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MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
AGENDA
Thursday,January 11, 2018
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 –December 14, 2017
5.COMMITTEE REPORTS:
5.1 Committee of the Whole –January 4, 2018 –Warden Webber
(motions only)
a)Tax Sale Policy Amended (Motion –2018-006)
b)1999-03-29 Policy for Fess for Tax Sale Proceedings (Motion –2018-006)
c)Audit Committee Policy DRAFT (Motion –2018-007)
5.2 Committee of the Whole –December 7, 2017 –Warden Webber
(receive minutes only)
5.3 Citizens Planning Advisory Committee –December 4, 2017 –Tammy Wilson, CAO
(motions only)
a)Staff Report and recommendation to Council prepared by Community
Development Department dated January 4, 2018 regarding Application
Overview –Portable Signage in Chester Village (Motion –2017-674)
5.4 Any other Committees.
6.MATTERS ARISING.
(appointment at9:30 a.m.)
7. CORRESPONDENCE:
7.1 Letter from from Viking Homes dated January 3, 2018 regarding Request for
MPS/LUBAmendment – redevelopment of Shatford Fisheries Properties and presentation.
Page 2 of 2
8.NEW BUSINESS:
8.1 Chester Visitor Information Centre Assessment –Discussion (COW Meeting –
January 4, 2018 –Agenda item 7.6)
a)South Shore Regional Enterprise Network –Chester VIC Assessment –
PowerPoint Presentation by Annette St. Onge.
b)Chester Visitor Information Centre Assessment Report –November 2017
c)Preliminary Budget Proposed Tourism Attraction and Information
Framework.
d)Request for Decision dated December 20,2016 regarding Visitor
Information Centre 2017 (Background Info.)
9.IN CAMERA.
10.ADJOURNMENT.
MOTIONS FOR APPROVAL OF COUNCIL
FROM JANUARY 4, 2018 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
2018-001 Approval of Agenda/Order of Business
2018-002 Approval of December 7,2017 Minutes -Committee of the Whole.
2018-003 REGION 6 2018/19 BUDGET APPROVED
MOVED by Councillor Hector, SECONDED by Deputy Warden Shatford that the Committee of
the Whole recommend to Council to approve the 2018/19 Region 6 Budget as provided.
CARRIED.
2018-004 FIRE COMMISSION REGISTRATIONS –SCHEDULE B APPROVALS
MOVED by Councillor Hector, SECONDED by Councillor Barkhouse that the Committee of the
Whole recommend to Council to accept the recommendation of the Fire Services Coordinator
and approve the Registration Updates as per the Fire Commissions
,and further that Schedule B registration notifications for 2017 be sent to the individual
Fire/Village Commissions as recommended by the Fire Services Coordinator. CARRIED.
2018-005 ROAD IMPROVEMENT –DOREY PARK ROAD -APPROVED
MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Church that the Committee of the Whole
recommend to Council to accept the signed petitions regarding Private Street Improvement for
Dorey Park Road for a one-time road improvement and direct staff to implement the Street
Improvement Fee requested, in accordance with the Private Street Improvement and
Maintenance By-law.. CARRIED.
2018-006 FIRST NOTICE OF NEW TAX SALE POLICY P-001 APPROVAL AND REPEAL OF
POLICY P-005 POLICY FOR FEES FOR TAX SALE PROCEEDINGS ON JANUARY 11, 2018
(REFER TO SECOND NOTICE ON JANUARY 25, 2018)
MOVED by Councillor Hector, SECONDED by Councillor Barkhouse that the Committee of the
Whole recommend to Council to Give Notice that at the following Council meeting (January 25,
2018) Council will consider adoption of the amended Tax Sale Policy P -001 (previously repealed)
and if deemed advisable approve the Policy; as well,give notice that on this same date Council
will consider and deemed advisable repeal Policy P-05 Policy for Fees for Tax Sale Proceedings.
CARRIED.
2018-007 FIRST NOTICE ON JANUARY 11, 2018 OF ADOPTION OF AUDIT POLICY
(REFER TO SECOND NOTICE ON JANUARY 25, 2018)
MOVED by Deputy Warden Shatford, SECONDED by Councillor Assaff that the Committee of the
Whole recommend to Council to Give Notice that at the following Council meeting (January 25,
2018) Council will consider adoption of the proposed Audit Policy be approved with the changes
discussed being that the Audit Committee shall consist of all members of Council as well as two
members of the public. CARRIED.
2018-008 IN CAMERA -Section 22 (2) (a) Land Negotiations of the Municipal Government
Act.
2018-009 AUTHORIZATION OF EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE
OF PROPERTY AT HIGHWAY 14/WAKE UP HILL ROAD
MOVED by Councillor Assaff, SECONDED by Councillor Barkhouse that the Committee of the
Whole recommend to Council to authorize the execution of the Agreement of Purchase and Sale
of property Located on Highway 14/Wake Up Hill Road, as presented In Camera.CARRIED.
2018-010 Adjournment.
MOTIONS REQUIRING APPROVAL OF COUNCIL FROM
MONDAY,DECEMBER 4, 2017
CITIZENS PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE
2017-672 APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2017-673 APPROVAL OF MINUTES –NOVEMBER 6, 2017
2017-674 TO ADOPT THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS OF PORTABLE SIGNS IN CHESTER VILLAGE
AS DETAILED IN APPENDIX A.MOVED Mary Ellen Clancey, SECONDED by Art Backman that Citizens Planning Advisory Committeerecommend that Municipal Council adopt the proposed amendments which alter the requirements andregulation of Portable Signs in Chester Village as detailed in Appendix A. CARRIED.
2017-676 ADJOURNMENT
Municipality of the District of Chester
Community Development Department
Application Overview –Staff Report #5
Prepared for:Citizens Planning Advisory Committee
Submitted by:Garth Sturtevant -Development Control/Planning Assistant
Date:January 11,2018
Subject:Portable Signage in Chester Village
APPLICANT Staff recommendation to Council
PROPOSAL Amend the Chester Village Area Land Use By-law and Secondary
Planning Strategy to address existing problems with the Regulation of
Portable Signs
LOCATION Chester Village
LOT SIZE N/A
NEIGHBOUR
NOTIFICATION
None to date –if general amendment,no notification of neighbouring
properties
Recommendation
Staff recommend option 1:
That Chester Municipal Council give first reading to the amendments as presented in Appendix A, and set
a date for a Public Hearing of February 8, 2018 at 8:45 a.m. and direct staff to host a Public Information
Meeting prior to the public hearing.
Current Situation
The draft amendments,attached as Appendix A,have been reviewed by the Village Area Advisory
Committee and the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee. Both committees have provided a positive
recommendation that Council move the amendments forward for adoption.
Application Overview Page 2
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
CPAC Motion Text:
MOVED Mary Ellen Clancey, SECONDED by Art Backman that Citizens Planning Advisory Committee
recommend that Municipal Council adopt the proposed amendments which alter the requirements
and regulation of Portable Signs in Chester Village as detailed in Appendix A.CARRIED.
The purpose of the amendments is to provide clarification to the regulations for the use of portable signs
within Chester Village.
Following several complaints regarding portable signs, staff discovered that most of these signs conflict
with existing provisions of the Chester Village Land Use By-law.Staff presented a report to Municipal
Council and received direction to prepare draft amendments that address existing issues within the Land
Use By-law and that do not require a development permit for portable signs which comply with the Land
Use By-law.
A Public Information Meeting (PIM)was held on October 18, 2017 to allow members of the public to
review the draft amendments and ask questions.Turn-out for the meeting was relatively low and staff
recommend hosting a second PIM prior to the Public Hearing. The reason for the second PIM is to
highlight some substantial changes to the draft amendments which were made after the initial PIM. These
changes were requested by the VAAC and alter the permitted area(s) where portable signs may be located
on the sidewalk or road shoulder.
Citizens Planning Advisory Committee Meeting –December 4, 2017
At the November 21st meeting of the Village Area Advisory Committee, staff presented revised
amendments designed to regulate portable signage. The revisions were made at the request of VAAC
members and specifically addressed concerns regarding the placement of portable signs on adjacent lots.
The revisions to the amendments further restrict the placement of portable signs so that these signs must
be placed on the same lot as the business or on the public sidewalk or road shoulder directly in front of
the business.Additionally,VAAC members wished to clarify that portable signs are limited to an overall
size of 0.56 sq.m (6 sq.ft) on each side and this limit includes the sign frame and any supporting
structures. It was felt that stronger language was required to ensure that size was not interpreted as the
sign area as defined in the Land Use By-law.This change is highlighted in red text in Appendix A.
With these changes, VAAC members felt comfortable in supporting the amendments in a motion to CPAC:
VAAC Motion Text:
MOVED by Brad Armstrong, SECONDED by Ray Cambria that VAAC provide a positive
recommendation to the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee to support the proposed
amendments which exempt portable signage from requiring a development permit.CARRIED.
Application Overview Page 3
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
The proposed amendments are now before the Citizens Planning Advisory Committee for consideration
and discussion. Staff would like to note that with the changes requested by VAAC,the version of the
amendments which was presented and discussed at the Public Informatio n Meeting held on October 18th,
2017, has been substantially altered in its effect on the placement of portable signs. If CPAC provides a
positive recommendation to Council, staff are recommending holding a second Public Information
Meeting, prior to the Public Hearing,to ensure that the current version of the proposed amendments are
explained and understood by the public and local business owners.
Further Revisions to Amendments (Requested at VAAC Meeting Oct. 24, 2017)
At the October 24th meeting of the Village Area Advisory Committee, staff reviewed the results of the
Public Information Meeting held on October 18th, 2017.Additionally,staff highlighted one revision to the
draft amendments. This change was included following discussion s around existing businesses outside of
the Central Commercial and Highway Commercial zones which use or may wish to use Portable Signs. For
this reason, staff removed the zone restriction for Portable Signs and replaced it with language stating
that Portable Signs must be located within 30m (98 feet) of a public entrance of the business for which it
advertises.
Following discussion, VAAC members had significant concerns with the proposed 30m allowance .
Concerns raised included the placement of signs on neighbouri ng private property, impeding driveway
entrances and placement of signs in front of a competing business.Staff were asked to revise the draft
amendments and reduce the permitted distance from 30m to 5m or alternatively, to limit the placement
of Portable Signs on public property (sidewalks or road shoulders) to the area directly in front of the
business.In addition, VAAC members asked staff to reorder Section 15.1.4 of the proposed amendments
for improved clarity.
A summary of the requested changes are as follows (See Appendix A –Proposed Amendments for
complete details):
1.At Section 15.1.4 of the Land Use By-law, the proposed amendments have been altered so that
item iv) which exempts Portable Signs from the usual restrictions on signage placement now
appears as the first clause,i).
2.At Section 15.2.5 of the Land Use By-law, the proposed amendments have been altered with the
addition of items iv) and v)which clarify that Portable Signs must be located on the same lot as
the business, or on a public sidewalk or road shoulder but may only be placed in front of the
business.
3.At Section 15.2.5B of the Land Use By-law, the proposed amendments have been altered by
removing clause i)which stated that Portable Signs must be located within 30m of a public
entrance to the business.
Application Overview Page 4
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
Revisions to Amendments (Requested at VAAC Meeting Sept. 19, 2017)
Staff have made one change to the proposed amendments since they were last presented to the Village
Area Advisory Committee. This proposed change was identified through staff discussions during
preparation and distribution of flyers to advertise the Public Information Meeting .
Existing regulations prohibit the use of portable signs except within the Highway Commercial Zone and
Central Commercial Zone. Staff have removed this provision and replaced it with language stating that
portable signs must be located within 30m (98 feet) of a public entrance of the business unit.
This change will allow commercial businesses not located within the Highway Commercial zone or Central
Commercial zone the option to utilize a portable sign. No similar restrictions exist for other types of
commercial signs. In addition, language has been included to clarify that portable signs are not permitted
as part of a Small Scale Business Use.
Stakeholder Meeting/ Public Information Meeting –October 18, 2017
At the September 19th meeting of the Village Area Advisory Committee, members requested that staff
hold a Public Information Meeting to discuss the proposed amendments an d gather feedback and
comments. VAAC members specifically wished to reach out to business owners to address any concerns
with the proposed changes. Staff placed a newspaper ad in the Progress Bulletin, posted notices on the
Municipal website and at several locations around Chester Village and hand delivered flyers to existing
businesses.Through discussions with local merchant’s associations and the Chamber of Commerce, it was
suggested that a morning meeting time (8:00 a.m.) would provide the best opportunity for busines s
owners to attend.
The meeting was held at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 18, 2017 in Municipal Council Chambers.Two
members of the public, representing two local businesses attended the meeting. Additionally, two VAAC
members, two planning staff and the Economic Development Officer were in attendance.
Staff began the meeting by providing an overview of the issues around portable signs and the intent of
the proposed amendments. The proposed amendments were discussed and a brief discussion followed.
Questions raised included:
In areas without sidewalks, how is the end of the road/beginning of the road shoulder
determined?Staff replied, this may be determined by the edge of the pavement or by measuring
from the centreline of the road to determine where the shoulder begins.
If portable signs are not possible or practical in a specific area or for a business due to the width
of the sidewalk in that location, what other options are available?Portable signs are not
prohibited in any area, however, with a narrow sidewalk,a portable sign may be limited in its
width to a point that an individual business owner may decide it is an impractical form of
advertising. In this circumstance, the Chester Village Land Use By -law allows for several other
types of signage (Projecting Wall Sign, Flat Fixed Wall Sign, Window Signs, etc.).
Application Overview Page 5
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
The meeting concluded around 8:40 a.m. Comment cards were available at the meeting, however,no
cards were completed or left for inclusion in this report. To date no written submissions hav e been
received regarding the proposed amendments.
Background
During the summer of 2016, staff received several complaints from members of the public regarding the
placement and location of portable (sandwich board) signs in Chester Village. Staff have be come aware
that there are portable signs within Chester Village that are not in compliance with one or more provisions
of the Land Use Bylaw and upon further review, have determined that this is a widespread issue
throughout the Village.
As portable signs are a common form of advertisement for businesses, they are fr equently displayed
during the summer months when there is increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic. In 2016, complaints
regarding portable signage originated from placement on roadways and sidewalks. In several cases,
portable signs were causing obstructions that resulted in accessibility or safety concerns.
This issue arose as a topic at a previous meeting of the Village Area Advisory Committee, staff then
prepared a Request for Direction regarding portable signage which was presented at a meeting of the
Committee of the Whole (C.O.W) on August 3, 2017. After discussion,Committee members endorsed the
option to amend the Land Use By-law to exempt portable signage from requiring a Development Permit.
Portable signs would be required to meet specific criteria outlined in the LUB to be considered a portable
sign, and would be subject to removal if deemed to create or worsen a hazard by the Authority with
jurisdiction over the land where the sign is located.
Proposed Approach
Staff are presenting text amendments that would:
Remove existing policy conflicts in the Chester Village Land Use By-law and Secondary Planning
Strategy to bring portable signage into compliance
Change the process for how portable signage is administered
Designate specific standards for portable signage inclu ding shape, size and placement
Discussion -Considerations
Existing Regulations for Portable Signage:
Currently, portable signage is permitted in Chester Village within the Central Commercial and Highway
Commercial Zones by Development Permit. There are several notable exceptions as listed below:
-Signs expressly listed in Part 15.1.2 “Signs for which No Development Permit is Required”
-Signs for Special Occasions are regulated under Section 4.5.6
Application Overview Page 6
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
-Signs associated with Temporary Vendors (i.e. food trucks) are not regulated though the Land Use
By-law and do not require Development Permits
All portable signage is regulated under Section 15.2.5 “Portable Signs” as follows:
15.2.5 Portable Signs
No portable sign:
i) shall be located anywhere except within the Commercial (C) Zone or Highway Commercial
Zone
ii) exceed 1.1 sq.m (12 sq.ft) in area on each side;
iii) contain any permanent lettering on 80% of the sign area
iv) remain on display during the close of business, or
v) be located on public property without the written permission of the authority having
jurisdiction;
vi) be located on public property in such a manner as to obstruct the passage of persons or
vehicles;
vii) be included in the calculation of maximum ground sign area under Subsection 15.2.1
above.
Based on a review of existing portable signage in the Village, Staff believe there are numerous portable
signs that have not received permission from the Authority with jurisdiction over the sidewalk or road
shoulder where they are located. In Chester Village, Municipal Public Works is the Authority for sidewalks
while the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is the Authority for road
and road shoulders where there is no sidewalk. In cases where a Development Permit has previously been
issued, there is no reliable method to verify that existing signs have received approval to be located on
public lands. This creates compliance issues with the Land Use By -law and does not allow the Authority
with jurisdiction to determine whether the sign will impede traffic or create a hazard.
Conflicting Regulations for Portable Signage:
In addition to part 15.2.5 “Portable Signs”, an issue arises from Part 15.1.4 “Adve rtising Signs” in the
existing Chester Village Area Land Use By-law.
Application Overview Page 7
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
15.1.4 Advertising Signs
No sign shall be erected or used for commercial advertising except where the sign is located either:
i) on the same lot as the establishment which it advertises; or
ii) on the same lot as the dealer for the product which it advertises; or
iii) in a Rural Zone within the boundaries of a Public Highway, in which case the maximum sign
area shall be 3.3 sq.m (35 sq.ft).
This section of the Land Use By-law contradicts part 15.2.5 and if enforced, would prohibit portable
commercial signs from being located on public property regardless of approval from the Authority with
jurisdiction. This would prohibit many existing portable signs from being located on a sidewalk, road
shoulder or neighbouring property. As part of any proposed amendment, staff intend to amend or add
language as necessary to eliminate this conflict.
Goals of the Municipal Planning Strategy:
This proposal generally aligns with existing Chester Village Secondary Planning Strategy policies by
addressing concerns that can result from the use of portable signage. The proposed amendments will
prohibit signs that are incompatible with the character of the area ,signs that have a heavy impact on the
streetscape,and signs that may create hazards to traffic or pedestrians.
Providing safe and accessible infrastructure and fostering economic environments are two goals identified
by the Municipality that are being considered while addressing this issue. Accessibility and economic
prosperity are important factors for creating and sustaining vibrant communities, so it is favourable to
allow portable signage to support businesses in a way that does not impede sidewalks or roadways.
Policy Analysis
Policy Analysis
3.2.1 To co-operate with the N.S. Department of
Transportation and Public Works in providing,
maintaining, and upgrading public streets, sidewalks
and street drainage systems within the Chester
Village Planning Area as shown on Map 3, Public
Streets and Rights-of-Way.
The proposed amendments would be supported
by the Authority with jurisdiction as stated in the
Secondary Planning Strategy in regards to
maintaining and upgrading public streets and
sidewalks.
Application Overview Page 8
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
4.7.1 To prohibit through appropriate provisions in
the Land Use By-law signs which create hazards to
traffic or pedestrians, which constitute a public
nuisance, or which are incompatible with the
character of the Chester Village Area.
4.7.2 That the Land Use By-law regulates the type,
number, size, location and illumination of signs
throughout the Chester Village Area to minimize
hazards and nuisances; to control the impact of
signs on the landscape, streetscape and skyline; and
to ensure that the nature, sizes and locations of
signs permitted in the various zones are appropriate
and compatible with the character of the areas
within those zones.
6.0.7 That when considering amendments to the
Land Use By-law, considering appeals on site plan
approvals, and in considering development
agreements in addition to all other criteria as set out
in the various policies of this Planning Strategy,
Council shall be satisfied that:
a) the proposal conforms to the
intent of the Planning Strategy;
b) the proposal conforms to the
applicable requirements of all
Municipal By-laws; except where
the application is for a
development agreement in which
case the Land Use By-law requirements
need not be satisfied.
c)the proposal is not premature or
inappropriate due to:
The proposed amendments include new
standards for portable signage that would
regulate the placement of signs to prevent
hazards to traffic and pedestrians.
These proposed standards would also regulate
the type and size of sign that can be considered
a portable sign under the Chester Village Area
Land Use By-law.
a)The proposed amendments contribute to the
Planning Strategy’s intent to minimize conflicts
between land uses in a manner that is
compatible with Municipal services.
b)The proposal includes new standards that all
portable signs are required to meet in order to
be permitted.
Application Overview Page 9
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
i)financial ability of the Municipality
to absorb costs related to the
development;
ii)adequacy of Municipal services;
iii)the adequacy of physical site
conditions for on-site services;
iv)creation or worsening of a
pollution problem including
soil erosion and siltation;
v)adequacy of storm drainage
and effects of alteration to
drainage pattern including
potential for creation of a
flooding problem;
vi)adequacy and proximity of
school, recreation, emergency
services, and other community
facilities;
vii)adequacy of street networks and
site access regarding congestion,
traffic hazards, pedestrian safety,
and emergency access;
viii)adequacy of fire vehicle access
and fire protection measures on site
such as water supply.
d)the development site is suitable
regarding grades, soils, geological
conditions, location of watercourses,
flooding, marshes,bogs, swamps, and
susceptibility to natural or man-made
hazards as determined by a qualified
person.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
Traffic hazards and pedestrian safety would be
improved by implementing portable signage
standards.
No anticipated impacts associated with portable
signage.
d) N/A
e) None identified
Application Overview Page 10
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
e)all other matters of planning
concern have been addressed.
Options
1.That Chester Municipal Council give first reading to the amendments as presented in Appendix A,
and set a date for a Public Hearing of February 8, 2018 at 8:45 a.m. and direct staff to host a
Public Information Meeting prior to the public hearing.
2.That Chester Municipal Council defer 1st reading and request further information or revisions to
the report and proposed amendments.
3.That Chester Municipal Council reject the proposed amendments (Appendix A) and not move
forward with changes to the regulation s for portable signs. The existing regulations of the Land
Use By-law will now be enforced as written.
Application Overview Page 11
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
Appendix A –Proposed Amendment
Municipality of the District of Chester
A By-law amending the Chester Village Area Land Use By-law and Chester Village Area
Secondary Planning Strategy
NOTE:The proposed amendments are shown below. Strikethrough text is to be removed and new text is
underlined.Revisions to the proposed amendment are shown in red text.
Be it enacted by the Council of the Municipality of the District of Chester that the Village Area Secondary
Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law be amended as follows:
1. Section 4.7 (paragraph 4)of the SPS is amended to read as follows:
This Planning Strategy prohibits those forms of advertising displays which are most likely to create
hazards or nuisances, as well as those which are most objectionable to the community for aesthetic
reasons.The Planning Strategy regulates certain forms of advertising displays in order to prevent the
creation or worsening of a hazard or nuisance.These policies provide and support the ability for
businesses to advertise to the public,without allowing signs to dominate the streetscape either in their
size or number.All other signs will be strictly regulated to provide business a reasonable opportunity to
advertise business operations without allowing signs to dominate the architecture and landscape by their
size and numbers.
2.Section 4.5.13 vi) of the LUB is amended as follows:
vi)there shall not be more than one (1) sign on the lot related to the busi ness use. The sign shall be
non-illuminated,and shall not exceed 0.5 sq. m. (5 sq. ft.) in area and shall not be a portable sign
as specified within this By-law.
3.Section 15.1.2 of the LUB is amended to add xiii)to read as follows:
xiii) portable signs which comply with Section 15.2.5 “Portable Signs”
4.Section 15.1.4 of the LUB is amended to read as follows:
15.1.4 Advertising Signs
No sign shall be erected or used for commercial advertising except where the sign located either
is:
i)deemed to be a portable sign in compliance with Section 15.2.5 “Portable Signs”
ii)located on the same lot as the establishment which is advertises; or
Application Overview Page 12
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
iii)located on the same lot as the dealer for the product which it advertises; or
iv) in a Rural Zone within the boundaries of a Public Highway, in which case the maximum sign
area shall be 3.3 sq.m (35 sq.ft); or
5.Section 15.2.5 of the LUB is amended to add Portable signage standards to read as
follows:
15.2.5 Portable Signs
Portable signs that do not comply with the standards outlined in this By-law, or which are deemed to
create or worsen a hazard or nuisance,may be removed by the authority with jurisdiction.
15.2.5A Portable Sign Standards
All portable signs shall:
i)be generally in the style of an A-Frame or sandwich board sign,
ii)have a total maximum area,including all framing and supporting structures,of 0.56 sq.m (6 sq.ft)
on each side,
iii)have a maximum height of 1.22 metres (4 ft.) from grade to the highest point of the sign.
iv)be located on the same lot as the establishment which it advertises or,
v)be located on a public sidewalk or public road shoulder. When placed on a public sidewalk or
road shoulder, portable signs must be located in front of the Business Unit.
15.2.5B No Portable signs shall not:
i.shall be located anywhere except within the Commercial (C) Zone or Highway Commercial Zone;
more than 30 metres (98 feet) from a public entrance to the business unit;
i)exceed one portable sign per business unit;
ii)be permitted as commercial advertising for a Small Scale Business Use
iii)be located on public property without the written permission of the authority having jurisdiction
complying with the portable signage standards set in this By-law;
Application Overview Page 13
Portable Signage January 5, 2018
iv)be located on public property in such a manner as to obstruct the passage of persons or vehicles.
The sign shall be placed to leave an unobstructed walkway with a minimum width of 1.2 metres
on the sidewalk or road shoulder;
v)exceed 1.1 sq.m (12 sq.ft) in area on each side ,
vi)contain any permanent lettering on 80% of the sign area
v)remain on display during the close of a business, or when the business is closed to the public, or
vi)be included in the calculation of maximum ground sign area under Subsection 15.2.1 above
6. Part 16 of the LUB is amended to add 16.9A “business unit” to read as follows:
16.9A BUSINESS UNIT means a self-contained section of a building intended for use as business premises.
TO
Heather Archibald
Development Officer
Community Development
MUNICIPALITY OF CHESTER
2018-01-03
Hello Heather, as per our pre-Christmas discussions, on behalf of the applicant Mike MacArthur & Viking
Homes, we formally request to be included on the agenda for Council's meeting January 11, 2018.We
are requesting both an amendment to the MPS/LUB and consideration of a Development Agreement to
allow for the project as outlined:
RE: REDEVLOPMENT OF SHATFORD FISHERIES PROPERTIES
LOCATED #733, 329 FOX POINT.(APPROX 2.2 ACRES ON 2 PID'S)
INTENTED USAGE: MIXED USE RESIDENTIAL/COMMERICAL CONDOMINIMUN COMPLEX COMPRISING 12
OR MORE UNITS PER LOT.
APPLICANT-MIKE MacARTHUR
VIKING HOMES,BERWICK NS.
REPRESENTATIVE -TERRANCE BRENNAN
EXIT REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS
(902) 452-5298
HALIFAX, NS
South Shore
Regional Enterprise Network
Chester VIC Assessment
November 2017
Assessment Objectives
•Assess current operations
•Review national and international best practices
•Formulate evidence-based recommendations
Methodology
•Literature review
•Desk top study
•One-on-one interviews
•Focus groups
•Synthesis and analysis of key findings
•Recommendations
•Report preparation and presentation
Key Findings
Key Findings
•Location and geographically challenged
•VIC visitor counts declined 44% (2005-2017)
•Average cost per visitor $5.41 (2017)
•Lack of technology service
enhancement tools
•Service model unchanged
Key Findings: VIC Location
•Hwy 3 location –low
volume tourism attraction
site
•Need to reach large
geographical area
Key Findings:
VIC Visitor Counts 2005-2017
9,800 9,600
7,600
4,800
4,500
5,200
3,200
3,900
5,500
4,500
6092 5,693 5,427
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Key Findings: Average Cost for Visitor
$6.06
$6.47
$5.40
$4.80
$5.00
$5.20
$5.40
$5.60
$5.80
$6.00
$6.20
$6.40
$6.60
2015 2016 2017
Chart Title
Key Findings: Lack of use of technology
VIC
WEBSITE
Key Findings: products & services
•Dissemination of brochures and information
•Tourism ambassadors (share local knowledge)
•Washroom facilities
•WIFI access
•Limited hours of operation
•Short season (?-?)
•KI’s:
village business activity not impacted by VIC; need for
professionalization; few reservations booked
choosing
planning
booking
travelling
visiting
sharing
Prior knowledge,
word-of-mouth,
broadcast media,
print media, web,
social media, CRM
Prior knowledge,
word-of-mouth,
broadcast media,
print media, web,
social media, CRM
Word-of-mouth,
guidebooks, web,
social media, user
reviews
Word-of-mouth,
guidebooks, web,
social media, user
reviews
Word-of-mouth,
mobile, GPS, signage,
real-time travel info
Word-of-mouth,
mobile, GPS, signage,
real-time travel info
Web, mobile
telephone, offline
Web, mobile
telephone, offlineWord-of-mouth,
mobile, apps, print
info, local
ambassadors, VICs
Word-of-mouth,
mobile, apps, print
info, local
ambassadors, VICs
Word-of-mouth,
social media, UGC,
CRM
Word-of-mouth,
social media, UGC,
CRM
The Visitor Journey –illustrating the
range of interactions and methods of
information provision at each stage
Source: Modernising Visitor Information Action Plan, England. A
Strategic Action Plan for Tourism 2010 -2020
http://www.tourisminsights.info/ONLINEPUB/VISITENGLAND/VIS
IT%20ENGLAND%20(2010),%20Modernising%20Visitor%20Infor
mation%20Action%20Plan,%20Visit%20England,%20London.pdf
Key Findings:
E-tourism information needs?
•Website presence is very poor; redundant information
•No information on businesses in MODC
•Limited social media
Key Findings: KIs say…….
•Digital kiosks…..?
•Face to Face interaction still very relevant
•Strong Web and Social Media presence needed
•Wi-Fi hot spots to connect visitors to VIC website
•Moveable staffed kiosks ---“bring VIC services to
where tourist gather”–e.g. Ross Farms (25,663 in
2015)
Key Findings: Funding
•VIC is dependent on MODC contribution
•Grant funding uncertainty
•Late funding decisions by gov’t
•No or limited planning time
•Businesses financial contribution unlikely
•More staff request --increase visitor cost well beyond
norms
Recommended Actions
•To address the changes in the ways that visitors access
information, both at the planning and trip stages
•A decentralized approach based on the following
framework is recommended
Proposed MODC Tourism Attraction and Framework
Recommended Actions
•Tourism Manager responsibilities
•Staff Mobile (non-digital) Kiosks
•Local Tourism Ambassadors
•Blockhouse Visitor Information Centre
•WIFI Hotspots
•MODC Visitors Information Website and Social Media
•Signage
Next Steps
•Funding deadlines
•Canada Jobs –Applications Open 19 Dec 2017
Description Amount Unit Price Total Cost Notes:Resources
Outdoor Mobile Booth
2 $3,200.00 $6,400.00
Set up at any event or location within MODC
Intent is to go where the crowds are
Student would have iPad and access to data
Ability to be set up and taken down by 1 person
1 quote: ImaginIt Design based
out of Dartmouth
Shipping Costs for Mobile Booth 2 $850.00 $1,700.00 This style is produced and shipped from China.
1 quote: ImaginIt Design. They
would need to have booth
shipped from China.
iPads 2 $960.00 $1,920.00
Access to MODC data
Would go with the student to each location/event
Could create hotspots so tourists could use their own phones
while standing near the booth to search
Wifi and data enabled
Assist in booking accommodations or internet searches
Apple Website
Website Updates (chestertourism.ca)1 $6,000.00 $6,000.00
Adding Business Directory to existing site
Need to confirm that we can update with staff and do not need
to go to designer. Would impact pricing.
SSREN estimate
Tourism Ambassador Signage 12 $50.00 $600.00
Window signage only
12 'Tourism Ambassador' locations
List locations on website
SSREN estimate
Tourism Ambassador Brochure Stands 12 $400.00 $4,800.00 12 'Tourism Ambassador' locations High level online search
Sub-Total Setup Costs $21,420.00
SSREN Proposed MODC Tourism Attraction and Information Framework
Preliminary Cost Estimate
Initial Setup/One Time Costs
Annual Recurring Costs
Tourism Manager 1 $12,960.00 $12,960.00
$18.00 per hour for:
Summer season: 25 hours/week = $450/week = $1,800/month
for a total of 6 months (May-October) = $10,800
Winter season: 5 hours/week = $90/week = $360/month for a
total of 6 months (November-April) = $2,160
Contract, home based or split role with existing staff person
Supervising & training students, updating and maintaining
website, responding to web inquiries, social media, running
brochures, writing web content, etc.
Hourly rate = Staff
# of hours required = SSREN
Kiosk Staff 3 $4,200.00 $12,600.00
$14 per hour for high season (June-August) at 25 hours/week
When not at an event, staff would be visiting ambassador
locations to replenish brochures
Staff
Monthly Data Charge 2 $150.00 $300.00
3 months usage (June-August) for iPads
$50 per month per unit = $150
Can create hotspot for tourists to use own devices
Cliff Gail
Blockhouse Wall Space Rental 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Dedicated MODC wall space from May to October
Also compensating MODL staff for promoting MODC.
Sub-Total Annual Costs:$30,860.00
Total Estimated Costs for Year 1:
$52,280.00
Visitor Information
Services Workshop
Current Situation
•In Dec. 2016, the Chester Chamber of Commerce determined that they were nolonger in a position to manage the operations of the Chester VIC.
•In Feb. 2017, the MODC issued an Expression of Interest to determine interestand ability of the private and non -profit sector to deliver Visitor InformationServices for the MODC. The MODC also issued the option of providing a grant toan interested party who may want to take over operations of the VIC.
•The Chester Municipal Heritage Society and George Evans were the successfulproponents for running the VIC for the 2017 season.
•In June 2017, it was determined that an evaluation of the current ‘VisitorInformation Services’ model was required in order to provide recommendationsin regards to providing future support of visitor information services in theMODC.
Key Findings
The SSREN conducted the assessment of the current ‘Visitor
Information Services’ model and provided the following findings:
•44% drop in visitor counts since 2005
•Average cost per visitor: $5.41. Recommended cost per visitor: $2.50
•Website and social media presence is lacking
•Currently situated in a low volume tourist attraction area
•Short season with limited hours of operation
SSREN Recommendation
•Close current operations at the Chester Train Station
•Staff mobile kiosks at strategic, high traffic locations with Wifi hotspot
•Rent dedicated MODC wall space at the Blockhouse VIC
•Engage 12 local businesses to be “Tourism Ambassadors”, window
signage, brochure stands
•Hire year-round tourism manager
•Enhance/update website and social media presence
Other Options
1.Modified SSREN Framework #1:
•Close current operations at the Chester Train Station
•Staff 2 mobile kiosks at strategic, high traffic locations with Wifi hotspot
•Rent dedicated MODC wall space at the Blockhouse VIC
•Engage 12 local businesses to be “Tourism Ambassadors”Semi-Permanentkiosks at strategic high traffic locations in the MODC to reduce potentialburden on businesses and provide base for students when not staffing mobilekiosks
•Hire year-round tourism manager
•Enhance/update website and social media presence
Other Options
2.Modified SSREN Framework #2:
•Close current operations at the Chester Train Station
•Staff 2 1 mobile kiosk at strategic, high traffic locations with Wifi hotspot
•Rent dedicated MODC wall space at the Blockhouse VIC
•Engage 12 local businesses to be “Tourism Ambassadors”
•Hire year-round tourism manager
•Enhance/update website and social media presence
Other Options Con’t
3.Chester VIC –Managed Internally:
•Maintain operations at the Chester Train Station
•Hire year-round tourism manager
•Requires enough staff to have two people on site at all times
•Enhance/update website and social media presence
Other Options Con’t
4.Maintain Status Quo
•Maintain operations at the Chester Train Station
•Issue another Request for Expression of Interest for community organization
to operate
•Provide operation grant
Cost Comparison
SSREN Framework
(2 mobile kiosks,
Blockhouse wall
space rental)
Modified SSREN
Framework #1 (2
mobile kiosks, 2
semi-permanent
kiosks,
ambassadors)
Modified SSREN
Framework #2 (1
mobile kiosk,
ambassadors)
Chester VIC
Managed Internally
Status Quo
Est. Setup Costs:
$21,500
Est. Annual Costs:
$35,000
Est. Setup Costs:
$20,500
Est. Annual Costs:
$30,000
Est. Setup Costs:
$16,500
Est. Annual Costs:
$21,500
Est. Setup Costs:
$8,000
Est. Annual Costs:
$43,300
Est. Setup Costs:
$0
Est. Annual Costs:
$25,000 grant (or
whatever amount
chosen)
Tourism Trends
•Alignment with provincial priorities: 2014 “Now or Never” report identifiedtourism as critical to the economic success of Nova Scotia.GOAL 14:AsNova Scotia’s leading source of service sector exports, gross businessrevenues from tourism will reach $4 billion (approximately double thecurrent level).
•Tourism NS Strategic Plan identifies tourism as an important and growingexport industry: 2016 was the 3 rd consecutive year of non-residentvisitation growth.
•Tourism Impacts:https://tourismns.ca/sites/default/files/2017-01/Tourism%20Impacts%20Fact%20Sheet%20FINAL%20February%208%2C%202017.pdf
Tourism Trends Con’t
•Provincial trend: tourism numbers are up, but majority of VIC numbers are down:
•Tourism Stats
•Provincial VIC stats (will be getting a report later that includes regional VICs as well)
•Blockhouse VIC numbers are up:
•2016: 11,863 visitors
•2017: 12,134 visitors
•What is getting funded in terms of VICs?
•Venues that involve First Nation communities:Waycobah First Nation receives funding to developtourist venue, December 2016
Cape Breton’s Waycobah First Nation has received $186,269 in funding from the ACOA’s Innovative Community Fundto develop a venue for tourism. The venue will include a tourism information kiosk, artisan shop and a tour -bookingdesk. Trails that have already been started will be enhanced, and camping, canoeing, paddling, sport fishing andtraditional Mi’kmaq foods will also be added to the list of activities tourists can enjoy.
Roles Defined by Tourism NS
•Tourism Nova Scotia:
•Attract first-time visitors to Nova Scotia.
•Invest in markets of highest return.
•Focus on world class experiences.
•Funding
•TIANS:
•Made up of tourism operators
•Provides funding and training
•Advocacy organization that supports and champions emerging issues
•Industry
•Close the sale pre-trip and during trip.
•Drive repeat visitation by exceeding visitor expectations.
•Invest in product.
•Deliver world class experiences.
https://www.tourismns.ca/about-us/plans-performance/tourism-nova-scotias-strategy
Roles Defined by Tourism NS
Con’t
•Community (municipalities, destination marketing organizations, regionaltourism industry associations, and residents):
•Partner with industry to deliver destination development and marketing.
•Visitor servicing.
•Government (align policy agenda in support of the ONE NS goal to reach $4billion in tourism revenues by 2024, including:
•Community economic development;
•Attraction of inward investment; and
•Infrastructure development.
https://www.tourismns.ca/about-us/plans-performance/tourism-nova-scotias-strategy
Roles: Local Context
•South Shore Tourism Cooperative
•Promotion and advertising of the South Shore region, specifically as a 4 seasondestination
•Increase room nights
•South Shore Regional Enterprise Network
•Deliver a support strategy to the tourism industry.
•Hugh MacKay, MLA, Chester-St. Margaret’s
•Establishment of a support network that helps operators, investors and organizations
collaborate and exchange information build local capacity for tourism revenue
generation.
Questions to be answered
•Should the Municipality be responsible for funding tourism
information services for the MODC?
•If so, in what form:
•Sole responsibility by using internal resources and providing 100% of the
funding required?
•Through co-investment with industry and providing funding to an
independent third party responsible for the leadership?