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HomeMy Public PortalAbout2017-07-06_COW_Public_Agenda PackagePage 1 of 2 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE AGENDA Thursday,July 6,2017 Chester Municipal Council Chambers 151 King Street, Chester, NS 1.MEETING CALLED TO ORDER. 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS. 3.PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (8:45 A.M.–9:00 A.M.) 4.MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: 4.1.Committee of the Whole –June 15, 2017 5.MATTERS ARISING: 5.1 Request for Decision prepared by CAO dated June 16, 2017 regarding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)–Sherbrooke Lake. 5.2 Presentation by Sam Lamey and Derek Wells regarding Estate of Daniel Haughn (appointment at 10:00 a.m.) 6.CORRESPONDENCE: 6.1 Presentation by “Together We Can Community” (TWCC) and Bluenose Coastal Action foundation regarding former Gold River Western Shore School property (appointment at 9:00 a.m.). 6.2 Email from Lynn Myra regarding former Gold River Western Shore School Property. 6.3 Presentation by Michael O’Connor regarding Church Memorial Park (appointment at 9:30 a.m.). 7.NEW BUSINESS: 7.1 Request for Decision prepared by CAO dated June 23, 2017 regarding Feasibility Study –Internet Infrastructure/Services. 7.2 Church Memorial Park -Grant (referred from Council –June 22, 2017) 7.3 Memo from Director of Community Development regarding sponsorship grant. 7.4 Gold River Western Shore School Property –Playground Update. Page 2 of 2 7.5 Request for Decision prepared by Municipal Clerk dated June 13, 2017 regarding Mileage Policies –Council and Staff. 7.6 CAO Update –Strategic Priorities Update –June 16, 2017. 8.IN CAMERA. 9.ADJOURNMENT. APPOINTMENTS ARRANGED 9:00 a.m.Gina Green, TWCC, and Brooke Nodding,Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation, regarding former Gold River Western Shore School Property (Item 6.1) 9:30 a.m.Michael O’Connor regarding Church Memorial Park (Item 6.3) 10:00 a.m.Sam Lamey and Derek Wells regarding Estate of Daniel Haughn (Item 5.2) Request For Decision Prepared By:Tammy Wilson, CAO Date June 16, 2017 Reviewed By:Date Authorized By:Date CURRENT SITUATION The Municipality of the District of Chester (MODC) and the District of Lunenburg (MODL) entered into an Memorandum of Understanding respecting the use and development of PID 60477047 and60644440 for Pubic Access. Section 4 of the MOU establishes a Park Advisory Committee. The composition of the Committee is three representatives from MODC and three from MODL. The members may be public or council members. Each unit appoints their representative. A decision is required respecting the representatives from MODC. RECOMMENDATION Recommendation to Council/Committee BACKGROUND MODC and MODL signed a MOU respecting the use of lands of MODL that are in the District of Chester. This MOU establishes a Park Advisory Committee whose terms of reference are noted in Section 4.03 as advisory, and cover the following: -key design elements -consultation with immediate and adjacent neighbors in the development of the design elements -overseeing the design of the open space -consulting with the larger community on the final design -presenting a draft design to MODL and MODC -Recommend final design to MODL -Provide advice to MODL Council on operation of the park once developed. Each municipal unit has 3 representatives, and they may be pubic or municipal representatives. REPORT TO:Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY:Tammy Wilson DATE:June 16, 2017 SUBJECT:Sherbrooke Lake Access Advisory Committee ORIGIN:MOU re Sherbrooke Lake 2 REQUEST FOR DECISION/Direction DISCUSSION There was significant interest in this matter by the Public which lead to the establishment of the MOU. Staff anticipate that there is an expectation that the public will have an opportunity to represent MODC on this committee. It is understood that MODL has decided to have 1 Council representative and 2 public representatives represent MODL on this Committee. Once a decision is made as to composition, a recruitment process will be undertaken (assuming there are public representatives). The Nominating Committee will then be tasked with reviewing applications and making a recommendation to Council as to the appointments. IMPLICATIONS Please provide general overview of implications in this cell. Policy N/A Financial/Budgetary No financial or budgetary impact Environmental N/A Strategic Plan The Sherbrooke Lake Project is within the work program for Recreation as noted on the Strategic Priorities Chart. Work Program Implications This is within the existing work program OPTIONS The following options are provided 1.All committee members are public (3) 2.All Committee members are municipal representatives (3) 3.One Council representative; two public 4.Two Council representatives, one public ATTACHMENTS MOU between MODL and MODC COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) If there are to be public representatives on the Committee, a public recruitment process will be undertaken. Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e GR W S S c h o o l S i t e Ju l y 6 , 2 0 1 7 Ag e n d a Ba c k g r o u n d To g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y ( T W C C ) Wh o a r e w e ? Wh a t h a v e w e b e e n u p t o ? Pa r t n e r s h i p w i t h B l u e n o s e C o a s t a l A c t i o n Fo u n d a t i o n Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e Ne x t S t e p s Ba c k g r o u n d Ju n e 2 0 th – P u b l i c I n f o r m a t i o n M e e t i n g # 1 Ba c k g r o u n d Ju l y 1 1 th – P u b l i c I n f o r m a t i o n M e e t i n g # 2 Ba c k g r o u n d Co m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t Ba c k g r o u n d Ju l y 2 0 1 6 – d e c i s i o n m a d e t o d e m o l i s h t h e s c h o o l Ma y 2 0 1 7 – s c h o o l i s d e m o l i s h e d To g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y (T W C C ) To g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y (W S A I A S u b - C o m m i t t e e ) Th e T o g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y i s a g r o u p in t e r e s t e d i n t r a n s f o r m i n g t h e s i t e o f t h e f o r m e r Go l d R i v e r / W e s t e r n S h o r e E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l in t o a u n i q u e s p a c e a n d e x p e r i e n c e f o r t h e en j o y m e n t o f t h e e n t i r e c o m m u n i t y a n d a l l o u r gu e s t s . W e a r e a s u b - c o m m i t t e e o f t h e W e s t e r n Sh o r e & A r e a I m p r o v e m e n t A s s o c i a t i o n . OU R C O M M U N I T Y I S OU R T R E A S U R E To g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y Co - C h a i r s - G i n a G r e e n & B r e n d o n M o s h e r Se c r e t a r y - H e a t h e r B r o o k e r Co m m u n i c a t i o n s – H e a t h e r B r o o k e r & G i n a G r e e n Tr e a s u r e r s – E l a i n e B a r k h o u s e & A d a m K a i z e r Te l e p h o n e T r e e – P a u l e t t e S a w l e r WS A I A C h a i r – R o y C o n r a d Ch r i s t i n e S w i n e m a r Le e S w i n a m e r Ca r o l S w i n a m e r He l e n M c N e i l Yo u t h M e m b e r s Br i t t a n y D o r e y Ma d i s o n G r e e n To g e t h e r W e C a n C o m m u n i t y (T W C C ) My T i m e Li v e E n t e r t a i n m e n t So c i a l I n t e r a c t i o n Id e a s f r o m C o m m u n i t y Id e a s f r o m C o m m u n i t y Id e a s f r o m C o m m u n i t y De d i c a t i o n t o t h e P a s t Pa r t n e r s h i p w i t h B l u e n o s e C o a s t a l Ac t i o n F o u n d a t i o n To g e t h e r W e Ca n C o m m u n i t y Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e Ph a s e 1 Gr e e n S p a c e Pi c n i c A r e a Be n c h e s Co m m u n i t y G a r d e n Wa l k i n g T r a c k Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e St e p 1 – D e s i g n ( D e c 2 0 1 7 ) Wo r k i n g t o c r e a t e t h e f u t u r e Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e St e p 2 – C o m m u n i c a t i o n s ( F e b – D e c 2 0 1 8 ) Pu b l i c i t y o f f u t u r e w o r k , s h a r e t h e f u l l c o n c e p t d r awings En g a g e v o l u n t e e r s t o w o r k o n t h e s i t e Co n n e c t i o n w i t h s e r v i c e o r g a n i z a t i o n s We l c o m e s i g n a g e (D e d i c a t i o n t o t h e P a s t ) Pl a n n i n g w i t h O 2 S t u d e n t s a t F o r r e s t H e i g h t s S c h o o l Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e St e p 3 – S i t e P r e p a r a t i o n ( A p r - A u g 2 0 1 8 ) Re m o v e A s p h a l t Fe n c i n g a n d g a t e s r e p l a c e m e n t Gr a d e a n d h y d r o s e e d a n d d r a i n a g e Ou r V i s i o n f o r t h e F u t u r e St e p 4 – T r a c k C o n s t r u c t i o n ( S e p t – N o v 2 0 1 8 ) In c l u d e s m a p p i n g Cr u s h e r d u s t Wa l k i n g l o o p / t r a c k Wo r l d H e a l t h O r g a n i z a t i o n S a y s … An A g e F r i e n d l y C o m m u n i t y I n c l u d e s : 1. Ho u s i n g 2. Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n 3. So c i a l P a r t i c i p a t i o n 4. Ou t d o o r s p a c e s a n d b u i l d i n g s 5. Co m m u n i t y s u p p o r t a n d h e a l t h s e r v i c e s 6. Ci v i c p a r t i c i p a t i o n a n d e m p l o y m e n t 7. Re s p e c t a n d s o c i a l i n c l u s i o n Ou r V i s i o n f o r “ G o l d R i v e r / W e s t e r n S h o r e – G r e e n S p a c e ” in c l u d e s A L L e x c e p t H o u s i n g Be n e f i t s Co m m u n i t y d r i v e n o p e n s p a c e Su p p o r t f r o m g o v e r n m e n t , b u s i n e s s e s a n d i n d i v i d u a l co n t r i b u t i o n s b o t h i n - k i n d a n d f i n a n c i a l s u p p o r t Op p o r t u n i t y f o r m e n t o r i n g f r o m c o m m u n i t y me m b e r s a n d b u s i n e s s e s t o b u i l d f o r t h e f u t u r e Re s u l t i n v o l u n t e e r s , s o c i a l p a r t i c i p a t i o n a n d co m m u n i t y s u p p o r t Ag e f r i e n d l y p r o j e c t f o r t h e e n t i r e c o m m u n i t y t o b e in v o l v e d i n Ne x t S t e p s We n e e d a p p r o v a l o f C o u n c i l t o m o v e f o r w a r d We n e e d C o u n c i l t o a s s i s t w i t h f u n d i n g a p p l i c a t i o n s i n te r m s o f l e t t e r s o f s u p p o r t We w o u l d l i k e t o w o r k t o g e t h e r t o e n g a g e t h e p u b l i c at a to w n h a l l m e e t i n g We w o u l d l i k e t o p r o m o t e t h i s t o t h e r e s i d e n t s w i t h the he l p o f t h e c o u n c i l n o t i c e s , n e w s l e t t e r s a n d s o c i a l m edia Wh a t d o e s T W C C n e e d t o m a k e a f o r m a l c o m m i t m e n t w i t h MO D C t o s e c u r e t h i s p r o j e c t f o r t h e f u t u r e ? June 26, 2017 To Chester Municipal Council Firstly, we would like to praise the excellent work done by the Municipal staff in re-storing “Wild Rose Park” in Western Shore after the latest effects the weather had on it. We are writing in concern of the property of the former Gold River –Western Shore Elementary School. We are not sure of the municipality intent with this property but we would like to propose that the land be used as a Public Park for the residents of our community and as well as visitors to the area. When we watched the demolition of our former school, it was heart breaking. We feel if the land is used for low income housing or senior housing for instance, that it will no longer be available for use by our children, youth or seniors. I often take my Grand-daughter there to play on the equipment, where we meet many other community members, other Grand-parents, parents, children who enjoy being active on the play ground. It also allows for the grownups to socialize. We would like to see the playground equipment maintained, the upper field kept mowed, allowing it to be used by our children and adults alike. The upper field could be used for playing soccer, housing garden parties, or even farmers markets. The installation of park benches, picnic tables where parents, Grand-parents and seniors could sit and watch their children playing or just enjoy the beautiful ocean view. It could be possible to have these benches/picnic tables paid for by residents who would like to purchase them in memory of a loved one. This was done at the: Wild Rose Park”, where a plaque was placed in memory of their loved one on the bench or picnic table. Since there should be access to a water supply and sewer from the former school, then maybe there could also be washrooms installed as well. The former land at Gold River –Western Shore School could be used as a focal point and gathering place for our residents and visitors, giving us something to be proud of since our school and community hub were taken from us. We would also like to propose that the park be named after my husband and our father and former Councilor for District #5 for nearly 20 years, the Late Robert Myra. It would be a great tribute in memory of someone who was very devoted to and loved his community and the people who lived there. Robert worked very hard to keep our school from being closed and we are sure that he is looking down now and watching what is being done with it. We hope you take this into consideration when you decide the fate of the former Gold River –Western Shore School property. We realize this all will cost money and in this time of restraint, we believe that there could be grants available to help with the expenses. When the play ground equipment was first put at the school, there was a Gold River Action Team, which I was a member of that was able to access various grants from different government groups to purchase the items. We are available to sit on any committee, if needed to help with any decisions referring to the above property.Looking forward to hearing from you on this matter. Yours Truly, Lynn Myra (On behalf of the Myra Family) Church Memorial Park Past, Present and Future Presentation to Chester Municipal Council, July 6, 2017 Purpose • To provide background on CMP and financial highlights over the past few years. • To outline some of present and future issues facing the Church Memorial Park. • To seek the CMC's continued support and assistance into the future. Past • The CMP incorporated by an Act of Nova Scotia Legislation in 1950 for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, education & recreational purposes. • The Park consists of: – Four sheet curling rink & clubhouse. – Arena skating & hockey rink with seating. – Five change rooms and facilities. – Four meeting rooms and full kitchen facilities. – Three tennis courts. – Baseball diamond. – Large parking area and green spaces. – Chester Band building. – Land leased (20 yrs) to Chester Area Family Centre in 2009. – Land leased (99 yrs) to Chester Historical Society in 1992. • The rink complex was built in the late 1960's with donations by Mrs Joseph Pew & Mrs Roy Chandler. It forms part of the Church Memorial Park; a gift of late Senator Charles E Church. Present • The Park is a charitable organization, administered by a Board of trustees consisting of community volunteers. • Governed by bylaws, policies and codified procedures. • There are nine trustees with variable rotation in membership every 3 years. • A full time Park Coordinator & 4 seasonal operators are hired to look after operations. • Main focus of attention is hockey & curling rink complex Financial Highlights Trends - Annual Ice Rentals ($) - 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 Rink Ice 143,958 154,989 86,620 121,036 Prime Time 128,545 140,670 77,921 104,603 M Hockey 96,330 86,780 61,357 68,182 Curling Ice 37,722 37,722 40,000 40,000 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 Financials – Cont’d Trends - Total Rev. & Expenses ($) -100,000 - 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 Total Revenue 363,778 359,277 263,122 289,082 Total Expenses 314,123 333,018 291,066 284,464 Net Rev/Exp 49,655 26,259 -27,944 4,618 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 * Net revenue/expense is before amortization; 2016/17 is based on interim report. Financials – Cont’d • Over past 4 seasons approximately 95% of revenues came from: ice rink - 38%, curling rink - 13%, Pew and municipal grants - 20% & other revenues 25%. • Approximately 90% of expenses came from insurance - 8%, light and power 21%, repairs, maintenance & capital - 22%, wages and benefits - 37%. • On average over this period revenue per square foot of ice surface was $12.75 & expenses $12.23. Future Strength • Independently owned & operated • Community support • Energy efficient upgrades • Great facilities for rural setting • Convenient to local users • Pew Foundation & CM grants • Good parking • Well maintained, safe & in good working order • Low rental rate for prime & non prime ice • Debt free Weakness • Declining facility usage • Aging facility • inconsistent ice quality when poor water supply • Energy dependent • Unheated arena seating • Low ice rates 1. Changing Demographics • Chester population is declining versus stable for Province. Population by # Chester Nova Scotia 2016 10,313 923,600 2011 10,599 921,730 Change (289) -2.7% 1,870 0.20 % Source: Statistics Canada 2016, 2011 Census data - Nova Scotia / Chester MD Changing – Cont’d Population/age 2016 2016 2016 2011 2011 Chester % NS % NS # NS % NS # 0 to 14 12.3 14.5 133,830 15 138,215 15 to 64 60.8 65.6 605,950 68.4 630,140 65 & over 26.9 19.9 183,820 16.6 153,375 • About a quarter of Chester MD population is outside key demographic for the rink complex versus lower % for Province. Source: Statistics Canada 2016, 2011 Census data - Nova Scotia / Chester MD Changing – Cont’d Age Groups - Chester 2016 Key Groups by # 5-19 1,285 20-44 2,255 45-69 4,530 Total 8,070 • Main CMP demographic in Chester MD is between ages 20 - 69. Expect • The % youth & young adult population (age 10-29) is expected to decline. • The 45-64 age group is projected to decline in percentage as Baby Boom generation gradually ages out of this demographic. • The 65+ age group is projected to increase. Source: Statistics Canada 2016 Census data - Nova Scotia / Chester MD 2. Climate Change Climate Change Mean temp. (C)Annual Winter Annual Winter Historical 1980's 6.4 -4.1 6.8 -4 Projected 2020's 7.5 -2.9 8 -2.7 Nova Scotia Lunenburg • Increasing temperatures could have implications for energy use, ice surfaces & operating days. • The Provincial carbon cap & trade program & increased costs for heat / power are probable in future. • The quality of water and supply are increasing concerns for consistent and competitive operation. Source: Province of Nova Scotia: Climate Change 3. Aging Facilities • The main rink complex is 48 years old. • Facilities have been maintained & upgraded for safe & efficient operation. • Roof repairs completed in 2015/16 satisfy initial building standards. • A roof protocol has been implemented. • Inconsistent ice quality during periods of poor water supply from run off and well. • Five year strategic plan for rink complex to be updated. 4. Park Activities • Declining: minor & school hockey users & curling members • Minimal Other activities – Lacrosse – Ball hockey – Roller blade – Trade Shows; garden; quilt; health – Skate Canada – Off season skills training – Sledge hockey – Women's Flat track Roller Derby Minimal alignment of CMP activities /events with Municipality of Chester Municipal community programs. Conclusions and Recommendations 1) Needs Assessment for CMP • To determine the current & future requirements for facilities including two ice surfaces & floor space. Research & Analysis of trends for: – Chester community MD (past, present, projected). – Anticipated demographics & distribution; likely impact on future demand. – Arena facilities in nearby communities. – Operating costs, capital investments. – Best industry practices (rural) & leisure trends. – Principle user markets & any unmet demand. – Projected future needs into the 2020's. • Advice & assistance is required from the Municipality to develop “Needs Assessment.” Conclusions - cont’d 2) Building Assessment for rink complex • Recent repairs to the roof underscore importance of increased monitoring of building structures & equipment. • Advice & assistance is required from the Municipality to develop a building assessment on a regular schedule possibly every 3 to 5 years. 3) Energy / Water • CM annual grants to include additional funding to help with increases in future energy & water expenses. 4) CM Alignment • Participation of Chester Municipal staff in regularly scheduled Park Board meetings. • Promotion of Park activities in Chester Municipal programs REQUEST FOR DECISION Prepared By:Tammy Wilson, MURP, MCIP, CAO Date June 23, 2017 Reviewed By:Date Authorized By:Date CURRENT SITUATION In December 2016,Municipal Council participated in a regional discussion on Rural Broadband, in which a Southwestern Nova Scotia solution was being explored. Shortly thereafter, a few municipal units opted to not proceed. MODC Council directed that we not proceed with the matter of Rural Broadband until the Provincial Strategy has been completed. The Provincial Strategy has not yet been made public. A teleconference earlier in the year with Department of Business representatives suggest that a gap analysis has been done,however the results are yet to be shared. Staff from the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) and the Region of Queens (RQM)have offered MODC an opportunity to participate in a Network Design and Implementation Study for the provision of internet infrastructure and services. The purpose will be to have a business and technical analysis completed for a strategy and high level design for region-wide fibre and wireless internet infrastructure. RECOMMENDATION That Municipal Council agree to participate in this study,with a cap on the costs MODC is prepared to pay BACKGROUND In May 2016 MODC Council received a presentation from John Ferguson, CAO-Annapolis County regarding a possible Rural Internet initiative. This presentation led to regional discussions respecting a possible Southwestern NS solution. Council directed staff to explore option of an inter-municipal partnership.From May to October 2016 the Municipal Units work on a possible approach to addressing the gap in internet services in Southwestern Nova Scotia. REPORT TO:Warden Webber Members of the Committee of the Whole SUBMITTED BY:Administration DATE:June 20, 2017 SUBJECT:Feasibility Study –Internet Infrastructure / Services ORIGIN:Municipal Staff 2 Request For Decision/Direction July 2016-Department of Business releases the Report –Review of Alternatives for Rural High Speed Internet. This report identifies barriers to High Speed Internet in rural Nova Scotia: Insufficient backbone Last Mile (distance to network for fibre, DSL connection slow; Satellite expensive) The report recommendations were: Develop provincial goals (i.e.5Mbps download; 1 Mbps upload) Coordinate municipal and community based initiatives that meet proven goals Core Team to do an analysis of the current state of infrastructure / service community by community Explore P3 options In August 2016, the Department of Business releases a Request for Proposals to develop a strategy that will map assets, identify gaps and enhance infrastructure that connects the core internet feed the community level. November 2016-Joint Municipal Meeting (Caledonia). At this meeting staff presented to the Municipal Council’s a proposal for a Memorandum of Understanding with municipal partners which would enable a joint RFP to be issued. The scope of the RFP would be Project Manager to assist in the drafting and issuance of an Expression of Interest for an assessment of backbone and a design/build backbone solution. The objective would be to have developed the required material for a funding application. December 2016-some of the municipal units opt out. MODC Council directs that MODC not proceed at this time and wait until the provincial strategy is completed before determining the next course of action.The Provincial Strategy has not been released. A teleconference was held early this calendar year. A gap analysis was completed, the result of which will be shared once it has been shared with government. June 2017 –Staff from MODL contacted MODC and inquired as to interest in undertaking a joint feasibility analysis and high level design of a rural internet solution in partnership with MODL and RQM. DISCUSSION The direction given by Council in December 2016 was to wait for the provincial strategy. The Department of Business’s website notes that the goal of the provincial strategy is to develop a long-term strategy for the middle mile.Existing infrastructure is to be mapped, identifying 3 Request For Decision/Direction internet bandwidth demands and gaps, developing costing models and identifying potential funding partners,and providing governance models to improve and manage rural internet service. The final strategy was slated to be delivered to government in the spring of 2017. The provincial election may have delayed the delivery of this to government. The study proposed by RQM and MODL will see a solution (fibre or wireless or both) designed at a high level. Any solution would have to be responsive to the need and thus a gap analysis will need to completed. It does appear that there may be some duplication in the work completed by this Study and that of the Province.It is uncertain how much of the provincial data collection will be made available given that it is proprietary,or when the information will be provided The study proposed will provide MODC with an option to address the gaps. It will be high level, with an estimated cost associated with it. Any movement on the recommended solution will require more detailed design. MODC Council may wish to have a discussion on its role in the provision of Internet services to determine the appropriateness of the solution. (i.e.leader; facilitator, funder, provider, etc) IMPLICATIONS Policy Procurement Policy –P-04, will require competitive purchasing if procured by MODC. Financial/Budgetary The 2017-18 Capital Budget has $50,000 for Rural Broadband Design. Environmental-N/A Strategic Plan This project would meet the following goals established within the Strategic Plan: -Ensure sufficient infrastructure is available to best serve our residents and businesses This project is not on the Strategic Priorities Chart. When priorities were completed in early 2017 it was acknowledged that if an opportunity presents itself on this matter, MODC Council will consider the same. Work Program Implications This is not within the present work program, simply due to lack of EDO resources. The EDO will commence work in July 2017 and it is anticipated that this can be accommodated if made a priority by Council. 4 Request For Decision/Direction OPTIONS 1.Proceed with the regional study proposed by RQM and MODL 2.Continue to wait for the provincial strategy to be completed and released prior to determining a course of action for MODC. . ATTACHMENTS Appendix A-Draft Study COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) -If there is a decision to proceed with the Study/Design, Council may wish to consider: o A joint press release; o Communications in Municipal Matters / Website - Region of Queens Municipality May 31, 2017 RFQ for feasibility study Network Design and Implementation Study for Municipality-driven Provision of Internet Infrastructure and Services Background The Region of Queens Municipality is comprised of many communities that are underserved with high- speed Internet communications infrastructure. It has determined that providing broad rural and urban Internet access is critical to the economic growth and participation in the digital economy for the Municipality’s residents and businesses. In order to concretely move this vision forward, the Municipality has decided to develop a regional strategy. This network design study will define the design and strategy to move forward on this vision. Goals of the Design Study The purpose of this study is to perform business and technical analysis to develop a locally-driven strategic network design and implementation strategy that does not rely on winning government funding contests, but can flexibly take advantage of funding opportunities as presented. The strategy and high-level design for a region-wide fibre and wireless internet infrastructure must allow for an implementation in a “big-bang” or structured incremental approach in order to match up with the regional priorities and the scope and size of funding vehicles as they come available.This work will ensure the Municipality keeps valuable momentum moving forward, with the goal of a high degree of readiness to quickly take advantage of funding programs, whether federal, provincial,municipal or PPP based. Statement of work summary The Consultant is to provide a practical high-level model for deployment of high speed internet to the region in whole, or in an incremental manner based or community priorities.It will entail business analysis,technical analysis,and design sufficient to concretely advance the Municipality’s knowledge in preparation for evidence-based decisions on bringing high speed internet to its underserved and non- served citizens and businesses. The approach will be based on an Open Access model,consider various options such as fibre connectivity through existing telecom fibre and community-owned models based on a back-bone extension of the Valley Community Fibre Network on suitable ways such as Highways 8, 10 and 12. Community branches composed of fibre or high-speed wireless and last mile connectivity are to be designed at a high level and costed. Work plan elements The Consultant is to include these work elements in the study: 1.Review applicable work that the Municipality has performed to date, including anchor institutions,underserved areas, population density, and back-bone and last mile eligibility. 2.Work with the Municipality to define the priority levels of communities that are to be serviced, based on urgency and current level of service. 3.Develop a high-level design including fibre routing, PoP connectivity, fibre to the home and/or high-speed wireless last mile. The ideal situation will be to leverage existing Open Access fibre backbone to achieve cost and service advantages.The last mile infrastructure is to be designed to be easily upgradable to meet anticipated future federally mandated bandwidth of 50Mbps and higher. 4.Define high-level equipment, and all costs in such a way as to allow incremental or “big-bang” implementation. Priority communities are to be factored into the incremental design approach. 5.Evaluate the benefits of a community-owned utility infrastructure approach, along the lines of Ontario’s SWIFT fibre program, as a counterpoint to the traditional big telecom approach.This approach is favoured by a number of communities within NS. An evaluation of the most successful Smart Communities has highlighted the fact that almost all winners utilized a community owned model. In any case, this approach should be compared to the telecom approach, or a mix could be considered. 6.Define a partner implementation model, with possible and/or preferred infrastructure partners, ISPs, and consulting/project management. 7.Define a long-term support model and eco-system, addressing managed support service, break/fix partners, and ISP’s. 8.Review of funding options that could include public, private, gas tax and other sources. Municipality responsibilities: 1.Provide all data gathered to date to the Consultant,either in briefings or though documents. 2.Identify and secure preliminary agreement for anchor institutions within the eligible communities for long-lasting PoP locations. Candidates could include fire halls, town halls, community centres, schools etc. 3.The Municipality is open to provide an in-kind project support contribution from a qualified individual, in part to lower consulting costs, and in part to increase knowledge transfer. Project deliverables: 1.Report of targeted communities, and the recommended anchor institutions/PoPs,using the CTI eligibility map as a base-line,augmented with any additional under-served and non-served communities that are identified.Any desired priorities will be identified.Geographical coverage heat map examples will be documented for up to 2 priority communities, based on professional radio frequency modelling tools. 2.Physical route plan and logical network diagram. 3.High-level equipment list and cost estimates matching the physical routes and coverage requirements and technical architecture.The costing will be sufficiently granular to allow for incremental build cost estimates. 4.An implementation model that identifies suitable infrastructure partners and managed service partners and project management.A community-owned utility model will be explored as a counterpoint to the traditional big telecom approach. 5.A long-term support model and eco-system, addressing managed support service, break/fix partners, and ISP’s. 6.An exploration of funding models and opportunities, including federal, provincial, municipal, or PPP. 7.The Municipality and Consultant will have joint ownership of the deliverables. 8.The work is to be performed in confidence, and neither party shall communicate publicly without mutual consent, not to be unreasonably withheld. Proposal The Consultant is to provide a concise proposal consisting of: a description of the Consultant company and their experience and expertise in the defined field their approach to this work high level project timeline CV’s of the lead consultant(s),depicting relevant experience The work shall be a fixed cost project, including any travel and miscellaneous expenses. INFORMATION REPORT Prepared By:Tara Maguire Date June 29, 2017 Reviewed By:Date Authorized By:Tammy Wilson, CAO Date June 30, 2017 CURRENT SITUATION For the 2017-18 fiscal year, Council created an Economic Development Sponsorship fund to sponsor events or initiatives within the municipality that are designed to help achieve Council priorities and generate local economic development benefit in one or more of the following areas: Supporting business growth and employment. Increasing visitor attraction. Promoting the municipality to residents and visitors. RECOMMENDATION For Information BACKGROUND Sponsorship is a form of marketing in which organizations pay to be associated with certain events. Additionally, sponsorship provides community relations benefits by increasing visibility and recognition as a good community partner. Organizations are recognized as good community citizens when they support initiatives that assist groups that benefit or improve the quality of life and/or programing in their community. Sponsor opportunities are evaluated by the following criteria: Relevance to the community. The Municipal logo must be displayed on some marketing of the event. The audience should be significant in size or targeted. REPORT TO:Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY:Tara Maguire, Community Development Director DATE:June 29, 2017 SUBJECT:ED Sponsorship ORIGIN:Sponsorship Policy, P-87 2 Information Report DISCUSSION The following sponsorships were issued by the Director of Community Development as of June 29 2017: Budget 2017-18 $5,000.00 Balance May 31, 2017 $5,000.00 Recent Sponsorships Hubbards Barn Association –Food Truck Rally $500.00 Shoreham Village Foundation –Golf Tournament $650.00 Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers Association1 $1500.00 Balance $2,350.00 1 Approved by Motion of Council June 22/17 It should also be noted that a sponsorship of $1,000 for the 2017 AMANS spring conference was approved. The Spring Conference was held June 21-23 and the south shore region hosted the conference. Host units are asked to contribute to the sponsorship of the event. This amount was accommodated in the 2016-17 budget for sponsorships. IMPLICATIONS Policy Sponsorship P-87 Financial/Budgetary This request has been accommodated within the approved budget of $5000 for municipal sponsorships. Environmental None Strategic Plan Goal 6-Promote conditions conducive to fostering economic prosperity. Work Program Implications N/A OPTIONS For Information ATTACHMENTS None COMMUNICATIONS (INTERNAL/EXTERNAL) Goal Promote conditions conducive to fostering economic prosperity. REQUEST FOR DECISION/DIRECTION Prepared By:Matthew S. Davidson, P. Eng.Date June 27, 2017 Reviewed By:Tammy S Wilson, CAO.Date June 29, 2017 Authorized By:Tammy S Wilson, CAO.Date June 30, 2017 CURRENT SITUATION On May 18th, 2017, Municipal Council approved the 2017-18 Capital and Operating Budget. Included in the Operation and Capital Budgets were the demolition of the Former Gold River- Western Shore School and Gold River Parkland/Playground Improvements. The former school was demolished at the end of May. The playground areas were inspected in June, resulting in a temporary closure while Staff complete the necessary repairs to ensure public safety. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Municipal Council: Direct staff to complete the repairs to the Gold River Playground in a phased approached, as per the suggested timeline, with work funded through Operations and a budget of $40,000. BACKGROUND The Municipality of the District of Chester assumed ownership of the former school in July 2013. At the time of take-over, very few records were provided and nothing specific to the playgrounds. Since then, the Municipality has explored the potential reuse of the property, which led to the eventual demolition of the building. Throughout this process,the Municipality has continued to maintain the property and the publics access to the land and its playground. Furthermore, Municipal Council committed at a Public Information Session in July 2016 that the property would be maintained for public use. In the past, the Recreation Department completed playground inspections for Croft Road Park and the Skate Park, with maintenance and repairs completed by the Engineering & Public Works (EPW)Department.In preparation for this third playground, and increased liability, a staff member from the EPW Department became certified as a Canadian Playground Inspector in June 2016. REPORT TO:Warden Allen Webber and Members of the Committee of the Whole SUBMITTED BY:Engineering & Public Works Department DATE:June 27, 2017 SUBJECT:Former Gold River-Western Shore School Playground ORIGIN:CAO Request for Update 2 Request For Decision DISCUSSION Staff completed an inspection of the playground equipment this past month.Essentially there are a few major issues (Category A) that need to be repaired. Staff feel that these should be addressed, at a minimum,prior to reopening the playground. For example,all the protective surfacing (i.e.pea gravel) needs to be tilled and/or replaced and in some cases additional surface area is required.This is an item that is significant and can result in major injury if a child falls. There are other less significant issues (Category B and C -sharp edges, protrusions, trip hazards, signage)that can be repaired relatively easily.Regardless, these repairs still require time and money to complete. At this time, staff are proposing a phased approach to the repairs so that we can,at a minimum, get the front section opened soon and then work on the rear section. The swings in the front are problematic and we are costing the repair vs.purchasing new.Therefore, to get the front section opened soon, we are proposing the removal of the swing chains and seats.One of the big issues in the rear is the width of protective surfacing,1.8 meters is required and in some areas we lack even have 1.0 meter. This repair would most likely require the removal of some pavement and a portion of the bank,and the installation of a retaining wall. We also need to think about the area where the building formerly stood. This area needs to be leveled off, probably some material brought in and seeded. IMPLICATIONS Policy The playground inspections are based on the CAN/CSA Z614-14 A Standard for Children's Playspaces and Equipment.It is staff’s understanding that adherence is completely voluntary. However, it is also staff’s understanding that if an incident were to occur, documented adherence to this standard would show the Municipality as being duly diligent. Financial/Budgetary The FY 2017-18 Capital Budget included a relatively small amount of funding ($10,000) this year to complete improvements to the park.At this time, staff do not have an estimate to repair the entire playground, however, we do anticipate the cost to exceed $10,000, but be less than $40,000.Therefore, we are requesting that the repairs to the existing playground structures and area be funded out of Operations, specifically those funds that remain unused from the school’s demolition (~$90,000 remaining). Furthermore, the $10,000 in the Capital Budget be used only if new equipment (i.e. swing) is determined to be the most cost effective option.It should be 3 Request For Decision noted that there may be other non-municipal funding sources that could be sought to help offset any repair or improvement costs, however,staff have not had the time to research this. Environmental NA Strategic Plan 2. Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services; 3. Ensure sufficient infrastructure is available to best serve our residents and businesses; Work Program Implications EPW staff involvement was based on a much smaller project and completion by June 2016. Therefore, with the unexpected increase in project scope, a phased approach to the work is required so as not to jeopardize other projects.The work will be completed using both in-house and external (i.e. Heavy Equipment) resources. Staff estimate that the lower playground can be scheduled for reopening by the end of July 2017, and the upper playground by end of September 2017. Staff can regularly report on project through CAO quarterly and Strategic Plan reports. OPTIONS 1.Direct staff to complete the repairs to the Gold River Playground, as recommended by staff; 2.Direct staff to open the park and delay repairs until further direction;3.Direct staff to keep the park closed,delay repairs until further direction regarding the parks redesign;4.Defer any decision on the matter and direct staff to bring back further information as identified by Council. ATTACHMENTS N/A Kilometrage and Transportation Allowance Rate Changes Effective April 1, 2017 1 A. KILOMETRAGE REIMBURSEMENT RATES REGULAR RATES KILOMETRES DRIVEN OLD RATE NEW RATE 0-16 000 km 42.31 ¢/km 42.89¢/km 16 000.1+ km 37.34 ¢/km 37.85 ¢/km DNR LIGHT TRUCK SUPPLEMENTARY RATES KILOMETRES DRIVEN OLD RATE NEW RATE 0-16 000 km 46.17 ¢/km 46.80 ¢/km 16 000.1+ km 41.19 ¢/km 41.76 ¢/km B. MONTHLY ALLOWANCES REGULAR OLD RATE NEW RATE $328.88 plus 24.27 ¢/km $333.39 plus 24.60 ¢/km DNR LIGHT TRUCK SUPPLEMENTARY $328.88 plus 28.09 ¢/km $333.39 plus 28.48 ¢/km TIR ENGINEERING SURVEY TECHNICIANS/PROJECT ENGINEERS $884.74 $896.86 SCALE HOUSE OPERATORS AND ROAD TRANSPORT INSPECTOR RATES KILOMETRES DRIVEN OLD RATE NEW RATE 8-24 KM $65.94 $66.85 24.1-48.3 KM $100.49 $101.87 OVER 48.3 KM $169.60 $171.92 Kilometrage and Transportation Allowance Rate Changes Effective April 1, 2017 2 C. TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCES CALL BACK OLD RATE NEW RATE $9.54 per call $9.67 per call TRAVEL BETWEEN $7.91 per shift $8.02 per shift 12:00 AM AND 6:00 AM D. REPAYMENT OF PERSONAL USE OF GOVERNMENT VEHICLE CRA RATE OLD RATE NEW RATE 27 ¢/km 26 ¢/km Page 1 of 5 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER CAO UPDATE REPORT TO Warden Allen Webber and Municipal Council Members SUBMITTED BY Tammy Wilson, MURP, MCIP, Chief Administrative Officer DATE June 26, 2017 SUBJECT Strategic Priorities Update-June 16, 2017 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ The following reports on the activities of the Municipality of District of Chester Administration and Departments for the period of March 1, 2017 to June 16, 2017. This report provides updates on the actions identified on the Strategic Priorities Chart, as well as other activities identified as important to update Council on. NOW PRIORITIES ACTION STATUS Wind Farm Project MODC in partnership with Minas Energy explored a project under the Emera Call for Proposals – Atlantic Link A letter in support of the project in the Card Lake area was submitted by MODC Draft business plan received and reviewed; Agreement to proceed with submission by Council. Municipal Partnerships explored Final decision by Emera is pending Economic Development Project List Report to Council on ED functions resulted in revisions to position description for ED and the Community Program Coordinator being revised. Community Development Coordinator (formerly Community Program Coordinator) position increased hours by 3 per week June 26th -workshop with Council on Economic Development Projects  Page 2 of 5 Plan Review Council Check-in (Completed) Meeting with Council to present draft policy was held on April 13, 2017 Feedback from Council to CPAC completed on June 6, 2017 CPAC considered feedback. Report back to Council pending Biomass / Alternate Energy No progress made during the period of this report Chester Water Survey developed; Copy provided to VC Survey distributed (800 properties); 50% response rate Water Sampling of 80 properties underway Update to Council on results of survey and sampling –July 2017 Final Analysis and options-end of July 2017  Page 3 of 5 NEXT PRIORITIES ACTION STATUS Service Capacity Review Best Practice Research Completed Report on recommended process for review to Council –July 2017 Waste Water Strategy 2018 action Workshop in Fall of 2017 to unpack item to ensure clear expectations of project Marketing Strategy (MODC / KM)Not Started Meeting with SSREN consultant completed to discuss approach Village SPS/LUB-Review No progress during the period of this report 10 Year Capital Plan-COMPLETED 10 Year Capital Plan completed and presented during budget deliberations. Procurement Policy No progress during the period of this report This will be looked at with PO Module implementation Policy Review List No progress during the period of this report Organization Review 2018 (after Service Capacity Review) Inter-Municipal Shared Services Draft report on option completed In-Camera Discussion VIC Strategy Not Started-Pending hiring of EDO Highway Signage By-law / Program Not Started Page 4 of 5 DEPARTMENTAL ACTIONS ON STRATEGIC PRIORITIES CHART ACTIONS STATUS Alternate Revenue Research Not started Debt Strategy Municipal Finance Corporations Debt Affordability model has been obtained and finance staff have started to input MODC data into this model Project put on hold until Year -End completed Investment Policy –KM Draft Policy completed by former Director; Review pending Affordable Housing Part of Municipal Plan Review Open Space Strategy -Background/ Land Inventory and Assessment Review of Municipal properties substantially complete Land Inventory/Asset Management-Mapping completed Dalhousie Planning Student completed Best Practice Research, which will inform the development of an Open Space Strategy Background Report to Council September 2017 New Ross Community School-Use Preliminary discussions held with SSRSB Report to Council in August 2017 Gold River School Demo-COMPLETED School has been torn down. Project under budget Playground inspection identified deficiencies which are being addressed; Park is temporarily closed. Loader Tender -COMPLETED Report to Council on alternative procurement. Loader has been ordered Mill Cove Fire Pump Tender has been awarded; Pump has been ordered. Completion Aug 2017 Website Improvements Website Committee has been formed Focus Groups completed with public to identify areas for improvement RFP draft started $25,000 has been approved for this project in the 2017-18 Operating Budget Safety Program Implementation ongoing. Safe Work Procedures –focusing on KM Page 5 of 5 IT Risk Mitigation Plan Disaster Recovery Site established at Kentville Laserfiche Cloud initiative being explored Communication Strategy Draft completed –Report to Council in July 2017 Sherbrooke Lake Project MOU with MODL completed Sherbrooke Lake Stewardship Committee has been formed by MODL Design committee to be established Sept 2017 East River Land Negotiations Ongoing (In-Camera) Valley Waste-June 9, 19th and 21st Trade show support at FCM in Ottawa UNSM Presentation at the Spring Conference Recyclable Processing Contract - COMPLETED Contract with HRM approved and executed Solid Waste Contract –JSB Pending; No progress during the period of this report Other Items ACTION ITEM Year -End Audit Under Way; To be completed July 2017 Interim Tax Billing Completed Financial Quarterly Report (4th Quarter 2016-17) Completed HR-Recruitment of Building Official Completed; Succession Plan implemented HR—Recruitment of EDO In Progress; Interviews completed 2017-18 Business Plan (Capital and Operating Budget) Completed and approved by Council VIC –Expression of Interest Completed Contract entered with Chester Museum and Historical Society Sustane Start-up Construction of Facility underway Presentation of Budget/ Reserve scenarios to MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER STRATEGIC PRIORITIES CHART BLUE= COUNCIL – NOW PRIORITIES GREEN – COUNCIL – NEXT PRIORITIES Brown = Dept. Projects Updates: June 26 2017 NOW Milestone 1. WINDFARM PROJECT April 2017 2. ECON DEV PROJECT LIST June 2017 3. PLAN REVIEW – COUNCIL CHECK-IN Draft LUB Aug 2017 4. BIO MASS/ ALT ENERGY EOI Aug 2017 5. CHESTER WATER July 2017 6. RURAL INTERNET July 2017 7. BUSINESS / INDUSTRIAL PARK Aug 2017 NEXT PRIORITIES SECTOR STRATEGY KM MARKETING SERVICE CAPACITY REVIEW WASTEWATER STRATEGY (2018) VILLAGE SPS / LUB 10 YEAR CAPITAL PLAN PROCUREMENT POLICY POLICY – REVIEW LIST INT MUNIC SHARED SERVICE ORGANIZATION REVIEW (2018) VIC STRATEGY SIGNAGE BY-LAW / PROGRAM CAO/ ADMINISTRATION WINDFARM PROJECT BIOMASS / ALT ENERGY • PACE BY-LAW • SERVICE CAPACITY • INTER- MUNICIPAL SHARED SERVICES FINANCE 10 YEAR CAPTIAL PLAN PROCUREMENT POLICY • Debt Strategy • Investment Strategy • Alternate Revenue Research (Oct) • E-Post Implementation PUBLIC WORKS CHESTER WATER WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY • Mill Cove Fire Pump • Loader Tender • GRWS School Demo • Western Shore Sewer • Mill Cove Sewer ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS INDUSTRIAL PARK RURAL INTERNET VIC STRATEGY SECTOR STRATEGY • BRE • Business Engagement COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW – COUNCIL CHECK-IN DRAFT LUB ED PROJECTS SIGNAGE BY-LAW / PROGRAM VILLAGE SPS/LUB • Affordable Housing CORPORATE • Website Improvements – Phase 2 (Sept) • Safety Program- Complete • IT Risk Mitigation Plan • Time and Attendance Software Implementation • Communications Strategy (March) RECREATION • Open Space Report (May) • New Ross School- Community Use (Aug) • Sherbrooke Lake Project- Design (Dec) • Gold River Western Shore- Playground Repairs • East River Land- Acquisition SOLID WASTE • Sustain Start-up (Dec) • Waste Contract – Direct Haul Option • Recyclable Processing Contract- (Feb) • Solid Waste Contract - JSB ADVOCACY COMFIT CHESTER COMMISSION REN STRATEGY (ECON / TOURISM) MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER STRATEGIC PRIORITIES CHART BLUE= COUNCIL –NOW PRIORITIES GREEN –COUNCIL –NEXT PRIORITIES Brown = Dept. Projects Updates: June 26, 2017 NOW Milestone 1.WINDFARM PROJECT April 2017 2.PLAN REVIEW –DRAFT LUB Aug 2017 3.BIO MASS/ ALT ENERGY EOI Aug 2017 4.CHESTER WATER July 2017 5.RURAL INTERNET July 2017 6.BUSINESS / INDUSTRIAL PARK Aug 2017 NEXT PRIORITIES KM MARKETING SECTOR STRATEGY SERVICE CAPACITY REVIEW WASTEWATER STRATEGY (2018) VILLAGE SPS / LUB PROCUREMENT POLICY POLICY –REVIEW LIST INT MUNIC SHARED SERVICE ORGANIZATION REVIEW (2018) VIC STRATEGY SIGNAGE BY-LAW PROGRAM CAO/ ADMINISTRATION WINDFARM PROJECT BIOMASS / ALT ENERGY PACE BY-LAW SERVICE CAPACITY INTER-MUNICIPAL SHARED SERVICES FINANCE 10 YEAR CAPTIAL PLAN PROCUREMENT POLICY Debt Strategy Investment Strategy Alternate Revenue Research (Oct) E-Post Implementation PUBLIC WORKS CHESTER WATER WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Mill Cove Fire Pump Western Shore Sewer Mill Cove Sewer ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS INDUSTRIAL PARK RURAL INTERNET SECTOR STRATEGY VIC STRATEGY (SSREN) BRE Business Engagement COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW –DRAFT LUB SIGNAGE BY-LAW /PROGRAM VILLAGE SPS/LUB Affordable Housing CORPORATE Website Improvements –Phase 2 (Sept) Safety Program-Complete IT Risk Mitigation Plan Time and Attendance Software Implementation RECREATION Open Space Report (May) New Ross School-Community Use (Aug 2017) Sherbrooke Lake Project-Design (Dec) Gold River Western Shore-Playground Repairs East River Land-Acquisition SOLID WASTE Sustain Start-up (Dec) Waste Contract –Direct Haul Option Solid Waste Contract -JSB ADVOCACY COMFIT CHESTER COMMISSION REN STRATEGY (ECON / TOURISM)