HomeMy Public PortalAbout2014-05_MunicipalInsight_pdf-compressedmunicipal insight
“Keeping informed about May/June 2014
your municipal government”
In the Municipality of the District of Chester this spring...
We have a winner! Zoning in the Municipality Now there’s an idea!
Find out what this Unclear on zoning in the The Christmas gift that
woman has to smile Municipality? We give a gives twice! Check it out
about on Page 2. basic picture on Page 6. on Page 8.
Ask anyone in Districts 6 or 7 and they will
likely have heard of the South Canoe Wind
Project. And rightly so. It’s the largest wind
power project in Nova Scotia thus far.
If you aren’t familiar, Minas Energy, Oxford
Frozen Foods, and Nova Scotia Power
partnered to construct 34 wind turbines over a
2,800-hectare area near New Russell (New Ross
area). The project will cost an estimated $200
million, and is slated to be complete by 2015,
providing power to 32,000 homes.
The development has faced opposition, and
two appeals were filed in an effort to stop the
project. The first, an appeal against Council’s
decision to enter into a development agreement
with the three partners, was dismissed by the
Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. The
second appeal is ongoing with no hearing date
set as yet. The South Canoe Project Team is
confident that development will continue.
Generally, residents are supportive of the
project and look forward to being part of the
“renewable energy” movement that the Nova
Second Wind
South Canoe, the next wind project scheduled for completion
in the Municipality, is moving ahead as planned
Scotia Government is encouraging. According
to their latest environmental legislation, 40%
of electricity delivered by providers in Nova
Scotia must be renewable (meaning naturally
replenished) by 2020 as opposed to the 11.3%
in 2009.
As with the wind turbine at Kaizer Meadow, the
102 megawatt South Canoe site will contribute
towards this goal. Ultimately, the goal will be
reached by combining efforts through not only
developments in wind power, but also in other
renewables, such as hydro, tidal, solar, etc.
Residents in the Municipality will realize
additional benefits from South Canoe. We will
see an estimated $600,000 per year in revenue
as long as the turbines are in operation and an
agreement exists with NSP.
Council has earmarked revenue from wind
development (including our own) by introducing
P-79 Wind Energy Revenue Policy. This Policy
allocates revenue to three initiatives: economic
development programs, operating reserves, and
community-based projects/infrastructure.
South Canoe Wind has established a
Sponsorship Fund designed to financially support
local groups with their projects or events. There
were two calls for applications: the first for
funding under $1,000 and the second for over
$1,000. The first closed in March, but eligible
groups still have until 5:00 p.m. on May 15 to
apply for funding in the “Over $1,000” category.
Criteria and application forms are found on
www.southcanoewind.com/Community which
is South Canoe’s website.
The Project Team has also made a commitment
to the local community. Whenever possible,
they will hire local and shop local instead of
contracting outside of Lunenburg County. To
date, they have developed a local business
directory, awarded the land clearing tender
to Looke CanCut out of Barss Corner, and the
contractor hired for road work wants to employ
as many local workers as possible.
When choosing a Wind Turbine Technician,
the Project Team sponsored Leminster resident
George Robson for training at Holland College in
PEI. George finished his training and is back on
the job site at South Canoe!
Looking ahead, roadwork has begun and a total
of 340 loads of turbine and tower components
will be delivered once the foundations are
complete. The Department of Transportation
and Infrastructure Renewal is currently finalizing
the transportation route.
If you have questions, finding out more about
the project is easy enough. Visit their website
and explore, or contact one of the Community
Liaison Committee members.
• Tina Connors, Municipal Councillor
• Sharon Church-Cornelius, Municipal
Councillor
• Bob Hutt, resident
• George Robson, resident
• Merlin Gates, resident
• Debbie Reeves, resident
• Dave Campbell, resident
• Megan Davies, resident
• Debbie Innes, resident
• Janis Kinnie, resident
• Kerry Keddy, Chamber of Commerce
• Ben Wiper, Chamber of Commerce
• Buzz Smith, resident
• Eric Christmas, Mi’kmaq rep
You can also contact the South Canoe Wind
Farm by emailing info@southcanoewind.com
or calling (902) 684-1104 with inquiries or
feedback. Visit or mail 50 Forties Road, P O Box
248, New Ross NS B0J 2M0.
Road construction has begun at the South Canoe Wind Development site near New Ross.
Photo courtesy of South Canoe Wind Farm, www.southcanoewind.com
The Municipality of the District of Chester invites the public to join them for the
official opening of the Kaizer Meadow Wind Project.
Tuesday, June 24 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 177 Kaizer Meadow Road
Approximately 17 km north from Exit 8, Hwy #103.
• At 2:00 p.m., hear acknowledgements from Warden Allen Webber and
representatives from the Provincial and Federal Government as well as Minas
Energy. Following are refreshments and tours of the wind tower base.
Open House
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 1 5/7/2014 11:10:57 AM
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Message from
the Warden
Sign up for Council meeting agendas under Municipal Alerts at www.chester.ca
The Path Forward
In the last edition of Municipal Insight,
I emphasized the need for a clear and
focused path forward for our community.
This edition provides detail on some of
those initiatives that have our attention
as well as the status and impact on the
Municipality.
The most significant, by far, are the
renewable energy projects that will
enhance our financial position. The front
page article about the South Canoe Wind
Farm represents the largest private sector
investement in the Municipality since the
You can contact the Warden by calling the Municipal
Office at (902) 275-3554, calling his home at
(902) 275-2536, or emailing awebber@chester.ca
hardboard plant in East River decades
ago.
Combined with our own project at
Kaizer Meadow, we are clearly on track
to achieve the stated goal of developing
alternate sources of revenue.
We have - much in the same way as we
did with waste management - established
ourselves as a leader in renewable energy
and are working on a strategy with Minas
Energy to further develop opportunities
for investment by both ourselves and the
private sector.
This year’s budget, although not
approved as of this date, is far enough
along in debate that I am certain that it
will provide the resources to move our
Strategic Plan forward.
We have has some enthusiastic debate
at the Council table as of late. As a result,
we have and will continue to make tough
choices, and I believe we will be in a
better position for it.
Thanks for being engaged in your
community. Enjoy this edition of
Municipal Insights, and have a great
spring.
2
Public Hearing - A Public Hearing is scheduled for May 12 at
7:00 p.m. at Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary School.
The Hearing will deal with changes to a map affecting the
Municipal Planning Strategy and the Land-Use By-Law. In order
for a development in Mill Cove to proceed, a change in their
property’s boundary as well as a redesignation from General
Basic to Rural Residential is needed.
If you have any comments, please submit them in writing to
the Community Development Department, 186 Central Street,
P O Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 or email wdegrace@chester.ca.
You can also fax comments to (902) 275-2598.
Segway Pilot Project - The Department of Transportation and
Infrastructure Renewal (TIR) will conduct a pilot project in the
Village of Chester to study the use of Segways on public streets
and sidewalks. During this time, you can drive your Segway on the
sidewalk. If there isn’t a sidewalk nearby, drive on the road in areas
with speed designated as 60 km/hour or less.
The pilot has a couple of purposes. First, to evaluate the use of
Segways in various settings; and secondly, to determine if the
Motor Vehicle Act should be amended to accommodate the use of
Segways on roads.
You can find complete information at http://novascotia.ca/tran/
roadsafety/segwaypp.asp including safety measures, project
applications, and contact information.
Holiday Hours and Waste Collection - Municipal Offices at
151 King Street and 186 Central Street, Chester, will close on
Monday, May 19 and reopen for regular hours on May 20.
The Victoria Day holiday will not effect waste collection. Kaizer
Meadow Environmental Management Centre is open as usual,
and waste collection will take place.
IN BRIEF...Proposed PolicyPlans Purchases
Council is proposing P-79 Wind Revenue Policy to prepare for
the revenue that the Municipality will receive from wind energy
projects next fiscal year (2015/16). Instead of spending it willy-
nilly, Council put a few guidelines in place so it doesn’t end up
like the spare cash in the “CUBA” jar sitting on your counter...
spent! If the revenue is allocated, then that’s the only thing it
can be used for.
There are two sources of wind energy revenue we anticipate:
the first is from our own wind turbine at Kaizer Meadow, and
the second is from the South Canoe Wind Farm near New Ross.
Our turbine should generate between $100,000 and $200,000
every year for the first ten years, then $200,000 to $300,000
every year for the following five years, and finally $550,000 to
$600,000 per year in the last five years of the agreement.
South Canoe is expected to generate $600,000 plus in annual
revenue.
Council proposes dividing the annual revenue into thirds and
earmarking it for economic development programs, operating
reserves, and community-based projects/infrastructure.
Funding projects from this revenue source means that the
Municipality won’t be funding them through the general
operating fund; and that means there will be more money in
the operating fund for other things.
To see a copy of draft Policy P-79 for yourself, visit our website
at www.chester.ca and look in our Document Library under
Policies. Or, call (902) 275-3554 and request a paper copy.
What is Council up to?
All Council and Committee meetings are open to the public. Sometimes the meetings are routine and Councillors discuss less-
than-exciting business. Other meetings are more lively and topics that impact residents or business in our Municipality are de-
liberated. If you are considering a meeting in your future, but want to pick and choose which one you attend, look at the Agenda
to find out what’s on the table for discussion. Agendas are on our website or available by calling (902) 275-3554. Or, sign up for
an Agenda Alert on our website and have it emailed directly to your inbox.
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 2 5/7/2014 11:10:57 AM
STRATEGIC PLAN
3We may not be available 24/7, but our website is. Visit us at www.chester.ca
THECAO
REPORT
Once a month, our Chief Administrative
Officer (CAO) reports our progress
on various projects to Council. Since
Council adopted a Strategic Plan, many
of our actions are now focused on
achieving those goals. Here are a few
of the highlights from Erin’s last report,
and some more of what we’re doing as
a Municipality.BOSS or BUST
Since the last newsletter, we received one compliment and three
complaints.
• A resident complimented us on the Waste Collection Calendar.
They find it useful and felt that it was tax dollars well spent.
• The first complaint was about an unsightly premises. The Bylaw
Enforcement Officer visited the property for an assessment, and
will contact the property owner.
• The second complaint was about extended parking on municipal
property. Again, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer will contact the
person responsible.
• Lastly, our Curbside Inspector investigated a reported illegal
dumping. It was cleaned up.
REGISTER A COMPLIMENT OR COMPLAINT BY:
Calling (902) 275-3554. Leaving your name is optional.
Emailing the Municipal Clerk at pmyra@chester.ca
Filling in our online form at www.chester.ca
Coming in to see us at 151 King Street in Chester.
RED is the new
Vermicomposting is composting with worms. Take worms, feed them
organic waste, and the “end” result is castings. Castings are used to en-
rich soil the same way compost is used. So why are we talking about
vermicomposting? Because the Municipality is partnering with Dalhou-
sie University to build a prototype of an industrial vermicomposting ma-
chine. We hope to test it using municipal organic material. If it works,
we will keep our own organics rather than transport them to the Valley
for processing.
To date, we received funding from the Resource Recovery Fund to de-
velop and construct the prototype. The students completed design
work (under the mentorship of Councillor Andre Veinotte), and Council-
lor Veinotte and Warden Webber met with them for their final presen-
tation.
This is an innovative solution to manage our organic waste. We’re ex-
cited to this test this technology and will continue to report on our prog-
ress!
• The Budget & Audit Committee, which consists of
all Councillors, reviewed the preliminary Operating
Budget on April 28. More discussions this month!
• The Municipality will use Nova Scotia Power dur-
ing streetlight conversion to LEDs. The cost is now
competitive and neighbouring municipalities are
also using NSP. Besides, NSP already replaced al-
most 100 lights, and we would have to pay them to
remove them only to pay someone else to reinstall.
• The wind tower at Kaizer Meadow has passed all
of its preliminary tests. Also, we started our bird
monitoring program on April 23. We will do 40
inspections over six months.
• The Municipality’s blue bags are now going to
Miller Waste in HRM. Changing contractors, saving
us $60,000.00 per year.
• The CAO met with the Clerk from the Village of
Chester Commission bout renewing the fire con-
tract for outside areas. Council and the Commis-
sion will review the options once they are finalized.
• PRO Kids received a $10,000 grant from the Lunen-
burg County United Way. Much appreciated!
• Staff is meeting with people in downtown Chester
to gauge interest in a Community Water Supply.
Council will view results this month.
Minas Energy, the company that the Munici-
pality hired as Project Manager for the construc-
tion of our wind turbine at Kaizer Meadow, ap-
proached the Municipality with a proposal.
They proposed that we assess the potential
short term and long term energy opportunities
available to the Municipality. Recognizing the
value that this offered, we agreed.
Exploring energy options will hopefully uncov-
er solutions to some of our immediate needs.
An example is our not-quite-urgent-yet-but-
soon-could-be need to process organics at the
Landfill. Finding an in-house solution is far more
desirable than paying to transport our organic
material. And, if we can find one that also pro-
duces energy at the same time is even better
(more on that in the above article titled ““).
It seems that the Province also sees the val-
ue in renewable energy. First they introduced
COMFIT, a program to permit small to large scale
renewable energy projects in Nova Scotia. Now,
because of the Electricy Reform Act, the Munici-
pality can become positioned to take advantage
of upcoming opportunities immediately instead
of much later (and possibly too late).
Maybe most importantly, we are directly sup-
porting our Strategic Plan by looking for ways to
offset our dependence on property tax revenue.
As we have already proven with the South Ca-
noe and Kaizer Meadow wind projects, there
is real potential for significant revenue sources
outside of property taxes. This means using less
of the general tax rate to cover project and main-
tenance costs, leaving it available to replenish
reserves or for elective projects and programs.
Potential Areas for Opportunity
• Bio-gas (anaerobic digestion);
• Renewable to Retail; and
• Purpose grown biomass;
Bio-gas: Converting organic material to elec-
tricity and heat through the anaerobic digestion.
Renewable to Retail: A term used in reference
with the Electricity Reform Act recently passed
by the Province. It allows independent produc-
ers of renewable energy to sell directly to cus-
tomers instead of only Nova Scotia Power.
Purpose Grown Biomass: A crop grown specifi-
cally to create energy through processing. The
Municipality could grow and sell feedstock for a
nearby biomass cogeneration as long as our land
is appropriate for cultivation.
Where Minas Energy Comes In
Minas Energy, with their experience and re-
sources, are classed as experts in the alternative
energy field. They propose assessing opportun-
ties in the above areas and providing the Mu-
nicipality with a work plan to pursue identifiable
prospects. Of course, Minas Energy is a business
so they aren’t doing all of this work gratis. The
cost is $80,000 this fiscal year. In return, they
will provide us with a comprehensive review
with recommendations, and an Energy Strategy
to align with our Strategic Plan. Also included
is a feasibility study, public consultation, and a
review of existing and upcoming governmental
energy policies and how they impact the Munici-
pality as well as permits and approvals needed.
Financial security independent of property tax-
es makes perfect sense. Especially since we are
obligated to contribute over 65% of the general
tax rate collected this year to Provincial expendi-
tures. With capped assessments and increased
obligatory expenses, our “slice” is getting thin-
ner. It’s only fair we look for ways to earn rev-
enue that don’t involve a tax hike every year.
KNOWLEDGEis POWER
BLACK
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 3 5/7/2014 11:10:58 AM
Want to grow your own fresh food this
summer, but don’t have the space? Have
mad gardening skills and want to share
your knowledge? Whatever the reason,
we would love to have you in the Food
Brood (aka Community Garden Club)!
The Municipality is offering a patch of
garden to people in the community who
are willing to pitch in. Water your way to
garden-fresh peas or carrots!
Some of the harvest goes to the Light-
house Food Bank, and the rest is for the
gardeners and their families.
Email communications@chester.ca or call
(902) 275-3555 ext. 1202 to get in on the
“ground floor”!
COMMUNITY INTEREST
4Look for “Explore Life” on our website and discover the recreation possibilities! Or, call 275-3490.
Seed Feedn
Congratulations to Linda Meister of New Ross for
receiving a Provincial Volunteer Award. Linda is
seen here with The Honourable Stephen McNeil,
Premier of Nova Scotia, and The Honourable Kelly
Regan, Minister of the Voluntary Sector.
Emergencies, like an extended power outage,
can occur at any time. When they do, it’s reas-
suring to know that some organizations exist to
make your ordeal a little more comfortable.
In fact, there are locations throughout the
Municipality specifically designated as comfort
and reception centres where you and your fam-
ily can go when disaster strikes.
Comfort centres are opened by community
groups and intended for visits during the day.
Their purpose is not to provide overnight shel-
ter, but food, water, warmth and information.
Reception centres or shelters are opened dur-
ing large scale emergencies by the Red Cross,
under the Department of Community Services.
They will accommodate evacuees and provide
CLOSECOMFORT
What’s the difference between
“comfort” and “reception
during an emergency?
special services, such as care of elderly, persons
with disability and sometimes psycho-social ser-
vices. They are usually opened by request from
municipal government or first responder.
Although opening a comfort or reception cen-
tre is not desirable, we are prepared. Comfort
stations can be set up at a moment’s notice at
these locations.
• Blandford Community Center
• Hubbards Community Hall (Fire Hall)
• Chester United Baptist Church
• Western Shore Area Improvement
Association Hall
• Western Shore Fire Hall
• Martins River Fire Hall
• New Ross Fire Hall
If a situation calls for a reception centre (shel-
ter) to open, the location will be broadcast to af-
fected residents. Typically reception centres are
large buildings equipped with kitchens, multiple
washrooms, and large sleeping areas.
If an emergency happens, and you want to
know if a shelter is in your area, listen for mes-
sages from the Municipality on CKBW, call your
Councillor (contact info on page 8), call the Mu-
nicipal Office, or check the website.
Dutch Exchange Program
During the last week of April, Forest Heights
once again played host to students from the
Netherlands in our semi-annual exchange. Our
visitors stayed with local families and experi-
enced Nova Scotia culture and hospitality up
close.
On April 24 a group of 37 senior high Dutch stu-
dents arrived at FHCS from Develstein College lo-
cated in Zwijndrecht, Netherlands. The students
were here for 12 days, and were involved in a
number of social and cultural experiences.
All of the activities were organized by students
and staff of Forest Heights. The Dutch students
visited the Town of Lunenburg, Village of Ches-
ter, Tancook Island, and New Ross. They tried
their skills at canoeing and square dancing and
enjoyed traditional foods of the region.
A good portion of the journey for these stu-
dents was to live the life of a typical Canadian
student. To make this happen, 26 families from
the local area housed the students. The Dutch
students even spent a day attending classes at
Forest Heights.
This is the second time that students from De-
velstein College have visited Forest Heights, and
we have plans to send a group to their country
for the second time in the 2014/15 school year.
Falcons win Division 3 Hockey Championship
After a lengthy absence from boys high school
hockey, Forest Heights Falcons emerged victori-
ous in the provincial tournament in Port Hawkes-
bury on March 24. The team had an outstand-
ing season posting only one regular season loss
and was undefeated in the playoffs. Home games
were well attended all year and the Falcons are
looking forward to defending their title next year!
School Trip to Spain
During March Break, 22 members of Forest
Heights travelled to Spain and Portugal. While
there, they visited historic sites such as the Royal
Palace, the Castello de San Jorge, the Plaza del
Toro, and the Jeronimous Monastary.
Perhaps the best part of the trip was the change
in weather from -20 to a sunny 18 when they first
stepped off the plane. It was a successful trip and
all students and staff had a fantastic experience.
Royal Nova Scotia
International Tattoo
Bus Trip
Saturday, July 5
(register by June 2)
$70
(includes tickets and transportation)
Car pool pick-up schedule:
pick-up drop-off
Credit Union 12:00 7:15
Exit 9 12:25 6:50
Exit 8 12:30 6:45
Exit 7 12:35 6:40
Exit 6 12:45 6:30
Call Recreation & Parks at (902) 275-3490
to register or visit www.chester.ca and click
on the registration button on the right.
FHCS NEWS
PARKING
in the Village of Chester is limited to
4 HOURS
unless otherwise signed.
Longer term parking is available in the
Tancook & Visitors Parking Lot at the
corner of Valley Road and Main Street.
Violations may result in
tickets or other penalties.
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 4 5/7/2014 11:10:59 AM
Jumpstart Day 2014
Saturday, May 31
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Canadian Tire Bridgewater
HUNTING FOR SIGNS THIS SPRING...Bluenose Coast partnered with the Municipality, the Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce, Chester
Merchants, Aspotogan Heritage Trust and Hubbards and Area Business Association to successfully attain a First Impressions Grant from the
Nova Scotia Tourism Agency. The intention of the project is to provide clear, consistent wayfinding for travelers; directing them to attractions
such as shops, restaurants, the waterfront, museums, yacht clubs, beaches, the golf course, and other activities and services like public boat
ramps and washrooms.
In addition, and as part of the overall municipal beautification plan, there is a plan to improve Freda’s Beach and other public spaces (parks,
Skate Park, etc.) by adding additional picnic tables, benches, bike racks, bike “fixit” stations, and greenery throughout the area. Supplies will
be installed by Municipal staff as they arrive and the weather improves. We hope you will see the new wayfinding project and fixtures as a
welcome sign of spring. - contributed by Marianne Gates, Senior Economic Development Officer
5Contact us about this newsletter: communications@chester.ca or call (902) 275-3555 ext. 1202 or mail 151 King Street, P O Box 369, Chester NS B0J 1J0
COMMUNITY INTEREST
Friday, May 9
DEADLINE Register for the Chester Cut n Run by
today to get a t-shirt. 275-3490.
Annual Guest Night
Hosted by Chester Area Christian
Women’s Club at Chester Basin Le-
gion, 7pm. 275-5887.
Saturday, May 10
Breakfast Chester Legion, 7:30-10:30am
Hubbards Farmers’
Market
Every Saturday, 8am to noon at Hub-
bards Barn. www.hubbardsbarn.org
Roast Beef Dinner &
Auction with Music &
Comedy
Western Shore Fire Hall, hosted by
St. Marks’ Church. Dinner is at 6pm.
627-2748.
Saturday, May 10 &
Sunday, May 11
Arts & Crafts Exhibi-
tion and Sale
District #1 Community Centre, Bland-
ford, 10am-5pm. Children’s work-
shops. 228-2059 or www.aaanda.org
Sunday, May 11
Mother’s Day Supper Forties Community Centre, 4:30-
6:30pm. 689-2000 or 689-2612.
Mother’s Day Tea Chester Baptist Church, 12-2pm. Pro-
ceeds for Royal Canadian Sea Cadets.
Sunday, May 11 Mother’s Day Cham-
pagne Brunch
Chester Basin Legion, 12:30-2:30pm.
275-4767 or 275-2577.
Friday, May 16 “Cover Up”Playing at Chester Legion, 9pm-1am.
Members/guests over 19 years.
Saturday, May 17
Basin Gardeners As-
sociation Garden Fair
Aenon United Baptist Church, Chester
Basin, 9am-12 noon. 273-2000.
“Mayfly” Dance New Ross Legion, 9pm-1am.
Sunday, May 18 Crib Tournament Chester Legion, 1pm.
Afternoon of Music Hubbards Area Lions Club, 1:30pm.
Saturday, May 24 Newfie Breakfast Chester Basin Legion, 7:30-10:30am.
Saturday, May 31
Breakfast District #1 Community Centre, Bland-
ford, 9-11am.
Jump Start Day
Canadian Tire, Bridgewater, 10am-
2pm. Family fun day! Partial proceeds
for PRO Kids groups, including ours.
Sunday, June 1 4th Annual Chester
Cut ‘n’ Run
5k walk, 5/10k run, Chester Area
Middle School, 9a.m. (902) 275-3490.
Saturday, June 28 Supper
Forties Community Centre, 4:30-
6:00pm. Proceeds for St. Augustine
Anglican and Forties Baptist Churches.
Smooth Sailing...
Boaters are always invited to use municipal wharves,
boat launches and floats throughout the season. But,
let’s face it, the boat-to-wharf ratio is a little lopsided.
Just remember that berthing at municipal wharves is for
24 hours ONLY; it helps even out the odds.
Overstaying and obstructing wharves is a big no-no too
as is storing items and parking on the wharf. You could
risk a fine or invoice if we have to remove it.
Municipal Wharf locations are: Western Shore, Chester
Basin, Chester (Back Harbour), and Aspotogan.
Municipal launch locations: Deep Cove, Blandford,
Chester (Front Harbour), Borgel’s Point Road in Chester
Basin, and Western Shore.
Municipal float locations: Borgel’s Point Road, Chester
Basin Wharf, Chester (Front and Back Harbours).
The Berthage Policy is at www.chester.ca under Policies
in the Document Lirary or call (902) 275-2599.
PRO Kids
Your support means support
for the Municipality’s
PRO Kids program.
Face painting Demos
Car wash BBQ
Belly dancing Prizes
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 5 5/7/2014 11:11:02 AM
CIVIC ADDRESSING
for Cottage
Owners and in
Public Places
Businesses and service providers, such as
hotels, restaurants and churches have a re-
sponsibility to the public to post civic numbers.
When a 911 call is made, emergency respond-
ers most often rely on a map to find their way.
These maps only show points (dots) for civic
numbers and lines for roads and community
boundaries. There are no names of identifica-
tion of buildings on these maps.
The local community may know where a
business is and its name, but others may not.
Sometimes, even employees do not know
the civic number of the business where they
work. Employers need to make sure everyone
is aware of the civic address.
Please make sure that everyone who comes
through your door is as safe as possible. Call
the Community Development Office at (902)
275-2599 if you have any questions!
We also have some advice for cottage own-
ers. If you have a gated road, please make that
a key to the gate is given to your local fire de-
partment in the case of an emergency. This
goes for home owners who have gated drive-
ways. Please contact your local fire depart-
ment and arrange to meet and give them a
copy of the gate key.
Gated roads cannot be accessed by the Civic
Addressing Coordinator to verify a civic num-
ber or to confirm that a building exists for the
Emergency 911 System. If you have any con-
cerns please call our office to make sure your
cottage is in the Emergency 911 System.
Someone renting a cottage by the ocean or
lake, and not from the area, may not know
how to describe the way to the cottage. A
civic number must be posted at the end of
the driveway as well as in a very visible place
near a telephone. Private home owners who
rent or lease their homes must let their ten-
ants know the correct civic address to use in
an emergency.
6Want to check out one of our by-laws? They are all listed on www.chester.ca or drop in to the Municipal Office.
BY-LAWS
WANTED
CASUAL BUILDING OFFICIAL
REward$25 - $36/PER HOUR
apply by may 16, 2014 to:
pamela myra, municipal clerk
municipality of the district of chester151 king street,
p o box 369 chester ns b0j 1j0
pmyra@chester.ca (902)275-4771 fax
WWW.CHESTER.CA
1. The Municipality owns six central
sewer systems: Mill Cove, Otter
Point, Chester, Chester Basin, New
Ross and Western Shore.
2. The systems range between 18
and over 50 years old.
3. Each has it’s own rate structure
for applying sewer tax (what users
pay to cover operations costs).
4. Most systems are not sustain-
able on their own and run a defi-
cit each fiscal year. Largely due to
not enough capacity to add more
dwellings, which would help cover
the costs.
5. Council wants a uniform rate
structure among all the systems
whether it is based on assessment
(the norm) or usage.
6. After input from the public, in-
cluding affected residents and
businesses, Council has asked
staff for a couple of options based
The photo above is a little over the top, but
sometimes it’s easy for odds and ends to accu-
mulate over time in your yard. The next thing
you know, you have bits of wood, patio stones
and “fixer-uppers” all over the place and the By-
Law Enforcement Officer is paying you a visit.
Everyone has an obligation under Provincial
law to keep their property tidy. That doesn’t
mean the grass has to be a uniform length of
3.25cm and the fence painted every year, but it
does mean that piles of material can not over-
take the front yard and spill into the driveway.
We have a complaint-driven process so keep-
ing an excessive amount of items out of sight
of the road or surrounding properties is a good
idea. If that’s impossible, pile them neatly.
If one day you realize that you don’t want your
stuff anymore, you can always take it to Kaizer
Meadow Landfill for free (up to 680 kg each
trip). If you need help, call By-Law Enforcement
at (902) 275-2599.
Also, there are a few people in the area who
will remove derelict vehicles for free. Call By-
Law Enforcement at (902) 275-2599 or Kaizer
Meadow at (902) 275-2330 for their names.
Mill Lake Waste Compound:
And then we have the waste compound in Mill
Lake that is available to all authorized key hold-
ers. Rules to use the the compound are posted
on site, and below. Anyone not authorized to use
this site, but uses it anyway is illegally dumping.
Anyone authorized, but not following the rules
is also illegally dumping.
• Buildings are labelled. Place your waste in
the appropriate building;
• Only put special collection items in the
compound DURING THAT WEEK - not be-
fore or after! Items include construction
and demolition waste, appliances, furni-
ture, etc. Bundle them no larger than 4’
x 2’ and they should not be too heavy for
the waste collector to lift;
• Don’t block the entrance;
• Used electronics like TVs and computers
belong at the ACES Drop-off in Ingramport
(open Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm).
Call 857-9398;
• Hazardous materials, car parts, and tires
belong at Kaizer Meadow, not the waste
compound. Residents can take up to 680
kgs for free each trip. Kaizer Meadow can
also take electronics. They are open Mon-
day to Friday, 8am to 4pm, and Saturdays,
8am to 12pm. Call (902) 275-2330.
Visit our website at www.chester.ca for infor-
mation about waste disposal. Please note that
the Municipality of Chester has waste collection
regulations that differ significantly from HRM.
When Good Junk
Goes Bad...
You will be fined if caught,
• Throwing garbage over the fence
• Leaving waste outside the pound
• Leaving waste at the entrance
• Not placing regular garbage in the
proper store room
• Leaving special collection items be-
fore the scheduled week
• Disposing of inappropriate or dan-
gerous items
• Using an unauthorized key
Universal Sewer Rates:
Just the facts
on an EDU rated system.
7. EDU stands for “Equivalent Dwell-
ing Unit”. An EDU rated system is
based on a flat rate given to each
type of Unit (small business, resi-
dential, industrial, etc.) and then
any additional charges are deter-
mined by amenities (number of
washrooms, etc.)
8. The next public meeting is on May
15, 2014 at 8:45 a.m. Another will
follow in the evening or a Satur-
day.
9. If you are affected by this pro-
posed change in rate structure,
please attend one of the meetings
or consider submitting your opin-
ion to the Municipal Clerk right
away so it can be heard.
10. Contact Pamela Myra, Municipal
Clerk by calling (902) 275-3554,
faxing (902) 275-4771, or emailing
emailing pmyra@chester.ca
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 6 5/7/2014 11:11:02 AM
WASTE NOTs
Spring Renovation or New Construction
Apply for Development
Permit (only in zoned areas
- call 275-2599 to inquire)
Apply for Sewer Permit (if
connecting to central sewer
Call 275-1312 or go online
for applications)
Apply for Building Permit
(call 275-3080 to see if
required)
If all paperwork is in order,
it usually takes up to two
days for approval (fee paid
with application).
STEP ONE
Applications are available at the
Municipal Offices in Chester.
STEP TWO
Applications are reviewed for
approval by Municipality.
If all information is
complete, it’s usually up to
two days for approval (fee
paid with application).
If application is in order, it takes up to seven days for approval,
which includes site inspection and assessment of system capac-
ity and by-laws (a deposit for estimated cost of labour and
materials is paid after the site inspection and before approval)
Depending on location and
type of project, Sewer and
Development Permits must
be included.
In some cases, a Breaking
Soils Application is required
from the Department of
Transportation as well.
STEP THREE
Work and inspections begin.
The Chief Building Inspector
will make a series of regular
inspections before, during
and after construction.
The Maintenance Supervisor schedules a sub-contractor and
flaggers to connect to the central system. Then, an inspection is
conducted to make sure the installation meets Municipal Specifi-
cations. If the private portion cannot be conveniently scheduled
at the same time, the public portion is capped.
STEP FOUR
Completion
If constructed according to
the Building Code, the Chief
Building Inspector issues an
Occupancy Permit
Actual costs will be calculated against the deposit and either
a refund or an additional invoice will be issued. After payment
(yours or ours) is made, final approval is sent to the Community
Development and Finance Departments.
If demolishing a structure,
apply for a Demolition Permit
(275-3080) and inform us if the
structure is connected to the
central sewer so we can cap it
(275-1312).
PROPERTY SERVICES
7The 2014 Waste Collection Calendar is available at www.chester.ca or drop in to the Municipal Office to pick one up
Welcome to the Building and Development Snapshot Report! It is an overview of development
and building permits issued in the Municipality.
The long winter has impacted the number of permit applications received. When we compare
2014 data to the same period in 2013 (Jan. 1 to Mar. 31), there is a marked drop in the total
number of permits issued. Aside from weather, other factors such as economic climate, as-
sessment values and market demand may influence the number of permit requests received.
One trend that remains constant is that the majority of building and development permits
issued are for the construction, addition or renovation of single family detached dwellings.
The average value per building permit for the first quarter of 2013 was just under $76,000
while the average for the first quarter of 2014 sits at slightly over $29,000. This can be at-
tributed to many of the factors listed above, but also relates to the percentage of new
construction done in 2013 versus 2014. To date, 2014 has seen only one permit for a new
single family dwelling, compared to seven during the same period in 2013.
Despite a slow start, there is still positive growth in terms of new construction, renovations
and additions. As the weather warms and the construction season gets underway, the
Community Development Department expects to see a dramatic increase in the number
of permits requested. For information, contact us at (902) 275-2599.
- contributed by Garth Sturtevant, Community Development
IT’S IN THE MAIL
Interim tax bills were mailed last month and as
always, you can call the Tax Department at (902)
275-3554 if you have any questions or comments.
Some things you should know about your bill...
• The due date is June 13, 2014.
• Check your bill closely. If your mailing or civic
address is incorrect, notify us immediately by
calling (902) 275-3554, faxing (902) 275-4771
or emailing propertytax@chester.ca.
• Please bring your municipal account numbers
with you when paying in person at the tax of-
fice. It speeds up the process. These numbers
are clearly indicated on the remittance portion
of your tax bill.
• Please ensure that you use all eight digits of
your municipal account number (including any
zeroes at the front) when paying your account
online with your financial institution.
• Please note that if you have appealed your
assessment, but the decision for any changes
are not received until after the interim tax bill
has been processed, the interim bill will re-
main as is and all adjustments will be made
on the final tax bill.
• Direct questions about property tax assess-
ment to Property Valuation Services Corpora-
tion (PVSC) at 1-800-380-7775.
• Questions regarding deeds should be directed
to the Registry of Deeds at (902)527-5379.
IF YOU OWN PROPERTY IN THE MUNICIPALITY
AND HAVE NOT RECEIVED AN INTERIM TAX BILL
BY NOW, PLEASE CONTACT THE TAX DEPART-
MENT IMMEDIATELY AT (902) 275-3554.
Avoid rejected waste by,
• Putting paper and recyclables in sepa-
rate bags
• Cleaning recyclables
• Sorting waste
• Staying within the limit of one black
bag per collection
• Using clear bags for both regular and
special collection
• Using clear bags when delivering waste
to the Landfill
RECYCLING RULES!
Walking on a bed of hot coals isn’t easy,
but recycling is! If you haven’t started, you
should consider it because our Curbside
Inspector does her job.
Also, a big “Welcome back!” to cottagers.
Remember...the same recycling rules that
apply to residents also apply to you.
If you have questions about recycling or
how to sort your waste to avoid rejection,
please call Tammy at (902) 275-2330.
ROADS NOT TAKEN
Spring weight restrictions are still in effect
and will be until May 19. The waste col-
lector is using a smaller truck for affected
roads, but it isn’t equipped to empty green
carts. You can put your organic waste in a
certified compostable bag during this time
if you need organic collection.
For more info, visit the NS Department of
Transportation & Infrastructure Renewal’s
website at www.novascotia.ca/tran/
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 7 5/7/2014 11:11:02 AM
QR Code: Download a QR Reader app on your mobile device (eg.
iPhone). Hold it over the code while your device scans it, and it will
open our website directly.
Twitter: Search for @chestermun or @ChesterRecParks in your Twit-
ter account. Follow us and get regular updates and notifications about
municipal issues.
Facebook: Visit www.facebook.com/ChesterMunicipality and learn
about events and stories happening in the Municipality. If you have
something to share, message us!
If you have questions about…call this Department...at this number
Animal Control (Dogs)Animal Control Officer 277-0017
Bandstand/Gazebo rental (Wedding)Recreation & Parks Department 275-3490
Boat Launches Recreation & Parks Department 275-3490
Building Permits/Inspections Building/Fire Inspection 275-3080
By-Laws Community Development Dept 275-2599
Composting Public Works/Solid Waste Dept 275-1312/275-2330
Council Meetings Administration/Tax Department 275-3554
Fire Inspections Building/Fire Inspection 275-3080
Islands (use of)Recreation & Parks Department 275-3490
Kaizer Meadow Solid Waste Department 275-2330
Municipal Sewer Public Works Department 275-1312
After Hours Emergencies 1-888-664-6998
Parks/Trails Recreation & Parks Department 275-3490
Planning Areas Community Development Dept 275-2599
Public Works (Municipal)Public Works Department 275-1312
Recycling Public Works/Solid Waste Dept 275-2330/275-1312
Taxes Administration/Tax Dept 275-3554
Waste Collection Public Works/Solid Waste Dept 275-2330/275-1312
Wharves Public Works Department 275-1312
Zoning Community Development Dept 275-2599
fax mail email
902-275-4771 151 King Street administration@chester.ca publicworks@chester.ca
P O Box 369 building@chester.ca recreation@chester.ca
Chester NS B0J 1J0 planning@chester.ca info@KaizerMeadow.ca
Municipal Districts and Councillors
#1 East Chester, East River to Northwest Cove
Andre Veinotte 277-1409
#2 Simms Settlement, Hubbards to The Lodge
Floyd Shatford 857-9817
#3 Chester and part of East Chester
Brad Armstrong 275-3121
#4 Chester Basin and Chester Grant
Allen Webber 275-2536
#5 Gold River to Martins River
Robert Myra 627-2470
#6 New Ross and area
Tina Connors 679-4461
#7 Marriotts Cove, Windsor Road to Sherwood
Sharon Church-Cornelius 275-2281
For exact district boundaries, call the Municipal Office at (902) 275-3554
or click on the “Municipality” menu option on our website.
Provincial Contacts
Department of
Environment .........................................................543-4685
Labour ..................................................................543-0665
Natural Resources ................................................634-7555
Public Health ........................................................543-0850
Transportation (Bridgewater) ...............................543-8169
Transportation (Marriott’s Cove)..........................275-3221
Property Valuation Services (Assessments) ...........1-800-380-7775
MP Gerald Keddy ...................................................1-888-816-4446
...............................................................................527-5655
PART FIVE: We’ve finally arrived at Council
Appointments. This is when Council selects
a specific person to carry out specific duties,
duties that the Municipality is required to do
according to the Municipal Government Act.
The Municipal Government Act is a
set of Provincial regulations that govern
municipalities...kind of like a job description.
Appointees (the people Council select) are
largely made up of staff, and in some cases, hired
especially to carry out the appointment. Other
appointees are public members and employees
of companies.
Listed below are appointees and a description
of their primary duties with the Municipality.
Auditor - The Auditor for the Municipality is
Grant Thornton, an independent accounting
firm in Bridgewater. Every year, the Municipality
is required to have their books audited. The
reports are posted on our website under
Financial Publications in the Document Library.
Chief Building Inspector and Building
Inspectors - Our Chief Building Inspector and
our Buiding Inspector is the same person:
Earl Woodworth. Rick Casavant, who was an
alternate, retired this year. Earl inspects new
construction, renovations and demolitions to
make sure they comply with the Nova Scotia
and National Building Codes.
Civic Address Coordinator - Jami Fay, our
Planning Technician, also holds this position.
She maintains the civic addressing system along
with everything that goes with it!
Development Officer and Acting Develop-
ment Officer - Heather Archibald is our new
Development Officer. She issues permits for
new developments and subdivisions. In case she
isn’t available, the Acting Development Officers
are Tara Maguire (Director of the Community
Development Department) and Bill DeGrace
(Senior Planner).
Emergency Measures Coordinator - Arden
Weagle takes care of emergency measures
for the Municipality. We belong to a larger
organization called REMO (Regional Emergency
Measures Organization) where we partner with
couple of other municipalities. If we were to
have an emergency, Arden would coordinate for
our area.
Fences Arbitration Committee - This
committee of one consists of Lyle Russell, the
Municipality’s Assistant Engineer. His duties
under this position include making sure that if
someone’s fence breaks and livestock wander
onto someone else’s property, he assesses the
damage and arbitrates the situation.
Fire Inspector - Arden Weagle is the Fire
Inspector as well as our REMO person. He was
hired specifically to do this job, which is visit
businesses and community facilities to make
sure they are complying with the Fire Safety Act.
Freedom of Information & Protection of
Privacy (FOIPOP) Administrator - Our CAO, Erin
Beaudin, administers this policy. If you want to
request information from us that isn’t already
available, please contact her at (902) 275-3554
or ebeaudin@chester.ca
Returning Officer - Our Returning Officer for
Municipal Elections is also our Solicitor, Sam
Lamey. He is a lawyer with an office in the Village
of Chester. As Returning Officer, he makes sure
everything is legal during the Election.
Sexual Harassment Policy Administrator -
Erin, our CAO, also carries this title. It’s deals
with internal incidents of sexual harassment.
Sexual Harassment Policy Advisor - The
Municipal Clerk, Pam Myra, advises staff and
Council on our Sexual Harassment Policy.
Sheep Valuer - This is a position held by a
member of the public: Stacey Keddy of New
Ross. Stacey puts a value on sheep in case they
are killed or injured by a dog for the means of
recouping the costs.
Solicitor - As mentioned before, Sam Lamey is
the Municipality’s Solicitor and has been since
(when??). He represents us in court and at
public hearings if needed. He also provides us
with legal advice.
Town Crier - If you ever hear the word “Oyez!”
uttered in the Municipality, it’s likely out of
Garry Zwicker’s mouth. He is our Town Crier
and attends many events on our behalf to make
congratulatory announcements.
FEATURE: Standing and Special
Committees of Council
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WASTE COLLECTION NOTICE
1. Kaizer Meadow is closed on Tuesday, July 1. Waste col-
lection is rescheduled for Saturday, July 5. This effects
Tuesday Week B residents. Check your calendar for ex-
act locations or call (902) 275-2330.
2. Special collection is from July 21 to August 1 on your
regular collection day.
3. Keep any unwanted items away from your collection
point during collection. They may be mistakenly col-
lected and we are not responsible for lost items.
2014-05_MunicipalInsight_indd.indd 8 5/7/2014 11:11:03 AM