HomeMy Public PortalAbout2018-04_MunicipalInsight-compressedmunicipal insight
“Keeping informed about April/May 2018
your municipal government”
In the Municipality of the District of Chester this spring...
Best job everrrrr! This is our friend Darren... Oh yeah...and this is happening...
Recreation & Parks is Meet our Provincial Just kidding! We are
looking for students this Volunteer for 2018! TOTALLY excited about
summer on Page 2. (Page 4) this!! Find out on Page 7.
EXPRESS YOURSELFIE (x 600) Municipality embarks on journey of expression through art
The Municipality of Chester is a haven for
creativity, which is why Council knew we
could handle this.
Some time ago, Councillors received an email
from Mosaic Canada Murals, personally inviting
residents of the Municipality to take part in a
nationwide, collaborative art project. The invita-
tion recognized our "unique design" and lead-
ership, and the organization felt that we would
be a perfect match for this illustration in diver-
sity. We couldn't agree more given the diversity
within our own boundaries.
Mosaic Canada Murals started in 2015 to cel-
ebrate Canada's 150th birthday. The purpose
then, as is the purpose now, was to represent all
provinces and territories in one, unique master-
piece. The goal was to connect all of the individ-
ual murals as one to reflect Canada's celebrated
cultural differences.
Each coast-to-coast mural is designed by Key
Artist Lewis Lavoie, one of the founding artists
who has been creating "collective murals" since
2003. Murals created by Lewis and his team
were featured at the 2010 Winter Olympics in
Vancouver, the 2012 Summer Olympics in Lon-
don, and the Alberta-Saskatchewan Centennial
of 2005 among other high profile events, includ-
ing a Royal unveiling for Queen Elizabeth II.
How it works
Residents of the Municipality of Chester will
come together over three days to paint four
hundred tiles in their own styles depicting what
they feel is representative of the Municipality's
lifestyle, landscape, and people. This is com-
pletely open to individual interpretation.
Those four hundred tiles will be combined with
roughly two hundred "foundation tiles" painted
by two artists who will travel to the Municipal-
ity to do the work and facilitate workshops for
residents. The "foundation tiles" will structure
the mural's theme.
The Grade 11 Forest Heights Art Class has some fun in front of the lens after a brainstorming session to help come up with the 2018 Canada Mosaic theme.
Mosaic Canada Murals will come up with the
overall design of the theme taking concept sug-
gestions from Forest Heights Community School
students. Our individual tiles, along with the
artists' tiles, will be united in the larger legacy
piece (8'x8') that will represent the Municipality
of Chester.
Motifs presented by students of Forest Heights
Community School include,
• boats (sailing and fishing)
• trees - both Christmas trees and forestry
aspects
• First Nations community
• oxen
• Oak Island mystery
• beaches
• lobster
• farming
• lupins
• barrel making
The only other community that is representing
An example of a mural done though Mosaic Canada Murals. This piece represents New Brunswick during Canada 150.
Nova Scotia with a mural is Sackville. Our mural,
coupled with Sackville's, will join all others from
one coast to the other to form Canada's massive
overall mural. The national theme is a railroad,
with each community mural representing a rail-
road car.
The project will cost $12,500, which cov-
ers the price of supplies and travel for the art-
ists. Supplies include almost six hundred 4"x 4"
aluminum tiles, paints, and brushes. After the
mural is complete, Canada Mosaic will mount,
clearcoat, and photograph it as well as provide
us with twenty-five poster prints and space on
their website.
If you want to literally make your mark and
have it be a part of this legacy masterpiece,
please plan to attend one of the hour-long
workshops on May 9 at St. Stephen's Commu-
nity Hall. Times available are 10:00 am, 11:15
am, 2:00 pm, 3:15 pm, 6:00 pm, and 7:15 pm.
Two workshops are also available on May 10 at
Forest Heights Community School at 6:00 pm or
7:15 pm. Students at Forest Heights as well as
Chester Area Middle School will have additional
sessions during their school day.
Please let us know you're coming by pre-regis-
tering with the Recreation & Parks Department.
Call them at 902-275-3490 or register online at
ca.apm.activecommunities.com/doc
Our hope is to showcase the community mu-
ral at events and various locales, but when not
in use it will stay in the foyer of Forest Heights
Community School.
For more information about the project itself,
please contact the Recreation & Parks Depart-
ment via email at recreation@chester.ca or call
the number above. For information about Mo-
saic Canada Murals, visit their website at
canada150mosaic.com
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Message from
the Warden
Well, spring is finally here. We got lucky, and up
until the last couple of weeks, it was a pretty easy
winter weather-wise. The only exception seems to be that
the wind has been blowing a bit much, but on the bright
side, our wind turbine is set to exceed revenue expections,
and I understand that South Canoe is projecting a very
good year. Not surprising!
Public engagement in the Plan ReVISION process is
about to get into high gear with open houses and town
hall meetings set to begin April 9 and run through until
May 28. I hope as many of you as possible will come see
what the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee has come
up with and offer your opinion on our path forward over
the next 20 years.
We have another exciting project that you may have
heard about. We are about to embark on the creation
of a legacy project called a Mosaic Canada Mural. This is
an art project being created with professional help, the
support of the art classes and students at Forest Heights
Community School and Chester Area Middle School, and
artistic groups from across the Municipality. We need
about 400 individual tiles to be created, so if you want to
join in, we will hold two painting workshops: one on May
9 and the second on May 10. Hope to see you there.
It's time to recognize the enormous effort and
commitment to communities that our many volunteers
display each and every day as on April 9, the Provincial
Volunteer Awards will take place, and on April 18, our
local appreciation event will be held in the community of
New Ross.
Proposals for anaerobic digestion technologies have
been received and are currently being evaluated for
sustainability and cost effectiveness for Kaizer Meadow.
Stay tuned.
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
Follow @chestermun on Twitter for live tweets from Council meetings!2
The Province has recently made a funding
announcement concerning improving rural internet in
communities that are underserviced. We are well aware
that there are locations in our Municipality that fall into
this category. The details are still somewhat unclear, but
we hope to work with the Province and the private sector
in order to ensure our needs are met and are sustainable
over the long term.
Well, spring is also budget time, and although it is too
early in the process to make any firm predictions, it is a
time when decisions do have to be made for a variety of
reasons; one of which is contractual obligations. To that
end, the Municipality of Chester has given formal notice
to the Province of Nova Scotia and our municipal partners
that form the South Shore Regional Enterprise Network of
our intention to withdraw from the organization effective
March 31, 2019. This decision was not taken lightly nor
without considerable discussion, with our partners in
Lunenburg County in particular.
This does not mean that we are not committed to a
regional approach to economic development where and
when it makes sense, but we believe that the current
structure stretching from Hubbards to Shelburne is too
large, too diverse, and does not adequately represent
historical and readily accepted geographic trading
patterns. As a result, a cohesive and targetted regional
plan was difficult to craft and make effective.
Over the course of the next several weeks, and as
a group, we will discuss a new path forward that more
effectively meets our needs. We will also seek input from
others, consult with the Province, and attempt to ensure
that a path forward can be put in place that does not
adversely affect other current members of the REN.
We have been working with the other municipal units
in Lunenburg County to find ways in which we can better
cooperate on a county basis to enhance service delivery
and be more effective and sustainable local governments.
I believe there is a willingness to continue with this
approach and find practical solutions that work for us
all. Economic development certainly provides us with an
opportunity to achieve that goal.
As always, there is lots going on and a number of
upcoming events for all of you to get involved in. We need
your input (and your artistic skills).
Sincerely,
Staff Changes: Garth Sturtevant, previously
our Planning Assistant, has taken the position
of Planner in the Community Development
Department. This position became vacant
when William (Bill) DeGrace announced his
retirement before Christmas. Garth accepted
the position at the end of January.
Also, join us in congratulating Christa Rafuse
as she transitions from the Engineering &
Public Works Department to the Director Of
Solid Waste.
On Air Donation: The Health Services
Foundation of the South Shore took to the
air waves on Valentine's Day to raise money
for a much-needed ultrasound machine.
Thanks to the campaign, their goal of raising
$150,000 was almost realized that very day!
Our own Councillor Danielle Barkhouse
presented the Foundation with a cheque
from MODC for $1,000 and spent a little
time with the CKBW/Hank FM crew. Great
job everyone and congratulations on your
new ultrasound machine, which is in place.
New opportunity!: Non-profit groups now
have another advertising opportunity with
us. The Explore Life Recreation Guide will
have a section that groups can use to promote
activities. Please email your submissions to
recreation@chester.ca or call the Recreation
& Parks Department at 902-275-3490.
Sponsorship Grants: Council approved
three youth sponsorship applications: Kate
MacKinnon was invited to compete at the
Snowboard Cross Nationals in Kelowna,
BC. and received $600 to do so; Adam
Cox attended the U21 Curling Nationals in
Shawinigan, PQ and was awarded $400; and
Jenna Turner received $700 towards her
competition as part of Team NS U14 Soccer
in Vancouver. Congratulations to all!
IN BRIEF...
Throughout Canada, an ongoing and proac-
tive review of municipal policies is an es-
tablished ‘best practice’ and helps local govern-
ments respond to the specific contexts of their
residents and other stakeholders. Our Council
recognized the importance of an active and rel-
evant policy framework by including ‘policy re-
view’ as a 2017-18 Strategic Priority. Done right
and done well, policies are a guide rather than
a substitute to decision-making. They help pro-
vide a consistent yet flexible framework that
gives direction and authorizes delegation so
that a municipality may best be able to serve its
residents and their needs.
This is an ideal time to undertake policy re-
view. Recent changes to the Municipal Govern-
ment Act, for example, require all municipalities
to develop and adopt an Expense Policy, a Hos-
pitality Policy, and an associated Code of Con-
duct. These are legislated policy requirements
that will set down, and augment still further,
governance practices that already exist. Expect
to see options for the scope of these policies be-
POLICY REVIEW BEGINS
Council starts task of updating current municipal policies
fore Council this spring.
Other policy review work is necessary be-
cause, over time, changes in content and con-
texts for which some policies were adopted
have led to some inconsistencies in our overall
policy framework. Outdated policies run the
risk of providing unclear guidance for Council,
staff, and residents. Clearly, there is a need for
an ongoing policy review process to ensure our
policy framework is current. To that end, each
Committee of the Whole Agenda will have ‘Pol-
icy Development/Review’ as a standing agenda
item.
As policies are reviewed, there may be amend-
ments, repeals, or no action. The public has an
opportunity to give input on proposed amend-
ments. Unless it's an emergency, proposed
changes to policies are usually advertised on our
website, in the local newspaper, and if timing is
appropriate, within this newsletter. For informa-
tion on the policy review process, contact the
Municipal Clerk, Pam Myra, at 902-275-3554.
The Municipality of Chester Recreation &
Parks Department is seeking applications
from students who would like to be
part of our summer staff team. You will
organize special events and plan summer
recreation programs. If you are creative,
outgoing, energetic and enjoy working
with youth and the public, you have until
Friday, April 20 to submit your resume to:
Municipality of Chester
Recreation & Parks Department
ATTN: Mr. Jody Conrad
151 King Street P O Box 369
Chester NS B0J 1J0
email: jconrad@chester.ca
phone: (902) 275-2712
fax: (902) 275-3630
NEED A JOB THIS SUMMER?
LOCAL BUSINESS
"WhyHere" videos marketing our local businesses are online at www.chester.ca 3
This section of the newsletter is dedicated to business events and learning opportunities happening in Nova Scotia to help you connect and
grow your business. Please read the listing below for information that could be valuable to you and your business.
IT'S A PLEASURE DOING BUSINESS WITH YOU
If your organization is holding an event of interest for the Chester Municipality business community, please send us your event details.
We'll review your submission and be glad to include all qualifying events in the next newsletter. Forward submissions to Erin Lowe, Eco-
nomic Development Officer, at elowe@chester.ca or call 902-275-2599.
Introduction to Workplace Culture (online)
A discussion-led workshop on workshop culture
showing the direct relationship between your orga-
nization's success and the building of a cross-cultur-
ally inclusive workplace.
April 18, 9:00 to 11:00am FREE
http://www.isans.ca/events/
Blast Off to Business
Learn the business development process through a
three-day interactive workshop with subject matter
experts, guest speakers and a site visit to the Halifax
Central Library. Choose one of two sessions:
April 24 to 26, 8:30am to 4:30pm $295.00
May 22 to 24, 8:30am to 4:30pm
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/event
SEB Orientation
This 40-week program is for those who are Employ-
ment Insurance eligible, providing them with income
and entrepreneurial support as they start a business.
May 3, 9:00am to 4:00pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Start Smart
Explore local resources, be introduced to CEED's
programs and services including loans, training and
the Self-Employment Benefits Program.
May 3, 5:00 to 6:30pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Building Your Online Brand
Develop creative ways to ensure your online invest-
ment is rewarded – with sales! Drive sales, gener-
ate leads and build your online brand with practical
and easy to use tools, maximizing your online pres-
ence. Explore digital marketing tools including video
and websites, podcasts, emails, social media and e-
newsletters; build your online brand through web-
sites, blogging and online engagement, and connect
with your consumer through digital media.
April 10, 1:00 to 4:00pm $99.00
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Introduction to the "Immigrant-
Friendly"Workplace (online)
A two-hour workshop on workshop exploring the
question "What makes a workplace supportive to
immigrants?"
April 19, 9:00 to 11:00am FREE
http://www.isans.ca/events/
Smart Energy Event
Network with over 250 delegates and speakers from
across North America to discuss clean energy trends,
storage innovations, electric vehicles, efficiency
practices, tidal and ocean technologies and listen in
on five pitches from the region's top energy startups
during the Pitch Event.
April 24 to 25
Maritimes Energy Association
http://smartenergyevent.ca/
2018 Nova Scotia Trade Mission Offshore
Technology Conference in Houston, Texas
Join the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and
Maritimes Energy Association on a trade mission to
Houston, Texas to participate in the 2018 Offshore
Technology Conference.
April 30 to May 3
http://www.maritimesenergy.com/
Operations for Small Business
Creating a vision for your operations will provide a
framework for success. Explore how to determine
who does what, where, when, how and why.
May 2, 9:00am to 12:00pm $69.00
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/event
Spring Dinner: Explore Insights to the Deep
Opportunities of our Ocean Playground
Halifax Chamber of Commerce will host this session
where you will learn about ocean innovations, tech-
nology and the economic impact of Nova Scotia's
ocean industries.
May 2, 5:00 to 9:00pm $330.00
Halifax Convention Centre
http://business.halifaxchamber.com/events/
Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Program
For immigrant women who want to develop or en-
hance their business skills. Topics include business
plan writing, market research, rules and regulations,
legal issues, marketing, financial management, com-
munication, operations, administration, and net-
working.
Every Monday and Wednesday
6:00 to 8:00pm FREE
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia,
Mumford Road, Halifax
http://www.isans.ca/events/
Money Matters
Hear from experienced small business financing pro-
fessionals, have the opportunity to ask questions,
and gain advice and exposure to financing opportu-
nities for your business.
May 4, 9:00am to 12:00pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/event
Atlantic Business Magazine Top 50 CEO Awards
Join celebrity emcee, March Critch from This Hour
has 22 Minutes and special presentation by John
Risley.
May 9, 4:30 to 9:30pm $250.00
Halifax Convention Centre
https://www.atlanticbusinessmagazine.net/
Consulting Circle
Connect with industry experts through speed net-
working sessions. Focus on your specific business
goals and questions, and gain consulting from sev-
eral experts in one three-hour session.
May 11, 9:00am to 12:00pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/event
Rendez-vous Canada 2018
Rendez-vous Canada is Canada's premier interna-
tional tourism marketplace. Four days. More than
1800 tourism professionals. Eleven minutes to pro-
mote or discover unique Canadian experience. The
potential for hundreds of millions of dollars for Ca-
nadian tourism business. Hosted by the Tourism In-
dustry Association of Canada.
May 13 to 16
Halifax Convention Centre
http://rendezvouscanada.travel/learn-more/
Benefits of a Diverse Workplace Culture (online)
Learn how to develop a diverse workplace culture to
enhance your organization's success.
May 17, 2:00 to 4:00pm FREE
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
http://www.isans.ca/events/
Leveraging Your Workplace Culture (online)
This webinar explores the question, "What can help
make us a more immigrant-frienly workplace?"
May 18, 9:00 to 11:00am FREE
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
http://www.isans.ca/events/
Canadian Brewing Awards & Conference
Three days of industry education and business net-
working, ending with an exciting awards gala recog-
nizing the top beers in 55 different style categories.
May 24-26 $350.00
Halifax Convention Centre
https://www.canadianbrewingawards.com/
Major Projects
This is the 11th annual event which includes the re-
lease of the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council
May 28 $275.00
7:45 to 10:30am
Pier 21, Halifax
https://www.apec-econ.ca/events/
Saltscapes East Coast Expo April 20-22
The Municipality has purchased a booth at the upcoming Saltscapes Expo to showcase our region and
promote all that there is to see and do! If any members would like us to take their marketing material to
the Expo or want a particular event promoted, please reach out to Erin Lowe, Economic Development
Officer for the Municipality, by Friday, April 13. Call Erin at 902-275-2599 or email elowe@chester.ca
cial Volunteer Award. Darren has had a huge
impact in our Municipality coaching basketball
and supporting our youth. He will represent the
Municipality of Chester at the Provincial Awards
Ceremony on Monday, April 9 in Halifax.
Darren Russell, our Provincial Volunteer
Events listed on our website have more details than those listed here. Visit us online!4
Saturday, April 14
Breakfast St. Martins Anglican Church
Breakfast Chester Legion, 7:30-10:30am.
Crib Tournament Little Red School, 11am.
7th Annual Sing for
a Cause, Dance for
a Cure
Chester Legion, 7pm. Raising funds for
Breast Cancer Research and Chester PRO
Kids. Local performances.
Sunday, April 15 Crib Tournament Chester Legion, 1pm.
Saturday, April 21
Home-based
Business Fair
Chester Basin Legion, 10am-2pm. Call
902-275-8391
Country Jamboree Little Red School, 7-10pm.
GypsyMinstrels Chester Legion, 9pm. Members/guests
19 years and over. Call 902-275-3315.
Saturday, May 5
PRO Kids
Fundraiser
Mayfest Chinese Auction and Bake Sale,
Municipal Office, 8am-3pm. Call the
Recreation Dept at 902-275-3490.
Castle Rock Hike Guided hikes every 30 minutes from
10am-2pm. Call 902-275-3490.
Saturday, May 5
and Sunday, May 6
Mayfest 2018 Yard
Sale Weekend
Yard sales and events municipal-wide!
Submit your yard sale at www.chester.
ca/mayfest or call 902-275-3490.
Saturday, May 12
Breakfast Chester Legion, 7:30-10:30pm.
Hubbards Farmers'
Market Opens!
Hubbards Barn, 8am-12pm, Saturdays til
October 27. www.hubbardsbarn.org.
Saturday, May 12 &
Sunday, May 13
18th Annual Art
Exhibition & Sale
District #1 Community Centre, 10am-
5pm. www.aaandc.org
Saturday, May 19 Short Notice at Chester Legion, 9pm. 902-275-3315.
Sunday, May 20 Crib Tournament Chester Legion, 1pm.
Every Tuesday
Jam Matinee Chester Basin Legion, 2:00-4:30pm.
Bingo Chester Legion, 7pm. Call 902-275-3315.
Darts New Ross Legion, 8-10pm.
Call 902-689-2650.
Every Thursday
Bingo New Ross Legion, 7-10pm.
Call 902-689-2650.
45's Card Games District #1 Community Centre, Multi-
Purpose Room, 7:30pm.
COMMUNITY INTEREST
THE WALK-IN
MEDICAL CLINIC
We announced a few weeks ago that OHC
plans to open and operate a walk-in medical
clinic. Tentative opening is the first week of
April, but this will be confirmed once all the de-
tails are final. The location will be on the 2nd
floor, just outside the elevators.
The walk-in clinic will provide access to health
care for residents in our service area who do
not currently have a family doctor, seasonal
residents, visitors and people who need medi-
cal care outside of their family physician’s usual
working hours. If you do have a family doctor,
we encourage you to first seek an appointment
with him or her.
The clinic will operate in the same way as any
other walk-in clinic. There are four physicians
who have agreed to work with us, and they will
bill MSI for the cost of your visit. There will be
no cost to the patient unless the patient asks for
services not covered by MSI like ear wax remov-
al and completion of government forms. These
fees will be explained in our info brochure and
posted at the walk in-clinic in the same way they
are posted in the primary care clinic on the first
floor and every other clinic in NS.
The walk-in clinic will be managed by OHC
Association, not the NS Health Authority; how-
ever, the Health Authority will help with some
logistical issues.
We are pleased to be able to offer this service
to our communities. More information will be
provided soon.
April 15-21, 2018 is Volunteer Week and is
a time when we recognize the important
contributions that volunteers make to the com-
munity.
The Municipality of Chester will celebrate
the tremendous efforts of our local volunteers
by hosting a Volunteer Awards Ceremony and
Reception. This year’s reception is at New Ross
Consolidated School on Wednesday, April 18
starting 7:00 pm. We welcome you to join us
and help recognize the following volunteers:
• John Craig from Chester was nominated
by the Chester Basin/New Ross/Chester
Lions Club
• Sandy Dumeresq from Chester was nomi-
nated by the St. Augustine's Guild
• George Evans from Chester was nominat-
ed by the Chester Garden Club
• Herb Fraser from Chester was nominated
by the Chester Garden Club
• Darren Russell from Chester Grant was
nominated by Chester Basin Recreation
Park
• Georgina Sawler from Western Shore was
nominated by the Western Shore Volun-
teer Fire Deaprtment
• Lisa Schnare from Chester Basin was nom-
inated by Aenon United Baptist Church
• The late Joan Swinimer from Chester Ba-
sin was nominated by the Ladies Auxil-
iary of the Royal Canadian Legion Everett
Branch #88 and St. John's Anglican Church.
This award will be accepted posthumously
by daughter, Gloria Nauss.
• Bruce & Chad Walters from Chester Basin
was nominated by the Royal Canadian Le-
gion, Everett Branch #88
After the ceremony, everyone is invited to
stay for some refreshments and congratulate
the award recipients. This is a great opportunity
to mingle and talk with the various volunteers
from our Municipality. We ask that you please
RSVP by Tuesday, April 10 by calling the Recre-
ation Office at 902-275-3490.
Congratulations to Darren Russell of Chester
Grant who is selected to receive the Provin-
Volunteer WeekApril 15 to 21, 2018
Crafty? The Chester Municipal Heritage Society is seeking crafts people to join them at Chester Train Station this
summer beginning Friday, June 15. For more info call Fran at 902-275-5179 or Wayne at 902-273-3111.
Sunday, June 3
8th Annual Cut N Run recreation@chester.ca
5K Walk/5K Run/10K Run 902-275-3490
Follow us on social media for updates on the Best of Chester Municipality Business Awards or visit www.chester.ca/BestOf 5
BUSINESS AWARDS
This annual business awards program show-
cases business excellence in the Munici-
pality of Chester, and this year the program is
introducing some changes.
Historically, residents had roughly three weeks
to submit the names of their favourite local busi-
nesses, and at the end of those three weeks, the
businesses with the highest number of submis-
sions were recognized as a "Best Of".
This year, we will change things up a tiny bit by
opening a nomination period, similar to previ-
ous years' nomination/voting period. Then we
will take it a little bit further by selecting the top
nominees in each category. From there, resi-
dents will vote for their favourite out of those
top nominees.
So here's how it works...
1. Nominations open April 1 and are accept-
ed until April 29. We will accept one nomi-
nation per category per device (phone,
tablet, computer, etc.).
2. Submit the name of your favourite busi-
ness in one or all 23 categories. Business-
es must be located in the Municipality of
Chester. Nominate online at www.chester.
ca/BestOf or call 902-275-2599.
3. Shortly after the nomination period clos-
es, we'll release a list made up of the top
nominees in each category.
4. From this list, vote for your favourites.
Again, one vote per category per device.
The voting period is from May 2 to 20 and
winners will be announced on May 24 dur-
ing the Committee of the Whole meeting
that morning. The list will later be released
in a media release and on our website.
So businesses, lobby your fans for votes, but
only one vote per device is allowed. Patrons,
keep your choices local, and stick to shops and
services that are owned and operated here in
the Municipality of Chester.
In place of an awards ceremony this year, our
winning businesses will be celebrated across
three regions in Nova Scotia with a full page ad
promoting them in the Halifax Citizen, Valley
Harvester, and South Shore Breaker.
Questions? Contact Erin at elowe@chester.ca
or call her at the office at 902-275-2599.
BEST OF CHESTER MUNICIPALITY
Annual business recognition program undergoes refresh
Best of...
Chester MunicipalityAWARDS
www.chester.ca/BestOf
Best Artisanal Retailer
Best Building Services (such as
contractors, engineers, architects,
interior designers, trades, etc.)
Best Building Supplies Store
Best Community Space
Best Farm/Forestry Business
Best Garden Services
Best Gas Station
Best Grocery/Convenience Store
Best Health/Beauty Services
Best Health Care Provider (such as
doctors, dentists,
physiotherapists, etc.)
Best Manufacturing Business
Best Marine Services Business
Best Mechanic/Auto Shop
Best Non-Profit Group
Best Pet Services
Best Place to Have Coffee
Best Place to Stay
Best Professional Services
Nominate your favourite businesses in these categories
then vote for the top nomineees!
(such as financial
institutions and services,
IT services, etc.)
Best Real Estate Company
Best Restaurant
Best Spa/Fitness Facility
Best Specialist Retailer (such
as bakeries, vegetables,
meat, etc.)
Best Vendor at a Farmers’
Market
NOMINATE VOTE April 1 to 29 May 2 to 20
Questions?elowe@chester.ca 902-275-2599
PROPERTY SERVICES
6Subscribe to electronic waste collection notices at www.chester.ca under the Engage menu or click "subscribe" on the homepage.
Dear Shabby,
Now that Sustane Technologies is almost ready to
open their new recycling facility, do we still have
to recycle?
~ signed Optimistic in
Martins Point
Dear “Optimistic”:
Yes. It's too early to say whether Sustane Techo-
nologies will one day accommodate all of our re-
cyclable material or not. For right now, they are
accepting all of our municipal LANDFILLABLE
waste. That will be processed and turned into
bio-fuel. On top of that, the plastics from garbage
bags and waste bin liners and other assorted plastic
waste that can't be recycled will be reconstituted
into petroleum. Efficient, eh?
Let's stay focused and continue to do the excellent
job we've been doing in diverting waste away from
a big hole in the ground. Otherwise, the waste col-
lectors will put a big, yellow rejection sticker on
your garbage, and no one likes rejection.
********************************************************
Dear Shabby,
Why do my neighbours keep calling the Depart-
ment of Environment and reporting me? I've had
to pay $22,000 in fines this year alone! Can't a per-
son burn their garbage in the comfort of their own
Dear Shabby
Friendly waste disposal advice
backyard anymore? I mean, COME ON! It's not
like this whole "climate change" nonsense is a real
thing, right?
~ signed Stupid Environmental Law in
Middle River
Dear “Stupid”:
Seriously, dude?
********************************************************
Dear Shabby,
In one of your columns some time ago, I read about
disposing of old batteries. I can't seem to find the
column so can you please print the information
again? I have alkaline (disposable) batteries as well
as rechargeable batteries with lithium and cadmi-
um in them. Thank you in advance!
~ signed Too Many Batteries in My House in
Aspotogan
Dear “Too Many Batteries”:
First of all, I cannot stress the importance enough
that improperly disposed batteries can cause fires at
the Landfill. It is always best to collect your batter-
ies and take them to one of our drop off locations,
which includes the Municipal Office, Kaizer Mead-
ow, Adams Bottle Exchange, Hubbards Hardware,
and New Ross Home Hardware.
If you ever need valuable waste collection informa-
tion again, please call me at 902-275-2330 or email
me at solidwaste@chester.ca
If you want important waste collection information delivered right to your inbox, sign up for Waste Collection Notices on
our website at www.chester.ca and click on "SUBSCRIBE" on the front page or under the Engage menu.
If your garage, basement, or yard is too clut-
tered, it won't be because of our special col-
lection schedule. That's because we are going
from three special collections per year to 26.
Yes, 26. That's right, 26. I'll say it again, 26.
At this point, you might be thinking this is a
typo, but there it is, written four times in black
and white. Alright, it isn't a typo then. Now you
might be debating whether to call us and de-
mand that we stop wasting tax payers money on
so many special waste collections. Surely it must
be costing us a fortune! Not so. In fact, there will
be no increase in what we pay our collector now
for three special collections compared to what
we will pay for 26.
"Wait a minute," you say. "You're telling me
that collecting bulky items every two weeks
during regular collection is affordable?" We say,
"You bet it is!" Here's why.
Collectors face what seems like mountains of
items during special waste collection because
some people abuse the service. They place 2x,
5x, even 10x the amount that they are allowed
to place at the curb. Because of that, extra
trucks are needed, and the Landfill often has to
remain open well past regular hours causing our
operating and labour costs to increase.
If residents didn't have to save up their large
items and could place a bit at the curb every
garbage day, we wouldn't be so overwhelmed.
It's a win-win-win situation. First, residents
win because they don't have to use an entire
PARDON ME? DID YOU SAY 26?
Curbside waste collection services increase for residents of MODC
ATTENTION MORTGAGE HOLDERS:
Starting in April, the Municipality will issue property tax bills to ALL customers - even those who
hold mortgages with a bank that pays their property taxes on their behalf.
If your property taxes are included in your mortgage payment, and the bank pays us on your behalf,
you will now receive a copy of your property tax bill for your own records only. DO NOT PAY IT as
the bank will continue to pay your property taxes for you until your mortgage agreement expires.
The copy of your property tax bill that you will receive in April is for your own information ONLY.
We issue property tax bills twice a year: April and September. When you receive it, you do not have
to take any action except to file it with your other papers. If you have any questions, please call us
at 902-275-3554 or email us at administration@chester.ca
WE HAVE ACONNECTION
Spring is here and
construction season is
hot on its heels.
If you need to connect to
the central sewer, make
application now so it can
be reviewed, approved
and ready for connection.
Call us at 902-275-1312
or email
publicworks@chester.ca
A warm welcome to Erin Schurman-Kolb, our
newest Fire Inspector/Building Official and
Special Constable.
weekend to gather their items in anticipation
of special collection. Second, waste collectors
win because they aren't working 12-14 hours
days trying to keep to their schedules. Third, the
Municipality wins because we don't have to ask
staff to work overtime, we don't have to waggle
our fingers at residents who are abusing the ser-
vice, and we don't have to pay for as many (if
any) extra waste collection trucks.
We will have more details over the next cou-
ple of weeks as the Solid Waste Department and
our waste collection contractor hammer out de-
tails in terms of what residents can place at the
curb. Everything should be in place in early May.
Please keep an eye on our social media ac-
counts and our website as we will post updates
as they come up. If you have any questions,
please call Kaizer Meadow Environmental Man-
agement Centre at 902-275-2330.
Pretend recyclable paper is water.
Then pretend clean plastic is oil.
The two don't mix.
(hint: please put your clean paper in a separate recycling bag)
We may not be available 24/7, but our website is. Visit us at www.chester.ca 7
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
For the second time in as many years, a sur-
plus was left in the Recreation & Parks De-
partment's grants budget.
ANOTHER ROUND
Four groups awarded grants in second call
Strategic Priorities Refresh
Typical to budget planning, Council reviewed their priorities for the 2018-19 fiscal year. When they determine which direction the Mu-
nicipality should go (mostly from listening to feedback from their constituents, by the way), it sets the foundation for the Operating and
Capital Budget. Once the budget is set (estimated to be next month), both that and the Strategic Priorities list is a blueprint for staff. This
year, Council picked a "Top 8". We will focus on those priorities first. After that, we will focus on "Next Priorities" and then the "Wow!
You finished your list so here are some other things" priorities, which staff may already be working on simultaneously. Here's the game
plan (not in any particular order) for this year:
South Shore Regional Enterprise Network:
Council decided to withdraw their partner-
ship with this organization as the region was
too large and diverse to effectively implement
an overall development plan. We will work
with municipal units in Lunenburg County to
narrow the focus.
Streetscape Plan: This Plan laid out the de-
sired appearance of North Street according to
residents and the Municipality. All develop-
ment along this stretch of Highway 3 going
forward is to follow certain rules for beauti-
fication, parking, facades, public spaces, etc.
The Department of Transportation is prepar-
ing to do some work on this piece of road
and we are hoping to coordinate some of our
work with them such as paved shoulders.
Investment Strategy: The newly appointed
Audit Committee already has a task to do.
Develop an updated investment strategy for
the Municipality's reserves. Where should we
invest? What are the long- and short-term
options?
Central Water System for Chester: Council
will evaluate the socio-economic report and
work with the Village of Chester Commission
on a plan to proceed.
Shared Services: This year, we will focus on
the regional delivery of building/fire/danger-
ous and unsightly services that you heard
about awhile back. Just as a reminder, we
will share these services among most of the
municipal units in Lunenburg County - Mu-
nicipality of Lunenburg, Town of Lunenburg,
Town of Mahone Bay, and us.
Sustane Transition: We are all wondering
what the advent of this revolutionary tech-
nology will mean to waste management for
• Service inventory
• Business planning
• 10-year Capital Plan
• 2018-19 Operating Plan
• Internal process/control review
• Start-up of the Audit Committee
• Purchase order module
• Tax rate and debt strategy
• Software access roll-out
• Human resources succession strategy
• Business retention/engagement
• Visitor info services start-up
• Website upgrade - phase two
• GIS database awareness initiative
• IT risk mitigation plan
• Community use of Gold River open space
• Sherbrooke Lake park design
• Annex building renovation
• Western Shore/Mill Cove sewer
• Village parking amendment
• Fire inspection policy
• Portable signage amendment
• Sewer system assessments and annual
reports
• Business Park commercial entrance ap-
proval
• Shatford's by the Sea development
agreement and amendment
• Utility and Review Board appeal
• Planning staff recruitment
• Public participation policy/program
Top 8 Wow, you finished your list so here are some other things
After distributing
$20,000 in grants ear-
lier this year, $6,100
was left unawarded.
Rather than leave it
unspent, the Recreation Department put out a
second call for applicants. They received $8,310
in requests from five
non-profit groups.
After reviewing the
applications, the Rec-
reation & Parks Com-
mittee recommended
four groups receive
grants, and Council ap-
proved those recom-
mendations at their
February 8 meeting
(see list on the right).
Last fiscal year
(2017-18), the Mu-
nicipality budgeted
$757,995 altogether
for grants to non-profit
organizations and indi-
vudual sponsorships.
Grant programs include Council grants, Recre-
ation grants, Youth Sponsorship, Major Projects,
Recreation Start-up, Recreation, and Tourism.
For information on grant programs, please visit
our website at www.chester.ca and click "Grants
and Sponsorships" under the Engage menu. You
can also call Chad Haughn at 902-275-3490 or
Erin Lowe (Tourism grants) at 902-275-2599.
Grant Recipients
• Chester Area Pickleball Club received $1200
to purchase basic pickleball equipment, in-
cluding paddles.
• Chester Curling Club was granted $2400 to
fund a recruitment campaign for new mem-
bers that includes equipment purchase and
events, such as Day of Curling, Stick Curling
and Learn to Curl.
• Shoreham Village was given $1500 for art
supplies and a facilitator for residents.
• Through the Years Daycare received $1000
to purchase skates and helmets to lend to
kids to use at their outdoor rink.
Next Priorities
• Marketing strategy
• Sector strategy
• Business/industrial and EcoPark develop-
ment plan
• Village Land Use By-Law and Secondary
Planning Strategy
• Open spaces plan
• Asset management
• Active Living Strategy
• Gold River sewer assessment
• Code of Conduct and Expense Policy for
Council
• Salary/remuneration/benefit review
• Plan Review - public engagement
• Community use of New Ross Consoli-
dated School
• Sewer capacity analysis
• Signage by-law program
• Wastewater management by-law
the Municipality. Staff and Council will spend
the first year further adjusting operations at
the Landfill as we transition to Sustane and
preparing for future years.
Well Upgrade Lending Program By-Law: This
Program will enable property owners to apply
to the Municipality for financing for on-site
water supply upgrades on their properties.
Water supply upgrades could include the con-
struction of a new dug or drilled well or an
upgrade to an existing well required to source
water for the property.
COMFIT: We have a limited amount of time
to embark on projects related to renewable
energy as the "provincial window" will soon
close. Any projects that we take on must be
operational by next February. We have our
eye on one, and Council will discuss it in April.
We will give more detail about the
next priorities and other priorities in
the next newsletter as well as update
you on the Top 8.
EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it!reVISION takes next steps in Plan Review(see insert in the middle of this newsletter!)
Tweet of the Week
Our most popular post on Twitter in February...
The Health Services Foundation raised enough for a brand new ultrasound machine! #WTG
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 updates, 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, includ-
ing live tweets from Council meetings.
Facebook: Visit www.facebook.com/ChesterMunicipality and learn about events
and stories happening in the area. If you have something 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!
YouTube: Subscribe to modcvideo for our latest videos. We have a channel show-
casing some of our outstanding attractions and businesses, and we are hoping to
add more!
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 Public Works Department 902-275-1312
Building Permits/Inspections Building/Fire Inspection 902-275-3080
By-Laws Community Development Dept 902-275-3080
Civic Numbering Information Services Dept 902-275-3554
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
Taxes Administration/Tax Dept 902-275-3554
Waste Collection Solid Waste Dept/Public Works 902-275-2330/902-275-1312
Wharves Recreation & Parks Department 902-275-3490
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
Marshal Hector 902-277-2982
#2 Simms Settlement, Hubbards to The Lodge
Floyd Shatford 902-275-7868
#3 Chester and part of East Chester
Danielle Barkhouse 902-277-1624
#4 Chester Basin and Chester Grant
Allen Webber 902-275-8373
#5 Gold River to Martins River
Abdella Assaff 902-277-2765
#6 New Ross
Tina Connors 902-277-1095
#7 Middle River to Haddon Hill, Windsor Road to Sherwood
Sharon Church 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/Federal Contacts
Nova Scotia Department of
Environment ..........................................................902-543-4685
Labour ...................................................................902-543-0665
Natural Resources .................................................902-634-7555
Public Health .........................................................902-543-0850
Transportation (Bridgewater) ................................902-543-4121
Transportation (Marriott’s Cove)...........................902-275-3221
Property Valuation Services (Assessments) ...........1-800-380-7775
Bernadette Jordan, MP .............................................902-527-5655
...............................................................................1-888-816-4446
Hugh MacKay, MLA ...................................................902-826-0222
...............................................................................1-833-826-0222
Mayfest 2018
Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6
If you are planning a Mayfest event or yard sale, register online
at www.chester.ca/mayfest, call 902-275-3490, or
email recreation@chester.ca
The deadline to have it included in the printed booklet is
Friday, April 20 and the deadline for online listings is Friday, April 27
Mayfest booklets are available starting May 1 at:
● Pharmasaves in Chester Basin, Chester and Hubbards ● Richardson's Garage in Western Shore
● Island View in Western Shore ● Vittles Cafe in New Ross ● The Deck in Blandford
Stop by the Municipal Building on Saturday, May 5 from 8:00am to 3:00pm for our
annual PRO Kids Chinese Auction and Bake Sale. Ten new prizes valued at $50+ each!
A very special thank you to Ben Miller
for fearlessly braving icy waters to
show his commitment to a cause
that's near and dear to our hearts.
After this video, Ben dropped off a
$1,000 personal donation for PRO
Kids, 100% of which will help kids in
the Municipality enjoy recreational
activities that they otherwise couldn't
afford. Thank you so much Ben, for
your courageous act of kindness!
#LivewellChallenge
Introducing VOICES & CHOICES, an online engagement platform just for you.
Starting April 7, you can visit www.voicesandchoices.ca to keep up-to-date
on municipal projects. Leave comments, ask us questions, or even participate
in a poll every now and then.
The first project we will post is the reVISION Plan
Review. Visit the site to look around or create an
account in one easy step to leave a comment.
For information about VOICES & CHOICES,
please email communications@chester.ca
or call Jennifer at 902-275-3555
extension 1202.