HomeMy Public PortalAbout2018-10_MunicipalInsight-compressedmunicipal insight
“Keeping you informed about November 2018
your municipal government”
In the Municipality of the District of Chester this fall...
Update on Chester Water Supply That's just super! WOOT! WOOT!
What are the next steps The totally awesome and New Ross' community
for a central water super fantastic holiday school is finally here!
system in Chester? (pg 2) food drive is here! (pg 4) Check pg 5 for details.
#HUMBOLDTSTRONG
My Time Square shows love and support in wake of tragedy
Out of the almost never-ending flood of heart-
breaking or shocking stories heard on the
news daily, none recent was as collectively felt as
that of the tragedy striking the Humboldt Broncos in
April of this year.
The news reverberated with hundreds of thou-
sands, even millions, of people around the world as
we all mourned for the boys and men lost in that
horrific accident.
For many, the devastation and unfairness of the
accident was enough to bring tears to our eyes. We
sympathized with families and friends of these young
men and woman, watched for news of survivors, and
listened for follow-up reports of hospitalized victims.
For others, the realization that this could have
happened to any team in any league in any part of
the country struck a deep chord. Most of us know
a kid who plays organized sports. Some of us watch
them as they compete in a friendly game, laughing
and getting along with their teammates. We drive
them to practice, or we might know someone who
coaches. Maybe we stop at a table outside of the
grocery store and buy raffle tickets from them.
Whatever the reason, this tragedy sparked a need
in us to show our support, whether emotional, fi-
nancial or other social support. We wore jerseys,
collected donations, held events, and...quilted.
Shortly after the accident, Haus of Stitches (locat-
ed in Humboldt, Saskatchewan) put forward a call to
action to stitchers across the nation. They wanted
families, and those who helped them during their
time of crisis, to know that people cared by giving
them a handmade quilt that symbolized unwavering
support and love. They asked for donations of quilts,
quilt tops, squares, anything to support the project.
They only asked that the Broncos' team colours be
represented.
My Time Square Quilters met that call to action
and set to work, putting in hours of meticulous at-
tention and detail. Members tenderly stitched each
swatch of fabric, making sure the lines and stitches
in each square were just perfect. This quilt is a genu-
ine expression of compassion and charity.
Although Haus of Stitches offered suggested de-
signs for donated quilts, the ladies chose the star
pattern because, "the young women and men are
stars, and that's why we chose that pattern."
As usual, the quilt top was brought to Lynn's Quilt-
ing Studio in Auburndale to have the backing put on
and machine quilted. Lynn was so touched by the
story, she donated all of the materials and her time
for free.
My Time Square sent the quilt to the Haus of
Stitches to be labelled and distributed. In a Facebook
post, Haus of Stitches expressed their humble grati-
tude to "quilters around the world". They received
approximately 2200 finished quilts, 1700 tops, and
6500 blocks. They have distributed almost 3000
quilts.
Our hearts are still with Humboldt. We hope the
families have found some sort of peace, and we con-
tinue to send our thoughts and prayers.
***********************
Members of My Time Square: Sharon Arnold, Mar-
gie Blundell, Valerie Eisnor, Laura Butler, Mabel Tal-
bot, Amy Mason-Hutt, Diane Binmore, Lin Moodie,
Mine Roe, Shirley McCaw, and Dianne Cook.
The group meets every 2nd and 4th Friday in Octo-
ber and November with new dates to be determined
in January. They invite you to join them at the Ches-
ter United Baptist Church at 10:30 a.m. For more in-
formation, please contact the Secretary/Treasurer,
Margie Blundell by emailing her at blundell.mar-
gie@yahoo.ca or the President, Sharon Arnold at ga-
torsnana@hotmail.com
The My Time Square Quilters display the quilt they handcrafted for a project launched to comfort those impacted by the Humboldt Broncos tragedy.
BE A PART OF THIS
GREAT NEW INITIATIVE!
There’s so much to see and do and celebrate here
in the Municipality of Chester, and who better to
share what makes the Municipality so special than
YOU - the residents. That’s why Tourism Chester is
launching #LOVEwhereyoulive.
This year-round program gives residents a promi-
nent platform through which to share all the reasons
why they love living in the Municipality of Chester
AND a monthly opportunity to WIN a very special
designation – the AMBASSADOR OF BUZZ!
By sharing a story, picture, video, and/or post
online - through our website or by tagging @Tour-
ismChester with #LOVEwhereyoulive on social me-
dia - residents of our Municipality are eligible for our
monthly random draw for the Ambassador of Buzz
VIP Card.
The winner will receive 10% off ALL of our awe-
some participating Ambassador of Buzz Businesses
for the ENTIRE month. With their special VIP Card,
each Ambassador of Buzz can shop, play, dine and
stay throughout the Municipality like never before –
enjoying their VIP discount wherever they go!
We’ll share the stories we receive on Twitter, Face-
book and Instagram @TourismChester, and on our
website too. Indeed, we’re looking to create a won-
derful wealth of resident testimonials.
#LOVEwhereyoulive submissions are already roll-
ing in with plans to make the draw for our first Am-
bassador of Buzz on November 1st (YES - just in time
to kick off your Christmas shopping in style!), so tell
us why you #LOVEwhereyoulive today!
All of our Ambassador of Buzz Businesses will be
listed on our website at tourismchester.ca, on our
facebook page, and in all of our media releases
about the #LOVEwhereyoulive program.
If you have yet to become an Ambassador of Buzz
Business, please email sbeaumont@chester.ca or
call Stephanie Beaumont 902-277-1345.
#LOVEwhereyoulive is a celebration. We sure hope
you’ll join in the fun!
Watch for #LOVEwhereyoulive stickers at our Ambas-
sador of Buzz Businesses throughout the Municipality
and stay tuned for details on how YOU can get one too!
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Follow @chestermun on Twitter for live tweets from Council meetings!
Holiday closure and waste collection: Municipal
Offices will close on Monday, November 12 in
lieu of Remembrance Day.
Kaizer Meadow is open on November 12, and
waste will be collected as usual.
Staff changes: Our beloved Sandra Challis
has vacated her position in the Community
Development Department. In her place, we
welcome Darlene Scott. You will see Darlene at
the front counter, ready to assist you.
We also welcome (back) Erin Schurman-Kolb
to the Fire Inspector position. Erin had a brief
hiatus, but returned to the team on October 15.
Lighting at Green Gym: Last year, we requested
permission to install a light at the outdoor gym in
Chester Basin. The plan is ready and approved by
NS Power. Just awaiting final approval from the
Department of Natural Resources.
New affordable housing project in New Ross:
Council awarded a $100,000 grant to the New
Ross Community Care Centre Society under
the Wind Revenue Reserve toward securing
an affordable housing solution in the area. The
group will conduct a feasibility study and seek
an agreement with Housing Nova Scotia and/or
CMHC for affordable housing units.
New Roads: "Fern Hill" is one of the latest private
roads in the Municipality. It is located off of
Walker Cut in Chester. "Ox Yoke Lane" is another,
located off of Fraxville Road in New Ross.
Major Project Grant Program changes:
Council adopted a few changes to the criteria
applicable to groups applying under this
program. Call Recreation at 902-275-3490 or
visit https://chester.ca/government/grants-and-
sponsorships.
Fire Inspections Policy: We have put our
practices on paper as far as fire inspections
are concerned. An official policy was adopted
in September. Find it on our website at https://
chester.ca/government/by-laws-and-policies
IN BRIEF...
Residents in the Village of Chester have a
choice to make. They will have an opportunity
to make that choice on Saturday, January 26, 2019.
That is the date when the Municipality will hold
a ballot vote on whether Chester Village ratepayers
are in favour of a municipally-owned and operated
central water supply or not.
If the topic of a central system in the Village is
news to you, we will summarize what has been hap-
pening up until now.
How did we get here?
Let's forego the history of central water in the Vil-
lage for the last fifty years and begin in 2016. It was
at this point in time when discussion turned to ac-
tion.
It was a difficult summer with drought conditions
that persisted into the fall. Council discussions, pub-
lic input, and plenty of media coverage culminated
in a partnership between the Municipality and the
Village of Chester Commission to develop a scope of
work for a needs assessment and options analysis,
including estimated costs.
The intention was to survey property owners in
the Village of Chester to determine their existing wa-
ter supply conditions, the need for a central water
system, and what that system might look like.
The cost for that analysis was $19,713, equally
shared with the Commission.
The final report told us that most wells in the Vil-
UPDATE ON CHESTER WATER All the reports are in, and now it's time to choose
lage were dug and not up to today's drinking supply
standards. Around a quarter of homeowners who
took the survey reported water shortages and more
than half used water treatment systems to remove
bacteria, minerals, and metals. At least half of the
residents have water supplies that are inconsistent
or of insufficient quality. However, the presence of
bacteria (62% of the 80 wells tested) was consistent
with the type (dug, rock-lined) and age (up to and
beyond 50 years) of the wells found in the area. It
was noted that clean drinking water was achievable
on-site through regular water sampling and main-
taining treatment systems and well conditions.
It was suggested that a central water system would
significantly improve the consistency, quality, and
quantity issues that residents and businesses have
and provide a secure source of clean drinking water.
The report also indicated that locating a system in
the Village itself was not ideal because of the poor
water quality and quantity. The report recommend-
ed that we consider a central groundwater supply in
Middle River. Alternatively, a potential surface water
location at Spectacle Lake.
Following the needs analysis, a socio-economic
report was recommended in August 2017. The final
report provided cost estimates, benefits of a central
water system, and further details on the options for
different systems.
The cost of the socio-economic report was
$42,800, also cost-shared with the Commission.
Last year, the Municpality decided to step things
up in regard to municipal awareness. During
Municipal Awareness Week, we held a few events
showcasing municipal services and partnerships,
developed a short video, and highlighted some of
our Districts' features.
Why do we do this? Mainly because the lines be-
tween the different levels of government (municipal,
provincial, federal) are not always clear, and we want
to try and remedy that. We also want to let taxpay-
ers know how their money is being spent.
This year, we will tentatively celebrate Munici-
pal Awareness Week again (November 19-25) with
classroom presentations featuring some of our com-
munity partners, livestreaming a Council meeting at
Forest Heights Community School, and posting some
interesting "did-you-know's" on our social media ac-
counts. Look on the back page to find out where you
can find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
In the meantime, how much do you know about
municipal government? Take our short quiz to see
how you rank.
MUNICIPAL AWARENESS Are you "aware" of your municipal government? Try our quiz.
1. Which level of government is responsible for
health care, education, and energy?
a) federal
b) provincial
c) municipal
2. Which level of government is responsible for recy-
cling, recreational programs, and libraries?
a) federal
b) provincial
c) municipal
3. Elected municipal officials are called
a) councillors
b) Members of the Legislative Assembly
c) Members of Parliament
4. Which services do municipal governments provide?
a) central sewer
b) waste collection
c) land use regulations (like zoning)
d) enforcement of National and Provincial Building
Codes
e) all of the above
5. Municipal government
(aka local government)
exists because
a) the Provincial govt is
too busy
b) local people should
decide local issues
c) to have more red tape
6. Money from property
taxes is used towards
a) municipal services
b) animal control
c) provincial education
d) RCMP services
d) all of the above
ANSWER KEY:
1. b); 2. c); 3. a);
4. e); 5. b); 6. d)
2
The report identified that a central water supply
would,
• mitigate impacts of poor water quality and
quantity,
• address certain weaknesses described in the
Municipality's Integrated Community Sustain-
ability Plan,
• improve possibility of growth, and
• address threats caused by Climate Change.
Who is affected?
Property owners whose property is within the Vil-
lage Boundary agreed upon by the Village of Chester
Commission and Council for the Municipality will be
affected. The boundary is roughly from (ang includ-
ing a small part of) Haddon Hill Road to the end of
Chester Shore Road, including the Golf Course area
and all properties south, including the Peninsula.
Options to include up to Chester Shore Mall and Tar-
get Hill Road are also being considered.All of the lots
in this service area will be eligible for connection,
and would be required to pay the capital costs.
What is the real cost?
Speaking of costs, CBCL Ltd., the engineering firm
hired to do the needs assessment and socio-eco-
nomic report provided the Municipality and Com-
mission with a "Class D" estimated cost for a couple
of water systems. The first option is for a surface
water system (Spectacle Lake) in the amount of
$44,522,000. The estimated cost for a groundwater
system (Middle River) is $46,519,000.
For clarification, a "Class D" is an "indicative" es-
timate, meaning the costs are calculated during the
...continued on page 6
"WhyHere" videos marketing our local businesses are online at www.chester.ca 3
STRATEGIC PRIORITIESStrategic Priorities Refresh
South Shore Regional Enterprise Network:
CHECK! This project is complete.
Streetscape Plan: We are funding the wid-
ened shoulders for the pavement work from
Chester Basin to Wake Up Hill. We are waiting
to hear back from the Department of Trans-
portation about costs of other streetscape im-
provements.
Investment Strategy: We met with our bank-
ing institution to discuss investment portfolio
opportunities for the Municipality. Their rec-
ommendations will be considered when de-
veloping our investment strategy.
Central Water System for Chester: See page 2
for this update...it's a long one.
Shared Services: The inter-municipal agree-
ment for shared building/fire/dangerous and
unsightly services has been approved by all
units involved. Phase One is underway and
will focus on processes needed for providing
services regionally. Simultaneously, municipal-
ities will work with the Province to implement
legislative changes to facilitate training. Target
finish date is February 2019.
Road Upgrade Policy: CHECK! The draft policy
and by-law went to Council on October 4. First
Notice/Reading was on October 11, and Sec-
ond and Final Notice/Reading is November 29.
Service inventory: This was moved to the
"Some Other Things" list, but will temporarily
shine in the "Top 5" until the Engineering &
Public Works Department has completed their
inventory.
Waste Collection Contract: This moved up
in importance as the contract expiry is immi-
nent. A tender was issued for waste collection
services with a deadline of November 2018.
The service will be awarded and contract ne-
gotiated for started in March 2020.
• Internal process/control review: Nothing
new to report. Our Finance Staff plans
to review the Department's internal pro-
cesses. The newly-formed Audit Commit-
tee will review the results first.
• Purchase order module: Not started.
• Tax rate and debt strategy: Not started.
• Human resources succession strategy:
Not started.
• Business retention/engagement: This
will be determined by the outcomes of
the Sector Strategy work. Our Economic
Development Officer continues to work
with businesses in the Municipality.
• IT risk mitigation plan: A draft Informa-
tion Access and Protection policy is de-
veloped and waiting on internal review.
From there, security protocols will be
created.
• Sherbrooke Lake park design: The draft
park design was approved by the Park
Design Committee and the Steward-
ship Committee for this project, which
is headed up by the Municipality of
Lunenburg.
• Western Shore/Mill Cove sewer: These
systems are up and running.
• Sustane Transition: Ongoing.
• Simms Settlement Development: A de-
veloper offered to purchase the former
Simms Settlement school property. Coun-
cil has approved a tentative purchase
agreement pending conditions.
• Policy Development/Review: Council
is periodically reviewing existing poli-
cies to ensure they are up-to-date and
relevant and that new policies are put
in place when needed. Recently, they
have amended the Fees Policy and are
working on policies for Code of Conduct,
Hospitality, and Councillor expenses.
• Fire Inspection Policy: Council adopted
a policy that defines the process of fire
inspections.
• Nordic Spa Site Plan: The Community
Development Department is working on
a site plan for a significant development
on Stanford Lake. The development is a
phased in Nordic spa facility.
Top 8 Wow, you finished your list so here are some other things
Next Priorities
• Sector strategy: We are working with the
consultant to identify target industries
and consultation plan. An update to
Council should occur in the next month.
• Business/industrial and EcoPark devel-
opment plan: A Request for Proposals
was issued on the design of an entrance
road and drainage for the property in
Robinsons Corner. A subdivision plan and
lot layout concept will also be prepared.
• Village Land Use By-Law and Secondary
Planning Strategy: This will proceed after
our Municipal review has wrapped up.
• Open spaces plan: We have visited nu-
merous "priority" properties and a staff
report is pending in December.
• Asset management: This is required by
municipalities who access federal Gas Tax
Program funding. We are developing the
policy and strategy followed by complet-
ing an inventory and data collection. We
applied for a grant to help us with this.
• Active Living Strategy: In progress.
• Expense Policy for Council: A draft policy
is in progress. Councillor expenses are
posted at https://chester.ca/govern-
ment/council/council-and-cao-expenses
• Plan Review: Public engagement report
was given to Council. Following that,
changes were made to the draft docu-
ments and then provided to the Citizens
Planning Advisory Committee. A second
workshop was held with Council and
CPAC to determine what to do about out-
standing items. Follow updates at www.
voicesandchoices.ca.
• Sewer capacity analysis: We are looking
at Chester Basin and Chester Village.
• Signage by-law program: A draft Re-
quest for Decision will be sent to Council
shortly outlining the scope.
• Wastewater management by-law: A
formal report is expected in December.
• Rural Internet: We are gathering data
from an internet performance test until
May 2019. In December, Develop NS will
release an implementation strategy to
connect 95% of rural households to fibre,
cable or fixed wireless service. CRTC
announced criteria for the $750 million
set aside for improving broadband across
Canada and will accept applications in
2019. We are working with an internet
service provider to expand broadband
services through a federal funding pro-
gram, "Connect to Innovate".
Care to see our Strategic
Priorities List? You can find it
at https://chester.ca/
government/council/councils-
strategic-priorities
Here is an update on Council's 2018/2019 priorities, their "next priorities", and what we're doing after that "wow, you finished your list
so here are some other things" list.
5x
New Municipal By-Law
At the beginning of October, Municipal Council gave First Reading of the
proposed Provincial Street Improvement By-Law #149. At the same time,
they gave First Notice of Policy P-90, a policy respecting Provincial Street Im-
provement.
“First Reading” means that Council is in the process of approving a by-law
and is letting the public know that they are considering adopting it. The pub-
lic can submit their comments in writing to the Municipal Clerk. After com-
ments are received by Council two things can happen:
1. The comments are favourable and the by-law moves to “Second & Final
Reading”. The new or amended by-law goes into effect as soon as the
adoption is advertised in the newspaper.
2. The comments are unfavourable and Council decides to not adopt the
by-law, or additional make revisions.
The Second Reading for By-Law #149 is scheduled for the November 29 Coun-
cil meeting, starting at 8:45 a.m. If you wish to provide a submission with re-
gard to the by-law, contact the Pam Myra, Municipal Clerk, at 902-275-3554
or email her at administration@chester.ca. The deadline for submissions is-
November 22 by 4:30 p.m. Read the By-Law online at www.chester.ca
OBJECTIVE: To define how upgrades to provincially-owned, J-class roads are
paid for and selected for improvement.
DESCRIPTION: The Province charges municipalities 50% of the cost for certain
repairs and upgrades to J-class and Village roads. MOC has 44 such roads. To
determine which of those 44 has priority,
• a petition of property owners, upon request of at least 25% of the affected
properties, is conducted;
• two-thirds of respondents must agree on the improvements;
• Council submits a list of priority roads to the Province for acceptance;
• The Province proceeds with repairs or denies the request.
Depending on the use of road, the Municipality can pay for the repairs, or they
can be charged back to homeowners through an area rate. The Policy related
to this By-Law outlines what improvements are eligible, how the list of road
priorities is set, and requirements for funding.
Provincial Street Improvement
By-Law and Policy
This is a new by-law and policy for the Municipality of Chester. Please
read them in full detail by dropping into our office, or visiting our
website at https://chester.ca/government/by-laws-and-policies
Follow us on social media for updates on employment opportunites, current events, project news, and much more.4
COMMUNITY INTEREST
A Castle Rock trail map has been installed at
the trailhead in East River. You’ll see a bike
rack in the photo too, and a picnic table will
be coming soon. Happy hiking!
WALK-IN CLINIC
NEW SCHEDULE as of October 1:
Tuesday 9:30am to 1:30pm
Wednesday 1:00 to 5:00pm
Friday 2:30 to 6:30pm
Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm
The Totally Awesome and Super-Fantastic Holiday FOOD DRIVE
It's that time of year again! The Totally Awe-
some and Super-Fantastic Holiday FOOD DRIVE
is just around the bend.
We will collect non-perishables and financial
donations for the Lighthouse Food Bank and
Hubbards Food Bank starting Monday, Novem-
ber 5. You can drop off your items or make a do-
nation at the Municipal Office in Chester, Mon-
day to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
To make things a little interesting, we will keep
a tally of how much is donated and engage in
a friendly competition with the other municipal
units in Lunenburg County, if they are willing...
We will wrap up the food drive on Friday, De-
cember 7, in time for delivery to the food banks
early the following week.
Search and Like Lighthouse Food Bank on Face-
book to keep updated on specific items needed.
For details, go to ourhealthcentre.ca or call 902-
273-2098 (messages retrieved on clinic days).
Two of our walk-in doctors are away from Janu-
ary 1 to March 31. We hope to have coverage
for Friday and Saturday shifts. Please check our
website or call for updates before arriving at the
walk-in clinic.
Unless you're a first responder or prepper,
emergencies may not be at the forefront
of your mind. How many times have you seen
the phrase "Prepare for 72 hours", yet your
emergency preparedness kit is an expired box
of rice crackers, three half-used candles, and a
lighter that may or may not work.
We live in rural Nova Scotia, which means we
can rely on our neighbours. It also means some
of us are isolated and may have to be self-suffi-
cient for an extended period of time if an emer-
gency strikes. Preparing for 72 hours is sounding
more and more sensible.
How does one prepare for three days? There
are numerous checklists online, and the Prov-
ince has some tips on their Emergency Mea-
sures webpage, https://novascotia.ca/dma/
emo/prepare_for_an_emergency/#prepareakit
Here's what they suggest:
• a personal support network list including
name, relation, address, and numbers
• at least six litres of water per person (2 li-
tres per day)
• food that won't spoil, like canned and dry
foods
• a manual can opener
• first-aid supplies
• allergy medications and special needs or
equipment you use
• a list of your prescription medicines with
their prescription number and purpose
• pharmacy information
• pet care
• at least a three-day supply of your pre-
scription medicines
• wind-up or battery-powered flashlight
• wind-up or battery-powered radio
IN YOUR COMFORT ZONE Comfort Centres in the Municipality operate individually
• batteries for your flashlight and radio
• extra keys for your house and car
• money in small bills
• copies of important papers like your driv-
er's licence, health card, birth certificate,
and insurance policies
It is not usually until after 72 hours that mu-
nicipalities consider taking further action. Un-
less there is imminent danger to residents, such
as fire or gas leak, we won't usually evacuate or
declare a state of emergency within the 72-hour
window.
Having said that, there are several Comfort
Centres throughout the Municipality; at least
one in each District. These centres provide a
place for residents to warm up, charge their
phones, have a cup of tea or coffee, heat up
dinner, or get updates on the emergency. They
don't generally provide overnight accommoda-
tions, meals, or shower facilities.
These Centres can partner with the Munici-
pality and other organizations during an event
to help residents. They are
usually independently oper-
ated by volunteers, which
means they could open with-
in hours of an emergency or
after 72 hours. The call is en-
tirely theirs.
If crisis continues, and de-
pending on what type it is,
the Municipality might de-
clare a State of Emergency
where an Operations Centre
is activated, and agencies like
the Red Cross are deployed.
At this stage, shelters might
be considered for possible
overnight accommodations
for residents affected by the
crisis.
If you are unsure of where
the Comfort Centre is in your
community, contact your
Councillor (listed on back
page). Meanwhile, it may be
time to replace those rice
crackers as hurricane season
doesn't end until November
30...just in time for winter
storms.
5Add your community event to the Municipality's website at www.chester.ca/events
Wednesdays,
October 24 to
November 14
Optimal Aging Series
Our Health Centre, 10:15-11:45am. For
ages 50+. Register for FREE. Call 902-
466-6600 ext 209 or email edmarket@
novascotia.cmha.ca
Saturday,
October 27
Stampex18
Annual South Shore Stamp Club
Exhibition and Auction, Michelin Social
Club, 10am-3pm. Free admission.
Kohl Canon Supper St. Johns Church, Chester Basin, 4:30-
6:30pm.
Halloween Dance Short Notice at the Chester Legion, 9pm.
Members and guests 19+. 902-275-3315
Sunday,
October 28 Sauerkraut Supper Forties Community Centre, 4:30-6:00pm.
Call 902-689-2612.
Monday,
October 29 Halloween Party Lightfoot Tower, 6:30-8:00pm. Rain date
is October 30.
Saturday,
November 3
Firefighters
Breakfast
Chester Basin Fire Department, 7:30-
10:30am.
Crib Tournament Little Red School, 11am.
Annual Ham &
Sauerkraut Supper Ocean Swells Community Centre, 4-6pm.
Sunday,
November 4
29th Annual
Blandford Holiday
Arts & Crafts Fair
District #1 Community Centre, 10am-
3pm. Call 902-228-2668 or email
district1blandfordreccentre@gmail.com
7th Annual
Christmas Craft
Show
Hubbards Area Lions Club, 10am-2pm.
Admission: non-perishable food item or
cash donation.
Wednesday,
November 7
Lest We Forget:
War Remembrance
Afternoon
Trellis Cafe, Hubbards, 2-4pm.
Paint Night
St. Luke's Anglican Church, Hubbards,
6pm. Register by Nov. 5. 902-471-1674
or lydamiller1964@gmail.com
Friday,
November 9
Blindside
Presented by Chester Playhouse at
Forest Heights Community School, 7pm.
For tickets, call 902-275-3933 or www.
chesterplayhouse.ca
Karaoke Chester Legion, 9pm. Call 902-275-3315.
Saturday,
November 10
Country Jamboree Little Red School, 7-10pm.
Karaoke Chester Legion, 9pm. Call 902-275-3315.
Saturday,
November 17
Annual Christmas
Craft Fair
Chester Basin Legion, 9am-2pm. Call
902-275-8391.
Prize Bingo District #1 Community Centre, 7pm. Call
902-401-4410.
Sunday,
November 18 Crib Tournament Chester Legion, 1pm. Call 902-275-3315.
Saturday,
November 24
Double Bill: Earle &
Coffin and Garrett
Mason
Presented by Chester Playhouse at
the Chester Legion, 8pm. For tickets,
call 902-275-3933 or visit www.
chesterplayhouse.ca
Dance Sunset Drive at the Chester Legion, 9pm.
Call 902-275-3315. 19 years +.
Saturday,
December 1
Firefighters
Breakfast
Chester Basin Fire Department, 7:30-
10:30am.
Pancake Breakfast
with Santa
Chester Legion, 7:30-10:30am. Call 902-
275-3315.
Crib Tournament Little Red School, 11am.
Sunday,
December 2
Chester Farmers' &
Artisan Christmas
Market
Chester Legion, 9am-2pm. For info,
email chestermarket@hotmail.com
Every Monday Auction East Chester Recreation Hall, 1pm.
Every Tuesday Bingo Chester Legion, 7pm. 902-275-3315.
Every Thursday
Bingo New Ross Legion, 7-10pm. 902-689-2650
45s Card Games District #1 Community Centre,
Blandford, 7:30pm.
Auction Captain Kidd Rod & Gun Club, 7:30pm.
Fridays
Friday Night Live
Music
MOST Fridays at the New Ross Legion,
8:30pm. Contact 902-689-2650.
My Time Square
Quilt Group
Meets the 2nd and 4th Friday in October
and November. Chester Baptist Church,
10:30am-1:30pm. 902-980-0345.
Every Saturday
Hubbards Farmers'
Market
Until Oct. 27, 8am-12pm, Hubbards Barn
and Community Park. hubbardsbarn.org
Bingo East Chester Recreation Hall, 7pm.
Forward your community event to recreation@chester.ca to have it included on our website,
Facebook page, municipal newsletter, and newspaper events listing.
COMMUNITY INTEREST
New Ross has done it again! Just one more in-
stance of positive things happening when a
community pulls together.
Almost two years ago, in November 2016, the New
Ross School Partnership Committee pitched an idea
to Council: designate New Ross Consolidated School
(NRCS) as a community school. It made sense. Why
not use an existing facility to house events and ac-
tivities wanted by the community?
The Municipal Recreation & Parks Department al-
ready did outreach in the New Ross area, there were
no other close gym facilities, and the existing school
was being underutilized.
At the time, Council expressed their support. If
the group did a little more legwork, Council would
back them and work with the South Shore Regional
School Board (at that time) to designate NRCS as a
community school.
So they did.
This past July, Council approved a draft Joint Use
Agreement with the South Shore Regional Centre
for Education (former School Board). Similar to For-
est Heights Community School and Aspotogan Con-
solidated Elementary, the Agreement outlined when
and how the school can be used by community
members. It also did more than that. It secured com-
munity access to a beloved landmark and its future.
Shortly after that, on September 1, the School
was "open for business". On September 20, an open
house celebration and meet the teacher were held.
In attendance was representation from the Munici-
pality with Councillor Tina Connors, Recreation &
Parks Director Chad Haughn, and Community De-
velopment Coordinator Nadine Hackney, as well as
Brian Smith and Scott Milner from the Centre for
Education.
Already, Family Gym Night is happening with the
New Ross Family Resource Centre, and the New Ross
Community Food Project held a pickling workshop.
Public hours are from 2:30 to 9:00 pm, pending
school activities of course. Available space includes
the gymnasium, kitchen and community room, con-
ference room, and classrooms and computer room
as needed. Outdoor spaces are also available, in-
cluding playground, track, field, outdoor gym, and
tennis courts; all within easy access to the neigh-
bouring trail.
If you have an event or activity that you need
space for, call Nadine at 902-275-8503 or email her
at nhackney@chester.ca
NEW COMMUNITY SCHOOL New Ross Consolidated School wears a brand new hat
Evelyn Ernst, long-time performer and
manager of Chester Brass Band's Summer
Bandstand Concerts, was recently recog-
nized by her peers and the Municipality dur-
ing a concert intermission.
The Bandstand Concerts have become a
staple for residents and visitors to the Vil-
lage of Chester over the last twenty years,
which is how long Evelyn has organized per-
formers and put together arrangements.
Many a Sunday, Chester Brass has per-
formed favourites and themed arrange-
ments to a crowd at the Bandstand in Parade
Square in the Village.
Warden Webber presented her with a certifi-
cate along with Gregor Fraser, President of Ches-
ter Brass Band (shown on left).
After many years of playing with Chester Brass,
Evelyn retired her cornet this year. She and her
husband, David, own and operate Terra Beata, a
successful cranberry farm on Heckman's Island.
A heartfelt thank you to Evelyn for her many
years of devoted service, and best of luck in your
"retirement".
Warden Allen Webber, Evelyn Ernst, and Gregor Fraser.
PROPERTY SERVICES
Subscribe to municipal email notifications and alerts at www.chester.ca on the homepage.
Dear Shabby,
Well, this is it! October 15 to 26 is the LAST special collec-
tion ever! Not that I have anything to put out because I've
been putting out a bulky item every two weeks since May
and now have nothing left to throw away. I don't have a
question per se; just excited, that's all.
~ signed Stoked in
Gold River
Dear “Stoked”:
I, too, am excited! I'm personally thrilled that the special
collection program has evolved to every two weeks. I like
to travel and don't want to be tied down by the commit-
ment of special collection. As I write this, I am hiking
the foothills of Alberta, and the LAST thing I want to
think about is making sure my old stove is at the end of
my driveway. Instead, my old stove was picked up one
month ago, and I am blissfully waste- and stress-free! Vive
la biweekly bulky collection! For those who were away or
busy over the summer, you have options: 1) make use of
this last special collection by putting your large waste out
on your regular collection day between October 15 and 26
(according to the guidelines on page 10 of the waste col-
lection calendar); 2) start placing items, one at a time, out
for bulky collection on your regular pick-up day; or 3) pile
it all in your truck or a friend's truck and take it to Kaizer
Meadow Landfill for free...well, up to 1500 lbs per trip for
free. Please feel free to call me at 902-275-1312 if you need
some more information, or visit www.chester.ca
********************************************************
Dear Shabby
Friendly waste disposal advice
Dear Shabby,
I'm cleaning up my yard and easily have 20 bags of leaves.
I also have a few fallen branches courtesy of the last storm
and many, many small sticks. What should I do with all of
these things?
~ signed Yard Bird
Sherwood
Dear “Yard”:
What incredible luck! Your clean-up coincides with the an-
nual "Special Leaf Collection" happening between Novem-
ber 12 and 23! Don't let the name fool you though; more
than just leaves are collected. For those of us with a lot of
trees (nice in the summer, a pain in the fall), it's the "most
wonderful time of the year."
Special Leaf Collection is the only time all year that resi-
dents can place an unlimited number of clear bags of leaves
out for collection. It's also the only time that said leaves can
be in plastic bags and not compostable yard bags.
A couple of rules:
1. Bags of leaves must be clear plastic.
2. Don't put branches or larger sticks in the bags.
3. Cut branches in 3' lengths and tie into a bundle.
Place them beside your green cart or leaf bags.
4. Branches and sticks less than 2" in diameter can go
in your green cart as long as they don't stick out
of the top.
SPECIAL LEAF COLLECTION
November 12 to November 23
Step 1: Place an unlimited number of clear,
plastic bags full of leaves with your other
waste on your regularly scheduled day.
Step 2: Feel free to watch the collector col-
lect them or just ignore them.
Step 3: Carry on with your day.
A shout out to Mr. Tom Kostandoff for his im-
pressive recycling efforts (and sacrifice). Mr.
Kostandoff dropped off his pen collection of
49 years with the Municipality so they could
be recycled. So, how many pens does one
collect in 49 years? The answer is 1,654 pens
and 249 wooden pencils. Mr. Kostandoff read
about the recycling program and the part-
nership between Blandford Parish and the
Municipality, and he decided to part with his
substantial collection for the worthy cause.
Nice work and thank you very much!
6
conceptual phase, before a definitive design is set-
tled upon. The range of fluctuation in costs is +/-35%
At the opposite end of the spectrum, a Class A
estimate is also called a "pre-tender" estimate and
is generally expected to be within 5-10% of actual
costs.
Other things that affect the end cost are,
• Insurance rates - Proximity to "fire flow" (fire
hydrants, etc.) can decrease insurance premi-
ums, resulting in direct savings to homeown-
ers. However, we encourage contacting your
broker or insurer to see exactly what those
savings will be. We've heard anywhere from
$55 per year to $400.
• Types of systems - the estimate for a surface
water system does not include constructing a
dam if needed. The costs for both systems in-
clude paving, connections, meters, the plant,
and personnel.
• Fire protection (larger distribution main, in-
creased reservoir size, and hydrants).
• None of the estimates provided include usage
costs (consumption).
Update on Chester Water
...continued from page 2
The average capital cost per household per year
for 25 years will range from $1,516.00 to 1,655.81
(Years 1-10) and $958.22 to 822.61 (Years 11-25),
not including consumption.
So far, costs that have been paid include only engi-
neering reports, which total $. The next step in this
project will be polling residents and is expected to
cost $23,000. This money is taken from the general
rate.
The Municipality will seek funding for 75% of capi-
tal construction costs. The remainder, plus usage
rates, will be charged to all of the lots within the ser-
vice area. The rate for capital is mandatory, and will
be applied to their property tax bills whether they
connect or not, the same as sewer charges. Those
who connect to the system will also pay a usage fee
and meter installation. If this funding isn't secured,
the project will be re-evaluated.
What will happen next?
Before they proceed with any further action on
this project, Council wants to get a clear indication
of what the public wants.
If is evident from the results that affected residents
in the service area want a central water supply, the
Municipality could proceed with pre-design work,
which will cost approximately $1.7 million. That de-
cision won't be made until after the poll.
To determine the level of support, a vote by secret
ballot will be held on Saturday, January 26 with e-
voting on the issue the week leading up to it. Only
those with property in the service area will be eli-
gible to vote (one vote per property). Properties will
be divided into sections geographically so that if a
phased approach to installation is chosen, priority
areas will be already apparent.
This is not a plebiscite. Plebiscites only allow those
whose primary residence is in the affected area to
have a say. Instead, it is a non-binding poll of all
property owners in the service area.
Prior to polling day, residents should look for a di-
rect mailout (to property owners within the service
area), information in the media, information on all
municipal platforms (social media, website, newslet-
ter), public information meetings and pop-up booths
(in the Village), and engagement at www.voicesand-
choices.ca/chester-water.
Where is more information right now?
To see copies of the reports (recommended for
context and detail), visit www.voicesandchoices.ca/
chester-water or contact the Engineering and Public
Works Department by phone at 902-275-1312 or by
email at publicworks@chester.ca
We may not be available 24/7, but our website is. Visit us at www.chester.ca
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
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
Leveraging Your Workplace Culture (online)
Explore the question, “What can help make us a
more immigrant-friendly workplace?” Choose one
of two sessions
October 25, 9:00 to 11:00am FREE
November 15, 9:00 to 11:00am
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
http://www.isans.ca/event
Building Intercultural Competence Workshop
Increase understanding of settlement and integra-
tion issues, explore ways to welcome and support
new immigrants, and develop intercultural relation-
ship building skills. Choose one of two sessions:
October 25, 9:30am to 4:30pm FREE
November 30, 9:30am to 4:30pm
Immigrant Services Association of NS, Halifax
http://www.isans.ca/event
Client Management Part 2 (online)
For early-career business development profession-
als who wish to enhance client relationship support
skills, or for those who have specific challenges.
October 25, 10:00am to 4:00pm $300.00
Acadia Entrepreneurship Ctr, King St, Bridgewater
http://www.acadiaentrepreneurshipcentre.com/events/
How to Capitalize on SEO
Help your target market find what they are looking
for on your website. Identify your keywords and de-
velop a strategy that will bring customers to you.
October 25, 12:00 to 1:30pm FREE
Common Goods Solutions, Halifax
https://members-digitalnovascotia.wildapricot.org/
Cuban Trade Mission to FIHAV International Trade
Fair
EduNova, in partnership with the Atlantic Canada
Opportunities Agency, will host a trade mission
to one of the most represented trade fairs in Latin
America. Sectors that typically find opportunities in
this market are in the areas of oil and gas, energy/
electricity production with emphasis in renewable,
tourism, mining, biotech and health-related indus-
tries.
October 30 to November 3 in Cuba
http://www.maritimesenergy.com/eventdetails.asp?ID=506
SEB Orientation
This program assists aspiring entrepreneurs to be-
come self-sufficient through self-employment.
November 1, 9:00am to 4:00pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Business Outlook Conference
Impact of technology on industries across our re-
gion, the surprising automation that’s here and
what’s around the corner, how to adopt and adapt
to the best technologies.
November 6, 7:45am to 12:00pm
$500.00
Atlantic Provinces Economic Council, Pier 21, Halifax
https://www.apec-econ.ca/events/view/?event.id=132
Exploring and Developing Your Business Plan
Discuss business plan exploration and development
with dedicated incubation space for participants.
November 6, 9:00am to 4:00pm $519.00
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Industry Day: Driving Your Digital Advantage
Keynote speakers and panelists sharing their vision
of the importance and diversity of STEM. Topics are:
Big Data and AI, design thinking and disruption, cy-
ber-security and blockchain, smart cities and diversi-
fied workplaces.
November 7, 9:00am to 5:00pm $195.00
STEMFest 2018, Halifax Convention Centre
http://stemfest2018.ca/industry-day.php
Patents 101
What can you patent and how can it generate suc-
cess? Get answers straight from a patent expert.
November 7 & 8, 12:00 to 1:30pm FREE
Halifax Central Library
BioPort Atlantic
Representation from biotech companies, investors,
universities, government, and industry supporters.
Learn best practices for early-stage companies to
raise capital, attract talent to the bio-economy, and
align resources to take advantage of the region’s life
sciences capacity.
November 7 & 8
BioNova, Halifax Convention Centre
www.bioportatlantic.ca
Atlantic Canadian Trade Mission to Caribbean
Renewable Energy Forum
In partnership with the Atlantic Canada Opportuni-
ties Agency, the Maritimes Energy Association will
lead an Atlantic Canadian delegation to CREF again
this year.
November 7 to 9 in Miami, Florida
http://www.maritimesenergy.com/eventdetails.asp?ID=529
Business Plan Analysis for Small and Micro Enter-
prise
Business plan analysis, common issues with micro
enterprise plans, communicating concerns to cli-
ents, calculating margins, ratios & break even, and
networking.
November 8, 10:00am to 4:00pm $300.00
Acadia Entrepreneurship Ctr, King St, Bridgewater
http://www.acadiaentrepreneurshipcentre.com/events/
Start Smart
Explore local resources, be introduced to CEED's
programs and services including loans, training and
the Self-Employment Benefits Program.
November 8, 5:00 to 6:30pm 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.
November 8, 5:00 to 6:30pm FREE
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Financial Survival
Chartered Professional Accountants Canada will
teach you how to understand the management of
growth and expansion; identify the key numbers to
understand and monitor; build tactics for seeking
out financing; and develop effective tax strategies.
November 13 FREE
Halifax Central Library
https://halifax.bibliocommons.com/events/
CANSTech
CANSTech will bring the world to Halifax, uniting
100+ exhibitors, sponsors and world-class speakers
to showcase new technologies, upcoming trends
and innovative products all under one roof.
November 20, 7:00am to 6:00pm,
FREE
Construction Association of Nova Scotia, Cunard Ctr,
Hfx
https://www.cans.ns.ca/canstech/
Blast Off to Business
Develop an understanding of resources available to
entrepreneurs and learn how to develop a solid busi-
ness plan with subject matter experts, guest speak-
ers, and a site visit to Halifax Central Library.
November 20-22, 8:30am to 12:30pm $295.00
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/event
2018 Annual Conference
This year's conference will focus on the steps we
need to take and the challenges we need to over-
come to secure Canada's competetive advantage in
the marine renewable energy sector, both nationally
and internationally.
November 20-22
Marine Renewables Canada, Halifax
https://marinerenewablesconference.com/
FITTskills: Products and Services for a Global Market
You’ll learn how to adapt and conform your products
and services to differences in regulatory, legal, cul-
tural and consumer/client requirements in interna-
tional markets. Analyzing how these differences may
impact the cost, product design, packaging, labeling,
product testing, and service delivery, and then de-
veloping strategies around these custom aspects, is
key to your long-term success in any international
target market.
November 22-23, 8:30am to 4:30pm $50.00
Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, Halifax
https://www.novascotiabusiness.com/events/
2018 Tourism Summit
The annual tourism summit is a combination of high
calibre keynote speakers, educational sessions, net-
working events and marketplace. The event culmi-
nates with the Crystal Tourism Awards of Excellence
Gala Dinner.
November 25-27
Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, Halifax
http://www.conferenceontourism.com/registration/register/
Operations for Small Business
Creating a vision or plan for your operations will pro-
vide a framework for success. Explore how you can
determine who does what, where, when, how, and
most importantly, why.
November 29, 9:00am to 12:00pm
$89.00
Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and
Development, Bayers Road Centre, Halifax
https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Business Model Canvas 101 (online)
Accepted worldwide as an essential business startup
tool.
November 29, 10:00am to 4:00pm $300.00
Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre
http://www.acadiaentrepreneurshipcentre.com/events/
7
If you're in business in the Municipality of Chester, register it with our Business
Directory at https://chester.ca/business-directory
Log in to upload photos, videos, hours, menu, social media links, location map,
and even your TripAdvisor review! Edit your listing at any time.
Call Erin Lowe, Economic Development Officer, at 902-275-4138 for details.
Tweet of the Week
Our most popular post on Twitter in September...
Did you get your coat in on time?
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, 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 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 showcasing 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 Community Development Dept 902-275-2599
Composting Solid Waste Dept/Public Works 902-275-2330/902-275-1312
Council Meetings Administration 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 Finance Department 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.
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