuals were in
attendance at each session, with many of the attendees at each meeting being repeat attendees.
This indication suggests that a significant majority of the Village's 800+ residents were not
adequately informed or given opportunity to attend the meetings. Chester is known to have a
community of highly engaged residents, particularly in its Village Core, and given its history of
2 Municipality of the District of Chester,Voices and Choices Website,(hftps://www.vQicesandcho'ces.ca/villagerevoe at"Final
Public Engagement Schedule Approved"dated 22 June 2023
3 Municipality of the District of Chester,Voices and Choices Website,(https•//www voicesandchoices ca/villagereview)at"NEW-
Draft SPS&LUB Now Available!"dated 05 July 2023
4 Coastal Action Resident Water Survey Municipality of Chester,2020,(https•//chesterca/sites/default/files/2022-09/
resident water survey report - september 2020 pddfl at page 4
5 Municipality of the District of Chester,Voices and Choices Website,(https•//www voicesandchoices ca/villagereview,at"Final
Public Engagement Schedule Approved"dated 22 June 2023
Page 2 of 8
high response rates to requests for public engagement(as clearly indicated by published response
data from various public consultation projects, including, but not limited to, the 2017 CBCL
Water Study and 2020 Coastal Action Resident Water Survey), the low public meeting
attendance records serve as clear confirmation that the Planning Department did not
appropriately schedule or communicate their public engagement sessions.
At the meetings the Public were provided with little to no confirmation on what independent
professional reviews had been undertaken to inform the Planning Department in their work, prior
preparing their proposed Village Plan. The only clearly communicated professional preliminary
study conducted was an Architecture Study conducted by FBM, for which the explicit report
results do not appear to be published to the public. The public meeting presentations also did not
clearly express how the Planning Department incorporated the findings of this Study into their
proposed Plan, and a representative of FBM was not made available to provide their independent
feedback on how the proposed Plan aligns with the outcomes of their Study.
Furthermore, the Municipality relied on mailed out Village Plan Citizen surveys as part of their
preliminary public consultation process, but no specific Resident responses were shared with the
public at these meetings. The Planning Department also did not provide explicit explanations on
what portions of the proposed Plan, if any,were reflective of the values and expressions made by
Residents in their surveys.
The Planning Department also did not have any representatives from other Municipal or
Provincial departments, such as Public Works present for the public meetings. This was
problematic given the Planning Department's representations that the Public Works department
would play critical role in responding to the resource related implications resulting from the
proposed Plan. The Planning Department also failed to invite any independent environmental
engineers (such as hydrologists) to the meetings to facilitate dialogue between the Residents and
Planning Department on relevant resource considerations relating to the proposed Village Plan.
This is of notable concern given that several resource management studies previously conducted
for the Municipalfty clearly indicated that the Village's current resources could not sustain
further development or increased density, while the Planning Department have cited economic
growth and development as the current prominent underpinning of their proposed Village Plan.
The Municipal Planning Department has stated in published timelines,that it is their objective to
complete the Village Plan Review by end of 20236. Throughout the duration of the public
consultations Municipal staff and a council representative made explicit expressions of their
personal desires to propel this project forward in an imminent manner, with Heather Archibald,
Senior Development Officer, candidly declaring at the August 03, 2023, meeting, "We want this
to be done!"
6 Municipality of the District of Chester,Voices and Choices Website,(httpG'//www voicesandchoices ca/villagereview)at"Timeline"
Page 3 of 8
These expressions were made at the public meetings by Planning Department employees, all
while the Planning Department also put much blame on some of the Village's current and in-
progress development concerns, on an apparent lack of foresight by the Municipality and
Community when the last Planning review was conducted. Given that it is their view that much
of today's Village controversies are a result of yesterday's complacency, we would think that the
Planning committee would be dedicated to taking the necessary time to ensure the current
Planning review is founded in adequate research and integration of resident insights.
It is our respectful view that this project simply has not been adequately assessed to allow for a
final hearing at this time. Much of Chester has not been properly informed on the specific
changes proposed by Planning nor have they been provided with tangible data to address the
substantial environmental and community concerns that arise as a result of the Municipality's
proposed Village Plan.
Core Proposed Plan Areas of Concern
Village Values
When asked about the motivating factors behind the Village Plan Review, Mr. Garth Sturtevant
resolutely cited economic growth and development as his leading objective in preparing the
current Village Plan. At the public meetings the Residents of Chester clearly and repeatedly
expressed substantially different values for the Village Plan, including responsible resource
management and preservation of Chester's current architecture,heritage, and culture.
At the meetings it was clearly expressed by Village Residents that Chester's essence and
economy is founded in preservation of character homes and coastal charm. Residents of Chester
Village are not seeking the cheap institutionalization of the Village core, and are instead seeking
planning provisions that ensure any renovation or new build in the Village will only enhance the
existing landscape. The Village's historical and coastal properties, and use of quality in-keeping
and sustainable building materials is what has given Chester its reputation as one of Nova
Scotia's greatest architectural treasures. Chester Residents are seeking a Municipal Planning
Strategy that will ensure that the Village maintains its legacy as a community built on beauty and
history. People travel both domestically and internationally to visit Chester for its unique
vernacular, and preservation of its current form and structures is essential in ensuring that
Chester retains its appeal as both a Home to Residents and a tourist attraction to many.
Village residents also indicated at the public consultation meetings that those who have invested
their life to Chester, in maintaining their homes, and contributing to the community, are
deserving of having the enjoyment of their Properties and Property values preserved. As such, it
is essential that the Village Plan ensures that any changes to zoning or development allowances,
will not dilute the value or enjoyment of existing_properties, and will ensure protection against
the privatization of publicly enjoyed spaces, such as access to the water from Chester Village's
various harbours.
Page 4of8
We note that careful consideration should be made in relation to the feedback offered by
Residents at these public meetings, given that they are the individuals with lived experience
relating to the resource concerns in the Village. They are also the ones with an innate knowing of
the invaluable role that Chester's existing landscapes, such as our picturesque waterfront
peninsula, plays in attracting interest to Chester Village. It is our respectful request that Council
use their authority to ensure that the Planning Department adapt their proposed Village Plan to
reflect and incorporate the clearly expressed values of Chester Residents, which includes
preserving Chester's existing resources, heritage, and culture.
Water
The public consultation meetings confirmed that the Village of Chester values environment and
sustainable resource management. Water quality and quantity remain a substantial concern of the
Residents of Chester, and as such, any Village Planning strategy must take a proactive approach
in evaluating potential for erosion of water supply within the Community. The Residents
expressed concerns surrounding water and septic resource management are not unfounded, giyen
that quantitative studies back to 1967 have indicated that the Village does not have adequate
long-term water supply to meet the demand of residents and businesses.? Despite this Mr.
Sturtevant's proposed Plan focuses on increased density within the Community and ignores the
undeniably consistent conclusions offered by various water resource studies conducted for the
Municipality: Chester does not have adequate water supply to support the existing needs of the
Village, let alone new demand as a result of increased density or development. Any plan which
allows for the potential of significant development and increased density in the Village core is
not only short-sighted but undeniably reckless.
At the public community presentations Mr. Sturtevant, the lead senior planner responsible for the
Village Review, admitted that he had not conducted or incorporated any quantitative studies on
the impacts of the proposed increased density in preparing his Plan, nor had his Planning
Department engaged any third-party professionals, such as environmental engineers
(hydrologists), to provide the Village with an independent assessment on the viability of their
proposed Plan. This lack of quantitative analysis is particularly concerning as the August 2017
water needs and options preliminary assessment prepared for the Village by CBCL Limited,
Consulting Engineers, indicates that approximately one quarter of the sample participants
experienced water supply issues.$
7 Coastal Action Resident Water Survey Municipality of Chester,2020,(https://chester.ca/sites/defaulVfiles/2022-09/
resident water survey report - september 2020.pddfl at page 1
B CBCL Preliminary Groundwater Supply Assessment,Village of Chester Central Water System:Needs and Options Analysis Final
Report,2017, https://ehq-production-canada.s3.ca-central-l.amazonaws.com/documents/attachments/
e16a81 f46bbba2bc879f4b18614e49958a071 cab/000/011/239/original/
2017-08-24 Preliminary Groundwater Supply Needs and Options Assessment CBCL.pdf)at page iv
Page 5 of 8
In the executive summary to the report CBCL concluded:
"The survey results and collected water quality data indicate that water quantity and
quality problems are common throughout the Village of Chester... Many well owners
are required to observe conservation measures, and several properties are without a
consistent supply. Shortages show that vvater°resources are stressed in localized parts
of the commzmioy and that the potential for further development or increased density
within existing dwellings is limited."9 [emphasis added]
The report repeatedly concluded that the Village core could not sustain increased density or
development, and also confirmed that in a 2016 drought several residents experienced water
shortages to such an extent that they were without tap water for periods of one week to four
months.10 The report further stated:
"Existing climate models suggest that the rate and frequency of extreme weather
events is increasing in Nova Scotia, which would indicate that drought events such as
those experienced in 2016 are likely to be repeated. Climate and well data compiled
by NSDNR appears to support this likelihood. Periodic, intensive reductions in
recharge to shallow aquifers in Chester are likely to continue to causes shorta ems
potentially with increased frequency and/or duration in o uture years".11 [emphasis
added]
While Mr. Sturtevant repeatedly indicated resource management was not within the scope of his
role as a Senior Municipal Planner, the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) defines the planning
profession as:
".. [the] scientific, aesthetic, and orderly disposition of land, resources, facilities,
and services with a view to securing physical, economic, and social efficiency, and
the health and well-being of urban and rural communities".12
9 CBCL Preliminary Groundwater Supply Assessment,Village of Chester Central Water System:Needs and Options Analysis Final
Report,2017, https://ehq production-canada.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com/documents/attachments/
e16a81 f46bbba2bc879f4b18614e49958a071 cab/000/011/239/original/
2017-08-24 Preliminary Groundwater Supply Needs and Options Assessment CBCL pdf)at page v
10 CBCL Preliminary Groundwater Supply Assessment,Village of Chester Central Water System:Needs and Options Analysis Final
Report,2017, https:Hehq-production-canada.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com/documents/attachments/
e16a81 f46bbba2bc879f4b18614e49958a071 cab/000/011/239/original/
2017-08-24 Preliminary Groundwater Supply Needs and Options Assessment CBCL.pdf)at page iv
11 CBCL Preliminary Groundwater Supply Assessment,Village of Chester Central Water System:Needs and Options Analysis Final
Report,2017,(https7Hehq-production-canada.s3.ca-central-1.amazonaws.com/documents/attachments/
el 6a81f46bbba2bc879f4b18614e49958a071 cab/000/011/239/original/
2017-08-24 Preliminary Groundwater Supply Needs and Options Assessment CBCL pdf)at page 20
12 Dalhousie University Architecture and Planning,https•//www dal ca/faculty/architecture- nning/school-of- Ip anning html at
"What is Planning?"
page 6 of 8
t
It is a Planner's very role to create to develop a responsible and sustainable plan, and a Village
Plan that has not considered resource issues, (in a Village known for its considerable water
shortages), is not a plan that looks to secure the physical, economic, and social efficiency, and
the health and well-being of the community. We ask Council to affirm Planning's role in ensuring
that the Village Plan presented is one founded in professional integrity through adequate
consideration of resource management.
Quantitative Data + Independent Review
Resident concerns relating to the general lack of quantitative studies or independent review of
the proposed Village Plan is not limited to resource management, but also extends to the broader
nature of the Plan and its proposed implementation. Given that poor planning could substantially,
erode the integrity of the entire village and its resources, it is essential that the Plan be carefully
considered by a diverse set of professionals. This ensures control over the development of the
Plan is not unduly centralized, and allows for the the final Plan to reflect a diverse mosaic of
resident and professional voices.
A particular area of concern was the lack of any assessment on the ability of our current
emergency services infrastructure to support the potential density proposed by the Planning
Department. Given that the Province just experienced grave wildfires, and Chester has been
known to lose several noteworthy structures to fire throughout the years, it would only be
responsible to have the proposed Village Plan changes presented to emergency service personnel
so that they can provide their professional opinion on the potential risks associated with the
proposed Plan.
The proposed Plan must also be assessed in light of the Municipality's obligations to its
Residents under the Municipal Government Act, which cites in its pre-amble that "municipalities
are a responsible order of government accountable to the People.13" Reviewing the proposed
Plan in light of this 300+ page Act, as well as other relevant provincial and federal legislation,
(including, but not limited to, any environmental, well & septic regulations, and National &
Provincial Building Codes,) is essential. Such an undertaking requires specific expertise, and
should be done responsibly and thoroughly to ensure the Council is not presented with a Plan for
approval that is in conflict with the Municipality's broader obligations to adhere to and enforce
laws for the benefit of the people.
Throughout the public meeting process Mr. Sturtevant indicated some of the lack of research to
date is due to the Municipal Planning having a small team, that is already overburdened with
their current workload. If the Municipality is already organizationally burdened by the current
demand from Chester Residents, it is pertinent that the introduction of any proposed planning
13 Municipal Government Act of Nova Scotia,(htt sn aHnslegislature.ca/sites/default/filesAegc/statutes/
municipal%20government.pddf)at page 12
Page 7 of 8
provisions are professionally reviewed and introduced in a manner that ensures that the Village
and its government will not be unduly burdened with under-resourced population growth and
development.
It is our view that the Municipality, Village Businesses, and Residents all benefit from further
foresight and consultation. We believe a pro-active, unified approach among Council, Village
Residents, the Planning Advisory Committee, the Planning Department, and other stakeholders,
is the best path forward in ensuring that Chester's legacy is maintained. It is a privilege to live
and work in Chester, and we will all benefit from a sustainable and safe Village .
Conclusion
A responsible council is a good council, and with that, we ask you to join in our efforts to ensure
Chester's legacy is founded in community and environmental integrity.
We respectfully request Council commits to community confidence by directing the Planning
Department to engage in responsible research, revision, and further public engagement, before
presenting their final proposed Village Plan.
In Social Consciousness& Community,
The Chester Coalition of Common Sense Citizens
cc. Municipality of District of Chester Planning Department
Municipality of District of Chester Planning Advisory Committee
Page 8 of 8
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