HomeMy Public PortalAbout2023-08_MunicipalInsight (2)-compressedmunicipal insightmunicipal insight
“ “Keeping you informed about August 2023Keeping you informed about August 2023
your municipal government” your municipal government”
During the wildfires in May and June, and then
again in July with widespread flooding, many
of us witnessed first hand the level of commitment
and determination shown by our emergency first
responders and their supports. After fighting the
wildfire in Beech Hill, many of our volunteers took shifts
travelling to assist with wildfire containment efforts in
the Shelburne/Barrington and Tantallon areas. During
the flooding, pumping basements and responding to
motor vehicle accidents were top priority.
There are not enough 'thanks' in the world to
express our gratitude for the efforts made by our first
responders and their families - many of whom are our
neighbours, friends, or relatives. We have and will
continue to recognize your role in keeping us safe.
Rural rire service is more than a pager going off at
2:00 a.m. to put out someone's chimney fire or missing
time with family. Obviously, firefighters extinguish
fires... It's literally in the title, but what isn't in the title?
First of all, volunteerism. Firefighters must be
committed to giving a significant portion of their
time not only to the act of responding to calls, but
to preparedness, educating the public, training,
maintenance, fundraising, operations, administration,
and fire prevention.
Second, training. To be involved in first response,
volunteers must be trained depending on their basic
roles and, many times, additionally trained to take on
special responsibilities. Training includes operating
equipment and vehicles and/or boats; basic firefighting
that includes knowledge of fire behaviour, structures,
and materials; basic medical response; critical incident
management; digital technology operations; hazardous
materials training; and rescue. It takes in excess of 200
hours of training just for basic firefighting skills alone.
Third, risks. Firefighters without the right leadership,
training, and tools could be at risk for injury and even
MOC FIRESERVICES
DISASTER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR STORM FLOODING
Apply for financial relief from the Province of Nova Scotia if you have suffered uninsurable dam-
age or loss from storm flooding. Support is available for small businesses, non-profits and resi-
dential property owners and tenants. visit https://beta.novascotia.ca/disaster-financial-assis-
tance-storm-flooding for eligibility, forms, and how to get help with your application.
death. It's frightening to think of entering a burning
structure without a breathing apparatus, water
supply, or enough hose to reach. This is why our fire
departments need working equipment on scene
(trucks, radios, breathing apparatus, foam, fuel, hose,
bunker gear and protective equipment, monitors,
Jaws of Life, etc) and off scene (computers, insurance,
phone, internet, fire halls with heat, electricity,
decontamination areas, etc.). All of our departments
practice safe procedures. Equipment is expensive but
necessary and will save lives in an emergency. For
example, breathing apparatus and imaging cameras
to help prevent rekindling instances are all within the
$10,000 range, and a pumper truck is $700,000 plus.
Fourth, wisdom. It takes a lot of maturity and courage
to take responsibility for another person's life. Chiefs,
officers, and firefighters must have the sense to know
how to assess a situation and determine whether it
will endanger a life or damage equipment as well as
quickly formulate action plans.
Department Operations
Not all members are required to answer emergency
calls. It takes teamwork to keep things running. Besides
meeting the challenge and excitement of emergency
response as a firefighter or medical first responder,
there are many other ways to help fire departments.
Ways such as financial organization, fundraising, pub-
lic education, information technology, event planning,
facility upkeep, communications, and so much more.
Fire Commissions
Fire Commissions are a group of volunteers that pro-
vide overall governance to fire departments. They set
fire rates so that fire departments are funded, coordi-
nate borrowing for capital purchases, own assets, and
support the fire services in many other legal and ad-
ministrative requirements.
Supporters
Like in any family, there needs to be support. Of
course, there is the love and support of friends and
families. The fire service also needs community sup-
port like that of residents helping at a fundraising
event or showing up at an information session. Some-
times, medical and emotional supports are needed.
Crisis professionals understand the demands and are
trained to provide mental health supports.
Benefits
There seems to be a lot involved in being a volunteer
in the fire service. So why do volunteers do it? It's not
for the big paycheck, so why? Ask anyone in the fire
service that you know. It's rewarding. It gives a sense
of pride and community spirit and provides personal
growth and leadership opportunities. It's about know-
ing you are a part of a team dedicated to helping the
people in your community when they are most vulner-
able. It's very much like being in a family.
There are other benefits, too. Benefits, such as in-
come tax credits, volunteer licence plates, life insur-
ance and Workers Compensation injury and disabil-
ity coverage, family assistance programs, department
and community recognition, and socializing with your
friends and family.
If you are considering volunteering for a fire depart-
ment of commission and have any questions, reach
out to a local member. You can also drop by your local
fire hall, visit www.chesterfire.ca, or call the Munici-
pality of Chester at 902-275-4147.
COUNCIL & GOVERNANCEMessage from
the Warden
It is my privilege to acknowledge
the commitment and dedication
of our fire services throughout
the Municipality. It has been a
challenging past few months,
and they have been there for our
communities and in support of the
Province as a whole. As you know,
they are all volunteers who provide
the service to ensure our safety,
and we should be grateful and
supportive at all times.
As you are likely aware, we have
passed the Capital and Operating
Budget for this upcoming year. This
year was a challenging one with
significant capital projects and the
increased cost of doing business
and purchasing products. We were,
however, able to reduce property
tax rates across the board in effort
to lessen the burden on you, the
rate payers.
We have also included a loan
and support program for energy
efficiency and clean energy projects
for our citizens and continued our
program for well water upgrades
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
2
as well as moving forward on our
community wells program.
Lastly, we are in the final stages of
the Village Land Use Plan Review.
Over the next month, there will be
a number of public consultation
and engagement events.
This is important work that will
impact those who live in the Village
of Chester. It is important that we
hear from you as the final outcome
is meant to reflect your vision of
the community moving forward.
Thank you for your continued
support and commitment to your
local communities.
Respectfully,
Holiday Information: Municipal Offices and Kaizer
Meadow Landfill will close on Monday, August 7 to
observe the civic holiday. Waste collected on that
Monday will be collected on Saturday, August 5.
Municipal Offices and Kaizer Meadow Landfill will
also close on Monday, September 4 to observe La-
bour Day. Waste usually collected on that Monday
will be collected on Saturday, September 2 instead.
Old appliances: If you have an old appliance to dis-
pose of, you can take it to Kaizer Meadow Landfill
for free. If your old appliance is a working refrig-
erator or freezer, Efficiency Nova Scotia will pick it
up for free and pay you $50. Visit their website at
https://www.efficiencyns.ca/residential/services-
rebates/fridge-freezer-recycling/ or call 1-888-
303-2103.
Borgalds Point Road: As a result of an initiative
taken by Borgald’s family descendants, the official
geographic place names for several features in the
Chester Basin area now have an official spelling of
Borgalds (corrected from Borgels) in the Canadian
Geographical Names Database. As a result, Nova
Scotia Department of Public Works has officially
updated the road name spelling to Borgalds.
Burn Safe: Before burning, please check https://
novascotia.ca/burnsafe to see if it's safe. Do not
leave a fire unattended.
Financial support: Council donated $5,000 to Red
Cross to assist residents affected by the wildfires.
Youth Sponsorship: Congratulations to Ainsley
Burgess of Fox Point for participation in the SDTA
North American James L McKenzie & Elspeth
Strathern Highland Scholarship event in Calgary
this September. Council awarded Ainsley $500
through its Youth Sponsorship Fund.
Congratulations to Lauren Boon of New Ross for
participation in the Atlantic Canada Rugby Cham-
pionship in Halifax. Council awarded Lauren $500.
IN BRIEF...
E-PROCUREMENTNOW ONLINE
The Finance and Information Services
Department has implemented a new
electronic bidding system for suppliers.
bids&tenders makes it easy for suppliers
to register for and submit bids on Munici-
pal procurement projects, saving time and
eliminating paper. The system levels the
playing field for all suppliers allowing even
the smallest firms to respond professional-
ly with proposals and quotes to invitational
and open competition. Registration is free
for plan takers.
Suppliers are invited to create a system
account to be notified of bid opportunities
that match the goods and service codes
of their choice. Bid opportunities and pro-
curement support can be accessed on the
Municipal website at: https://chester.ca/
government/procurement.
The Provincial Government provides many services to Nova Scotians. It's not always easy to find
contact information, so we have composed a list of common telephone numbers for departments for
your reference.
Call 211 or visit www.ns.211.ca for a listing of all residential programs and services, such as emergency
funding, credit counselling, employment, support groups, housing, pension, and much more.
Department of Community Services 1-877-424-1177
Child Abuse Registry checks for volunteers ...........................902-424-6798
Child Welfare Services ...........................................................902-543-4554
Income Assistance .................................................................902-543-4554
Department of Education 902-424-5168
South Shore Regional Centre for Education ..........................902-541-3000
Department of Finance and Treasury Board 902-424-5554
Consumer complaints ............................................................902-424-5613
Insurance enquiries ...............................................................902-424-6331
Pension regulation .................................................................902-424-8915
Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration 1-844-424-5301
Apprenticeship Program (Bridgewater) .................................902-943-3699
Employment rights ................................................................888-315-0110
Labour Standard ....................................................................902-424-4311
Occupational Health & Safety ...............................................800-952-2687
Technical Safety ....................................................................902-424-5400
Workplace Innovation Incentive ...........................................844-850-2030
Youth Employment Programs ..............................................800-424-5418
Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing 902-424-6642
Emergency Management Office ...........................................902-424-5620
Office of the Fire Marshal .....................................................902-424-5721
Department of Natural Resources & Renewables 902-634-7555
Wildlife, forestry, energy efficiency and development, Crown land, burning, geoscience, provincial
parks, off-highway vehicles, etc.
Department of Public Works (formerly Transportation) 1-844-696-7737
Department of Seniors and Long-Term Care 1-844-277-0770
Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives 902-424-4415
Nova Scotia Environment & Climate Change 902-543-4685
Blue-green algae, drinking water, pollution, water testing, private wells, hazardous materials, food
safety, groundwater, etc.
PROVINCIAL CONTACTS
Residential $0.695 (-1¢)
Commerical $1.500 (-3 ¢)
Resource $0.695 (-1¢)
3
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Best Of Nova Scotia in one place... www.investchester.ca
FULL CIRCLE
SOLUTIONS
Environmental
at Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park
The Municipality of Chester is pleased to welcome
Full Circle Environmental Solutions as the newest tenant
at the Kaizer Meadow Industrial Park. The company purchased
the former Rainbow Net and Rigging building and 4 acres of property
at 59 Rainbow Drive. Full Circle Environmental Solutions is employing
a patented technology to safely recycle tires using a high-pressure wa-
ter system. This method would turn the rubber into a powder form in
order to be recycled back into new tires. The company is planning to
kick-off operations near the end of this year or beginning of 2024.
Own a business in Own a business in the Municipality the Municipality of Chester?of Chester?
Register with our Business Directory at chester.
ca/business-directory and have access to
thousands of views per month!
Upload photos, link reviews, post your menu
and link to your social media account. Edit your
listing at anytime!
For information, call 902-275-4161 or email
ecodev@chester.ca.
MUNICIPALMUNICIPALBUDGETBUDGET
$31,272,251
2023-24
total budget
tax rates tax rates
area rates area rates
Universal sewer rate $691.20
Waste collection $0.1205
Mill Cove Fire $0.2800
www.chester.ca/budget
capital projectscapital projects
• Trail bridge repairs
• Sidewalks
• Trail surface upgrades
• Wastewater extension
at Mill Cove
• Heavy equipment
• Leachate treatment
plant at Kaizer Meadow
• Reno at Wild Rose Park
(washroom)
• Paved shoulders (Vaughn
Rd. to Martins River)
4
EQUITY, EQUALITY, JUSTICE
Strengthening equity within our organization and beyond
The Municipality of Chester recognizes that
our services and programs should be acces-
sible to all in our Municipality who need them,
not just some. We are working towards eliminat-
ing barriers where we can, both within our orga-
nization and in our communities. Below are some
structures we have put in place so far.
EDI Advisory Committee
In 2021, Municipal Council approved the for-
mation of an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
Advisory Committee to provide the Municipality
with advice and support. Six community mem-
bers and two Councillors were selected to sit on
the Committee, and the first meeting was held in
January 2022.
Much of the Committee's focus is centred
around its Action Plan. The Plan describes the
Committee's goals, priorities, and actions to un-
dertake throughout the year. It is updated annu-
ally with completed actions replaced with new
actions. Community input is always welcome and
the Plan can be viewed online at https://www.
voicesandchoices.ca/inclusion-means-everyone
or in person by calling 902-275-4107 or emailing
communications@chester.ca.
The EDI Advisory Committee also serves to help
promote diversity, eliminate discrimination, en-
gage the community, and raise awareness through
education.
Internal Practices
To facilitate change, we need to look within. We
have to rethink how we traditionally operate. That
includes:
• Reviewing policies and by-laws to eliminate
exclusive language and to incorporate more
inclusive practices.
• Expanding procedures and systems, such
as hiring, to make sure everyone can be in-
cluded.
• Having and using assistive tools and applica-
tions to reduce accessiblity barriers during
daily operations, meetings, and programs.
• Providing training to staff to broaden under-
standing and prepare them when delivering
services.
Regional Anti-Racism Committee
Council agreed to enter into a Memorandum of
Understanding with the other municipal units in
Lunenburg County to strike an anti-racism com-
mittee with a regional lead-person. This is still in
the works.
Lunenburg County Accessibility Plan
We have partnered with the rest of the mu-
COMMUNITY INTEREST
nicipal units in Lunenburg County to establish
and implement a regional accessibility plan. Each
unit, including ours, will be audited and individual
plans developed. We have completed our audit
and developed a good portion of our plan. View
a copy of the Lunenburg County Plan at https://
www.accessiblelunenburgcounty.ca.
Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities
The Municipality of Chester became a mem-
ber of the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities in
2022. The Coalition is a network of municipalities
that want to improve their policies against racism,
exclusion, and intolerance under the umbrella of
the Canadian Commission for UNESCO (United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Orga-
nization).
Membership gives the Municipality a broader
voice and provides us with supports and resourc-
es to help us in our efforts. To learn more about
the Coalition and UNESCO, please visit https://
en.ccunesco.ca.
We aren't perfect by any means and, granted,
we still have a very long way to go, but we are try-
ing and we are paying attention and we are learn-
ing more and more each day.
GHOST GEAR
Coastal Action will embark on its fourth season of Ghost Gear retriev-
al and expand its work into new regions. Cleanup efforts will be in the
Prince Edward Island, Southwest Newfoundland, Cape Breton and Southwest
Nova Scotia areas with high concentrations of abandoned, lost, or otherwise
discarded fishing gear (ALDFG).
Coastal Action will partner with the fishing industry and other environmen-
tal groups, as well as engage communities, to accomplish these cleanups.
Promoting responsible end-of-life gear opportunities and expanding recycling
options for rope and other gear in Atlantic Canada is also a key focus.
Recycling most of the gear retrieved this year will be possible through part-
nerships with Sustane, Fishing Gear Coalition of Atlantic Canada, and Ocean
Legacy Foundation. Sustane is based in the Municipality of Chester and will
accept rope and net, as well as rigid plastics and films, to convert into diesel
fuel and naphtha, a flammable liquid hydrocarbon that’s often used as a sol-
vent or as a raw ingredient in plastics production.
The Fishing Gear Coalition of Atlantic Canada (FGCAC) is based in Dart-
mouth and will recycle metal lobster traps and crab pots. They will also accept
dragger cable and lead line used in recycling pilot projects in other provinces.
FGCAC will also recycle rope and netting collected in Newfoundland into con-
sumer products.
Ocean Legacy Foundation, based in Richmond, BC, recently expanded its
recycling facilities to Nova Scotia. Ocean Legacy will recycle rope back into
pellets for Canadian plastics manufacturing. Ocean Legacy will also partner
with Coastal Action to facilitate an end-of-life rope takeback program with the
commercial fishing fleet.
If you have some rope to dispose of, please reach out! We are happy to
help you divert it from the landfill. Please contact Coastal Action, sign up for
our newsletter, or get involved by becoming a volunteer. Visit https://www.
coastalaction.org/ghost-gear.html or call 902-634-9977.
Placing household
garbage at public
waste stations is
illegal, expensive,
and unnecessary.
5
Saturday, Aug. 5
Dinostories: 3
Prehistoric Fairy
Tales
is presented by Chester Playhouse at St.
Stephen's Church, 11am. For info/ tickets,
visit www.chesterplayhouse.ca or call 902-
275-3933.
Nikki Payne
performs standup at Chester Legion,
presented by Chester Playhouse (19+),
7:30pm. For info/ tickets, visit www.
chesterplayhouse.ca or call 902-275-3933.
Sunday, Aug. 6 Summer Concert
Series
Chester Brass Band at Chester Bandstand,
7:00-8:30pm. Bring a chair.
Saturday, Aug. 12 Country at the Cross New Ross Community Bandstand, 4-6pm.
Sat., Aug. 12 &
Sun., Aug. 13
New Waterford Boy:
A Ceilidh
Presented by Chester Playhouse at Chester
Legion (August 12, 7:30pm and August
13, 2:00pm). For info/ tickets, visit www.
chesterplayhouse.ca or call 902-275-3933.
Sunday, Aug. 13
Summer Concert
Series
Tuesday Night Band at Chester Bandstand,
7:00-8:30pm. Bring a chair.
Blueberry Supper Forties Community Centre, 4-6pm. Call 902-
689-2000 or email fortiescc@gmail.com.
Sunday, Aug. 20 Summer Concert
Series
Chester Brass Band at Chester Bandstand,
7:00-8:30pm. Bring a chair.
Saturday, Aug. 26
Chester Playhouse
Grand Re-opening
Celebration
Free street party for all from 1:30-
5:00pm with Welcome Home Concert at
8:00pm (sold out). For info, visit www.
chesterplayhouse.ca or call 902-275-3933.
Sunday, Aug. 27 Summer Concert
Series
Mahone Bay Swing Band at Chester
Bandstand, 7:00-8:30pm. Bring a chair.
Mondays
Coffee & Breakfast Hubbards Area Lions Club.
TOPS meeting New Ross Legion, 5:45-7:00pm.
Tuesdays Picnic in the Park Lordly Park. See poster below for times.
Wednesdays Auction 45s Little Red School, 7:30pm.
Thursdays
Bingo Hubbards Area Lions Club, 7:00pm. Mini-
bingo starts at 6:30pm.
Bingo New Ross Legion, 7-10pm.
Fridays
Chester Farmers' &
Artisans Market
Old Train Station, 9:00am-12:30pm. Every
Friday until October 6. Visit www.facebook.
com/ChesterFarmersandArtisanMarket or
www.chesterfarmersmarket.wordpress.com
or email chesterseasidemarket@gmail.com.
Friday Night Live New Ross Legion, 8:30pm.
Saturdays Hubbards Farmers'
Market
Hubbards Barn & Community Park, 8am-
12pm. Every Saturday until October 28. Visit
www.hubbardsbarn.org or www.facebook.
com/HubbardsBarn.
COMMUNITY INTEREST
TOURNEY, A STROKE OF GENIUS
Successful fundraising golf tournament par for the course
Another day, another 26,168 dollars. Golf 4 Charity
held a successful golf tournament on June 10 at
the Chester Golf Club. Proceeds from the 36-team (144
person) tournament were given to the East Chester Rec-
reation Association (ECRA). The lead organizer, Robert
Stevens, submitted an update and thanks to volunteers,
participants, and donors.
"The grand total was $26,168.35. Once expenses were
paid out and $500 donated to Junior Golf in Chester and
$500 to the Little Red School House in Canaan, the total
donated to the (ECRA) Hall was $19,500.
There was a putting contest that made $570 with thanks
to Randy Dagley, Brian Hume, and Calvin Awalt. A BBQ
(donation only) raised $682 with thanks to Darcy Ste-
vens, Elizabeth Heisler, Teena Murphy-Bond, and Blaine
Bond. A 50-50 table, run by Grace Smith, Shannon Beck,
Emily Bremner, and Noah Thompson, raised $436. Win-
ner was Barry Stanhope.
We want to thank Chester Golf Club for allowing us to
put this event on. Thanks to Alex Egan, Dan Fraser, and
staff. A huge thanks to Grace Smith for working side-by-
side with me (Robert) the whole time. A big thanks to our
major sponsors: Kati and Jason at Spidle's Independent;
Mike Lunn at South Shore Sand & Gravel; Lloyd Bonang,
Dan Steel, and Kent Knickerson at South Shore Ready
Mix; and Mike Fowler of South Shore Concrete Products;
Darrin Bond of Captain Kidd Rod & Gun Club; Troy Nauss
or Black & McDonald; and Colin and Carol Hanson-Mac-
Donald.
We couldn't have done it without our volunteers on the
day of this event, so
thanks very much for
putting up and taking
down tents. Thanks
Paul Drake, Devin
Gale, Randy Dagley,
Gordon Bremner, Lew-
is Hinks, and Buzz Mc-
Innis. Thank you Nata-
lie at Chester Building
Supplies for lending us
the tents and to Ches-
ter Municipal Recre-
ation for lending us
the other tent. Also,
thanks to Jacklyn Levy
at Collicutt's Lumber &
Building Supply.
Women's Champions
are Kelly McKnight,
Gail Mitchell, Ann
Lindsay, and Debra
Bond. Men's Champi-
ons are Steve Foran,
Ashley Bushen, Matt
Fraughton, and Ivan
Fitch. Mixed Champions are Patrick Frasher, Cory Peter-
son, Jon Richardson, and Allison Collicutt.
Thanks to all of our Hole Sponsors (including the Mu-
nicipality of Chester), thanks to all on our In Memory Of
board, and thanks to all of our Friends of Golf 4 Charity
Board.
Finally, thanks to all who braved the cold rain that was
at times nasty. We also cannot forget Kate Callaghan with
the silent "g" (right, dad) for her service on the beverage
cart. I hope that I didn't forget anyone; if so, I'm sorry."
Thanks to you, Robert, for being an outstanding person.
In the last four years, Golf 4 Charity has raised a total of
$63,068 for local charities.
If you have a private well, it is
strongly recommended that you
test your drinking water source
for bacteria after a flood.
Testing bottles are available at
the Municipal Office in Chester
and many NS Health locations.
Visit nshealth.ca/water-testing
PROPERTY SERVICES
6
WASTE COLLECTION NOTICES:
1. Please break your cardboard down and tie it in 2' x 2' x 3'bundle before placing it at the curb.
2. The waste collector cannot pick up propane tanks, tires, household hazardous waste, items containing
Freon (refigerators, freezers, air conditioners, etc.), or e-waste (computers, tvs, stereos, etc.) during
regular pickup. Check the 2023 Waste Collection Calendar or www.chester.ca for details.
NEW PROGRAM FOR HOMEOWNERS
Improve home's energy efficiency with Clean Energy Financing
Homeowners in the Municipality of Ches-
ter who want to improve their home’s
energy efficiency and reduce their power
bills can now apply to the Municipality’s new
Clean Energy Financing (CEF) program.
Upgrades eligible for financing could in-
clude installing heat pumps, improving your
home’s insulation, and much more.
Clean Energy Financing might be right for
you if:
• You own a detached, semi-detached,
or row house (multi-unit buildings are
not eligible for the program).
• You are worried about the cost of heat-
ing your home.
• You are not sure which energy up-
grades might be right for you.
• You would prefer to finance any up-
grades you make.
• You need help applying for rebates.
Through CEF, you can finance up to $40,000
in home energy upgrades. The financing term
is 10 years, but there’s no penalty for paying
off the financing early, and the program makes
sure you get access to all the rebates you are
eligible for.
To learn more about the program and apply
online, visit cleanenergyfinancing.ca/chester
or call 1-844-727-7818.
Kaizer Meadow Landfill added a new family
member early this year. A new compactor re-
places the old CAT 826, which was purchased in 2011
and had approximately 20,000 hours clocked on it.
The typical trade-in is at 10,000 hours, so we had a
good run! Unfortunately, the CAT caught on fire and
was taken out of commission for good last year. The
cost of a rebuild was estimated to be a minimum of
$800,000. Given the age of our machine and cost
compared to a new purchase, we opted for a new
machine.
Our TANA, built in Finland and the first in NS, was
scheduled to arrive in December, but shipping de-
lays meant we couldn't test drive until February. In
between compactors, we were able to rent an older
compactor from Otter Lake, the waste facility serv-
ing Halifax Regional Municpiality (many thanks to
Mirror NS).
There is a big difference between the two ma-
chines. The TANA compactor is guaranteed to in-
crease compaction by 10%, but most landfills are
seeing anywhere from 15 to 25% compaction, which
means more savings in the cost of pricey landfill
cells. Maintenance access and fuel savings adds to
the value. Welcome to Kaizer Meadow, TANA!
WELCOME, TANA!
PROPERTY SERVICES
7
Recyclable paper is like a picnic.
Clean plastic is like ants.
The two don't mix.
(hint: put your clean paper in a separate
recycling bag)
Waste Collection Waste Collection starts at 7:00 a.m.starts at 7:00 a.m.
VILLAGE REVIEW UPDATE
Work on the Village Review is progressing
well and there are big milestones planned
this year, with the goal of having the new docu-
ments adopted and in effect by the end of 2023.
Staff are currently in the midst of preparing a
draft of the Secondary Planning Strategy and Land
Use By-law for presentation to Council and the
public. This work is expected to be completed by
Spring or early Summer. Following presentation of
the drafts to Council, staff will make the draft doc-
uments available to the public for a period of at
least one month. During this time, staff will host
several engagement sessions for anyone who is
interested in learning about the draft documents
and providing feedback in that setting (see poster
on page 6). During this period, anyone will be able
to submit comments directly to staff via email
(planning@chester.ca), in person at the Commu-
nity Development & Recreation office or through
the Voices and Choices project website (www.
voicesandchoices.ca/villagereview).
The draft documents aim to preserve much of
Since our last report, we received these online
inquiries.
Road sign knocked over: Two residents notified us
that their respective road signs were damaged through
no fault of their own. Public Works staff will reinstall
them.
Waste receptacles overflowing: A resident reported
that one of our public waste containers was overflowing
with garbage. Thank you for notifying us, and thank
you to our Public Works staff who took care of it!
Illegal dumping: We had three reports of waste
illegally dumped. One instance was at a public waste
site meant for litter and the other two were roadside.
Not sure who needs to hear this, but illegal dumping
is against the law (hence the term 'illegal dumping').
Under provincial legislation, anyone dumping waste
in any location other than their own home or at the
Landfill is doing so illegally. It costs us money, which
means it costs property owners money. Any notion of
'the Municipality can afford it' is misguided because
it's taxpayers who are footing the unnecessary cost in
the end.
Wayward shopping carts: We received a complaint
about two shopping carts abandoned at a trail crossing.
Public Works staff removed the carts.
Missed recyclables: Some recyclable waste was
inadvertantly missed during collection. The collector
returned to pick it up. Sorry about that!
Noise complaint: We received a complaint about
noisy construction starting too early. The Noise By-Law
restricts loud noise between the hours of 11:00 p.m.
and 7:00 a.m.
Broken equipment: A piece of equipment broke at
one of our playgrounds. Thank you to the
person who reported it! We are awaiting
the arrival of parts to repair the item.
Trail art vandalized: A trail user reported that one of
the art installments on the trail was vandalized. At first
we were pretty mad, but then we were disappointed.
In the end, we are just confused as to why things that
bring people happiness are destroyed. Maybe it's
because the people destroying it are unhappy and just
want company. Whatever the reason, we cleaned up
the mess and are working on having the piece repaired
so people can resume being happy. To the vandals,
we're not mad anymore. We forgive you, so feel free
to make up for what you did by volunteering. You can
email us at communications@chester.ca.
Trail width: We received an inquiry about the
width of the trail. We are required by the Province to
maintain a gate width of 66".
Trail requests: A washout on the trail in Chester was
reported. Thank you, and it has been dealt with.
Another request was made by a trail user to post
etiquette signs for cyclists. We are looking into signage
consistent with other areas.
Litter clean up: We received a request to clean up
litter at various locations. We are in dialogue with
the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works. In the
meantime, we are picking up litter at the Skate Park in
Chester.
Power at Wild Rose Park: We received a concern
from residents in the Western Shore area about no
lights in the evening at Wild Rose Park. We were doing
work in the area and needed to turn the power off. We
wlll post a notice next time. Sorry!
Municipal Float: A complaint was made about a boat
tied to a municipal float longer than the by-law allows.
The owner was contacted, and the boat was relocated.
REGISTER A COMPLIMENT OR COMPLAINT BY:
Calling 902-275-3554. Leaving your name is
optional.
Emailing the Clerk at pmyra@chester.ca
Filling in our online form on our website at www.
chester.ca/uhoh
Coming to see us at 151 King Street in Chester.
BOSSBOSS oror BUSTBUST Requests: We received some other online requests
that are more routine, including
• green cart replacement/repair x 58
• extra collection of public waste bin
• information request re Council composition
• recreation program registration
• request for policy information
• tax information x 3
• questions about zoning x 2
• Building Code inquiries
• local events x 2
• locations for electric vehicle charging x 2
Sometimes we receive requests that belong to
other organizations so we do not have authority to
act. We generally recommend reaching out to those
organizations. We had these requests:
• Internet (service provider and/or Develop NS)
• Tancook Ferry schedule (NS Dept of Public
Works)
• Speed signs and dust control (NS Dept of Public
Works)
• Ditch clogged (NS Dept of Public Works)
• Snow plowing of private road (homeowners
association, if one is present)
• Social media scam (RCMP)
• Knotweed control (NS Dept of Public Works)
Keep an eye out for these signs
in your neighbourhood.
They are available from the Recreation Of-
fice and your local Councillor. Please drop in
or call ahead to reserve yours!
the existing land use and historic character of the
Village, while updating and reflecting changes to
a variety of issues including housing availability,
parking requirements, density in specific areas,
reintroduction of the use of development agree-
ments for more complex developments and re-
vised architectural controls aimed at maintaining
existing character and design, without overly bur-
dening or increasing the cost of construction.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions
or comments regarding the Village Review. The
project website will continue to be updated and
once available the draft documents will be post-
ed for download (paper copies will also be made
available at the Municipal office for loan).
Tweet of the Week
Our most popular post for June...
LinkedIn: Find us on LinkedIn by searching "Municipality of Chester"
and get the latest updates on municipal careers, opportunities for
business and development, and community investment news.
Twitter: We will deactivate our Twitter account at the end of July due
to low engagement and viewer restrictions.
Facebook: Search ChesterMunicipality or ChesterRecParks 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 chestermunicipality 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!
District #1
East Chester, East River to Northwest Cove
Andre Veinotte 902-277-1409
District #2
Simms Settlement, Hubbards to The Lodge
Floyd Shatford 902-275-7868
District #3
Chester and part of East Chester
Derek Wells 902-277-2263
District #4
Chester Basin and Chester Grant
Allen Webber 902-275-8373
Municipal Districts and CouncillorsMunicipal Districts and Councillors
District #5
Gold River to Martins River, including
Beech Hill
Abdella Assaff 902-277-2765
District #6
New Ross
Tina Connors 902-277-1095
District #7
Middle River to Haddon Hill/Windsor Road to
Sherwood
Sharon Church 902-277-1301
Contact Us!Contact Us!
Community Development & Recreation
Building Services/By-Law 902-275-3080
Planning/Fire Inspection Services 902-275-2599
Recreation & Parks 902-275-3490
Finance & Information Services
General Inquiries 902-275-3554
Taxation Services (incl Rebates) 902-275-3554
FOIPOP Officer 902-275-3554
Infrastructure & Operations
Public Works/Wastewater 902-275-1312
Solid Waste/Landfill 902-275-2330
Corporate & Strategic Management
General Inquiries 902-275-4147
Communications 902-275-4107
Council Inquiries 902-275-4109
Economic Development 902-275-4138
WALK-IN CLINIC HOURS (August)
Mondays CLOSED (every Monday)
Tuesdays 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. (August 1, 22, 29)
CLOSED (August 8 & 15)
Wednesdays 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. (every Wednesday)
Thursdays 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and
4:00 - 8:00 p.m. (every Thursday)
Fridays 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (every Friday)
Saturdays CLOSED (August 5 & 12)
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (August 19 & 26)
Sundays CLOSED (every Sunday)
1-902-273-2098
• Call 30 minutes before
each shift
• appointment required
• wear a mask
Check out the other amazing
programs and services at
Our Health Centre at
www.ourhealthcentre.ca, or
drop in and pick up a copy of the
monthly newsletter, The BUZZ.
We are located at
3769 Highway #3, Chester.