HomeMy Public PortalAbout2015-11_MunicipalInsight_pdf-compressedmunicipal insight
“Keeping informed about November/December 2015
your municipal government”
In the Municipality of the District of Chester this fall...
You are MOST welcome! Christmas is in the Air There is NO ESCAPE
A special note from Give shopping local a Oh, make no mistake.
the South Shore chance! You'll never know Winter IS coming. And,
Wrestling Club (Page 4). what you'll find (Page 5). when it does... (Page 7)
In the early 1990s, the Municipality of the District of
Chester entered into a very unique partnership with
the South Shore Regional School Board. We became
stakeholders in a relatively new concept: community
schools.
Forest Heights Community School (FHCS) replaced
Chester Municipal High School as the new high school
for Municipality of Chester students during the day, but
after school, it became a centerpiece for community
use.
Over the years, programming has increased and "af-
ter hours" use of the school continued to grow. In fact,
FHCS became such a model for success, the Municipal-
ity entered into a second agreement with the School
Board as well as the Ashford Consortium in 2000. From
that partnership, Aspotogan Consolidated Elementary
School (ACES) emerged.
Many are surprised at the extent to which the two
schools are used. In 2014, FHCS saw over 7,000 users
come through the doors. In the same year, more than
1,000 users visited ACES. What are they coming for?
A Tale of Two Schools
The only junior roller derby east of Montreal hap-
pens at Forest Heights Community School.
Photo credit: Jody Conrad
Recreation & Parks Depart-
ment - During the spring, fall
and winter, recreational pro-
gramming is offered through
the Municipality. In the summer,
FHCS becomes headquarters
for our Summer Staff and youth
programs. Our Explore Life Rec-
reation Guide comes in your
mailbox quarterly with an as-
sortment of courses, workshops
and activities for you to try, such
as hall walking, moccasin mak-
ing, and first aid.
Rentals - Both schools are avail-
able to rent for reasonable
rates. Depending on the loca-
tion, size and use, rates for a
classroom range from $6 to $18
per hour; gym rental is between
$15 and $30 per hour; and the cafeteria rents for $10
to $24 per hour. Rentals include,
• Non-profit sport groups like men's and youth bas-
ketball, soccer, floor hockey, and football;
• Community group users include cadets, the Lions
Club, scouts, garden clubs, church groups, and St.
John Ambulance;
• Birthday parties; and
• Businesses like En Pointe, Croziers Driver Training,
and Oceanmark Kennels.
After School Programs - These programs are fund-
ed through the Nova Scotia Department of Education
Community Use of Schools and Thrive! After the Bell,
which is through the Department of Health & Wellness.
• The Open Air Society's goal is to connect young
people with the natural world. They host two
groups per week;
• The Learning Centre After School Program is
for students accessing services from the FHCS
Learning Centre. This program develops leisure
and social skills as well as new recreation and
physical activity interests; and
• Roller Derby (as seen in the photo on the left) is
a popular "girls only" program where all of the
equipment is provided.
Memberships - Anyone can join the fitness centre at
FHCS. Cost is $5 drop-in, $40 for ten sessions, or $75
for three months. Equipment, not training, is available
after extracurricular activities are through for the day.
So how does all of this happen? Jody Conrad, Com-
munity School Coordinator for the Municipality of
Chester. He, along with two previous Coordinators
deserve plenty of credit for developing the two com-
munity schools into what they are today. In fact, FHCS
and ACES have worked so well in our area that Jody has
presented to other areas in the Province to encourage
more of them!
For information, visit www.chester.ca and look under
the "Explore" tab in the main menu. Or, contact Jody by
calling his office at 902-275-2712 or sending him an
email at jconrad@chester.ca
Community Meetings
All Locations
More Information
902-275-2599
www.chester.ca/revision
Open House/Drop-In
10am-12pm and 2-4pm
Public Meeting/
Workshop
7pm - 9pm
Drop in to meet your
neighbours and discuss
your community.
Blandford Community Centre
Wednesday, November 4th
Hubbards Fire Hall
Wednesday, September 30th
Rescheduled: November 10th
Make that Three SchoolsCouncil changes direction with Gold River Offices
At their meeting on Thursday, October 29,
Council discussed the latest financial estimate
to renovate the former school in Gold River into a
satellite municipal office, housing the Community
Development and Recreation Departments.
Once again, the fourth time since the project was
considered, a rise in costs was presented. Fire sup-
pression was found to be inadequate, and upgrades
to the system are mandatory before the renovation
can continue. The Office of the Fire Marshal also
found that even with an upgraded system, the gym-
nasium will have to be almost halved in size to fall
within standards.
Faced with a difficult decision, Council discussed
the justification of adding another near $500,000 to
the budget while diminishing the value of gymna-
sium. After careful consideration and a great deal of
thought, Council decided to pull the plug.
They said that the increase in costs just isn’t de-
fendable. Council still believes that the project was
a good one in its intent. However, the extent of the
renovations and the uncertainty of even these latest
numbers was the determining factor in terminating
the project.
The decision to not move forward with the Gold
River municipal office project was disappointing
to many, including some residents in the area who
were looking forward to having services a little bit
closer. Council and staff were also anticipating the
move and the opportunities it presented.
It is too soon to say what will happen with the
Annex Building, Food Bank, and Gold River school
itself. The pre-existing space issues that originally
compelled Council to explore the Gold River project
in the first place are still a priority. Councillors and
staff will be working on solutions in the near future
concerning office space. Until then, status quo will
be maintained, and services will be uninterrupted.
To date, $110,000 was spent in current renova-
tions that include asbestos removal and drainage.
Engineering and consulting costs from 2013 to pres-
ent, including inspections, estimates and recom-
mendations, are $153,000. Neither of these costs
are seen as a loss by the Municipality. Construction
to date is required anyway if the building is not de-
molished, and engineering costs allowed the Mu-
nicipality to ascertain that the project was not finan-
cially prudent and the current inadequacies would
still be unknown.
This is an example of the challenges municipali-
ties face when they are handed abandoned schools
and trying to find a way to reuse them. The finan-
cial challenges are too great for municipalities, and a
resolution to that effect will be made at the upcom-
ing Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities Conference.
The resolution will be presented to the Province in
hopes to come to a mutual solution for the aban-
doned and often derelict buildings.
Council’s intention is to keep the school’s play-
ground equipment that was purchased through
community fundraisers; although, it is not known to
where it will be moved yet.
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Message from
the Warden
Well, it's been an interesting last couple
of months. The Toronto Blue Jays made it to
the post season for the first time in twen-
ty years. I guess I'll just leave it at that and
hope for the best next year.
We just concluded a very long and chal-
lenging Federal Election campaign resulting
in a new government with a mandate for
change. The Municipality, although non-par-
tisan, has a keen interest in what the Parties
have to say as it often has significan impact
on our own path forward.
One of the most obvious policy positions
of the new government with the greatest
potential to influence our spending priori-
ties is the focus on infrastructure. The need
to renew ageing infrastructure and build for
the future is a constant challenge with sig-
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
nificant cost that is often tied to Federal and
Provincial funding programs. We look for-
ward to the opportunity to work with other
levels of government on this issue.
Forest Heights Community School has
been prominent in engaging the community
over the last month. They hosted a Candi-
dates Debate in early October that was well
managed by students and staff and open to
the public at large.
They also had a prominent role in the dedi-
cation of a plaque and Act of Remembrance
for one of their own, Private Richard Green.
This was very well attended by the pub-
lic and the absolute silence by the student
body during the ceremony was a clear dem-
onstration that they understood the gravity
of the event.
2
We are continuing to engage communities
all across the Municipality in our Planning
Review process and will soon be in a posi-
tion to put forward some key themes and
policy position for your consideration. Get-
ting consensus on a path forward is always a
challenge, but we must plan our future if we
have any hope of achieving our goals. Your
input, as always, is critical to this process.
This month marks the last year of Council's
four-year term. I will, over the next several
editions, highlight some of our accomplish-
ments as a community, the challenges, and
opportunities moving forward.
I would like to thank the community on be-
half of Council for your support and partici-
pation over the last three years.
Common Comments Answers for some regularly asked questions
Out of all the inquiries, comments and
feedback that Councillors and Municipal Staff
receive in the run of a year, a few recurring
ones rise to the top.
Below are a few of them that we would like
to concentrate on. Some answers redirect to a
different organization or level of government,
and some are answers to a couple of the
more unfavourable comments our staff and
Councillors get either first- or second-hand.
"The only thing I get out of my property
taxes is waste collection," is not uncommon
to hear, usually second-hand. Municipal
government is responsible for all waste
collection, true, but there are also a host of
services that are available. Residents have
access to recreation (including maintained
public green spaces and trails, low-cost
programming and subsidies); property
services (like waste collection and disposal,
public sewer in some areas and planning);
protection through construction standards,
development controls, animal control, by-
laws, and the RCMP; and environmental
supports (like alternative energy and climate
change strategies).
This isn't even a complete list of services
available. Even though a service isn't used or
needed every day, it's good to know that it's
there when the time comes.
"The Municipality has too many staff. None
of them do anything as it is." The notion
that municipal government workers spend
their days doing nothing is so far from the
truth, it's not funny. In fact, job descriptions
are available online as is the CAO Report
(in Agenda packages), which outlines staff
activity. We definitely fill our days and even
some of our nights too.
"Snow on my road hasn't been cleared
yet" is the most regular comment, but it is
closely followed by complaints of plowed
under mailboxes and blocked in driveways/
entrances. The Department of Transportation
& Infrastructure Renewal (NSTIR) plows all
of the public roads in the Province. The only
roads that the Municipality plows are their
own (Parkwood, Osprey, Foxwood, Venture,
Lake and Logans in Mill Cove). If you have a
comment or question about plowing, call
NSTIR at 1-888-432-3233.
We also field questions for various
recreational facilities in the Municipality. The
Recreation & Parks Department works with
many organizations in the area and may even
have a representative on their "board" or head
committee. We are there as a resource, not
because we can make decisions or influence
the group in any way. We can't take bookings
or change any program that isn't listed in our
own Recreation Guide, Explore Life.
We get mistakenly credited for great
programs and facilities run by volunteers at,
• Chester Rink 902-275-4628
• Lido Pool 902-275-4482
(Village of Chester Commission)
• Community Wheels 902-275-5585
Councillors and Municipal Staff are a great
resource and usually know the answer to a
question. If you're unsure about whether an
issue is municipal or not, call and we can tell
you where to start looking.
Do you know who your Councillor is? Visit www.chester.ca for bio and contact information.
Update on Communications Tower
located in Chester
Some time ago, a telecommunications
tower was erected at 149 Central Street on
Village of Chester Commission property by
the Fire Hall.
At the time, the Municipality reached out
to surrounding property owners, as is our
policy, with minimal response. We also
held a Public Meeting and a Public Hear-
ing to give opportunity for land owners to
provide their input as to whether or not
the Municipality should grant a Letter of
Concurrence to Eastlink to install the tow-
er. Twelve people attended, not including
Councillors or municipal staff.
There was little opposition, we forwarded
our letter to Industry Canada, and they
continued with their process. In the end,
Eastlink was granted authorization.
Since the tower was installed, a number of
residents have concerns. In two presenta-
tions to Council, several options were sug-
gested, with the main focus being on relo-
cating the tower. Council also met with the
Village of Chester Commission since they
are leasing property to Eastlink as well as
Eastlink themselves to discuss possiblities.
As an additional source of information,
Council joined a group called Canadian Ra-
diocommunications Information and No-
tification Service (CRINS). CRINS is a non-
government organization that specifically
deals with the construction of radiocom-
munications towers in Canada. They will
conduct an audit on the process taken in
this instance and provide us with some rec-
ommendations.
Once the Municipality receives the recom-
mendations, we will take a position and
determine which next steps, if any, are re-
quired.
Coming soon to a mailbox near you...
(www.chester.ca)
STRATEGIC PLAN
3We may not be available 24/7, but our website is. Visit us at www.chester.ca
BOSS or BUST
Since the last report, we received three complaints and one compliment.
• A suggestion to ban the operation of leaf blowers within earshot of
residents was made. This suggestion is still under review.
• A resident told us that we weren't clear when wording our criteria for our
property tax exemption policy. As the criteria could be interpreted more
than one way, we concluded that the resident was right. We reworded
it on our website and drafted an amendment to the Policy. It will be
presented to Council for approval soon!
• Lastly, a complaint was received about an overflowing dumpster. The Solid
Waste Inspector is working with the owner and manager of the building
to come up with some strategies for the future.
• Municipal Staff were complimented on their overall customer relations,
with special mention of Angela Schnare, our Revenue Administrator. She
did an exceptional job with helping a resident resolve an issue. Nice work
Angela, and thanks to the resident for taking the time to write us.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 under "I Want To..."
Coming in to see us at 151 King Street in Chester.
South Shore Represented at Nationals - Council approved sponsorship
of $450 each to Colby Kaizer and Joshua Mills to attend the U14 Soccer
Nationals in St. John's, NL from October 7 to 12. They placed 7th overall
and had a great time!
Western Shore Wharf - The company that is leasing the Western Shore
Wharf has opted to purchase it, which was a provision in the lease
agreement. Public use of the wharf will continue unless it becomes un-
safe. At that time, the Municipality has the option to pay for repairs to
keep it accessible to the public.
Remembrance Day - Municipal Offices are closed on Wednesday, No-
vember 11. The Landfill is also closed and waste collection is resched-
uled for Saturday, November 14. This affects residents on the Wednes-
day Week A route.
Workplace Safety - Council recognized health and safety as a priority
to be addressed in the next few months. Staff is updating our current
Safety Program for all sites, and staff resources are being allocated to
this as needed.
Our Health Centre Permits - Our health Centre has received their site
plan approval, development permit and footing permit for the new
building.
IN BRIEF...
Description Successful Bidder Price(net)Over/Under Budget Type Date
Age Friendly
Communities Plan
David W. Harrison & Teal
Architects $19,825.50 budget 20K RFP 07/2015
Supply & Delivery of
Four Wheel Drive Truck Carroll South Shore $34,016.07 UNDER $983.93 RSO 08/2015
Phase 3A - Duke Street
Sidewalk Tracey's Landscaping Ltd.$57,845.47 UNDER $102,154.53 Tender 08/2015
Wind Energy Project Minas Energy pending project
type
Agreement on Internal Trade
(NS Procurement website)EOI 07/2015
* Prices listed include the portion of HST that the Municipality pays
** For information on the tender process, please contact administration@chester.ca
RSO
Request for Standing Offer
RFP
Request for Proposals
EOI
Expression of Interest
Tenders Recently Awarded
CORRECTION
It seems we made a mistake in the last mun-
cipal insight. On Page 4, we featured stu-
dents from the L'nu Sipuk Kina'muokuom
School from Indian Brook. We mistakenly
noted that they were from Indian Brook,
Cape Breton. In fact, they are from Indian
Brook in Shubenacadie.
Annual appointments were made to Special and
Standing Committees of Council at the end of July.
These Committees provide information and recom-
mendations to Council based on their mandate, and
vary in membership. Many of the Committees have
citizens sitting as representatives of their communi-
ty, one or more Councillors and staff. They are,
Audit and Budget - deals with annual budget and
external financial audit. All Councillors sit on this.
Building Code & Unsightly Premises - Councillors
Andre Veinotte and Robert Myra attend meetings.
Citizens Planning Advisory - is the Committee that is
primarily responsible for making recommendations
about the Plan Review. They also make recommen-
dations for all planning issues in the Municipality.
Membership is comprised of representatives from
each municipal district John Carroll, Amanda Enright,
Nancy Green, Trevor Hume, Mathew Nightingale,
Debbie Reeves, Arthur Backman, Mark Narsansky,
Carol Nauss, Mary Ellen Clancey, and Allen Webber.
Committee of the Whole - All Councillors sit on this
Committee.
Kaizer Meadow Advisory - Council representation is
through Allen Webber, Floyd Shatford, and Sharon
Church-Cornelius.
Landfill Citizens Monitoring - is a community-based
committee that monitors issues related to the Kaizer
Meadow Environmental Management site. Mem-
bers are Bernice Levy, Jack Shaw, Douglas Sharpham,
Ryan Cameron, Brad Armstrong, and Sharon Church-
Cornelius.
Municipal Area Advisory - reports to the Citizens
Planning Advisory Committee and deals with plan-
ning issues within the Municipality, not including the
Village of Chester. Leslie Taylor, Mary Ellen Clancey,
Carol Nauss, Larry Ryan, Roy Conrad, Larry Keddy,
Herb Fraser, Allen Webber, Andre Veinotte, and Sha-
ron Church-Cornelius sit on this Committee.
RCMP Advisory - has representation through Al-
len Webber, Floyd Shatford, Robert Myra, Hans
Stokkeskog and Blair Armstrong.
Recreation & Parks - Members are Suzanne Brown,
Kevin Marczak, Barry Baker, Adam Kaizer, Susan Lar-
der, Christine Rafuse, Tina Connors, and Brad Arm-
strong (alternate).
Solid Waste Sub-Committee - addresses issues
around facility operations, including partners. Mu-
nicipal reps are Allen Webber and Sharon Church-
Cornelus
Spectacle Lake Watershed Advisory - is a committee
Committee of CouncilAppointments 2015-16
whose primary focus is activity within the Spectacle
Lake Watershed area. Members are Dave Foley, Al-
len Webber, Andre Veinotte, Brad Armstrong, and
Sharon Church-Cornelius.
Village Area Advisory - reports to the Citizens Plan-
ning Advisory Committee and deals with planning
issues within the Village of Chester. Membership is
Carol Nauss, Karl Hume, Ray Cambria, Kerry Keddy,
Dave Foley, Brad Armstrong, and Sharon Church-
Cornelius.
Water Quality Monitoring (Mill Cove) - is a commit-
tee that tracks effects caused by area developments.
Members who sit on this Committee are Floyd Shat-
ford, Kathy Gamache, Mary Ellen Clancey, John Mc-
Neil, Chris Forgnaud, and Darian Ure.
For information, please contact a representative
or call the Municipal Office at 902-275-3554. The
next issue of municipal insight will feature represen-
tatives to other bodies as well as Council appoint-
ments to positions.
Members of the South Shore Wrestling
Club gathered at Forest Heights Commu-
nity School to say thank you to the Chester
Municipal Recreation & Parks Department.
The Department provided a $3,500 grant
that the Club used towards the purchase
of a new wrestling mat from a National
Tournament held in New Brunswick last
spring. Three of the Club's members actu-
ally wrestled on the same mat when they
competed at Nationals.4
COMMUNITY INTEREST
Friday, Nov. 6
Jamie Junger New Ross Legion, 7:30pm. Darrell's
Darn Good Donairs, 5:00-7:30pm.
Card Game
Western Shore Fire Hall, 7:30pm.
Hosted by South Shore Seniors Club.
Call 902-275-3677.
Silent & Live Auction
Social Event
Forties Community Centre, 7-10pm.
Call 902-299-0588. Kick off the
22nd New Ross Christmas Festival
(December 4, 5 & 6).
Karaoke Chester Legion, 9:00pm-12:30am.
Saturday, Nov. 7
Country Breakfast Chester Basin Fire hall, 7:30-10:30am.
4th Annual Legion
Leaf Walk
Chester Basin Legion, 10am ( registra-
tion at 9am). Pledge sheets at bar. Pro-
ceeds for Veteran's Memorial Bursary.
Pancake Breakfast Hubbards Area Lions Club, 9-11am.
Call 902-857-9845.
Crib Tournament Little Red School, Canaan, 11am.
3rd Annual Dinner
Theatre
"One the Air" is sponsored by
Shoreham Village at Chester Legion,
6:30pm. 902-235-3817/902-275-3451.
Sunday, Nov. 8 Holiday Craft Fair District #1 Community Centre, 10am-
4pm.
Tuesday, Nov. 10 Remembrance Day
Commemoration
Story & Song at Trellis Cafe, 2-4pm.
Call St. Luke's Anglican Church at
902-857-3797.
Wednesday, Nov 11
Remembrance Day
Service Chester Basin Legion, 10:45am.
Remembrance Day
Reception
Hubbards Area Lions Club after
ceremony at Hubbards waterfront.
Call 902-857-9845.
Friday, Nov. 13
Open Mic with Tony
& Lenny Barkhouse
New Ross Legion, 7:30pm. Darrell's
Darn Good Donairs, 5:00-7:30pm.
Karaoke Chester Legion, 9pm-12:30am.
Saturday, Nov. 14
Breakfast Chester Legion, 7:30-10:30am.
Country Christmas
Craft Fair
Forties Community Centre, 10am-
3pm. Call 902-689-2276.
Sunday, Nov. 15
Crib Tournament Chester Legion, 1pm.
Afternoon of Music Hubbards Area Lions Club, 1:30pm.
"The Tuna Fishery of
St. Margaret's Bay"
presented by Robert Conrad at Ocean
Swells Community Centre, 2:30pm.
Call 902-826-7210.
Friday, Nov. 20 Monthly Meeting South Shore Seniors Club will meet at
Western Shore Fire Hall, 7:30pm.
Saturday, Nov. 21
Ham & Sauerkraut
Supper
Ocean Swells Community Centre,
4:00-6:30pm.
Country Jamboree Little Red School, Canaan, 7-10pm.
Saturday, Nov. 21
Breakfast District #1 Community Centre, 9-11am
Annual Christmas
Craft Fair
Chester Basin Legion, 9am-2pm. To
book a $15 table, call 902-275-8391.
Craft & Bake Sale Western Shore & Area Improvement
Association Hall, 9:30am-2:00pm.
Annual Christmas
Bazaar
St. Stephen Parish Centre, 11am.
Email tvjnmyoung@yahoo.ca
Short Notice playing at Chester Legion, 9pm.
Sunday, Nov. 22 Farmers' & Artisan
Christmas Market Chester Legion, 11am-3pm.
Wednesday, Nov 25 Seniors Lunch &
Social
Hubbards Area Lions Club, 12pm. Call
902-857-9845.
Friday, Nov. 27
Know When to Hold
'Em Casino Gala
Atlantica Oak Island Resort, 7:30pm-
1:00am. 19 years +. Call Big Brothers
Big Sisters South Shore, 902-543-4435.
Karaoke Chester Legion, 9:00pm-12:30am.
Saturday, Nov. 28
Newfie Breakfast Chester Basin Legion, 7:30-10:30am.
Craft Fair Chester Baptist Church, 10am-2pm.
3rd Annual Prize
Bingo District #1 Community Centre, 7pm.
Sunday, Nov. 29 Fish Fry Hubbards Area Lions Club, 4-6pm. Call
902-857-9845.
Monday, Nov. 30 Blood Donor Clinic Chester Legion, 1-3pm and 5-8pm.
Call 1-888-236-6283.
Friday, Dec. 4 Karaoke Chester Legion, 9:00pm-12:30am.
Friday, Dec. 4 to
Sunday, Dec. 6
22nd Annual New
Ross Christmas
Festival
See notice on this page for events.
Visit www.newross.ca or search New
Ross Christmas Festival on Facebook.
Saturday, Dec. 5
Country Breakfast Chester Basin Fire Hall, 7:30-10:30am.
Crib Tournament Little Red School, Canaan, 11am.
Merchandise Bingo Hubbards Area Lions Club, 1pm. Call
902-857-9845.
45s Card Game Hubbards Area Lions Club, 7pm. Call
902-857-9845.
Sunday, Dec. 6 Annual Fundraising
Christmas Concert
Chester Brass Band and special guests
at Atlantica Hotel, 5:30pm. 275-3453.
Saturday, Dec. 12
Fill-A-Car
Christmas Hampers
Hubbards Area Lions Club, 10am-
12pm in front of Independent Grocer.
Country Jamboree &
Memory Tree Lighting
Little Red School, Canaan, 7-10pm.
275-3496, 275-3777, or 275-3667.
Saturday, Nov. 28,
Dec. 12 & Dec. 19 Christmas at the Barn Hubbards Barn, 8am-12pm.
www.Hubbardsbarn.org
Every Sunday in
November Gold Mine Tours
Gold River, 1:30-3:30pm. Proceeds for
Chester Municipal Heritage Society.
For reservations, call 902-275-3718 or
email flhs@eastlink.ca
Events listed on our website have more details than those listed here. Visit us online!
Schedule of Events (all events take place in New Ross)
Friday, Dec. 4 - Hot chocolate & cookies - Credit Union; Community Supper - Legion; Tree
Lighting - bandstand at The Cross; Holiday LED Light Exchange - Home Hardware; Hot chocolate -
Vittles; and Razzmatazz for Kids - United Baptist Church.
Saturday, Dec. 5 - Breakfast - Fire Hall; Festival Craft/Gift Fair and O' Christmas Tree Photo
Exhibit - School; Country Craft Fair - Legion; Cider with Cecilia - 4865 Hwy 12; Festival Concert -
Anglican Christ Church; Kids crafts and fun - Family Resource Centre grounds; and Dance - Legion.
Saturday, Dec. 5 & Sunday Dec. 6 - Welcome Post - Ross Farm; Festival specials - Peas-
ants Pantry; Walk - Lions Picnic Park; Christmas in the Country - Ross Farm; Turkey Dinner & Craft
Market - Forties Community Centre; U-picks - Balsam Country Farms, Karl Veinot, Keddy's and
Rocky Top; Christmas Tree Decorating Contest - Ross Farm; Fashions - All is New Again Frenchy’s;
and Studio Tours - Scotian Ironworks.
Sunday, Dec. 7 - Ecumenical Church Service - United Baptist Church; and Studio Tours - Sco-
tian Ironworks, Barbara O’Neil at 4420 Hwy 12, and Sylvia Dodge at 25 Forties Road.
FULL SCHEDULE AT www.newross.ca
Winning Match
The Club held fundraisers to pay for the
remainder of the mat, which has a value of
approximately $12,000.
Through PRO Kids, the Recreation De-
partment has also helped individual wres-
tlers by financially assisting players with
registration fees and wrestling gear.
For information on the South Shore
Wrestling Club, please feel free to contact
902-273-2569.Photo/information credit: Wade Nodding
Did you know . . .
• PRO Kids funds kids to take part in activi-
ties outside the Municipality of Chester?
• We fund all types of recreational activities,
not just sports? i.e. music, art, drama, etc.
• 100% of the money raised for PRO Kids
goes 100% back to the kids in our Munici-
pality?
• If you make a donation to PRO Kids, you
can receive an official charitable receipt?
Did you know . . .(con't)
• We have received
140 PRO Kids applica-
tions so far this budget
year (since April 1st)?
• We raise money
for PRO Kids by vari-
ous methods: grants,
fundraisers, donations,
etc.?
• In the past month
alone we raised over
$4,000 for PRO Kids
from two golf tourna-
ments?
Best Year Yet...
This year's fundraising initiatives from two
golf tournaments have been the highest so far.
• We raised $2,241 for PRO Kids at the An-
nual Fo’c’sle Benefit Golf Tournament on
September 26. Special thanks to all those
who helped make this happen – Sylvia
Swinimer, Jackie Bremner, Fo’c’sle, the
players, hole sponsors and prize sponsors.
2015 was our best yet.
• We raised $2,000 for PRO Kids at the An-
nual PRO Kids BBQ at the Chester Minor
Hockey Al Nunn Memorial Golf Tourna-
ment on October 3 (photo on the left at
the Tournament from left to right, Debbie
Harnish, Glenda Collicutt, Jerry Hynes, Co-
sette Howlett, and Tammy Eisnor). Scotia-
bank matched funds raised, so a big thank
you to them! Also, special thanks to Spidles
Independent Grocer, Ampryor Consulting,
Jerry Hynes and Leann Edwards.
Something to think about this Christmas
• How about giving a donation to PRO Kids in
lieu of a Christmas present – everyone ben-
efits that way.
• How about purchasing a Municipal License
Plate as a gift – 100% of the proceeds go to
PRO Kids.
If you have any questions about PRO Kids,
please do not hesitate to contact Cosette
Howlett, PRO Kids Coordinator at 902-275-3490
or prokids@chester.ca
If you accidentally recycle your municipal newsletter, you can access it (and most of our publications) online at www.chester.ca
Interested in starting, or growing,
a farm or food-related business in
Nova Scotia?
Have you heard about Farm-
Works "Gentle Dragons"? They're
helpful Dragons - they ask ques-
tions and make suggestions!
Join them as they look for food in
New Ross on Monday, November
30 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the
Ross Farm Learning Centre.
FarmWorks’ Mission is to pro-
mote and provide strategic and re-
sponsible community investment
in food production and distribu-
tion in order to increase access to
a sustainable local food supply for
all Nova Scotians. Money invested
by Nova Scotians in FarmWorks is
loaned to businesses that meet
FarmWorks criteria.
FarmWorks is a Community Eco-
nomic Development Investment
Fund (CEDIF) that lends sharehold-
er investments to Nova Scotian
food producers. It was established
PROfacts
in 2011 to promote and provide
strategic and responsible commu-
nity investment in local food pro-
duction and distribution in order to
help increase agricultural and relat-
ed economic activity and provide
access to sustainable local food for
all Nova Scotians.
Whether or not you want to ap-
ply for a loan, we'd still like to hear
a 10-minute promotion of your
business - there will be potential
customers in the audience.
Interested in applying? Down-
load the online application at www.
farmworsk.ca, complete and send
to Linda at lbest@ns.sympatico.ca.
Please contact Linda Best lbest@
ns.sympatico.ca or phone 902-542-
3442 with any questions.
FarmWorks Dragon’s Den in New Ross
5
The Municipality of the District of Chester and Stu-
dent Council for Forest Heights Community School
recently completed a collaborative venture that
takes tenting to a whole new level.
Kaizer Meadow Wind Turbine Campsite was offi-
cially opened on Friday, October 16 complete with
smores, weenies and washer toss. Kathryn Green,
Student Council President, presented a time capsule
that will be “buried” inside the wind tower to com-
memorate the occasion.
With thanks to corporate funding given by the de-
velopers of South Canoe Windfarm and South Shore
Ready Mix, the area can accommodate several tents,
has a fire pit with granite seating, picnic table, por-
table washroom facilities and an exceptional view of
the Municipality’s wind tower. Because of its proxim-
ity to Card Lake, trails and wilderness areas, it makes
it a prime location for eco-tourism opportunities.
To inquire about or book an overnight stay at the
Kaizer Meadow wind tower site, contact Recreation
and Parks at 902-275-3490 or visit www.chester.ca
to download the forms and information.
IT'S OFFICIAL!
You can get more information about how property taxes are applied at www.chester.ca
SAFETY
Your first line of defense against injury and death
in the event of a fire is a working smoke detec-
tor or smoke/fire alarm system. Properly placed and
functioning detectors provide occupants with the
best chance to escape without injury should a fire
occur.
The Municipality and our seven district volunteer
fire departments namely, Blandford and Area Fire
Rescue, Hubbards Fire Department, Chester Fire De-
partment, Chester Basin Fire Department, Western
Shore Fire Department, New Ross Fire Department
and Martins River Fire Department, support the
proper installation and maintenance of these impor-
tant safety systems.
However, false alarms issued by such systems, are
very serious and in the majority of case preventable.
False Alarms can put the Whole Community at Risk
• Fire fighters spend time, funds and effort re-
sponding to nonexistent fire situations.
• The lives of our volunteers and their families
are disrupted due to unnecessary calls.
• Emergency responders, other road users and
the general public face unnecessary risks due
to emergency vehicles being on our streets.
• There can be potential delays in response to
emergencies where peoples’ lives are at stake.
• Services and your business may be temporar-
ily disrupted.
• Local employers who release our volunteers to
respond to emergencies may lose their good
will and cooperation.
• Complacency may result from repeated false
alarms, possibly resulting in deadly conse-
quences.
In 2014, our seven district fire departments re-
sponded to 68 false fire alarms, representing nearly
10% of the total emergency calls. In some areas, the
rate of false fire alarms was as high as 28% of the
total department call outs. Statistics for September
2015 are unfortunately trending at the same levels.
Your Alarm System is Your Responsibility
Under By-Law #141, it is the responsibility of the
occupant, owner and their alarm company to take all
corrective actions necessary to prevent any occur-
rence of false alarms. Violations of the By–Law may
result in fines of a minimum of $100 and a maximum
of $10,000.
We recognize the corrective actions that were tak-
en by the majority of alarm system owners. It is truly
in everyone’s interest to have alarms used for their
intended purpose and be maintained at all times in
proper working condition.
False Alarms can be Prevented
Although weather and other occurrences out of
your control can cause false alarms, most of the
time they can be avoided. The major causes of false
alarms include fumes from cooking, steam from
showers, dust from building work, insects, poorly
trained users, lack of maintenance, and incorrect
or poorly designed and installed systems. There are
several things you can do:
• Make sure your alarm provider and monitoring
company is reputable and correctly licensed.
• Always ask for detailed information and a
complete demonstration of the system.
• Fire alarm systems should be maintained an-
nually by authorized service companies.
• Particulate matter whether smoke, dust, or
steam may activate a smoke detector. Avoid
placing them in locations that will cause false
alarms, for example, too close to kitchens,
bathrooms, or fireplaces.
• Always pay close attention to your surround-
ings and how what you are doing could impact
on the alarm system.
• During construction or renovations, cover de-
tectors that may be affected by construction
activities. Always restore all detectors daily to
proper functionality after construction or ren-
ovation activities. After construction or reno-
vations are completed, your alarm company
should be called to service your system.
• Test your system regularly. Advise the fire de-
partment before and after an alarm test.
• Should your system be activated, do not reset
your system until a thorough investigation de-
termines the cause of the activation.
• Have phone numbers available to immediately
cancel accidental alarms and meet with the
fire department at your location.
The Municipality of the District of Chester reminds
all citizens of their responsibility to comply with the
Alarm By–Law 141, available at the Municipal Office
at 151 King Street Chester or at www.chester.ca
We thank you for your continuing assistance and
ask that you be even more diligent in using and
maintaining your systems in the proper conditions.
HELP US TO PREVENT FALSE FIRE ALARMS
False alarms are serious and, in most cases, preventable
Safety Year Round
In a recent Proclamation concerning Fire Prevention
Week, October 4-10, 2015, Allen Webber, Warden for
the Municipality of the District of Chester, called upon
all our citizens to participate in fire prevention activi-
ties at home, work and school. He also requested all
public information agencies to actively participate in
an effort to provide effective fire prevention programs,
which will instill in the minds of each citizen, those fire
safety practices that will reduce the loss of life and
property caused by fire.
We all need to participate in fire prevention activities
and actively support the efforts of our local volunteer
Fire Departments. Everyone must earnestly work to
eliminate fire hazards, practice good fire safety and be
prepared for an emergency. By working together, the
loss of lives and property from fire can be significantly
reduced.
This year’s Fire Prevention theme is “HEAR THE BEEP
WHERE YOU SLEEP. EVERY BEDROOM NEEDS A WORK-
ING SMOKE ALARM.”
If you wake up to a fire, there is literally only time
to escape the area and get outside of the house. Fire
spreads quickly and in less than 30 seconds a small
flame can get completely out of control and turn into a
major fire. You need to have an escape plan and prac-
tice it with your family on a regular basis.
Smoke alarms are inexpensive early warning de-
vices. They are your first line of defense against injury
and death in the event of a fire. Properly placed and
functioning detectors provide occupants with the best
chance to escape without injury should a fire occur.
Smoke detectors definitely save lives.
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level
of the home (including the basement), outside each
sleeping area, and inside each bedroom.
Never remove or disable a smoke alarm. Your smoke
alarm can't protect you if the batteries have been re-
moved or a plug has been disconnected. Test smoke
alarms at least monthly. For battery-operated smoke
alarms make it a habit to change the batteries twice
a year.
The lifespan of a typical smoke alarm is about 10
years, but some models last as little as 5 years. They
should be replaced as necessary according to the man-
ufacturer’s information or immediately if they do not
respond properly when tested.
We urge you to please visit our Fire and Emergen-
cy Services website at www.chesterfire.ca to find out
more information on fire safety . Our Fire Chiefs and
department members are most willing to provide as-
sistance and answer any questions you may have. Or,
please contact Bruce Blackwood, Fire Services Co-
ordinator by calling at 902-275-2599 or by emailing
bblackwood@chester.ca
6
The 7th Annual Gingerbread Competition
November 20 - December 20 2015
Rules:
• Piece must be 100% Gingerbread. Decorations and surround must be entirely edible (base may be materials of individual choice).
• No lighting permitted.
• Maximum dimensions 20" x 20" x 20".
• Entry deadline is November 15th. Forms available at slipcoversetcbyjill@gmail.com or flowerschester@aliantzinc.ca or pick up at
Flowers, Flowers,Flowers of Chester Ltd, 34 Pleasant St, Chester, 902-275-5707, Mon-Fri 10am-5pm and Sat 10am-3pm.
• Full contest details are found on the entry forms.
• Completed Gingerbread pieces must be delivered to The Mecklenburgh Inn, 78 Pleasant St Chester on November 19th between 4-6pm.
The Gingerbread creations will be on display at local Merchants in Chester from November 20 to December 20, 2015.
• A panel of Judges appointed by the Gingerbread Competition Committee will oversee the competition, and will judge based on overall
appearance, originality, creativity, level of difficulty and precision. Their decisions are final.
• Winners will be notified by email or phone.
• The Peoples' Choice winner will receive two tickets to the Chester Playhouse and will be notified on December 21.
Cash prizes for 1
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Youth Category
Have a solid waste question? Ask Dear Shabby at solidwaste@chester.ca
PROPERTY SERVICES
Dear Shabby,
I really need your help! My puppy has
gone missing...sort of. I can hear her; I
just can't SEE her. She likes to play in
her doghouse in my backyard under
some trees. It was windy earlier and now
there's a blanket of leaves covering every-
thing, even her! Do you have any advice
on how to find a "kind of" missing puppy?
~ signed Buried in Martins River
Dear “Buried”:
All is not lost! All you need to do is rake
your yard. People do it all the time. If
your not sure how, just peek over the
fence at your neighbour. And, as it hap-
pens, there is a Leaf Collection in your
area very soon (November 16 - 27).
This is the only time of year that you
can put an unlimited number of bagged
leaves and yard waste out for collection
in CLEAR, PLASTIC BAGS. Just keep
bagging leaves until you find your little
precious!
***********************************************
Dear Shabby,
Is there a way to keep my green cart from
turning my compost into a huge, stinky
ice cube this winter?~ signed Freezing in Franey Corner
Dear Shabby
Friendly waste disposal advice
Dear “Freezing”:
Ah, yes...the ever-popular cart-cicle!
There's a variety of things you can try.
First, use certified compostable bags to
line your cart. Or, sometimes lining the
bottom of your cart with cardboard or
boxboard is enough to keep things from
sticking. Another trick I've heard is to
spray the sides of the cart with vegetable
oil or alternate layers of compost with
sawdust or a little brush. And don't for-
get to strain extra liquid BEFORE put-
ting things in the green cart so it doesn't
pool and freeze.
***********************************************
Dear Shabby,
How do I know if waste collection is can-
celled because of a storm?
~ signed Wondering in Lower Grant
Dear “Wondering”:
Call Kaizer Meadow at 902-275-2330 or
listen to CKBW. If it is cancelled, sit tight
and they will pick it up the following Sat-
urday. I'd remove your waste from the
curb in case the plow comes along, but
make sure it's back by 8:00 a.m. on Sat-
urday so it doesn't get missed. And, if
you're on a private road, plow and sand/
salt. If it isn't passable, the truck is not
coming for your waste. Period.
You might be eligible for a municipal proper-
ty tax break if you qualify under either one of
these programs.
The Municipality of the District of Chester
offers a property tax break under their Low In-
come Tax Exemption Policy.
You may qualify if:
• The total income from all persons, in-
cluding spouses, who have an interest
in your property, and who contributed
to the household income, was less than
$19,000.00 in the calendar year.
• You (or one of the parties listed previously)
are living at that primary residence.
• You have your 2014 Notice of Assessment
from Revenue Canada with you.
Exemptions of up to a maximum of $500 are
granted on residential portions of property tax-
es, and are based on the current property taxa-
tion year (April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016). The
exemption expires March 31, 2016 for this year.
If you have questions about this exemption,
please see P-25 Tax Exemption Policy for more
details or call 902-275-3554 and ask for the Rev-
enue Administrator.
The Seniors Rebate is a Provincial program
that is designed to help eligible seniors remain
in their homes by providing them with an an-
nual rebate on their property taxes.
The program provides eligible homeowners
with up to a 50% rebate on their municipal taxes
to a maximum $800 per year. The program ex-
pires December 31, 2015 for this year.
Eligibility requires that 2014/15 property tax-
es (previous year) must be paid in full and the
rebate only applies to primary residences that
are lived in by the applicant.
If you were receiving, or were eligible to re-
ceive, the Guaranteed Income Supplement
(GIS) or the "Allowance" as of January 2015, you
could qualify.
To find out if you are eligible for the GIS, call
1-800-277-9914 and to check for the Seniors
Rebate eligibility, call Service Canada at 1-800-
670-4357.
I WANT TO PAY MORE TAXES
...said no one ever
Clear snow away from your waste
collection areas or the collector may not
be able to get it and you will have to
keep it for another two weeks.
Winter Parking Ban Regulations are in effect
from December 15, 2015 to March 31, 2016.
This means that you cannot park on any street
maintained by the Department of Transporation
and Infrastructure Renewal (TIR) between 1:00
and 7:00 a.m. until the parking ban ends.
ALSO, you cannot park on the street an hour
after a storm starts until two hours after it ends.
Your vehicle can be towed (at your expense) if
you obstruct winter maintenance (like plowing,
salting, sanding, etc) or you can be fined under
the Motor Vehicle Act.
SNOW PARKING
If you own and/or drive a vehicle in Nova Scotia, there are a few things you need to know this winter.
Incidentally, if you plow driveways, it’s illegal to
plow snow across a street or onto a sidewalk.
We had an extraordinary winter last year. The
extra snow coupled with drivers who ignored the
ban sometimes made it difficult for TIR to drive
more than a few metres without encountering
a vehicle blocking their path. This resulted in
streets that were left only partially cleared and
sometimes impassable. The parking ban makes
it easier for TIR and all drivers using the street.
Plus, drivers who ignore the ban risk having
their vehicle towed, a fine and possible damage.
Call TIR to receive or report information on
local roads. Their toll-free phone number
is 1-888-432-3233. You can also access
"winter" information online at their website:
http://novascotia.ca/tran/winter
Regulations made by the Provincial Traffic Authority
Pursuant to Section 202 of the Motor Vehicle Act R.S.N.S.
1989 Chapter 293
Change to Special Collection
7
After a "test run" of reducing special collection
from four times per year to two, Council is mak-
ing some changes.
Spring collection has changed from April to May
so the weather will be more cooperative. Also,
an additional collection has been added in July,
making the number of special collections three
instead of two.
Special collection for the upcoming year is
scheduled for
• May 9 to 27
• July 18 to 29
• October 18 to 28
For inquiries, please call the Solid Waste Depart-
ment at 902-275-2330.
solidwaste@chester.ca
Tweet of the Week
Our most popular post on Twitter in October was...
And, we all know how it turned out in the end...
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. Here, you will find all of the latest up-
dates, minutes, tender information, and more.
Twitter: Search for @chestermun or @ChesterRecParks in your
Twitter account. Follow us and get regular updates and notifications
about municipal issues, including live tweets from Council meetings.
Facebook: Visit www.facebook.com/ChesterMunicipality and learn
about events and stories happening in the area. If you have some-
thing to share, message us! We will post your event or photos!
Instagram: Follow us at chestermuni to see photos of municipal
events and daily life in the Municipality! Tag us in your pics!
If you have questions about…call this Department...at this number
Animal Control (Dogs)Animal Control Officer 902-277-0017
Bandstand/Gazebo rental (Wedding)Recreation & Parks Department 902-275-3490
Boat Launches Recreation & Parks Department 902-275-3490
Building Permits/Inspections Building/Fire Inspection 902-275-3080
By-Laws Community Development Dept 902-275-3080
Civic Numbering Community Development Dept 902-275-2599
Composting Solid Waste Dept/Public Works 902-275-2330/902-275-1312
Council Meetings Administration/Tax Department 902-275-3554
Fire Inspections Building/Fire Inspection 902-275-3080
Islands (use of)Recreation & Parks Department 902-275-3490
Kaizer Meadow Solid Waste Department 902-275-2330
Municipal Sewer Public Works Department 902-275-1312
After Hours Emergencies 1-888-664-6998
Parks/Trails Recreation & Parks Department 902-275-3490
Planning Areas Community Development Dept 902-275-2599
Recycling Solid Waste Dept/Public Works 902-275-2330/902-275-1312
Sewer (central system)Public Works Department 902-275-1312
Taxes Administration/Tax Dept 902-275-3554
Waste Collection Solid Waste Dept/Public Works 902-275-2330/902-275-1312
Wharves Public Works Department 902-275-1312
Zoning Community Development Dept 902-275-2599
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 solidwaste@chester.ca
Municipal Districts and Councillors
#1 East Chester, East River to Northwest Cove
Andre Veinotte 902-277-1409
#2 Simms Settlement, Hubbards to The Lodge
Floyd Shatford 902-857-9817
#3 Chester and part of East Chester
Brad Armstrong 902-275-3121
#4 Chester Basin and Chester Grant
Allen Webber 902-275-2536
#5 Gold River to Martins River
Robert Myra 902-627-2470
#6 New Ross and area
Tina Connors 902-679-4461
#7 Marriotts Cove, Windsor Road to Sherwood
Sharon Church-Cornelius 902-277-1301
For exact district boundaries, call the Municipal Office at 902-275-3554
or click on the “Inform” menu option on our website.
Provincial Contacts
Department of
Environment ..........................................................902-543-4685
Labour ...................................................................902-543-0665
Natural Resources .................................................902-634-7555
Public Health .........................................................902-543-0850
Transportation (Bridgewater) ................................902-543-8169
Transportation (Marriott’s Cove)...........................902-275-3221
Property Valuation Services (Assessments) ...........1-800-380-7775
MLA Denise Peterson-Rafuse ................................1-877-740-3378
..................................................................................902-279-3378
Administration Offices are observing the following holiday schedule:
Thursday, December 24, 2015 CLOSING at noon (Committee of the Whole meeting is cancelled)
Friday, December 25, 2015 CLOSED for Christmas Day
Monday, December 28, 2015 CLOSED in lieu of Boxing Day
Tuesday, December 29, 2015 CLOSED
Wednesday, December 30, 2015 CLOSED
Thursday, December 31, 2015 CLOSED (Council meeting is cancelled)
Friday, January 1, 2016 CLOSED for New Year’s Day
Thursday, January 7, 2016 First Committee of the Whole meeting of the New Year
The Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management Centre (Landfill) schedule over the holiday season is:
Friday, December 25, 2015 CLOSED for Christmas Day
Monday, December 28, 2015 CLOSED for Boxing Day
Friday, January 1, 2016 CLOSED for New Year’s Day
Waste Collection Information:
Friday, December 25 collection is RESCHEDULED to Saturday, December 26 (Friday Week A)
Friday, December 26 collection is AS USUAL
Friday, January 1 collection is RESCHEDULED to Saturday, January 2 (Friday Week B)
Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year
Municipality of the District of Chester
Holiday Hours & Waste Collection Information
We want to showcase our wonderful communities on www.chester.ca! If you have a
story, comment, spectacular photo, or anything, email communications@chester.ca
and we will use it to build our communities page. Once we have enough to cover all
districts, we will go live! Each month, we will highlight a district.