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2017-09-28_Council_Public_Agenda Package
Page 1 of 2 MUNICIPAL COUNCIL AGENDA Thursday,September 28,2017 at 8:45 a.m. 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. to 9:00 a.m.) 4.MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: 4.1 Council –September 14, 2017 5.COMMITTEE REPORTS: 5.1 Recreation and Parks Committee -September 18, 2017 – (motion only) 5.2 Recreation and Parks Committee –July 24, 2017 –Councillor Church (receive minutes only) 5.3 Recreation and Parks Committee –July 19, 2017 –Councillor Church (receive minutes only) 5.4 Recreation and Parks Committee –May 15, 2017 –Councillor Church (receive minutes only) 5.5 Village Area Advisory Committee –July 18, 2017 –Councillor Barkhouse (receive minutes only) 5.6 Citizens Planning Advisory Committee –August 28, 2017 –Warden Webber (receive minutes only) 5.7 Citizens Landfill Monitoring Committee –June 19, 2017 –Councillor Church 6.MATTERS ARISING. 7.CORRESPONDENCE: (received minutes only) 5.8 REMO Committee Minutes – July 17, 2017 (receive as information) 5.9 Any other Committees. Page 2 of 2 7.1 Correspondence from Municipality of the District of Barrington dated September 14, 2017 regarding Process For Adoption of Resolutions. 7.2 Proclamation –Fire Prevention Week 2017 “Every Second Counts! Plan 2 Ways Out!©” 8.NEW BUSINESS: 8.1 UNSM Resolutions-Review and Discussion prior to Oct 6, 2017 Session. 8.2 For Information -Marketing Video Links: Chester Race Week:https://youtu.be/Cwy4XKouiW4 Farmer's Markets:https://youtu.be/Y-T3eHfvKk8 Chester Creates:https://youtu.be/Ks2iaSdELNs 8.3 Canada 150 Grant Applications: a)Cannan & District Hall Association –District 7 b)New Ross Christmas Festival –New Ross Regional Development Society – District 6 8.4 Report/Update prepared by Community Development Department dated September 19, 2017 regarding Ten Beaches. 8.5 Request for Direction prepared by Engineering and Public Works Department dated September 21, 2017 regarding Sludge Removal and Disposal Services Award. 8.6 UNSM 2017 Fall Conference Registration Request –November 7th –10th,–Westin Nova Scotian Hotel, Halifax. 9.IN CAMERA: 9.1 Section 22(2) (a) of MGA -Land Negotiations –New Russell. 10.ADJOURNMENT. MOTIONS FOR COUNCIL’S CONSIDERATION FROMMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2017RECREATION AND PARKS COMMITTEE 2017-497 APPROVAL OF MINUTES -MAY 15, 20172017-498 APPROVAL OF MINUTES –JULY 19,20072017-499 APPROVAL OF MINUTES –JULY 24,20107 2017-500 YOUTH SPONSORSHIP –MATTHEW CHANDLER, CHESTERMOVED by Leslie Taylor, SECONDED by Christine Rafuse,that the Recreation Committee recommend toCouncil that we give Matthew Chandler of Chester $500 to help cover the costs for attending the CanadianJunior Boy’s Golf Championship at Cataraqui Golf and Country Club in Kingston,Ontario from July 31 toAugust 3, 2017.MOTION CARRIED. 2017-501 ADJOURNMENT 374 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes Chester Municipal Recreation & Parks CommitteeHeldatthe Municipal Building, ChesterOnMonday, July 24, 2017 PRESENTStaff:Chad Haughn,Director of Recreation & ParksMembers:Brad Armstrong Adam Kaizer Susan Larder Christine RafuseCouncillor Sharon ChurchRegrets:Kevin Marczak Leslie Taylor 1.0 The meeting was called to order at 6:15 pm. 2.0 NEW BUSINESS 2.1 YOUTH SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION (ISABELLA NOBLE)A Youth Sponsorship application was received from Isabella Noble (Parent Jill Noble)requesting $550 for her participation in the Nova Scotia U15 Girls Volleyball Team –Eastern Elites Championship in Halifax NS and Moncton NB from July 22-29, 2017. Isabellawas selected to be part of this team after participating in the training activities at the EliteDevelopment Camp held in Cape Breton July 2-8, 2017. 2017-396 MOVED by Brad Armstrong,SECONDED by Christine Rafuse,that the RecreationCommittee recommend to Council that we give Isabella Noble of Chester $500 to help cover her costs to attend the Nova Scotia U15 Girls Volleyball Team –Eastern Elites Championship in Moncton NB from July 22-29, 2017. MOTION CARRIED. 5.0 Next meeting Monday,September 18,2017 Municipal Building, Council Chambers 7:00 pm 6.0 ADJOURNMENT 2017-397 MOVED by Councillor Church,SECONDED by Christine Rafuse, that the meetingadjourn.CARRIED. (6:35 pm) _______________________________________________________________________________________________Adam Kaizer Chad HaughnVice-Chair Recreation & Parks Director 370 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes Chester Municipal Recreation & Parks CommitteeHeldatthe Municipal Building, ChesterOnWednesday, July 19, 2017 PRESENTStaff:Chad Haughn,Director of Recreation & ParksMembers:Suzanne Brown Adam Kaizer Susan Larder Kevin Marczak Christine RafuseLeslie Taylor Councillor Sharon ChurchRegrets:Brad Armstrong 1.0 The meeting was called to order at 6:05 pm. 2.0 NEW BUSINESS 2.1 YOUTH SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION (COHEN PERRY)A Youth Sponsorship application was received from Cohen Perry (Parent JR Perry)requesting $1,500 for his participation in the Young Guns Hockey Tournament in Portland,Maine this August. Cohen was selected to be part of this team based on his performance inSpring hockey. Teams from the Maritimes and New England states will participate in thetournament. 2017-391 MOVED by Christine Rafuse, SECONDED by Susan Larder, that the RecreationCommittee recommend to Council that we give Cohen Perry of Canaan $500 to help cover his costs to attend the Young Guns Hockey Tournament from August 18 to 20, 2017. MOTION CARRIED. 3.0 RECREATION & PARKS DIRECTOR’S REPORTChad went over his report verbally highlighting the following: Picnic in the Park Rum Runners Trail Grand Opening 4.0 CORRESPONDENCE/INFORMATION -none 5.0 Next meeting Monday,September 18,2017 Municipal Building, Council Chambers 7:00 pm 6.0 ADJOURNMENT 2017-392 MOVED by Sharon Church,SECONDED by Christine Rafuse, that the meeting adjourn. CARRIED. (6:30 pm) _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Kevin Marczak Chad Haughn Chair Recreation & Parks Director 250 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes Chester Municipal Recreation & Parks CommitteeHeldatthe Municipal Building, ChesterOnMonday, May 15, 2017 PRESENTStaff:Chad Haughn,Director of Recreation & ParksDebbie Harnish, Administrative AssistantMembers:Brad Armstrong Suzanne Brown Susan Larder Kevin Marczak Christine RafuseLeslie Taylor Councillor Sharon ChurchRegrets:Adam Kaizer 1.0 The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm. 2.0 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 2.1 Chester Municipal Recreation & Parks Committee –Tuesday, April 4, 2017 2017-246 MOVED by Christine Rafuse, SECONDED by Brad Armstrong, that the minutes ofApril 4, 2017 meeting of the Chester Recreation & Parks Committee be approved.MOTION CARRIED. 3.0 NEW BUSINESS 3.1 YOUTH SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION (TIARA & CORRINNE WHITE)Council approved the Committee’s recommendations. 3.2 CMRC MEMBERSHIPThe Municipal Clerk has advertised for Committee Members for District 2 and District 4currently held by Suzanne Brown and Kevin Marczak. Suzanne cannot reoffer as she hascompleted two, 3-year terms. Kevin may reoffer if he is interested. The deadline to apply isthis Wednesday, May 17. 4.0 RECREATION & PARKS DIRECTOR’S REPORTChad went over his report verbally highlighting the following: Programs Summer 2017 Volunteer Week 2017 Trail ACES FHCS 55+ Games Mayfest Other Tidbits Chester Municipal Recreation and Parks Committee (continued)Monday, May 15,2017 251__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________5.0 CORRESPONDENCE/INFORMATIONWe received a thank you letter/story from Bridgett Morgan. 6.0 NEW BUSINESS 6.1 RUM RUNNERS TRAILS ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDYChad presented the final Economic Impact Study and high-lighted some of the results. Ifanyone would like a copy you can see Chad or go onto the Rum Runners website. 6.2 Next meeting Monday,June 19,2017 Municipal Building, Council Chambers 7:00 pm 7.0 ADJOURNMENT 2017-247 MOVED by Christine Rafuse, SECONDED by Brad Armstrong, that the meeting adjourn. CARRIED. (8:30 pm) _______________________________________________________________________________________________Kevin Marczak Debbie Harnish Chair Administrative Assistant 371 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of Regular Meeting of VILLAGE AREA ADVISORY COMMITTEEHeld at the Council Chambers, 151 King Street, Chester, NSOn Tuesday,July 18th, 2017 PRESENTMembers Carol Nauss (Chair)Brad ArmstrongCouncillor Danielle Barkhouse Ray CambriaCouncillor Sharon Church Nancy HatchKerry KeddyStaffTara Maguire, Director of Community DevelopmentGarthSturtevant, Planning Assistant Sandra Challis, Administrative AssistantRegretsWarden Allen WebberGallery:No-one present 1.CALL TO ORDER1.1.The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. 2.MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING2.1.Approval of the Minutes of the Village Planning Advisory Committee meeting onJune 20th, 2017. 2017-393 MOVED by Councillor Church, SECONDED by Brad Armstrong that the minutes of the 20th June, 2017 meeting of the Village Area Advisory Committee be accepted as circulated.CARRIED.3.PROCEDURE CLARIFICATION3.1 The Chair clarified voting procedures following the previous meeting. The Chair isrequired to vote. It is not possible to abstain from a vote, this is classed as a negative vote. Itis possible to remove yourself from the table and discussion, similar to a declaring a Conflictof Interest, but this would affect quorum.4.BUSINESS ARISING4.1.PROPOSED LAND USE BY-LAW AMENDMENT: LIMIT THE MAXIMUM SIZE OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS AND PROHIBIT REFRIGERATED CONTAINERS.The Planning Assistant went over the report provided which explained that his research hadfound that there are two main types of shipping container Standard and High Cube, the maindifference between them is that High Cubes are a foot higher than standard, being 9 feet 6 Village Area Advisory Committee Tuesday,July 18, 2017 372__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________inches. The length of both types can be between 8-40 feet. The MGA does not permit controlsbydictatingspecific dimensions, so the proposed amendments control the size by imposinga maximum height, maximum floor area and a maximum width: length ratio. The proposedstandards, effectively limits the size of containers to 8 x 40 feet. The amendments alsoprohibit refrigerated containers, either specifically manufactured or modified/customized toperform refrigeration tasks.The Planning Assistant’s research had also confirmed that the current definition of shippingcontainers would also include similar structures of the same general shape and appearancewhich may not have originally been shipping containers –i.e. skid buildings.The report also highlighted that currently, the land use by-law contains language (Section4.5.5 in the General Provisions in the Village)that does permit shipping containers (or similarstructures),in any zone, without a development permit, if its use is tied directly toconstruction of the main structure. The by-law states that these construction accessories arepermitted during the period of construction and must be removed within 60 days followingcompletion of construction. DISCUSSIONThere was extensive discussion surrounding ways to control use of temporary structures forconstruction purposes. It is not possible, through the LUB to control the building permitprocess,to limit the period of construction,or to dictate when construction should becomplete.Building permits are valid for 18 months from date of issue and it is possible torenew building permits a number of times.The Building Code Act provides this regulation.Currently no development permit is required for these temporary structures,and even if theywere, it is not possible to issue a “conditional” or “temporary”development permit.Therefore, it could occur that a container-like structure is installed indefinitely whilst thereis an open building permit. It was noted that registered trailers are regulated under the MotorVehicle Act and not subject to municipal by-laws.Potential solutions suggested to control this situation were: Use of Development Agreements –have the ability to impose time limits Defer till Plan Review, with the intent to look at the wording and at the very least,shorten the 60-day removal limit following Occupancy Permit issuance. Consider separate permit / license process for temporary construction structureswith a limit on the number of renewals;perhaps imposing time limits relative to sizeof project/value of construction Discuss, with Building Official, clause in National Building Code which suggests thattemporary structures are only temporary for so long, after which time theyconsidered permanent, and would then need to meet requirements of building code. Village Area Advisory Committee Tuesday,July 18, 2017 373__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONCLUSIONIt was agreed to wait for the outcomes on the recent motions regarding shipping containers,before proceeding with any amendments to Section 4.5.5 Construction Accessories, in theGeneral Provision of the Chester Village Land Use By-law. 2017-394 MOVED by Ray Cambria, SECONDED by Councillor Barkhouse that the Village Area Advisory Committee recommend that the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee accept the proposed Land Use By-law amendment to impose limits on the size of shipping containers and prohibit refrigerate containers.CARRIED 5.NEW BUSINESS5.1.There was no new business to discuss. 6.OTHER PLANNING MATTERS6.1 UPDATE ON PREVIOUS ACTION ITEMSThe Planning Assistant advised that the VAAC’s request to Council to rescind the recentShipping Container amendment permitting them on the North side of Highway #3 withinthe Village boundaries had been referred back to CPAC and will be taken to them on August28th. Also, the Committee’s request for a report on boathouses is currently being workedon.6.2 SIGNAGEKerry Keddy requested clarification on the signage by-law/policy in reference to Council’srecent rejection of the proposed signage from VOCTADA. The Director explained that signsare controlled under the land use by-law, regulating size and location. The by-law does notregulate style or colour. She believes that Council rejected the colour and design of the signsas they had awarded a conditional grant towards the signs, subject to their approval of thefinal design, in the hope that there can be some uniformity in these types of signs.There isnoofficialpolicy regarding this matter, but a branding book is available, created as part ofthe branding study. 7.DATE OF NEXT MEETING7.1 Tuesday August 15th, 2017 at 7:00p.m. 8.ADJOURNMENT 2017-395 MOVED by The Chair,the meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m. ___________________________________________________________________________ Carol Nauss Sandra Challis Chairperson Administrative Assistant 434 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of Meeting of the CITIZENS PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE Held in Council Chambers, 151 King Street, Chester, NS On Monday, August 28,2017 ROLL CALL Committee Members Present: Art Backman John Carroll Debbie Reeves Mary Ellen Clancey Nancy Green Trevor Hume Carol Nauss Staff Present: Tara Maguire, Director of Community Development (Acting Chair) Garth Sturtevant, Development Control/Planning Assistant Pamela Myra, Municipal Clerk Regrets: Mathew Nightingale Warden Allen Webber Heather Brooker Mark Narsansky CALL TO ORDER / ADOPTION OF AGENDA The meeting was called to order at 6.31 p.m. by the Acting Chairperson MINUTES OF MEETING 2.1 June 5, 2017 Minutes 2017-476 MOVED by John Carroll, SECONDED by Trevor Hume the minutes of the June 5, 2017 meeting be approved as circulated. CARRIED. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES Art Backman asked if any Review material would be discussed at this meeting or would it be provided at another meeting and the Development Control/Planning Assistant indicated that Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (continued)August 28, 2017 435 this meeting was dealing with several shipping container requests. A date for the upcoming meeting will be discussed at the end of this meeting. NEW BUSINESS 4.1 Request to permit shipping containers on Highway Commercial Zone properties located within the Village Boundary, south of Highway #3 (negative recommendation from Village Area Advisory Committee)–[SPS & LUB Amendment]. The Development Control/Planning Assistant reviewed the memo dated August 28, 2017 regarding the request to amend the Land Use By-Law and the Council motion referring the request to staff and the Village Area Advisory Committee (VAAC) and this committee for discussion. He outlined the request to expand the permitted range and permit shipping containers on the south side of Highway 3 in the Highway Commercial Zone with the same provisions that are on the north side of Highway 3 and outside the Village Boundary. The request was discussed at two VAAC Committee meetings and it was requested that public input be obtained prior to bringing the information here. The public input included a survey and information sessions and the overwhelming feedback was that residents were opposed to shipping containers. The Development Control/Planning Assistant outlined the options available. 2017-477 MOVED by Mary Ellen Clancey, SECONDED by John Carroll that the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee recommend to Council that Council not move forward with the requested amendment to permit shipping containers on Highway Commercial properties within Chester Village, located south of Highway 3. DISCUSSION: Trevor Hume voiced his support of the motion, commenting that this Committee is in the midst of a plan review and it would be unwise to alter a plan the committee is about to review/replace. CARRIED. 4.2 VAAC Motion request to Council to retract or under a previous amendment which permits shipping containers on Highway Commercial properties within the Village Boundary on the north side of Highway #3 –[Potential SPS & LUB Amendment]. Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (continued)August 28, 2017 436 The Chair reviewed the Memo dated August 28, 2017 regarding the VAAC motion to amend the Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law to prohibit shipping containers within Chester Village Boundary. The Development Control/Planning Assistant outlined the areas affected on the mapping provided. The Development Control/Planning Assistant indicated that the VAAC motion is a further amendment to undo a portion of what was approved; when the amendment went to Council there was a change, by Council, to allow in the Village only on the north side of Highway 3. Ms. Clancey asked what the rationale of Council was to make the change and it was noted that the intent was to address container use at some businesses, i.e. Home Hardware. However, the amendment did not actually solve that issue but Council decided to move forward, in hopes to support and provide options for businesses. John Carroll commented that he would like to hear from the public on their feelings and the Chair noted that the Committee would have to agree to hear from the public on the issue. Ms. Clancey indicated asked that we hear from Ms. Nauss and Mr. Carroll as they represent the Village of Chester residents. Mr. Carroll indicated that the residents would prefer no shipping containers within the village boundary at all. He suggested the Home Hardware solution could be as simple as granting them a timeframe to be ride of the container/truck body. Ms. Clancey commented that part of the mandate of this Committee is to encourage business development. Ms. Nauss noted that she has had nothing but negative feedback –people do not want containers of any kind within the village boundary. There was a public meeting to determine how the public felt –and they responded with “no” to shipping containers north or south of Highway 3 within the village boundary. The Development Control/Planning Assistant reviewed the two options outlined in the memo. 2017-478 MOVED by Carol Nauss, SECONDED by John Carroll that the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee recommend to Council Option 1, in the August 28, 2017 memo, that Council consider the request from Village Area Advisory Committee Members to retract a recent amendment that permits shipping containers within the Chester Village Boundary on the north side of Highway 3, with a view to reverse the decision. CARRIED. Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (continued)August 28, 2017 437 Ms. Clancey asked if staff had been contact with the Home Hardware concerns and the Chair indicated that the last round of changes regarding Highway 3 has made it possible for Home Hardware to consider other options. 4.3 Memo dated August 28, 2017 regarding Proposed Amendment to impose limits on the height, maximum floor area and a maximum width to length ratio for shipping containers –[LUB Amendment]. The Development Control/Planning Assistant reviewed the August 28, 2017 memo regrading limits on the height, maximum floor area, and maximum width to length ratio for shipping containers. He indicated that he researched the various types/sizes of shipping containers and outlined the comparisons. The Development Control/Planning Assistant reviewed the three options provided in the memo. Debbie Reeves asked about the maximum floor area within the container and how the area was arrived at and the math was discussed. It was suggested to use “maximum footprint” as an easier solution. John Carroll commented that the containers are allowed use as a temporary structure and asked about the definition. The Development Control/Planning Assistant indicated that containers have been allowed as a temporary structure in the past (since at least 2000) and read the section from the Land Use By-Law defining the meaning of “temporary structure” which allows structure to remain in place without a Development Agreement for up to 60 days following completion of main structure. Mr. Carroll commented on a construction project that is now 4-5 years old and suggested that type of prolonged construction be addressed more carefully. The Development Control/Planning Assistant indicated the VAAC discussed such instances and it was noted that there can be temporary development permits issued but there is some question as to whether we can legally issue a temporary Development Agreement. At the VAAC meeting it was decided to hold off on this item until the shipping container amendments made their way through Council.In general, it may be something that could be dealt with during the Plan Review. Mr. Carroll asked that this be highlighted as an item for future discussion so no containers could be left on a site for 4-5 years. Citizens Planning Advisory Committee (continued)August 28, 2017 438 Art Backman commented that oftentimes constructions sites are small and containers could be placed close to the roadway. The Development Control/Planning Assistant commented that,because they don’t require a Development Permit,there are no setbacks. If a container did encroach on the road it would be responsibility of the owner to enforce, i.e. NS Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. On a neighbouring property, we may potentially be involved through land use. The Chairperson noted that the use of containers is already allowed; this amendment would include the new sections (e)and (f) as outlined. 2017-479 MOVED by John Carroll, SECONDED by Mary Ellen Clancey that the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee recommend to Council to accept the draft amendments as attached as Appendix A to the Memo dated August 28, 2017 regarding the Proposed Amendment to impose limits on the height, maximum floor area and a maximum width to length ratio for shipping containers as discussed and amended to use the term “footprint” regarding maximum floor area. CARRIED. OTHER BUSINESS There was no other business for discussion. NEXT MEETING AND ADJOURNMENT The Chair indicated that originally a date of September 11, 2017 for the next meeting was discussed; however,a different date is required. Following discussion, it was agreed to meet on September 18, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. and at that time it is expected the suggestions/changes from Council will be provided to CPAC. Council will be meeting again to continue reviewing the material;this will be done prior to the September 18th meeting. Ms. Clancey asked if the changes discussed by Council are substantive or mainly “tweaking” the document and the Chair indicated that, at this time, the comments are minor in nature but if there are any substantive suggestions there may be a need for a joint meeting. 2017-480 MOVED by Mary Ellen Clancey the meeting adjourn. CARRIED. (7:05 p.m.) ________________________________________________________ Tara Maguire Pamela Myra Acting Chair Municipal Clerk 361 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER Minutes of Meeting of CITIZENS LANDFILL MONITORING COMMITTEEHeldat the Admin.Office at the Municipal Office at 151 King Street,Chester,NSOnMonday,June 19, 2017The meeting was called to order at 6:05 p.m. PRESENTCouncillors Councillor Sharon Church-CorneliusCouncillor Danielle BarkhouseStaffBruce Forest, Director of Solid WasteTammy Harnish, Client Services CoordinatorOtherBernice LevyJack ShawCynthia Ferrolino-LohnesDoug Sharpham Tentative new member of the committee, Robert Mitchell, sat in on this meeting. Bruce gave background information on Kaizer Meadow before the meeting started. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 2.1 Citizens Landfill Monitoring Committee –March 20, 2017. 2017-382 MOVED by Doug Sharpham SECONDED by Bernice Levy, the minutes of the March 20, 2017 Citizens Landfill Monitoring Committee meeting be approved as circulated. CARRIED. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING 3.1 Second EVC Tower Site UpdateBrucegave brief background information on this project. He indicated that the equipment for thesecond tower site will be purchased within the next few months. 3.2 Landfill Management Committee of NSAgain, Bruce briefed the group on this committee that he sits on. Currently, this group is discussinghow to manage C & D with Nova Scotia Environment. Brooklyn Energy is no longer acceptingchipped wood, which could cause a potential fire hazard on site with the storage of chips. Citizens Landfill Monitoring Committee (Continued)362Monday,June 19, 2017 Some members of the C L M C suggested using the chips on trials, but again, this could cause a firehazard.Bruce will update the committee of any ideas from his Management Committee Group. 3.3 Sustane TechnologiesBruce indicated that we received more waste than expected from Halifax. This was because ofweather/road conditions. The road to our site is in better shape than that of the other disposal site.But, we will return to the regular schedule of one truck a day with improving road conditions. 3.4 Sustane TechnologiesRecently, Bruce attended the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference in Ottawa withPeter Vinyl. He indicated that the response to the Sustane project was very positive. Bruceestimated that approximately $3 million dollars has already been invested in the project, withanother $13 million to be invested in the coming months. The opening of Sustane should happen inDecember 2017, or early in 2018. 3.5 “Special Day” at Kaizer MeadowBruce indicated that a grand opening will be taking place for Sustane and we will look atincorporating that with a tour of the site as well as the wind turbine. 3.6 Cell 4A -UpdateBruce indicated that the cell construction is on schedule and under budget. This cell costapproximately $3.1 million to build and should be ready in September. NEW BUSINESS 4.1 YouTube Videos –Kaizer MeadowBruce discussed the matter of the videos that were posted on YouTube showing the litter aroundthe site. Bruce indicated that what the videos showed was accurate, however, this is what happensevery year. With the wind and snow, it is impossible to clean the site throughout the wintermonths. In the spring, crews are hired to help clean up the site, which was done again this year.Bruce supplied members with photos of what the site now looks like, which depict the litter beingcleaned up.What is left to be cleaned up is in the wooded area, beyond the landfill. This is going to be picked upin the coming days/weeks. 4.2 Litter Pick up at Kaizer Meadow –UpdateAs Bruce mentioned, most of the litter at the site has been cleaned up. What is remaining, in thewoods, will be picked up in the coming days/weeks. Staff members from the Lunenburg RegionalCommunity Recycling Centre have been hired to assist with clean up. Citizens Landfill Monitoring Committee (Continued)363Monday,June 19, 2017 4.3 Trout Toxicity Test ResultsThis testing is conducted twice a year. Samples are collected from our surface water pond. The testresults showed a 0 % rate of mortality. Bruce also indicated that after the testing is completed, thetrout are destroyed. 5.0 ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS 5.1 ToursBruce indicated that along with the tours that are hosted at Kaizer Meadow (ie. the upcoming“Special Day”, etc.), member tours are welcome. Bruce will actually be taking Robert on a tour ofthe site tomorrow. 5.2 Highway 14 Clean upsSharon mentioned that the Highway 14 appears to look free of litter. Bruce indicated that any staffdriving will stop and pick up any larger items that are alongside of the road. Also, reminders at theScale House regarding having loads secured has helped. DATE & TIME OF NEXT MEETINGThe next tentative meeting date for the committee is scheduled for Monday,September 25th at 6:30P.M. and will be held at the Municipal Office at 151 King Street. 2017-383 MOVED by Doug Sharpham, SECONDED by Cynthia Ferrolino-Lohnes,the meetingadjourn. CARRIED. (6:50 P.M.) _________________________________________________________________________________Councillor Church Tammy HarnishChairRecording Secretary MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF LUNENBURG Minutes of a Meeting of REMO ADVISORY COMMITTEE Held in Council Chambers, 210 Aberdeen Road, Bridgewater, NS Monday, July 17, 2017 – 1:30 p.m. ATTENDANCE Municipality of Chester Warden Allen Webber Deputy Warden Floyd Shatford, Vice-Chair Tammy Wilson, Chief Administrative Officer Municipality of Lunenburg Mayor Carolyn Bolivar-Getson Councillor Martin Bell Chris Kennedy, Fire Services Coordinator Town of Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell Councillor Wayne Thorburne, Chair Ken Smith, Chief Administrative Officer Town of Lunenburg Mayor Rachel Bailey (arrived at 1:40 p.m.) Bea Renton, Chief Administrative Officer (arrived at 1:36 p.m.) Town of Mahone Bay Mayor David DeVenne Councillor Richard Nowe Regrets: Deputy Mayor Claudette Garland, Municipality of Lunenburg Deputy Mayor Peter Mosher, Town of Lunenburg Kevin Malloy, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Lunenburg Alex Dumaresq, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Lunenburg Jim Wentzell, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Mahone Bay Staff: Heather MacKenzie-Carey, REMO Coordinator Sherry Conrad, Municipal Clerk Joanne Powers, Administrative Assistant 1. CALL TO ORDER Councillor Thorburne called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDED ITEMS Ms. MacKenzie-Carey added the following item to the agenda: 4.4 Hurricanes Moved by Mayor Devenne, seconded by Warden Webber that the agenda be approved as amended. Carried. REMO Advisory Committee 2 July 17, 2017 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF May 15, 2017 Moved by Mayor Bolivar-Getson, seconded by Mayor Mitchell that the Minutes of the May 15, 2017, REMO Advisory Committee meeting be approved as circulated. Carried. 4. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES 4.1 Haz Mat – Update Ms. MacKenzie-Carey reported there has been no further action on this matter to date. Ms. MacKenzie-Carey reported that she recently went to a well-attended meeting held at the Chester Basin Fire Department where the RCMP discussed Fentanyl, and the fact that it is now in the area. She discussed how RCMP Officers and the Bridgewater Police now carry Narcan or Naloxone in a nasal spray form, which quickly reverses the affect of the opiate and is carried mainly to protect themselves. Ms. MacKenzie-Carey noted that she is concerned as there are Firefighters throughout the County that are also Medical First Responders (MFRs), and they would also like to carry Narcan for their own protection, but Emergency Health Services (EHS) does not seem to be reacting to their request. Ms. MacKenzie-Carey would like the REMO Advisory Committee to assist the MFRs in being equipped with Narcan. The Committee discussed the importance of MFRs in Lunenburg County being equipped with Narcan for their own protection. Ms. Renton arrived at 1:36 p.m. Moved by Warden Webber, seconded by Mayor Mitchell that the REMO Advisory Committee send a letter to Emergency Health Services, copied to the RCMP and the Minister of Health, advising that the Committee intends to purchase naloxone kits for all volunteer firefighters in Lunenburg County who function in Medical First Responder capacities, for their own protection, and further, that Emergency Health Services provide the appropriate naloxone training. Carried unanimously. Mayor Bailey arrived at 1:40 p.m. 4.2 Weather Support for Drought Conditions Ms. MacKenzie-Carey discussed the report by Environment Canada, “Weather Support for Drought Conditions in Southwestern Nova Scotia” (report attached to the agenda). She reported that, overall, conditions are not as bad as last year. 4.3 Tall Ships Emergency Plan Overview Ms. MacKenzie-Carey gave an overview of the Emergency Plan for the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival and Tall Ships event being held on August 10 to 13, 2017. She outlined how this event, which involves multiple agencies, is providing information to REMO similar to that of a large-scale evacuation event. A map program is being implemented that will be available as an app for both the organizers and the general public, but will also be beneficial as an emergency management tool and the app will be able to track where assets are located, where there are problems, and whether parking lots are empty or full. An individual has been hired by the Lunenburg Board of Trade who will update the app in real-time. REMO Advisory Committee 3 July 17, 2017 Ms. MacKenzie-Carey has been working with the RCMP and the IT person to create evacuation routes which will be available on the app as well. She sees this as something of value that could be used in an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and could be created for each municipal unit. 4.4 Hurricanes Ms. MacKenzie-Carey advised that she received a briefing, generated from Environment Canada, on Hurricanes. She provided the following highlights for information: - The United States experienced big hurricane problems in 2016 - The demand for emergency centres was very low – they only had a one to three percent uptake - New storm surge models have been created for the United States and Canada which have reduced the number of people needing to evacuate because of the accuracy of the models - In 2017 a higher number than average of hurricanes is expected, possibly 11 to 17 main storms - Key dates to be aware of are early November and December – if a hurricane were to occur during these times, storm surges could be an issue 5. REMO COORDINATOR MONTHLY REPORTS – MAY & JUNE 2017 Ms. MacKenzie-Carey reviewed her monthly reports for May and June 2017 (circulated with the agenda). She provided the following additional update: - In June, Eastlink service was down, but IT was exceptionally quick and helpful - On June 25th, there was an exercise at the Louisiana Plant in Blandford 6. ADDED ITEMS 7. IN CAMERA 7.1 Tall Ships Emergency Plan under Section 22(2)(h) of the MGA At 1:57 p.m., it was moved by Mayor Bolivar-Getson, seconded by Deputy Warden Shatford that the REMO Advisory Committee go In Camera to discuss the Tall Ships Emergency Plan under Section 22(2)(h) of the Municipal Government Act. Carried. REMO Advisory Committee In Camera in session. At 2:18 p.m., it was moved by Deputy Warden Shatford, seconded by Warden Webber that the REMO Advisory Committee come out of In Camera and return to open session. Carried. REMO Advisory Committee in session. 10. NEXT MEETING – September 18, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. 11. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business at 2:18 p.m., it was moved by Mayor Mitchell, seconded by Mayor Bolivar-Getson that the meeting adjourn. Carried. MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER FIRE PREVENTION WEEK 2017 EVERY SECOND COUNTS! PLAN 2 WAYS OUT© WHEREAS the 2017 Fire Prevention theme is “Every Second Counts! Plan 2 Ways Out!©” AND WHEREAS; fire losses in Canada remain unacceptably high thereby necessitating improved fire prevention measures; the loss of lives and property from fire could be significantly reduced by individual and community fire prevention programs; most fires are caused by human carelessness and are both predictable and preventable; the members of the Fire Service and other public agencies in combining their talents and efforts can ensure a successful fight against those conditions that cause fire; each citizen must earnestly work to eliminate those fire hazards that cause the loss of life and property; the local efforts of the Fire Service are supported by the activities of organizations such as Fire Prevention Canada, the Council of Canadian Fire Marshals and Fire Commissioners, the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, the Provincial Fire Chiefs Associations, and various associations of firefighters, fire instructors, and fire prevention officers. NOW THEREFORE,I, Allen Webber, Warden for the Municipality of the District of Chester, this 28th day of September 2017, do hereby designate the week of October 8-14, 2017 as Fire Prevention Week, and I call upon our citizens to participate in fire prevention activities at home, work and school. I call upon all public information agencies to actively participate in an effort to provide effective fire prevention programs, which will instill in the minds of each citizen, those fire safety practices that will reduce the loss of life and property caused by fire. _________________________________ Allen Webber, Warden Municipality of the District of Chester TO: Mayors, Wardens, Councillors and CAO’s, All Units FR: Lyle Goldberg, Manager, Member Relations RE: RESOLUTIONS INTERIM REPORT 2017 In preparation for the upcoming resolution meetings, please find attached the Interim Resolutions Report for 2017. The report outlines 17 proposed resolutions that originated from the UNSM regional and caucus meetings that took place between February and May of 2017. The proposed resolution topics include: Affordable Housing, Agricultural Land, Building Inspectors, Capped Assessment Program (CAP), Designated Protected Areas (Land and Marine), Doctor Shortage and Recruitment, Forestry Taxation/Sustainable Practices, Library Funding, Municipal Funding Formula, Public Transit (Intermunicipal), PVSC Governance Changes, Regional Enterprise Networks (RENs), Regional Planning, Rural High Speed Internet, Roads, Senior Safety Program, and Tourism Strategy: Northumberland Shore. The purpose of these meetings is to review each of the proposed resolutions to obtain feedback on the issue identified and to discuss options moving forward. Key questions to consider when reviewing the proposed resolutions include the following: Is the topic of major importance to municipalities? Is the issue correctly identified? Is there information missing from the discussion? Do the proposed actions make sense? Is there a major issue missing? Feedback from the three sessions will be presented to the UNSM Executive, who will make recommendations for resolutions to be brought to the membership at the annual conference. Should more than five resolutions to the province be proposed, there will be a process for the membership to select their top five at the AGM in November. The three meetings to discuss UNSM resolutions are taking place on the following dates: Thursday, September 7 Victoria County Municipal Office 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Friday, September 22 Queens Place Emera Centre 50 Queens Place Drive, Liverpool 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Friday, October 6 District of East Hants Municipal Office Lloyd E Matheson Centre 15 Commerce Court, Elmsdale 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Please note we only have seven people registered for the September 7 meeting in Baddeck. We would need at least 15 people in attendance to convene the meeting. We will let the membership know by September 5 if this meeting will take place. Phone: (902) 423-8331 Fax: (902) 425-5592 www.unsm.ca PLEASE NOTE: If you do not want to receive communications from UNSM, please e-mail Tracy Verbeke at tverbeke@unsm.ca, and you will be removed from the mailing list. INTERIM RESOLUTIONS REPORT Feedback Welcome August 31, 2017 2 | P a g e Table of Contents TITLE PAGE # Introduction 3 Affordable Housing 5 Agricultural Land 8 Building Inspectors 11 Capped Assessment Program (CAP) 12 Designated Protected Areas: Land and Marine+ 14 Doctor Shortage and Recruitment 15 Forestry Taxation, Sustainable Practices 17 Library Funding 19 Municipal Funding Formula 20 Public Transit- Intermunicipal 21 PVSC Governance Changes 23 Regional Enterprise Networks (RENs) 25 Regional Planning 26 Rural High-Speed Internet 27 Roads 28 Safety of Seniors Program 29 Tourism Strategy: Northumberland Shore 31 3 | P a g e INTRODUCTION Resolutions are a means to convey matters of importance. They are passed by majority vote at our annual conference and serve as notice to other levels of government that these matters will be addressed. In recent years a large number of resolutions were forwarded to the Province with little success. UNSM was advised to narrow the number of resolutions to the top priorities of the membership. In discussions with members, general support was expressed to limiting the number of resolutions that go to the Province at 3-5 per year, with clear requests for specific action based on evidence and analysis. 2016 was the first year resolutions were limited to five. The process to develop these resolutions was temporary, recognizing the municipal elections were being held a month before the annual meeting. The resolutions were based on a membership survey asking participants to identify top priorities. The intent of the revised resolution process is to involve multiple municipalities in the identification the top issues impacting municipalities. Each potential resolution identified involves undertaking research and analysis to describe the issue, how it is impacting municipalities, options to address the issue, and a recommended solution in the form of a resolution. Developing a limited number of resolutions as a top priorities would have a greater impact on being implemented by the Province. Given the goal of focussing the resolutions on matters that would make a difference to municipalities, the resolution policy focusses resolutions on municipal matters. Yet many of our members pointed out the need to bring community concerns to the province’s attention. The challenge in using the resolution format is that municipalities likely do not have the expertise to identify the appropriate solution, hence the idea of a Statement of Municipal Concern. These would allow individual councils to detail the issue in their communities. All Statements of Municipal Concern would be sent to the province for their review. Last winter and spring, regional and caucus meetings were held across the province. Participants suggested possible resolutions. These suggestions were not typically specific. Over the summer, UNSM staff worked with others to research the various topics. This interim document provides the information gained and suggests possible actions, not all of which lead to a resolution. The resolution meetings being held September 6 in Baddeck, September 22 in Liverpool and October 6 in East Hants are intended to get further feedback from the membership. Key questions to consider: • Is this of major importance to municipalities? • Is the issue correctly identified? 4 | P a g e • Is there information missing in the discussion? • Do the proposed actions make sense? • Is there a major issue missing? Feedback from the three sessions will be presented to the UNSM Executive, who will make recommendations for resolutions to be brought to the membership at the annual conference. Should more than five resolutions to the province be proposed, there will be a process for the membership to select their top five at the AGM in November. 5 | P a g e AFFORDABLE HOUSING Issue Identification: Affordable Housing is critical to all communities. This issue includes: • Lack of housing of various types • Poor quality of housing, especially for low income renters • Ongoing support from other levels of government to those supplying housing to citizens • Homelessness • Appropriate, affordable housing for those with disabilities • Senior housing options Background Information: FCM has identified housing as it’s next priority, following infrastructure. It has called attention to the federal programs expiring in the next year, and the need to renew them. In Nova Scotia, the federal government provides subsidies for 20,900 households, worth approximately $50 million per year through federal social housing agreements. If the current programs expire, at least a third of these are at risk. FCM wants to ensure social housing is protected. FCM is also pushing for implementation of the national housing strategy, the building of new social and affordable housing, the support for the non-profit housing sector, financial support for vulnerable households, investment in rental housing, and support to reduce and prevent homelessness. The Federal Housing Strategy will invest $11.2 billion across Canada. $5 billion of this money has been dedicated by CMHC for a National Housing Fund that will support co-investment opportunities with housing partners. As well, financing for affordable housing will be federally designed and delivered. Likely municipalities and non-profit housing organizations will be eligible, along with the private sector. This will present a particular challenge in Nova Scotia, where housing support is delivered by the Province. Housing is not a core responsibility for municipalities and in many municipalities resources may not be available. As well, the non- profit housing sector is not large. This point should be made clear to the federal government. The provincial government housing initiatives focus on low income residents. They do have programs related to homelessness, shelters and transition housing, social housing, affordable rental housing, home ownership and housing repair programs. The current provincial strategy was established in 2013, and should be reviewed once the federal program details are clear. With respect to seniors, the province’s SHIFT program to support our aging population commits the province to working with the federal and municipal governments to invest in housing that 6 | P a g e supports people to age in place in their homes and communities. It specifically mentions reviewing the Statement of Provincial Interest on Housing to determine if it adequately directs municipal planning and zoning to support a range of options that bridge the gap between independent living and long-term care. The SHIFT action plan also supports construction of affordable housing for seniors, additional rent subsidies to reduce the waiting list for public housing, improving the quality of social housing for low-income households, funding to create and upgrade shelter and transitional housing spaces for victims of family violence. While housing is not a core responsibility for municipalities, there are ways municipalities are contributing to housing solutions. These include the use of municipal planning and land use tools, community-based partnerships with other parties, donations of land, reduced taxes to non-profit organizations providing affordable housing, tax reductions to low income home owners, etc. FCM has developed a guide for municipalities which identifies tools available across the country, not all of which may apply in Nova Scotia. Impact on Municipalities As the provincial and federal governments review their strategies and negotiate new arrangements, concerns are emerging and municipalities are increasingly under pressure to assist in ensuring affordable housing is available. It is possible the federal and provincial programs are not enough, and municipalities will be asked to invest in housing directly. While partnerships are likely allowed under the MGA, the responsibilities municipalities are currently delivering have led to already high tax burdens on property owners. Adding to these burdens is a challenge, one requiring careful and transparent discussion within the community. Renewal of the expiring federal Affordable Housing Agreements is essential. The reliance on municipalities and the non-profit housing sector in NS for the delivery of federal programming is of great concern, as the capacity is not there. Municipal involvement with the province in finding housing solutions is essential. Proposed Solution: Two resolutions are recommended, one to the federal government and one to the provincial government: • Federal Resolution: The resolution would ask the federal government to support the need for federal investments in housing in Nova Scotia; the need to renew the Affordable Housing Agreements, and the need to recognize and address the lack of capacity in NS municipalities and the non-profit housing sector to deliver federal housing programs. The federal government should work with UNSM and the province to ensure federal programs are fully accessed in Nova Scotia. 7 | P a g e • Provincial Resolution: The resolution would ask the province to establish a joint provincial/municipal working group or steering committee to review the current housing strategy in light of current needs; to clarify the role and tools available to municipalities to address housing issues; and to develop guides for municipalities on the tools available to them to address these issues. The working group could also review the current Statement of Interest with respect to housing. Alternative Approaches: UNSM could develop a Statement of Municipal Concern which would document housing concerns from municipalities. 8 | P a g e AGRICULTURAL LAND Issue Identification: All land in Nova Scotia assessed as agricultural is exempt from municipal property taxation. Instead, municipalities receive a provincial grant-in-lieu. A significant portion of lands which are assessed as agricultural are now abandoned and no longer being used for agricultural purposes. The issue is that in many cases these property owners are still receiving the tax exemption because a change in use has not been formally identified. This has likely resulted in reduced revenues for municipalities. It also creates little or no incentive to actively farm since abandoned agricultural lands are receiving the same tax benefit. In many situations it appears agricultural properties are being purchased by non-farmers where the new buyer builds a home with no intention of farming. This could result in valuable agricultural lands going out of circulation. If this situation continues, it could impact the amount of local food grown in Nova Scotia. While some of these mentioned lands may be lying fallow, there is no system in place to prove whether the land is fallow or abandoned. Background Information Section 77 of the MGA outlines the farm property taxation exemption as follows: (1) The Minister shall in each year pay to the municipality in which farm property exempt from taxation is situate a grant equal to $2.10 per acre in respect of the land. (2) For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2001, and for each subsequent fiscal year, the Minister shall pay to the municipality in which the land is situate a grant per acre equal to the grant paid for the immediately preceding fiscal year varied by the same percentage as the variation in the cost of living over the immediately preceding calendar year as measured by the change in the Consumer Price Index for Canada prepared by Statistics Canada. (3) Where any land, or part thereof, to which this Section applies ceases to be farm property, a change in use tax, determined by the assessor pursuant to the Assessment Act, equal to twenty per cent of the value of the land, or part thereof, that ceased to be farm property is due and payable to the municipality in which the land is situate by the person determined by the assessor to have been responsible for the change in use, unless the land, or part thereof, becomes forest property bona fide used or intended to be used for forestry purposes, in which case no change in use tax is payable. The organization responsible for identifying a change of use in agricultural lands is the Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC). Rural municipalities have not received many notices with respect to change in use over the last number of years even though anecdotally municipal 9 | P a g e staff have identified several agricultural lands that have been abandoned (as indicated by the alders and shrubs sprouting up). It is suggested that the PVSC lead and develop a new comprehensive strategy to better identify a change in use. The Province has its own Statement of Interest Regarding Agricultural Land where its goal is to protect agricultural land for the development of a viable and sustainable agriculture and food industry. The basis for the statement is as follows: • The preservation of agricultural land is important to the future of Nova Scotians. • Agricultural land is being lost to non-agricultural development. • There are land-use conflicts between agricultural and non-agricultural land uses. How the issue is currently impacting municipalities and/or any potential impacts Municipalities could be losing revenues as a result of abandoned agricultural lands being exempt from municipal taxation. Abandoned agricultural land also means there could be fewer people working in the sector which provides much needed employment for rural communities. It could also result in less food grown locally. Taxing abandoned lands at, for example, a 20 per cent rate or at a residential rate where there is a house situated may encourage better economic use of the lands. Proposed Solution: That the UNSM work with PVSC and the Departments of Agriculture and Municipal Affairs to develop a comprehensive strategy that will quickly and efficiently reclassify land that is no longer being used for agricultural purposes. The strategy would also include clear definitions of fallow versus abandoned agricultural lands. Other steps as appropriate to enhance the success of the resolution which could include engaging other stakeholder groups or further research. a. Other Stakeholders The UNSM may want to engage the NS Department of Agriculture, Department of Municipal Affairs, PVSC and the NS Federation of Agriculture for further input. b. Further Research Further research could include gathering information on the following: • Percentage of land in NS assessed as agricultural and how this has changed over the last five years • Percentage of agricultural land that has been reclassified over the last five years 10 | P a g e • Current strategy PVSC has in place to identify agricultural land that is no longer in use • How much Province allocates to municipalities as a grant in lieu over the last five years • Are there other tax policy tools the Province should be looking at that encourages active farming? 11 | P a g e BUILDING INSPECTORS Issue Identification: Municipalities are finding it increasingly difficult to attract qualified building inspectors. Background Information: This issue has been recognized for some time. In 2014 a report on the education and certification requirements was prepared by a provincial committee which reviewed the legislated and regulatory requirements. An interim report was released at that time. A final report was expected, but had not been distributed. In July 2017, the Association of Municipal Administrators wrote to the Department of Municipal Affairs, pointing out the need for building official training to be sustainable and more responsive to the needs of municipalities across the province. They noted there needs to be a clear path towards certification for building officials from other jurisdictions, as well as improvements in the process of certification. This includes those with experience in the building trades, and those employed by municipalities who are in the process of training. The Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs indicated in her response to the AMA’s letter that DMA is working to ensure that building inspectors from other jurisdictions can become qualified in our province. DMA is also working to establish a process whereby individuals with experience in the skilled trades can challenge the certification examinations. Impact on Municipalities: This issue appears to apply throughout the province, resulting in delays of various severity. Proposed Solution: It is recommended AMA continue to work on this issue with the Department of Municipal Affairs. Should no action result, or no solution developed, this issue should be revisited. 12 | P a g e CAPPED ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (CAP) Issue Identification: Property values in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s were rising dramatically, especially waterfront properties. Concerns were being raised that long-standing property owners were no longer able to afford the property taxes. The CAP was legislated by the province ten years ago, as a means to protect these home owners. Since then, the program has resulted in variations in property taxes for similar houses on the same street. This breaks one of the principles of fair taxation. To raise the same level of revenue with the CAP, it is clear that for every dollar one taxpayer saves, another taxpayer pays more. We are hearing stories of young families not being able to afford the property tax when buying their first home, seniors not able to downsize without paying more in property taxes on the smaller home, economic development being stymied as people refrain from buying new homes, etc. It is not clear if the program is helping those who need it the most. A review of the program is needed to explore the issues and to find better solutions. Background Information: Property tax is the primary source of municipal revenues. Most academics point to a market based assessment as the fairest system. Market values reflect government services and amenities in the area. Those with higher valued homes pay more in property taxes than those with lower values. The CAP distorts the market based system. It is not clear the current program is helping those who need it most. The program benefits those who stay in their homes for a longer period of time, and those whose assessments are rising more rapidly. Depending on market conditions, there is some analysis that suggests the ones with higher valued homes are benefitting more than those of lower value homes. Public understanding of the issue is complicated. Many perceive they are benefitting but in actuality are paying more in taxes than they would without the CAP. There is general distrust in government, causing some to conclude the removal of the CAP is simply a means for municipalities to raise revenues. Impact on Municipalities Municipalities set their tax rates to raise revenues needed to provide services communities want. The difference between market assessed values and capped values varies depending on the market conditions in the municipality. The impact on new housing developments is not clear, but there are stories about new homes not being built. There are stories about people not moving into more suitable housing because the new property taxes are higher than what they are paying now. There are also stories about some municipalities not raising tax rates, 13 | P a g e even though the revenues are needed, because they know the impact on some taxpayers will be harsher than it would be if there were no CAP. Municipalities do not want to see people forced out of their homes from their inability to pay property taxes. To address this, there would need to be programs in place to ensure this does not happen should the CAP be phased out or eliminated. As the duration of the program lengthens, the impacts increase and become more complicated to resolve. This needs to be dealt with now. Proposed Solution: UNSM has raised this issue with the province consistently over the last several years. Because the CAP was introduced by an all-party committee of the legislature, UNSM wrote to the province two years ago requesting an all-party committee review the program. The UNSM received a letter from the Minister at that time agreeing to the all-party committee. Further discussions with the province revealed challenges with this approach. UNSM’s plea to the province was to at least form a working committee to review the program. There are at least a few possible solutions that need to be explored: • Complete phasing out over a period of 8-10 years (this was done successfully with the business occupancy tax), with a new tax relief program for low income property owners • Applying the CAP only to situations where increases in property values are significant (e.g. over 15%), and allowing time for these higher property values to be phased in • Providing municipalities with more tools to assist those struggling to pay property taxes, and letting municipalities choose how they want to handle it. At this time, UNSM should not recommend one solution, but should encourage the review to explore and consult on the appropriate solution. UNSM has recently written to the province once again requesting a review of the program. Should a positive answer not be received, a resolution would be appropriate. Support for Solution: UNSM is aware other groups are supportive of a removal of the CAP program. UNSM will be working with these groups to encourage them to publicly support a review. 14 | P a g e DESIGNATED PROTECTED AREAS: LAND AND MARINE Issue Identification: The province does not adequately consult with affected municipalities when designating protected wilderness areas. In some cases, municipalities were developing economic opportunities, such as mining or tourism, which had to be halted once the province designated the area in question. Similarly, the federal government designates marine protected areas without proper consultation with municipalities. Frustrated commercial fishers impacted by these designated areas have communicated their concerns to local councillors. Background Information: The provincial government has a goal to achieve 13% protected land across the province, provided there are not negative recreational or economic impacts. The province currently has 12.39% of its land protected, as wilderness areas or nature reserves. The federal government has established a target to preserve 5% of Canada’s oceans by the end of 2017, and 10% by the end of 2020. In the spring, the provincial government wrote to the federal Minister requesting a halt on designating any more waters off the Nova Scotia coast. Currently 30,000 square kms off Nova Scotia are designated for protection, the most marine areas under protection, and this may need to double if Canada is to achieve its goal. While designation does not automatically close an area to all activity, it impacts industry, in some cases this will have a detrimental impact. The federal government has responded publicly, indicating it is sensitive to Nova Scotia’s concerns, but it is not changing its commitments. Impact on Municipalities: Provincial designations protecting land impact on property tax revenues for the municipality. No compensation is received for this loss of revenue, and any potential economic activity is limited or lost. The locations of protected lands impact some municipalities more than others, and is some cases represent a significant portion of their land base. Restricting commercial fishing in prime ocean locations impacts municipalities through reducing economic activity. The province wants other provinces to contribute to the federal goal before additional areas of the ocean off Nova Scotia are designated. Proposed Solution: There is little municipalities can do to prevent either level of government from protecting more land or ocean. Municipalities could argue for compensation from the provincial government in 15 | P a g e the form of a grant-in-lieu. More work needs to be done to develop the case for this and to estimate an appropriate grant-in-lieu. DOCTOR SHORTAGE AND RECRUITMENT Issue Identification: Without family doctors, communities are less attractive as places to live, work and play, and may result in out-migration of residents. In many areas of the province there is a shortage of both family doctors and specialists. As doctors leave communities, replacements are not automatically found. Background Information: The issue of too few doctors has been a challenge over the last number of years, beginning before the province moved to consolidate regional health districts into two. The challenge of attracting and keeping doctors is a not unique to Nova Scotia, and the province recently announced changes in how it will work to establish more doctors in communities. Health care is a primary provincial responsibility and is accountable for their results. The Province has recognized it does not have the right mix of family doctors and specialists, and believes the geographic distribution is uneven and does not align with population need. They have been attempting to address this, but problems remain. Municipalities do not have expertise in the health care system, and determining the best action to attract and retain doctors is complicated. Physicians are looking for work/life balance and need realistic healthy call schedules, access to their peers and to specialists. A presentation by the NS Health Authority at the UNSM Spring Workshop identified a number of steps being taken. The province has a strategy being refined, including incentive programs such as site visits, relocation allowances, tuition relief, bursaries, debt assistance programs, etc. Work is underway with Dalhousie, Quebec, UK, Ireland, along with other marketing initiatives. The NSHA presentation also provided a number of suggestions as to how municipalities could support doctor recruitment and retention such as promoting the reasons to live and work here; providing community mentorships; and assisting spouses and children in feeling welcome. Some municipalities have been actively recruiting doctors for their areas; some have established clinics for them to work in. Impact on Municipalities: This is a major issue for many municipalities, if not all, and for some it is the most critical issue. Without access to adequate health care, people will not remain in communities. Full service health care in every community is not a practical goal, a balance will need to be struck. 16 | P a g e Proposed Solution: The prime responsibility for this remains with the province. However, municipalities should explore how best to support recruitment and retention, and work on solutions with the province to ensure access to health care is sufficient. A Statement of Municipal Concern could be developed, pointing out to the province the great significance of this issue. It would be helpful if municipalities could write a supporting document indicating the situation and concern in their municipality being expressed by their citizens. UNSM could also hold a one-day workshop, inviting experts in health care and physician recruitment to identify what municipalities could do to support recruitment efforts. UNSM would seek to partner with organizations such as Doctors Nova Scotia, and individuals who have been speaking in the media to address our members. 17 | P a g e FORESTRY TAXATION, SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES Issue Identification: Taxation of forestry land is being questioned as to whether it is encouraging and supporting economic activity, and whether it can or should be used to encourage sustainable forestry practices. Clear cutting has also been raised as an issue, with concerns about clear cutting on crown lands as well as private lands. Background Information: Forestry land is taxed at a rate set by the province. This rate has not changed in decades, and a review of the property tax system in Nova Scotia recommended the rate be reviewed. This has not yet happened. The Department of Natural Resources is willing to participate in a review of the tax. Forestry land is determined under PVSC on the basis of property owner statements confirming the land is being forested. In some jurisdictions there are clearly defined characteristics and criteria to define land eligible for the forestry classification. With respect to taxation, in many cases, the cost of billing the property owner outweighs the property tax revenue being generated. There are concerns that lands are designated as forestry that are not actually being intended to be harvested. In some cases, land is being inherited by family members who are not intending to harvest the forest but who do not want to lose the forestry designation. If the forestry tax were to be raised, they may sell their lands to large companies. Others feel the tax should be tied to sustainable forestry practices, which may impact private land owners who want to clear cut. Still others feel the tax should be used as an incentive to promote economic activity. And others feel the rate is too low, and raising it will not impact on economic activity. With respect to clear cutting, the province has indicated it is not prepared to prevent clear cutting on private land, and that is has processes in place to ensure any clear cutting on public land is appropriate. The province has announced a review of their policies and forest practices, with a goal of improving forestry, balancing long term environmental, social and economic interests in managing Nova Scotia forests. Professor William Lahey has been retained to lead an examination of the legislation, policies and guidelines; the science based tools that determine whether and where harvesting occurs, as well as the harvesting methods (including clear cutting). He will evaluate market access for private forest owners, particularly in the western region. His work will build on previous consultations, but will also provide additional opportunities for input. He is expected to complete his preparatory phase by December, 18 | P a g e identify issues with input from stakeholders and the public in December and January; and complete his analysis and report by end of February. There are also different opinions about what constitutes sustainable practices, and related concerns about the spraying of pesticides. Discussions at the regional and caucus meetings did not lead to a consensus on what needs to be changed with respect to forestry. Impact on Municipalities Municipalities recognize the economic value of forestry activity and want to ensure forestry remains a viable, sustainable industry. It is critical component of rural life and the issues are complicated. The property tax system is the primary tool for municipalities to raise revenue, and it needs to be fair. There are questions raised about the treatment of forestry land, compared to the treatment of agricultural land and whether they are taxed appropriately. Proposed Solution: There needs to be more research undertaken on the implications of forestry taxation. More consultation is also required to identify the concerns, and to discuss possible solutions. This will require work on the part of elected and staff at the municipal level, and engagement with the forestry sector and the province. Options moving forward include: • A joint municipal/provincial committee to explore the issues around taxation • A joint municipal/industry committee to explore the issues around taxation and growth of the industry • Development of a municipal response to the provincial review of forestry. 19 | P a g e LIBRARY FUNDING Issue Identification: Lack of provincial funding is impacting the ability of libraries across the province to maintain existing service levels. Background Information: With no sustainable funding in place from the Provincial Government, all library regions are struggling to maintain current levels of services. This fiscal year the Province allocated a one-time grant to all library regions. This funding was welcomed but does not address the ever-increasing funding pressures faced by public libraries. A sustainable funding commitment for the long-term viability of library services is required. Impact on Municipalities: Reduced provincial library funding places more pressure on municipalities to fund libraries. Strong public libraries serve as an important factor in resident attraction to our communities. Proposed Solution: The Library Boards Association of Nova Scotia (LBANS) Board of Directors and CORL, (Library Regions Executive Directors) had a joint meeting with Community Culture and Heritage (CCH) Deputy Minister Tracey Taweel, and her senior staff. Upon conclusion of the meeting it was agreed that CCH staff and Corel members would form a joint committee to determine the core services that libraries should provide. Once this base data is compiled, the goal would be to work towards a sustainable funding model. CCH is also establishing, through its Culture Action Plan, funds where libraries can apply. This program is aimed at projected base funding. While it does not address operational concerns, it is welcome news that these funds will be available. More information on the base funding will be made available at a further update. 20 | P a g e MUNICIPAL FUNDING FORMULA Issue Identification: The Fiscal Review report pointed out the current provincial operating grant was questionable in terms of helping those who need it the most, who are struggling to provide core services with a reasonable tax burden. This issue has not been resolved, and the operating grant has been frozen for a number of years. Background Information: This is a complex issue. There is evidence to suggest the current formula is unfair and the funding level for the program is insufficient. The Fiscal Review committee explored a number of alternative formulas, but recognized that any change in the formula would create “winners and losers”. The formula also needs to be looked at in the context of other means of increasing the viability of municipalities, including structural change, infrastructure funding, shared service delivery. As well it needs to be looked at in the context of declining and/or aging populations, economic growth, varying levels of service, and public expectations. Impact on Municipalities: The current formula leads to some municipalities experiencing further and further deterioration in the ability to provide the services necessary to their residents. It means some are not able to upgrade, replace or add new infrastructure. It means some will find it difficult to meet new regulations. It means some taxpayers are paying a larger proportion of their incomes on municipal services. It means some taxpayers could be paying less than they should for municipal services. It means some municipalities may be spending more on services than they would if they were not receiving provincial funding. Should the formula change, and reduce the amount going to a municipality, the municipality would have to recoup the monies elsewhere, find new efficiencies or decrease services. There are also questions about municipal structure. For some services, economies of scale can be realized, which would reduce the tax burden on property owners. These economies of scale could be achieved through structural change or shared service delivery. Any funding program should not serve as a disincentive to achieving these economies of scale. Proposed Solution: The Fiscal Review recommended further consultation with municipalities on the provincial operating grants program. The consultations should be undertaken with focus on the purpose of the program, and the options for achieving the purpose. 21 | P a g e PUBLIC TRANSIT – INTERMUNICIPAL Issue Identification: The benefits of municipalities working together on community transit solutions is hindered by having to go through the Utility and Review Board for approval to cross municipal boundaries. This process is expensive and lengthy. The process to create an inter-municipal service is costly and time-consuming. Background Information: In conversations with the Department of Seniors, this issue has been identified with respect to finding transportation solutions for seniors. The SHIFT strategy includes supporting community transportation and calls for a ministerial committee to develop a community-based transportation strategy, working with the insurance sector to protect volunteer drivers. The Department has been looking at opportunities to provide transportation to hospitals and medical appointments, having drivers pick up passengers along the way to these locations, and have identified the same issue with regards to intermunicipal transportation and the UARB. The Department of Seniors has stated the following: As worded in Shift: “Deliver a community-based transportation strategy and solution for Nova Scotia”. Transportation is a key issue we heard during consultations in the development of the action plan. It is clearly an important enabler in meeting the goals of the plan. We have been tasked with developing a solution and recommendations for government in the fall 2017. To this end, we have established management and inter-departmental committees as well as engaging on a regular basis with the joint task group made of representatives from Community Transportation Nova Scotia and the Rural Transportation Association of Nova Scotia. We have been exploring a range of barriers and opportunities that include awareness/promotion, insurance for volunteer drivers, innovative approaches to transportation, UARB regulations related to “tagging” (picking up passengers along the way) and crossing municipal boundaries, etc. In relation to the issue of crossing of boundaries that you have raised, we have been in discussion with representatives from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. They have been quite understanding of the issue and are open to looking at possible regulatory changes. To be clear, we will not have a solution in place for the Fall but are confident we will have a clear direction and plan in this regard. In addition, Bill Greenlaw (Executive Director, Communities Culture & Heritage) who is co- chairing this work with me are planning to meet with you (and your executive) as part of our engagement efforts to support the development of a solution and recommendations for the Fall. We will be in touch shortly to set up a meeting. 22 | P a g e Impact on Municipalities: Community transportation options is important to a variety of groups of people, not just seniors. Community transportation benefits are significant. Efforts to increase the amount and availability of transportation options in rural and urban communities is essential given Nova Scotia’s aging population. Proposed Solution: Given the interest and work of the Department of Seniors on this issue, UNSM can include this issue in the proposed MOU with the Department, and monitor progress in resolving the issue. 23 | P a g e PVSC GOVERNANCE CHANGES Issue Identification: Challenges have emerged around the governance of the Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC). The legislation establishing the PVSC lays out requirements for Board composition that have created problems for the organization. In particular, the legislation requires elected and staff membership from each of the three municipal caucuses, and despite a number of requests, the ability to recruit members has been difficult and time consuming. The election cycle has further exacerbated the issue. More flexibility in appointing board members is required. Since these changes require legislative changes, a full review of the PVSC governance model was undertaken, which has identified additional changes that would enhance PVSC’s ability to provide services to municipalities. Background Information: The PVSC was previously a department within the provincial government. When the province decided to have municipalities pay for assessment services, the PVSC was established as a not- for-profit entity to provide assessment and related property information services for municipalities and the province. It is responsible for the assessment of all properties that are required under the Assessment Act to be assessed. Having assessments undertaken independent from municipal councils, in a consistent and fair manner across the province, ensures the integrity of the municipal property tax system. Under the current Act, municipalities are identified as members of the Corporation, but there is no further wording in the Act as to the role of municipalities nor the accountability of PVSC to municipalities, other than a requirement to submit an annual report at the UNSM annual meeting. The UNSM is required to appoint members to the Board, specifically two elected members and one administrative person from each of the rural, regional and town caucuses, Following the last municipal election, four PVSC Board members needed to be replaced; in the interim, the ability for the PVSC Board to reach quorum was difficult. To avoid this issue in the future, a review of the PVSC governance was undertaken and a number of recommendations requiring legislative change have been identified. The province is open to making legislative changes, but wants to ensure majority of municipalities are supportive of the proposed changes. A resolution at the UNSM annual meeting would demonstrate this support. Impact on Municipalities 24 | P a g e The recommended changes to the PVSC governance model will clarify and protect the municipal interests in ensuring quality, independent assessment services, and provide the necessary flexibility to ensure the PVSC Board is able to function appropriately. An MOU between PVSC and UNSM will spell out responsibilities and accountabilities in ensuring municipal needs are addressed by the PVSC. In addition, PVSC would work with each municipality to formalize an agreement regarding PVSC services to the municipality. Proposed Solution: The recommended governance changes are being proposed: • All Board members would be appointed by an independent recruitment and appointment committee comprised of the chair/president and vice-chair/vice president of UNSM, AMANS and PVSC. Recruitment would be based on competencies and municipal experience (could be current or past elected or administrative), not on current municipal caucus structure. Should an elected board member or a current municipal administrator cease to be so, they could remain on the Board for a period up to six months while a replacement was recruited. • The Board would include 9-11 members; likely 5-6 directors with municipal experience, and 4-5 independent members. Consideration would be given to diversity, gender, and geography. Competencies would align with the PVSC strategic plan. • The CEO of PVSC and the Executive Director of UNSM would both be ex-officio, non- voting members. • Length of term of any director would be 4 years, with the possibility of re-appointment. The maximum length of time one could serve on the Board would be 8 consecutive years. An accountability framework would be established through an MOU between PVSC, UNSM and AMANS, plus service level agreements with each municipality to: • Define the relationship between PVSC and municipalities • Create more awareness and confidence about maintaining high service levels • Recognize the UNSM and municipalities as a significant stakeholder group • Formalize communication and reporting, and • Provide a mechanism through which municipalities could express concerns. 25 | P a g e REGIONAL ENTERPRISE NETWORKS (RENS) Issue Identification: There are concerns the REN model is not as effective as it could be, and does not appear to be the answer for all municipalities. Background Information: Economic development is essential for viable, sustainable communities. Municipalities and the other levels of government share in their responsibilities to support and encourage economic activity. The REN model is expanding in Nova Scotia and the majority of municipalities are onboard to being part of a REN. The province is working to support the REN model and has recently undertaken a review of the model. Some changes to enhance the REN model may be forthcoming. The experiences of those with a REN appears to be varied, and lessons are being learned about how to enhance the success of the RENS. Sharing these successes will be part of a REN conference being held September 8th in Baddeck. More will be learned from this session which may point to actions which should be taken. Impact on Municipalities: Municipalities are cost-sharing with the province to fund the RENS, and as such, need to be accountable for the expenditures. Municipalities need to be clear on the work of the RENs. Proposed Solution: Pending the REN conference and further discussion. 26 | P a g e REGIONAL PLANNING Issue Identification: Currently there are no provincial incentive programs to encourage regional planning between or among municipalities. Traditional municipal boundaries which have been in place for many years may serve to stifle the ability of municipalities coming together to provide regional planning services. Encouraging municipalities to work together to provide planning services benefits all residents while reducing duplication of effort. Background Information: The Towns Task Force Report adopted by the membership in 2011 outlined recommendations to encourage regional planning. These were never acted upon by the Province. Impact on Municipalities: Strategies to encourage more regional planning among municipalities will benefit residents, reduce duplication and encourage inter-municipal cooperation. Proposed Solution: Request the Province adopt the recommendations from Towns Task Force Report which are as follows: 1. Amend the MGA to require that municipalities developing or reviewing municipal planning strategies consult with adjacent municipalities on land just outside municipal boundaries. Suggested amendments to Section 204(3) of the MGA could read as follows: The content of a public participation program is at the discretion of the council, but shall identify opportunities and establish ways and means of seeking the opinions of the public and adjacent municipalities concerning the proposed planning documents. 2. That a joint provincial/municipal review of financial incentives and/or legislation be undertaken to encourage more holistic regional planning models. A provincial funding program could be developed to reward municipalities that voluntarily work together on regional planning initiatives. The program would provide funding to municipalities on a cost-shared basis towards regional planning studies. A precedent has already been set for such a funding initiative. The Province, in 2011, provided $50,000 towards Kings 2050, a partnership among the four municipalities in Kings County aimed at guiding the long term sustainable development of Kings County. 27 | P a g e RURAL HIGH-SPEED INTERNET Issue Identification: Access to fast internet speeds in rural Nova Scotia is problematic and inconsistent across the Nova Scotia. In today’s world instant communication via Internet connectivity is essential to promote business development, tourism, and education. It is also an essential service required to attract and retain residents and businesses to rural communities. Background Information: Rural high-speed internet was identified by the UNSM membership as a top priority over the past year. In 2016 the UNSM by resolution requested that the Province continue to work with the UNSM and municipalities to ensure high quality and affordable rural broadband across the province and to support innovative projects with municipalities and community groups. While the Province is in the process of developing a strategy to address this issue, municipalities need access to better broadband speeds now. Although broadband is not a municipal responsibility, a number of municipalities have recognized their communities’ concerns and are working together to provide their own broadband solutions. While many of these strategies may prove successful, in the absence of a provincial strategy, it may result in different and inconsistent networks across the province. Other municipalities, also sensitive to the needs of their communities, have considered the issue and are deliberately choosing not to become involved. Impact on Municipalities: Rural municipalities with weak Internet connectivity will be unable to attract or retain residents and businesses to their local communities. This should be considered an essential service necessary in promoting vibrant and prosperous communities. However, the implications of municipalities becoming involved in the solution needs to be clearly understood. The province has indicated it is taking a leadership role in this issue and is developing a strategy. Proposed Solution: it is recommended that UNSM organize a one-day municipal workshop on rural broadband to discuss the role municipalities could or should play in providing internet service, the various municipal strategies already taking place and the challenges in providing consistent and high- quality Internet access across the province. The session should include municipalities who have chosen not to participate in the solution, to share their concerns. Representatives from the Province would also be invited to provide an update on their strategy. Other expertise may be asked to present. 28 | P a g e ROADS Issue Identification: The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is approaching rural municipalities to cost-share in roads, as it struggles to maintain road infrastructure throughout the province. At the same time, towns are struggling to maintain their roads, for which they pay the full cost. Background Information: Service Exchange specified “J” Class roads, suburban subdivision roads would be transferred to rural municipalities, and that rural municipalities would pay a fee per km of local road, to be adjusted by CPI each year. The amount of the fee in 2014 paid by rural municipalities was $3.7 million, and does not go to TIR directly. The number of kms used to calculate the fee was fixed. Local roads constructed pre-April 1, 1995 are maintained by the province. The amount TIR spent to maintain local roads in rural municipalities that year was $86 million. Those built after this date are maintained by the rural municipality. Service Exchange also noted the province should contribute to arterial and collector roads in urban areas, recognizing they are dual purpose roads for local access and through traffic. Fiscal Review raised the road issue, explored some options and posed a solution that saw rural municipalities increase the amount they were paying to the province for rural roads. Reaction was mixed, and depended on other aspects of Fiscal Review being implemented. The issue is complicated, as the current situation was negotiated under Service Exchange many years ago. Many aspects of Service Exchange have changed since then. Impact on Municipalities: Roads are essential to ensure the flow of people and goods, and the current state of the roads is placing increasing pressure on the province and municipalities. Proposed Solution: There is a need for discussion between TIR, Municipal Affairs and municipalities on the issue of roads. It is clear the current arrangement is presenting challenges to all, and finding a solution without increased funding is a challenge. 29 | P a g e SAFETY OF SENIORS PROGRAM Issue Identification: The provincial senior safety program does not currently operate in all areas of the province, and funding is short term. Municipalities would like to see the program extended, and funded for five years. Background Information: The province currently has a Senior Safety Program that is community based. In some cases, the program works with municipalities, and in other cases it works with other partners in the community. Not every area of the province currently has a Senior Safety program in place. The province’s SHIFT program commits the province to expanding the Senior Safety Program. The Department of Seniors in the lead agency responsibility for fulfilling this commitment. The Department has provided the following statements to UNSM: As worded in Shift: “Help older adults stay safe by expanding the Senior Safety Program to more communities in Nova Scotia.” We are not only looking to expand the program such that all counties will have coverage but also exploring a restructuring of the program to support multi-year funding and improved accountability. At present, the counties without programs are: Colchester, Guysborough, Inverness and Victoria. We are currently revamping the program to an outcomes measurement model and once we have that completed with existing programs we will host meetings in the counties without programs to talk about the development of programs in their area. Municipal units will be invited (and encouraged) to attend along with community, police, health and seniors organizations. We want to ensure these programs get off to a strong start with the right partners who bring a range of resources (local knowledge, money, space, supervision, etc.) to the table. In terms of a timeline for going to new regions, it will not be until the fall 2017. We will not have the work completed with new programs until sometime in September. Municipalities can start talking to their partners earlier so they are ready when we are in the fall. Furthermore, the Department has indicated it is working with existing senior safety programs to improve the accountability with their contracts, but remain committed to have communities lead the delivery of the program and to identify their own safety priorities. Impact on Municipalities: Municipalities recognize the challenges of an aging population and those with senior safety programs have seen positive results in their communities. 30 | P a g e Proposed Solution: As the province has publicly stated their support for expanding the program to ensure all areas benefit, at this time we should allow them to implement their plan. In the meantime, municipalities should monitor the implementation, and should there not be action in the next year or so, this could be brought back for a potential resolution. 31 | P a g e TOURISM STRATEGY: NORTHUMBERLAND SHORE Issue: At the UNSM Colchester-Cumberland-Pictou-East Hants regional meeting held on March 24, 2017, the group requested that a tourism strategy for the Northumberland Shore be developed in conjunction with the Regional Enterprise Networks. Background: Some movement has already begun on this file. In May 2017, the Federal Government announced the formation of a Bay of Fundy Caucus involving eight Maritime MPs who are looking at ways to double tourism numbers in the Bay of Fundy. This project is also endorsed by the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick provincial governments. The project is in its preliminary stages, but the group plans to launch a feedback-gathering mission among Bay of Fundy communities to identify the region's hot spots. Following this, the caucus will start work on a plan to attract more tourists. The Seven Wonders website puts the Bay of Fundy second on a list of North America's seven natural wonders, just after the Grand Canyon. Along with the highest tides in the world, the bay offers tourists a chance to visit some of the oldest communities in Canada, discover Hopewell Rocks and UNESCO world heritage sites and look at unique fossil finds, he said. Impact on Municipalities: A tourism strategy for the Northumberland Shore in addition to the Bay of Fundy work being done at the federal and provincial levels will enhance tourism in these communities. Proposed Solution: The UNSM recommends that this issue not be a resolution or a statement of interest. It is recommended that UNSM facilitate a one-day workshop with the various municipalities along the Northumberland Shore. Provincial Tourism staff may also be invited to participate. C i{. i 1 £ . -7 d ' ' Municipality of the District of Chester r Canada 150 Tfir MuNICIVAUrry or• Grant Application CHESTER CANADA 150 Council for the Municipality of Chester is offering special Canada 150 celebration funding to local community organizations. This funding is intended to help make your Canada 150 event special and to show how proud we are to be Canadian. Following are the details of the funding: Application: You must complete this form and submit it to the Recreation & Parks Department. Deadline: Applications will be accepted any time. The latest applications will be received is October 31, 2017. Available Funding: A total of $35,000 is available. Funds will be approved on a first come first served basis. Timeline: Funds must be spent before December 31, 2017. Note - Application for Canada 150 funds does not restrict groups from applying for a regular Council grant, you may apply for both. 1. Name of Group: Q'q,(),: Z,g4 f , C, N,.1 c , 2. Brief Description of Event: allo-tet .%s 3. Date of Event: 4. Number of People you expect to attend your event: 10 5. Funding Amount Requested: $ ") s • ok") p c) -C) 6. Name - Print'cz» L — h Signature: yy e, r nt Canada 150 applications should be submitted to: Municipality of Chester Recreation & Parks Canada 150 151 King Street PO Box 369 Chester NS BOJ 1JO (In person or by mail) 902-275-3630 (Fax) recreation@chester.ca (Email) Municipality of the District of Chester r0% Canada 150 1111'. O Grant Application CHESTER CANADA 150 Council for the Municipality of Chester is offering special Canada 150 celebration funding to local community organizations. This funding is intended to help make your Canada 150 event special and to show how proud we are to be Canadian. Following are the details of the funding: Application: You must complete this form and submit it to the Recreation & Parks Department. Deadline: Applications will be accepted anytime. The latest applications will be received is October 31, 2017. Available Funding: A total of $35,000 is available. Funds will be approved on a first come first served basis. Timeline: Funds must be spent before December 31, 2017. Note - Application for Canada 150 funds does not restrict groups from applying for a regular Council grant, you may apply for both. 1. Name of Group: deu1 % o . /`iS ng. ,5%?l V - 1Ue'-J 'a-'1Uq 2. Brief Description of Event: f w-• V, L Cd q C.0 LLt-o- l& kl. -o o-,(lYyi )ti U vt l ` / 's I YYl o 1"-e• 3. Date of Event: M L% 4. Number of People you expect to attend your event: .-3 c) 0 5. Funding Amount Requested: $ "oil / // 6. Name - Print: SA PAIR CO- -re—, Signature: Fesi1V,4,L Clef) I AC, Canada 150 applications should be submitted to: Municipality of Chester Recreation & Parks Canada 150 151 King Street PO Box 369 Chester NS BOJ 110 (In person or by mail) 902-275-3630 (Fax) recreation@chester. ca (Email) REQUEST FOR DECISION/DIRECTION Prepared By:Matthew S. Davidson,P. Eng.Date September 21, 2017 Reviewed By:Matthew S. Davidson,P. Eng.Date September 21, 2017 Authorized By:Tammy S Wilson, CAO.Date September 22, 2017 CURRENT SITUATION The contract with R. Schnare & Son Light Trucking for Sludge Removal and Disposal Services has expired. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended by the Engineering & Public Works Department that the Tender for Sludge Removal & Disposal Services, T-2017-010 to be awarded to R. Schnare and Son Septic and Excavation. BACKGROUND As per the Municipal Purchasing Policy (P-04) the Municipality shall review routine contracted services on a rotating basis. In the case of Sludge Removal & Disposal Services, the services are to be procured by retaining one (1) contractor an on annual basis. The objective of the Tender is to retain one (1) Sludge Removal and Disposal Services Contractor (Proponent) for a one (1) year period to support the Municipality of the District of Chester’s (Municipality) ongoing operational requirements. The services to be provided are generally described as the removal of septage or waste sludge from the six (6) wastewater treatment plants on a routine frequency, as well as provide pumping of raw wastewater in cases of emergency or for schedule projects. The Tender was advertised as per the purchasing policy and closed on August 4, 2017. DISCUSSION There were three (3) proposals received from the following proponents: 1)Clean Earth Industrial Services 2)Prospect Septic Services 3)R. Schnare and Son Septic and Excavation REPORT TO:Warden Allen Webber and Members of the Committee of the Whole SUBMITTED BY:Engineering & Public Works Department DATE:September 21, 2017 SUBJECT:Sludge Removal & Disposal Services ORIGIN:P-04, Routine Procurement 2 Request For Decision The tenders were evaluated on comparison of the unit rates supplied in Appendix A. IMPLICATIONS Policy Ensure the Municipality is following P-04 Procurement Policy Financial/Budgetary By regularly tendering this service, the Municipality is ensuring the services it requires are obtained at the best value. Table 1: Summary of Schedule A: Pricing and Unit Rate Comparison Contactor Sewage/Sludge Removal Rate ($/Imp. Gal)Stand-By Rate Clean Earth Industrial Services $0.25/Imp. Gal $87.50 Prospect Septic Services $0.16/Imp. Gal $75.00 R. Schnare & Son Septic & Ex.$0.08/Imp. Gal $125.00 Table 2:Estimated value of the contract based on Submissions Contactor Sewage/Sludge Removal Cost* Standby Cost**Est. Contract Value Clean Earth Industrial Services $252,000.00 $1,750.00 $253,750.00 Prospect Septic Services $161,280.00 $1,500.00 $162,780.00 R. Schnare & Son Septic & Ex.$80,640.00 $2,500.00 $83,140.00 *Removal Estimate = 1,008,000 Imp. Gallons ** Standby Hours Estimate = 20 hours The 2017-18 Sewers Operational Budget included $85,000 for Sludge Removal Services. Environmental This service is integral to the successful operation of the Municipal wastewater systems, ensuring that the Municipality is meeting its Federal and Provincial effluent requirements Strategic Plan 2. Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services; 3. Ensure sufficient infrastructure is available to best serve our residents and businesses; 6. Promote conditions conducive to fostering economic prosperity. 3 Request For Decision Work Program Implications The management of this contract is included in EPW Departments current capital or operational work programs. OPTIONS 1.Award work as recommended2.Defer any decision on the matter and direct staff to bring back further information as identified by Council. ATTACHMENTS N/A