HomeMy Public PortalAbout2019-10_MunicipalInsight-compressedIn the Municipality of the District of Chester this fall...
Strategic Priorities revisited 72-hour Checklist Be Fire Safe!
Council reprioritized. Being prepared ... not Page 5 has tips from our
Find out what's at the just for Boy Scouts Fire Safety Coordinator
top of the list (page 3). anymore. See page 4. to help with wildfire risk
MAJOR WITH A CAPITAL "M"
Municipality happy to contribute to community projects
Our Grant Program is sometimes seen as
one of those "feel-good" budget items; a
pot of money to give away like the lottery. While
that's a nice sentiment, it's not entirely accu-
rate.
The money comes from property taxes col-
lected from landowners and businesses as well
as revenue from wind towers. The Municipality
invests that money, plus some of our own rev-
enue, on behalf of those taxpayers.
The investment is community and social
growth, and the return on investment (ROI) is
strong, healthy and vibrant communities that
build social networks and attract new residents
and businesses.
If you have children, would you buy a new
home in an area without recreational facilities
or programs? Maybe, but if given the choice
between a neighbourhood with those oppor-
tunities and one without, it may influence your
An overhead view of Ruby's Spot on Porcupine Hill, New
Ross. Below is one of Ruby's rocks peeking out from one
of the gardens. Both photos courtesy of Matthew Gates.
decision.
Every year, we publish a complete list of the
grants that the Municipality distributes and will
do so again in the November issue. In this edi-
tion, we want to take a deeper look at some of
the bigger community infrastructure projects
happening in our Municipality that are funded,
in part, through the Municipality's Major Grants
Program. This program is funded by one-third of
the net revenue from our own wind tower and
South Canoe wind towers.
Recognition goes to the following non-profit
groups for improving our communities:
• Aspotogan Heritage Trust (AHT) to own
and operate the Aspotogan Ridge Golf
Course ($100,000).
• New Ross Farmers' Association to con-
struct a covered arena in the New Ross
Fairgrounds ($100,000).
• New Ross Trails
Association for several
trail initiatives, includ-
ing trail development
on Porcupine Hill, Pop-
lar Hill, and a school
connector ($35,000).
• Shoreham Village
Senior Citizens As-
sociation to improve
the main entryway to
the Shoreham facility
($98,694).
The Aspotogan Ridge
Golf Course was previ-
ously privately owned
and development has
been a struggle with
changes in ownership
and levels of commit-
ment for completion.
One thing that hasn't changed is the commu-
nity's long-standing vision (since 2001) to have
a golf course available to residents and visitors.
So, AHT negotiated the ownership of the golf
course with the previous owner and with their
own money and some funding from MOC, the
course is now open for public use.
Another great addition to one of our com-
munities is the covered arena at New Ross Fair-
grounds. The Farmers' Association has been
using the Fairgrounds for over 70 years for suc-
cessful events, such as the New Ross Fair. Com-
petitors from near and far have joined together
over the years for this historical event and this
year's was made even more memorable with
the addition of the covered arena. It was put to
good use for ox pulls and horse competitions.
For those of you lucky enough to have at-
tended this year's Fair, you may have caught
the structure's grand opening with a few of the
people responsible for its existence.
One of the most touching projects this year is
that of the trail development in New Ross. Yes,
trails are one of our 'things' and we love them
anyway, but this project is a little bit more. Over-
all, this project is an extensive network of exist-
ing and new trails connecting the 'four corners
of the Village crossroads.'
One particular feature of this phased develop-
ment is a rest area called Ruby's Spot along the
Porcupine Hill trail. The area encourages users
to relax and reflect while surrounded by nature
and beautiful landscaped gardens.
Ruby's Spot is a tribute and memorial to Baby
Ruby Webber whose short but beautiful exis-
tence will live on through memories and her
legacy [visit Ruby's Travelling Rocks on Face-
book for the amazing and inspirational story].
This special spot is also a thank you from Ruby's
family to the community for their kindness and
compassion for all to enjoy.
Lastly, Shoreham Village is renovating its en-
tryway, which will not only make coming and go-
ing easier for residents, but also for visitors. The
entryway is only the beginning of a much larger
renovation that will improve the facility over the
next couple of years.
The amount of physical labour and emotional
investment put into each of these projects can
sometimes be exhausting, but from our con-
versations with those willing to sacrifice, they
wouldn't hesitate to do it all over again. So,
thank you to
the people be-
hind the proj-
ects. All of us
realize the ben-
efits of your
hard work, and
we appreciate
every last one
of you.
municipal insight
“Keeping you informed about October/November 2019
your municipal government”
Chester Municipal Grant Programs.
“Fun”ding communities.
Every year, the Municipality of Chester improves communities by funding many
non-profit community groups and youth through our grant programs.
• Council Grants - application deadlines of May 31 and October 31.
• District Council Grants - there is no application deadline.
• Tourism Grants - application deadlines of May 31 and October 31.
• Major Projects Grants - application deadline is January 31.
• Recreation Grants - application deadline is October 4, 2019.
• PRO Kids - applications received all year round.
• Youth Sponsorship Grants - applications received all year round.
All grant programs have eligibility requirements. Download the guidelines and
applications at https://chester.ca/government/grants-and-sponsorships or call
902-275-3490 and let us help you choose the grant program that’s right for you.
financial position as it continues to increase
non-tax revenues and increase reserves to
fund future needs versus burdening the
tax base. For the second year in a row, the
financial assets exceed the liabilities, putting
MOC in a "net asset" position.
As well, this is the sixth straight year of
having an annual surplus, showing that MOC
has the ability to manage its financial and
service commitments.
I would like to thank the community
representatives serving on the Audit
Committee for their expertise and
commitment to our community.
In closing, thanks for your continued
support and involvement. We wouldn't be
the great place to live that we are without it.
All the best,
MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
Follow @chestermun on Twitter for live tweets from Council meetings!
Message from
the Warden
Well, Fall is here and just to make sure
we were aware of that fact, Hurricane
Dorian arrived days before with a significant
impact in our Municipality and all across the
Province.
I know a lot of you experienced flooding
and power outages, which in some cases,
lasted for days.
It was nice to see neighbours helping
neighbours and communities supporting
their residents. It does serve as a reminder
that being prepared is a good idea.
I want to thank all of the emergency and
service providers for stepping up and working
so hard to respond in our time of need.
On a more positive note, people around the
Village may have noticed the film industry is
back! A production called, "The Good House"
has arrived and will be with us until mid-
November.
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
This is a significant production with some
well-known names attached, so keep your
eyes open.
A film of this magnitude will bring significant
economic benefit to local residents and
businesses. We are please to be able to work
with the production company to ensure their
needs can be met and are grateful for their
commitment to purchase goods and services
locally as much as possible.
We have had a busy summer filled with
community celebrations and events all across
the Municipality. It is great to see so many
people working together and out supporting
volunteer organizations that make such
a difference in our quality of life and the
vibrancy of our Municipality as a whole.
One a somewhat more mundane note,
the Municipality has received its year-
end audited financial statements, and in a
snapshot, they state that MOC is in a strong
Building Permits: Please make sure that you have
your Building Permit in your hand before starting
your construction or renovation. If you start
without a Permit, you may end up undoing all of
your hard work.
Youth Sponsorships: Council often provides
sponsorship grants to youth who are invited
to compete at the provincial, national or even
international level. Below is a list of athletes who
received support from the Municipality recently.
• Corrine White, Chester Basin, Eastern National
Tournament with the U16 Rugby Nova Scotia
Team. $500.
• Isabella Noble, East Chester, 2019 Canada Cup
with the U16 Volleyball Nova Scotia Team.
$500.
• Cohen Perry, Chester, Young Guns Summer
Jamboree in Portland, Maine with the Hockey
NS Young Guns team. $200.
• Jenna Turner, New Ross, Olympique Lyonnais
Select (soccer) in Lyon, France. $800.
• Talon White, Chester Basin, Football Canada
Cup in Ontario with the U18 Football NS Team.
$500.
• Justice & Faith Brigley, Chester, U17 Soccer
Provincials in Cape Breton. $400.
• Parker Collicutt, Windsor Road, U15 AAA
Soccer Nationals in Alberta. $500.
New Road Name: Kwyet Lane is the newest road
in the Municipality. It is located off of Appletree
Drive, Windsor Road.
Fire Risk Assessment: The tender for this project
was awarded to OPTA-SCM Fire Underwriters
Survey at a cost of $37,650 plus HST, which was
underbudget by $22,350. The study will be carried
out in three phases.
Fire Services Report: Interesting statistics were
reported in the 2018 Fire Department Call Report.
Total number of calls in MOC last year increased by
3% to 744, of which, medical calls represented 51%.
There were 85 motor vehicle accident calls and 51
"other" calls that included flooded basements,
police assists, downed wires, etc. False alarms
decreased to 62 but mutual aid calls increased by
17 to a total of 76. The Municipality acknowledges
the work of volunteer first responders and supports
all organizations involved.
IN BRIEF...
2
The draft Uniform Advertising Signage By-
law was approved by Council on July 25,
2019. Since then, it was forwarded to the Prov-
ince for ministerial review. After the review is
complete, the By-law will go back to Council for
final adoption.
UNIFORM SIGN UPDATE
Once adopted, the By-law will be effective
within the pilot area of Exit 6, which means that
owners of the existing advertising signage will
have 30 days after the effective date to remove
their signs located along a portion of Highway 3
in the pilot area.
This doesn't mean that businesses cannot ad-
vertise. It only means that the designated areas
congested with signs will be cleared and a more
streamlined strategy will be put in place. The
goal is to make signs easier to read and to elimi-
nate signs that were abandoned and are now ir-
relevant.
The Uniform Advertising Signage By-law will
provide opportunity for businesses within, and
outside of, the Municipality to display their busi-
ness names. The Municipality will accept appli-
cations from owners who wish to advertise their
businesses using the uniform signage option
once the By-Law is adopted.
If the pilot is successful, the By-law is designed
to apply to all areas within the Municipality for
future, keeping in mind the very different loca-
tions throughout.
For information, please contact the Communi-
ty Development Department at 902-275-2599.
Since the last edition, Sustane has made
steady progress. Construction is coming to
an end at the multi-million dollar facility, several
extended trials were completed, and processes
fine tuned. A grand opening is tentatively set for
mid-October.
In an update to the Municipality, President Pe-
ter Vinall outlined some of the things that the
trials discovered. For example, the solid waste
shredder wasn't working as anticipated. With
some help from ABCO in Lunenburg, the machi-
nary is now highly reliable. Similarly, the cook-
ing system was completely redesigned to ac-
commodate our solid waste, which has a lower
moisture content than originally thought.
Even with a few wrinkles, Sustane has found
that the biomass quality has surpassed their ex-
SUSTANE CHESTER INC.
pectations, and the facility is now operating on
a full day shift with plans to ramp up to 24-hour
operation by late September.
Currently, staffing is at 12 permanent employ-
ees and expected to reach 24 by mid-October.
As promised, Sustane hired locally within the
Chester Municipal and Valley areas when possi-
ble. Other hires have settled in the Chester area.
This technology has attracted interest from
Canadian and international municipalities with
letters of intent for new facilities in Canada, USA
and Australia. In addition, Sustane is close to
unveiling new developments that will include
new carbon-negative products and expressed
their commitment to keep the facility in Kaizer
Meadow as the center of development for their
organization.
Check our "News" page often at www.chester.ca for announcements, or sign up for automatic notifications.3
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
BOSS or BUST
REGISTER A COMPLIMENT OR COMPLAINT BY:
Calling 902-275-3554. Leaving your name is
optional.
Emailing the Municipal Clerk at pmyra@
chester.ca
Filling in our online form at www.chester.ca
under "Contact" or https://webfiche.district.
chester.ns.ca/Forms/CCRegister
Coming in to see us at 151 King Street in
Chester.
Since the last report, we received two
compliments and a whopping EIGHT complaints.
• Staff were complimented on the great
job they did clearing the ditches along
the roadway to Aspotogan Consolidated
Elementary School. Thank you for the ap-
preciation!
• Our second compliment came after we
built the new raised garden beds at the
Office. These beds were built to accessib-
lity specifications and are available to any-
one with mobility issues, such as walker/
wheelchair use, bending, etc. Thank you
for noticing!
• The first complaint, which is several com-
plaints in one, was about municipal waste
and the Landfill. A resident felt that the
state of waste along Route 14 (Windsor
Road) is worsening, that HRM waste that
is brought to Kaizer Meadow isn't being
properly sorted prior to disposal at our
landfill, that the facility is "a mess" and
has loose garbage everywhere, and that
the landfill was originally constructed only
for residents of the Municipality of Ches-
ter. Lastly the resident wondered what au-
thority the Monitoring Committee had or
if they had input before things happen at
the landfill.
MOC staff collect large debris from the
ditches along Windsor Road. NS Depart-
ment of Transportation and Infrastructure
Renewal (NSTIR) has, in the past, orga-
nized litter clean up along that road. We
also conduct random inspections at Kaizer
Meadow and contact facilities when is-
sues like unsorted waste come up. These
are the things we can do in ratio to the
staff we have. There is no doubt that the
landfill has litter. We clean it up through-
out the year and have a high fence
that captures a lot of it at the face.
Staff also clean up litter from the
entrance to the public drop-off and sur-
rounding area. When the landfill opened
in 1993, it was one of hundreds in the
Province. We upgraded to a second gen-
eration landfill by 2006 and were only one
of seven. The concept in 2006, because of
the new provincial solid waste regulations,
was to accept waste from other municipal
units through contract because we don't
generate enough solid waste of our own
to be a viable operation. Lastly, the Moni-
toring Committee discusses larger issues
related to the landfill, such as projects,
jobs, fires, etc. We can review the terms
of reference.
• The second complaint was that the fee
charged by our third party credit card pro-
vider when paying property taxes online is
too high. We've gotten that complaint be-
fore. The cost to the user per transaction
is high because we don't have a lot of on-
line credit card transactions. We will shop
around for other providers and investigate
again on how other municipalities are han-
dling it. If we can find an avenue to provide
front desk service that's affordable for us-
ers, we will do it.
• The third complaint was about pick up of
residential waste earlier than 8:00am. We
followed up with the waste collector, and
their GPS didn't show any trucks in that
particular area, so we aren't really sure
what happened. We reiterated with the
collector that collection time is 8:00am
and not earlier as some residents do not
place their waste at the curb before then
due to wildlife ripping open their bags.
• The fourth complaint was about the state
of the road from Chester towards Chester
Basin. The tender for phase two has closed
and NSTIR reports that work will be com-
pleted by the end of the year.
• Complaint #5 is a concern and a compli-
ment in one. The concern is that a par-
ticular hanging basket was inadvertently
blocking a sign for a handicap parking
space. The compliment is that the baskets
"look gorgeous, as per usual." We passed
both comments on to the Village of Ches-
ter Commission who are responsible for
them. Good job, Village!
• Complaint #6 is about the electric car
charging station in the Village. The visitors
attempted to charge their car, but some-
one else was parked at the station and
the station was out of order. We passed
the message on to the Village of Chester
Commission. The station has since been
removed.
• A complaint was received from a traveller
about disrepair of the entrance and fenc-
ing at Church Memorial Park as well as lack
of signage for Pig Loop Road. We forward-
ed the comments to the appropriate orga-
nizations (CMP and NSTIR). Thank you!
• The last concern is about fowl in a residen-
tial area. The area is zoned General Basic,
which means that fowl are permitted. The
Municipality is undergoing a Plan Review
that could change zoning in some areas if
it proceeds.
2019/20 Strategic Priorities Update
• Rural internet: TNC Wireless/Connect to
Innovate project contract approved and
signed. Determining sites for seven tow-
ers for wireless service underway.
Facilitated proposals from internet ser-
vice providers for projects in MOC to
Develop Nova Scotia. First round of proj-
ects from Develop Nova Scotia to be an-
nounced soon.
• Municipal Government Act amend-
ments: Drafts of the Expense Reimburse-
ment Policy and Hospitality Policy in
progress. Impact report of connections
and impact on other MOC policies for
proposed amendments will go to Council
in October. Code of Conduct on hold.
• Water quality testing: Staff will confirm
current testing and review requirements
for additional monitoring.
• Signage By-Law: See page 2 for update.
• Information Access & Protection Policy:
Drafty policy and report to be presented
to Council in November.
• Roads Strategy: Workshop held to discuss
research and options. Staff to develop rec-
ommendations for decision by Council.
• Partners for Climate Protection Project:
Resolution adopted by Council in May.
Planning meeting with Clean Foundation
and staff development workshops in June
and September. Green House Gas Inven-
Now Priorities
Care to see our Strategic
Priorities List? You can find it at
https://chester.ca/
government/council/
councils-strategic-priorities
tory data collection project in progress.
• Transition to Sustane: See page 2. A tran-
sition plan is underway.
• Wastewater Strategy: As of September,
results of ICIP application not yet an-
nounced from Dept. of Municipal Affairs.
Development of overarching strategy in
early stages following completion of as-
set management training for a staff team.
• Highway 3 Streetscape: The Highway 3
paving project, including paved shoulders,
is scheduled for completion by the end of
2019. The roundabout in Marriott’s Cove,
although, outside the Streetscape Plan,
will also be completed this year.
• Danny Haughn property: To do's include
removal of contents and an assessment
of the building condition. Staff will report
to Council in the near future.
• Kaizer Meadow Road Improvements:
Project cost set to be finalized following
confirmation of engineering consultant.
• Open Space Plan: Guided hikes on gem
properties completed. Public feedback is
currently being accepted through www.
voicesandchoices.ca
• Municipal Water Strategy: Approved
by Council in May. Research of manage-
ment strategies in other jurisdictions and
plan for community engagement to learn
more about current/future water needs.
• Fire Protection Services Review: Con-
tract awarded to external consultant.
Steering Committee of Fire Departments
and Commissions established. Phase 1 of
Work Plan started. Phase 3 report due in
December 2019.
• Sector Strategy: Following feedback from
the business community, Council adopt-
ed six sectors as the focus of our econom-
ic development efforts. Funding secured
from Global Affairs Canada to develop an
investment strategy for business services
and green technology sectors. RFP for
consultant to be issued in October.
• Leachate Treatment Plant: Survey and
geotechnical report completed.
• Accessibility Plan: Terms of Reference for
the Lunenburg County Accessibility Com-
mittee with government and community
representation from all five municipali-
ties approved by Council in June. First
meeting in September with the develop-
ment of an Accessibility Plan focused on
built environment as the first task.
• Asset Management Policy and Strategy:
Training completed. Policy and plan for
MOC’s wastewater systems in progress.
With tick populations growing in
Nova Scotia, it's important to pro-
tect yourself and your family while enjoy-
ing the outdoors all year round.
Ticks have two things going for them:
they are very small, which makes them
hard to spot, and their bites are painless.
They can also carry bacteria and tick-borne
viruses, like Lyme disease. This is why it's
important to take precautions when spend-
ing any time outdoors.
Ticks live in or near woods, shrubs and
long grass. They like to hang around until
a host walks by. They will hitch a ride and
then look for exposed skin so they can at-
tach themselves. To avoid contact, wear
socks with your pants tucked in and closed-
toed shoes. Light-coloured clothing is also
recommended as is insect repellents con-
taining DEET or Icaridin.
They attach themselves to a host in or-
der to feed on its blood. Since their bites
are painless, it may be some time before
they are noticed, so tick-checks should be
TICKS RUIN EVERYTHING Be aware and prepare for these nasty parasites
Road maintenance
a regular part of your routine. Check your-
self, your family members and your pets
for unwanted dinner guests. The diagram
on the right shows the common areas that
ticks like, but they have been known to bite
other areas as well.
If you find a tick, grasp it as close to the
skin as possibly with tweezers. Gently and
slowly pull it straight out. Wash the bite
with soap and water or alcohol hand sani-
tizer. Flush the tick down the toilet, drown
it in rubbing alcohol or freeze it in a bag-
gie before throwing it in the garbage. Don't
crush it with your bare fingers.
If you feel ill after a tick bite, see your
doctor.
Finally, spread the word. Tick-borne ill-
nesses are serious. Follow @nshealth on
Twitter and Nova Scotia Department of
Health and Wellness on Facebook and
share and retweet their posts on tick safe-
ty. For resources and more information,
visit their website at www.novascotia.ca/
ticksafety.
COMMUNITY INTEREST
4Follow us on social media for updates on employment opportunites, current events, project news, and much more.
Hurricane season has started. Are you prepared for 72 hours?
www.chester.ca/72-hours
Hurricane season in Nova Scotia extends
from June 1 to November 30 and winter
Nor'easters are in quick pursuit into the
spring at times.
So what happens if the power goes out? For a
week? Are you prepared? It's true, storms and
power outages are no strangers to us. We live
in Nova Scotia after all. We've been around the
block a few times, but even so, it's easy to forget
things on occasion. The height of a storm is not
the time to walk down to the store to get bat-
teries.
We all have different needs. Maybe you live in
close proximity to neighbours who you can rely
on. Maybe you need electricity for a medical
condition and can't afford a generator. Maybe
you have an infant or small children who need
more care. Maybe you have pets. Maybe you
live alone with no close by relatives or neigh-
bours.
Whatever the situation, when a storm hits,
the safest thing to do is to stay in your home
until it passes (the exception, of course, is if your
home becomes unsafe). That's why you need to
SUPPLIES LIST
In anticipation of an emergency, have enough
supplies to stay in your home for a minimum of
three days. In the winter, access to a secondary
heat source may be necessary as well.
◻ 6L of water per person (2L per day)
◻ Food that won't spoil and a manual can
opener
◻ First aid supplies
◻ Enough medications, such as for an allergy
or a prescription
◻ List of your prescription medications with
prescription number and purpose along with
your pharmacy information
◻ Pet care
◻ Wind-up or battery-powered flashlight
◻ Wind-up or battery-powered radio
◻ Batteries
◻ Money
◻ Contact phone numbers for friends/family
In the event of an evacuation, you may want to
consider taking
◻ Important documents, such as your drivers
licence, insurance papers, health card, birth
certificate, etc.
◻ Car keys and house keys
make sure you have everything you need until
the storm blows over.
We've attempted to provide a checklist of
things you might need to do or have on hand
before, during and after a storm. Some things
may not apply, or perhaps there are things to
add that are specific to you.
Also included is contact information or where
to get information if you are isolated.
YOUR STAY-IN-PLACE CHECKLIST
Before the storm, did you
◻ Get enough fuel (propane for a BBQ or stove,
gasoline for a generator or car, etc.)?
◻ Secure any loose items outside, like patio fur-
niture or toys (trampolines especially)?
◻ Fill the bathtub with water?
◻ Charge all of your battery-operated devices?
◻ Check on your neighbour? Maybe you can
make a plan together.
COMFORT CENTRES & RELIEF
Comfort centres may open to support local resi-
dents. These centres provide a place to get warm,
recharge devices, check on each other, and share
information. Comfort Centres operate voluntarily
and services offered may vary. Check with your
Councillor (contact info on back page), our web-
site and social media channels, or the radio to see
if the Comfort Centre in your area is open.
Are you a "critical customer?" Nova Scotia Power
offers a Critical Customer Communication pro-
gram for customers whose health depends on
electricity, such as those requiring oxygen ma-
chines or dialysis. Register with NSP to be added
to their communication list. You, especially, need
to prepare ahead of a potential power outage.
Ensure you have sufficient medical supplies, extra
batteries and an alternate power source.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Police/Fire/Ambulance .........................911
Non-emergency health advice .............811
Provincial road concerns ......................511
(report a washout or obstruction)
Non-emergency support ......................211
NS Power Outage Line ..........1-877-428-6004
(report a downed line or power outage)
Sewer concerns after hours ..1-888-664-6998
(report a back-up or pump station issue)
INFORMATION SOURCES
• Check www.chester.ca for local updates.
• www.GetPrepared.ca
• www.weatheroffice.gc.ca
• @RegionalEMO or @chestermun (Twitter)
• ChesterMunicipality on Facebook
• CKBW (98.1) or HANK FM (100.7)
• Your Councillor (contact information on
the back of the newsletter) because they
will know a) if the area's comfort centre is
open, b) any dangers (road washouts, etc)
in the area.
If a state of local emergency is
declared and evacuation is necessary,
someone will come to your door.
Saturday, Oct. 5
Firefighter Breakfast Chester Basin Fire Hall, 7:30-10:30am.
Ladies Day New Ross Legion, 2-5pm. Tickets at the
Legion or by calling 902-689-2011.
Sunday, Oct. 6 Crib Tournament Forties Community Centre, 1pm. 902-
689-2147.
Monday, Oct. 14
Harvest Sale Forties Community Centre, 9am-4pm.
Call 902-689-2612.
Turkey Dinner &
Supper
Forties Community Centre, 11:30am-
1:30pm and 2:30-4:30pm
Saturday, Oct. 19 Breakfast District #1 Community Centre, 9-11am.
Sunday, Oct. 20 Oktoberfest Variety
Show
Forties Community Centre, 1:30-4:00pm.
Call 902-689-2612.
Saturday, Oct. 26
25th Anniversary
Stampex19 Annual
Exhibition & Auction
South Shore Stamp Club at Michelin
Social Club, 10am-3pm.
Kohl Canon Supper Grace Anglican Church, Chester Basin,
4:30-6:30pm.
Sunday, Oct. 27 Sauerkraut Supper Forties Community Centre, 4-6pm. Call
902-689-2612.
Tuesday, Oct. 29 Halloween Party Lightfoot Tower, Chester, 6:30-8:00pm.
Saturday, Nov. 2
Firefighters'
Breakfast Chester Basin Fire Hall, 7:30-10:30am.
Ham & Sauerkraut
Supper
Ocean Swells Community Centre,
Northwest Cove, 4:30-6:00pm.
Saturday, Nov. 16 Annual Christmas
Craft Fair
Chester Basin Legion, 9am-2pm. Call
902-275-8391.
Mondays,
Wednesdays,
Fridays
Elderfit Aquasize
Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre,
10:30-11:30am. Call 902-275-4245 or
902-527-1887 or elderfitlunenburg.ca
Mondays
Auction East Chester Recreation Hall, 1pm.
Darts New Ross Legion starts Oct. 21, 8-10pm
Chase the Ace draw New Ross Legion, 8:30pm.
Tuesdays
Auction 45s Card
Night
Western Shore Area Improvement
Association Hall, 7:30pm.
Bingo Chester Legion, 7pm. 902-275-3315.
Thursdays
Sea Cadets Meetings For ages 12-18 years at Chester Legion,
6:30-9:00pm. Call 902-857-1828.
Bingo New Ross Legion, 7-10pm. 902-275-2650
Auction Captain Kidd Rodd & Gun Club, 7:30pm
45's Card Games District #1 Community Centre, 7:30pm.
Fridays
Chester Farmers' &
Artisans' Market
Chester Train Station, 9am-1pm until
Oct. 4. www.chesterfarmersmarket.
wordpress.com
My Time Square
Quilt Group Meeting
2nd and 4th Fridays, Chester Baptist
Church, 10:30am-1:30pm. 902-980-0345
Friday Night Live
Music
New Ross Legion, 8:30-11:30pm. Call
902-689-2650.
Saturdays
Hubbards Farmers'
Market
Hubbards Barn, 8am-12noon, until Oct.
26. www.hubbardsbarn.org
New Ross Country
Market
New Ross Community Fairgrounds, 9am-
12pm, until Oct. 12. Call 902-681-3171.
Bingo East Chester Recreation Hall, 7pm.
For more details on these events, please visit www.chester.ca/events or check out
our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/chestermunicipality/
COMMUNITY INTEREST
The Board of OHC is very grateful for all the Nova Scotia
Health Authority staff who work at OHC.
Chester Community Clinic (1st floor)
1-902-275-4414
Dr Jensen, Dr Ripley, Dr Hackshaw and Dr Lucas and nurse
practitioner Nancy LaPierre are seeing their current pa-
tients. Starting in September there will be a family prac-
tice filling in while Sierra Kaizer is on leave.
• Mondays 8:30am to 8:00pm
• Tuesdays 8:30am to 4:30pm
• Wednesdays 8:30am to 8:00pm
(Please call to confirm evening hours)
A "wildland urban interface" describes any area
where combustible wildland fuels are found adja-
cent to or intermingled with homes and other buildings.
As more and more people choose to live in a more natural
environment and enjoy the beauty it has to offer, the risk
of wildfire increases.
Persons living in forested areas need to be aware of this
threat and take appropriate action to reduce the risk and
protect their property. Homes lost from wildfire are not
usually from direct flames but from sparks, embers and
other burning materials. Know your risk so you can make
choices to reduce it.
You can make a difference by considering the following
aspects of your home and environment;
Roofing
Use fire-resistant roofing materials e.g. metal, clay
tile, and asphalt shingles rather than untreated wooden
shakes and shingles which provide no resistance to flames
and sparks.
Siding
Consider materials such as stucco, metal, brick and con-
crete which offer superior resistance to wildfire. Wood
and vinyl siding offer very little protection.
Doors and Windows
Tempered, thermal or smaller double-paned windows
will provide greater protection than single-paned glass.
In addition to the actual building design and construc-
tion materials, landscaping immediately adjacent to your
home and regular home maintenance practices are criti-
cal factors in fire safety.
BE FIRE SMART
There are many things you can do to make your home
both aesthetically pleasing and resistant to the spread
of wildfire. Managing the space around your home and
buildings is very important. Consider the following safety
tips:
• Eaves and vents are ready-made openings that can
allow heat and embers to enter a building and ig-
nite. Ensure eaves are closed in and screen all vents
and soffits.
• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves,
porches and decks. This prevents embers from ig-
niting your home.
• Ensure your roof is free of combustible needles
and leaves and there are no overhanging trees or
branches that can provide fuel for airborne sparks
and embers. Make sure your chimney is to code
and has spark arrestor screens installed.
• Keep areas on or under your decks and porches
clear of debris and where possible protect the
undersides with fire-resistant materials. Screen
or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire
mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials
from accumulating.
• Remove overhanging branches or prune trees up
approximately 2 metres from the ground. Consid-
er removing or thinning out some trees within 30
metres of a structure to maintain the health of the
rest. Remember to contact your utility company
first if trees or branches are near power lines.
• Mature trees, shrubs, grass and even your wood-
pile can ignite and increase the chance of fire dam-
aging your home and property. Remove all com-
bustible trees, long grass, shrubs, logs, branches,
twigs and needles within 10 metres of a structure.
• Keep grass within 10 metres of buildings mowed
and watered. Don’t let debris and lawn cuttings lin-
ger. Dispose of these items quickly to reduce fuel
for fire.
• Bark mulch, pine needle mulches and other plant-
based mulches are susceptible to ignition from
wildfire embers or cigarettes, increasing the fire
threat to your home. When landscaping against
your home, consider using gravel mulch, rock
mulch, or a combination of plant mulch and deco-
rative rock mulch to reduce the risk.
• Fire resistant plants are those that do not readily
ignite from flame or other ignition sources. Select
fire resistant plant materials and design your land-
scape to reduce the risk.
In the case of a fire emergency, it is important to have
an emergency evacuation plan and practice it with every-
one in your home. Remember to have an emergency sup-
ply kit including important documents, medications and
personal identification. Place it in a safe spot.
Our firefighters must be able to approach your home
quickly and safely. Remember to post your civic or lot
number clearly. Ensure your driveway is well maintained
and clear of trees to a distance of at least 3 metres on ei-
ther side to accommodate large emergency vehicles.
For information on protecting your home and property
from wildfire please visit the Fire Smart Canada website at
https://www.firesmartcanada.ca/ The Fire Smart Guide to
Landscaping provides a comprehensive list of landscaping
tips and the Home Risk Assessment tool can be used to
improve fire safety on your property. This and other gen-
eral fire prevention information is also available at www.
chesterfire.ca or by contacting the Bruce Blackwood, Fire
Service Coordinator at 902-275-2599.
• Thursdays 8:30am to 4:30pm
• Fridays 8:30am to 4:00pm
Chester Blood Clinic (1st floor)
Please note that the blood clinic MAY be closed on school
closure days. A fee of $10.00 is charged
• Tuesdays 7:30 to 10:45am
• Thursdays 7:30 to 10:45am
Mental Health/Addiction Services - Adult,
Public Health Services, and
Continuing Care Services (2nd floor)
Children`s Mental Health Services (1st floor)
Below are the numbers to call to make enquiries and/or
book services:
• Mental Health /Addictions
902-543-5400 or 1-877-334-3431
• Public Health
902-543-0850
• Continuing Care
902-527-5454 or 1-800-225-7225
Diabetes Education Clinic (1st floor)
1-902-634-7338
The Diabetic Education Clinic, based out of the Fisher-
men's Memorial Hospital, offers a satellite clinic here ev-
ery second and fourth Wednesday. Prospective patients
can self-refer but a referral from a primary care provider
is recommended. Each of the three hospitals on the South
Shore have a dietician on staff for outpatient counselling.
Smoking Cessation Program (2nd floor board room)
1-902-527-5083
• Wednesdays 6:00 to 7:00pm
If you have questions for the NS Health Authority, contact
1-902-527-5810 or 1-855-881-7061 or email wearelisten-
ing@nshealth.ca
For trusted, everyday health information and advice, call
the Nova Scotia Health Authority's 811 line to speak to a
registered nurse 24 hours a day / 7 days a week.
Add your community event to the Municipality's website at www.chester.ca/events or email it to recreation@chester.ca
5
Subscribe to municipal email notifications and alerts at www.chester.ca on the homepage.6
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
NOTE: All of these workshops will be at the Centre
for Entrepreneurship Education and Development
(CEED) at the Bayers Road Centre in Halifax. Visit
CEED's website at https://www.ceed.ca/events/
Marketing Essentials
Two-way communication, identifying your audience
and understanding your real value. Learn cost effec-
tive solutions and tools, purpose and strategy, the
difference between branding and marketing, how to
attract potential clients, and basic marketing plans.
October 2, 9:00am to 12:00pm $89.00
Talking to Your Customers
Find the right words to say to your potential clients
and learn how to "meet" with them by phone, email,
online or in person.
October 2, 1:00 to 4:00pm $89.00
Plan to SuCEED
A 40-week program designed to help you success-
fully launch your business with one-on-one coaching
and more than 20 interactive and engaging work-
shops.
October 3, 9:00am to 4:00pm $1,799.00
Start Smart
Explore local resources, be introduced to CEED’s pro-
grams and services, and gain the tools and resources
you need to make your business idea a reality.
October 3, 5:00 to 6:30pm FREE
Owning Your Sales Process
Learn how to create a sales process that makes sense
to you, that you can enjoy, and that you can rely on
to continually grow your business.
October 4, 9:00am to 12:00pm $89.00
Blast Off Into Business
Develop an understanding of online and community
resources available for entrepreneurs and learn how
to develop a solid business plan. Join us for hands-on
learning, interaction with other aspiring entrepre-
neurs, advice from experts, and access to beneficial
templates.
October 9, 8:30am to 4:30pm
Fit to SuCEED
A six workshop series where participants do much
of their reading and content gathering outside of
the classroom and devote their face time in class to
documenting their customer discovery journey and
vetting it with their peers.
October 22, 9:00am to 4:00pm $779.00
Design to SuCEED
October 23 @ 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
An interactive, high-energy clinic environment to
roll up your sleeves and discover the business value
proposition for your idea. Work collaboratively with
a coach in weekly, small group sessions to apply a
business-focused lens to your idea and assess your
readiness.
LOCATION: ST. MARGARET'S BAY COMMUNITY EN-
TERPRISE CENTRE, UPPER TANTALLON
OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY RECEIVES AN AVERAGE OF 150 HITS PER MONTH.
If you're in business in the Municipality of Chester, register it with our Business Directory at
https://chester.ca/business-directory for FREE!
Log in to upload photos, videos, hours, menu, social media links, map, and even your TripAdvisor
review! Edit your listing at any time. Call 902-275-4138 for info.
SMALL BUSINESS
BUSINESSES NAMED BEST IN MOC People's choice business awards close with some great picksAfter almost three weeks of online voting,
the winners of the Best Of Chester Mu-
nicipality Business Awards were revealed at a
Council meeting in June.
We will continue to deliver awards to winners
and runners up throughout the rest of the sum-
mer and into the fall, so if you follow us on so-
cial media, check in every so often to see who's
been highlighted.
The Best Of Awards showcase some of the
finest local businesses in the area with winners
and runners up in 23 categories. A total of eligi-
ble 968 submissions were received with 12,172
votes cast.
Small business constitutes 99% of businesses
in MOC and sets a standard of excellence in cus-
tomer service, product and service quality, and
reliability. Please join us in congratulating win-
ners and runners up in each of these categories:
Best Artisanal Retailer: The Village Emporium
(runner up: Chez Glass Lass)
Best Building Services: Chester Electrical,
Plumbing, and Heating (runner up: Toadz Odd
Jobs)
Best Building Supply Store: Chester Building
Supplies (runner
up: Lester D Col-
licutt Lumber and
Building Supplies)
Best Community
Space: Lordly Park
(runner up: Forest
Heights Commu-
nity School)
Best Farm/Forest-
ry Business: Ross
Farm Museum
(runner up: Integ-
rity’s Haven Equine
Rescue Centre)
Best Garden Ser-
vices: Oceanview
Home and Gar-
den (runner up:
Downey’s Pitcher
Plant Nursery)
Best Gas Station:
The Gold Nugget
AFN (runner up:
Chester Basin Pet-
ro-Canada)
Best Grocery/Convenience Store: Spidles'
Your Independent Grocer (runner up: Food-
land – Chester)
Best Health/Beauty Services: Luna Salon Spa
& Boutique (runner up: Valerie's Hair Studio)
Best Spa/Fitness Facility: Luna Salon Spa &
Boutique (runner up: Aqua Spa)
Best Health Care Provider: Our Health Centre
(runner up: Dr. Natasha Zinck)
Best Manufacturing Business: South Shore
Concrete Products (runner up: South Shore
Metalworks)
Best Marine Services Business: Gold River
Marina (runner up: South Shore Marine)
Best Mechanic/Auto Shop: Jeff's Old Volks
Home (runner up: Chester Service Centre Ltd.)
Best Non-Profit Group: Integrity’s Haven
Equine Rescue Centre (runner up: Lighthouse
Food Bank)
Best Pet Services: Your Friend & Mine Pet
Supplies (runner up: Chester Basin Animal
Hospital)
Best Restaurant: Fo'c'sle Tavern (runner up:
Gold Bean Café)
Best Specialist Retailer: Julien’s Bakery (run-
ner up: Kiwi Café)
Best Place to Have a Coffee: The Gold Bean
Café (runner up: Kiwi Café)
Best Place to Stay: Oak Island Resort & Con-
ference Centre (runner up: Mecklenburgh Inn)
Best Professional Services: Scotiabank Ches-
ter (runner up: New Ross Credit Union)
Best Realtor: Tradewinds Realty (runner up:
Peter Reeves, RE/MAX South Shore Realty)
Best Vendor at a Farmers Market: Julien’s Bak-
ery (runner up: Higbee’s Berry Farm & Nursery)
We may not be available 24/7, but our website is. Visit us at www.chester.ca
Recyclable paper is like the toilet. Clean plastic is like your toothbrush.
The two don't mix.
(hint: please put your clean paper in a separate recycling bag)
7
Dear Shabby,
The federal election is in full swing and I find that I have
an excessive amount of flyers and postcards and brochures.
I've read them all, but now what do I do with them?
~ signed Avalanche of Paper in
Windsor Road
Dear “Avalanche”:
You have a couple of options. If you're home when your
candidates come a-callin', stop hiding in the basement and
answer the door. They won't leave their pamphlet behind
if you are home. It will also give you an opportunity to ask
them their position on environmental issues, like climate
change.
If you are not home and find that your stack of literature
is growing, recycle it. All paper is recyclable as long as it
isn't mixed in with a different recyclable, like foil. If it is
mixed, then it's garbage (sad face). One last thing, all recy-
clables are not created equal: paper recycables and plastic
recyclables go in separate bags.
********************************************************
Dear Shabby,
Why do we have all of these RULES when it comes to gar-
bage? It's GARBAGE for heavensakes. I have to remem-
Dear Shabby
Friendly waste disposal advice
ber that this goes here and that goes there and something
else goes another place. It is seriously overwhelming. There
has got to be an easier way.
~ signed Sick of This in
Bayswater
Dear “Sick”:
I get it. There are a lot of rules. I guess since Nova Scotians
have been asked to sort for so long, it's just second nature
to me now. I just take for granted that everyone else is as
passionate about waste as I am. I'm sick of sorting too. Sick
of having to deal with all of the packaging that manufactur-
ers dump on us. Why are cut up apples in a non-recyclable
package even an option? Why do I have to untie two dozen
non-recyclable twist ties just to get a toy out of its non-
recyclable package? Why did I have to email my toothpaste
company telling them that their packaging isn't recyclable?
Dude, I'm going to buy toothpaste regardless if it comes in
a shiny box. We have all of the rules because we have to
deal with all of the different types of packaging in a way
that won't bury us under a mountain of garbage. If we try
to buy less packaging, we won't have so many rules to fol-
low and we might just get through to manufacturers.
********************************************************
Dear Shabby,
I have a somewhat delicate question for you. I have two
indoor cats and a large dog that I walk twice a day faith-
fully. My question is about poop. Technically, it's organic
so should I put it in my backyard composter or green cart?
~ signed Deuce Use in
Franey's Corner
Dear “Deuce'”:
Delicate question indeed. Yes, pet poop is technically or-
ganic. Yes, it could technically be put in your green cart
because the heat generated in the commercial compost-
ing process reaches a temperature that kills pathogens.
HOWEVER, we usually encourage people to put their
pet's waste in the garbage. I'm trying to find a delicate
way to say that people think that poop in compost that
they use in their gardens is gross. Frankly, they are not
wrong.
If you feel that your pet pooh can be composted without
disgust, you are also not wrong. There are techniques and
even equipment available for this very thing.
I strongly encourage you to research the process with a
gardening expert or online to ensure your process and the
"end" product is completely safe.
PROPERTY SERVICES
CAN YADIG IT?
Inspect or dig it up...
We have had several incidents this con-
struction season with homeowners or
contractors not calling for inspections when
connecting to a municipal sewer line or repair-
ing a line involving a connection. Sometimes our
staff will stop by to check in on progress only to
find that the connection was done and covered
with dirt.
Believe us, inspecting the line at the time of
connection or repair saves homeowners and
staff a lot of time and guesswork down the road.
First, if a connection or repair is made without
staff looking at it, homeowners will have to dig
up the site so we can verify that it is connected
properly with the right materials. Most of the
time the work is fine, but if it isn't, it will result
in leaks, infiltration, or service issues. Those is-
sues can be more expensive and time consum-
ing than they are worth.
Second, we maintain records on each connec-
tion. In the past, we relied on an aging sewer
maps to tell us what infrastructure is in the
ground and where it is located. Today, we still
rely on those maps (now electronic), but we also
collect other information, such as photographs
and accurate GPS coordinates. If an interruption
in service occurs, we are better equipped to de-
termine where and why it is occurring by having
primary knowledge of the connection.
Third, if a homeowners decides to sell their
property, buyers can be assured that the sewer
connection is sound.
Even simple repairs on private property should
be inspected too if they involve municipal sewer
lines. Examples include bath-
room renovations, additions,
new construction, a blockage
in your line, pipe break repairs,
tree roots growing through the
line, etc.
Some of the information
that we collect is to ensure
clean outs are installed, back
flow prevention is in place,
and sump pumps are not con-
nected to the municipal sewer
(Sewer By-Law #34, Part E).
Read the sewer application
guidelines for information
or call Engineering & Public
Works (EPW) at 902-275-1312.
• Call EPW to arrange or discuss an inspec-
tion. Keep in mind that it might take us up
to 48 hours to get there.
• Inspections are required (Sewer By-Law
#34, Section C, subsection 9). If the work is
buried before we inspect it, it can be dug
up at the homeowners expense.
• If, after inspection, the service lateral in-
tegrity is questionable, homeowners could
also be required to pay for a video of the
line.
• Visit https://chester.ca/water-sewer/cen-
tral-sewer to view the sewer guidelines
and application as well as information
about the Universal Sewer Charge.
Tweet of the Week
Our most popular post for September...
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
Lands and Forestry ................................................902-634-7555
Public Health .........................................................902-543-0850
Transportation (Bridgewater) ................................902-543-4121
Transportation (Marriotts 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
Community Snapshot
A few things you may have enjoyed or missed...
• To the bottom left - Councillor Abdella Assaff (far left) hands over a cheque to the Together We Can
Society to help with their upcoming projects at the former Gold River/Western Shore Elementary
School site. Pictured beside Councillor Assaff from left to right are Christine Swinimer, Elaine Bark-
house, Gina Green and Adam Kaizer. The group is standing in front of the raised community garden
beds that were installed along with a fire pit and benches.
• Top row (left to right) - We installed new raised community garden beds that are available to residents
with mobility issues. Later this month, we will build five more shorter beds that can be reserved for
use. Call 902-275-4107 for info; Corrine Drolett helped us identify a turtle nesting area on the East
River section of the Chester Connection trail. Awww...; Tina Connors, District #6 Councillor, and War-
den Allen Webber have their photo taken by a barrel made at Ross Farm that commemorates Chester
as the port of arrival for the Ross Family and Fencibles on their way to settle Sherbrooke (New Ross).
The barrel was installed at the Front Harbour; Finally, Croft Road court received some love with a new
surface, basketball nets and posts, and newly painted lines (white for basketball, yellow for pickle-
ball). Still plenty of time to enjoy!
If you have a community photo, please share with us! Email communications@chester.ca