Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My Public Portal
About
2019-02-21_COW_Public Agenda Package (added 7.1 b) vii)
Page 1 of 2 of Agenda Cover Page(s) Committee of the W hole AGENDA Thursday,February 21, 2019 Chester Municipal Council Chambers 151 King Street, Chester, NS 1.MEETING CALLED TO ORDER. 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ORDER OF BUSINESS. 3.PUBLIC INPUT SESSION (8:45 A.M.–9:00 A.M.) 4.MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: 4.1.Committee of the Whole –February 7, 2019 5.MATTERS ARISING: 5.1 Request for Decision prepared by Recreation and Parks Department dated February 14, 2019 regarding Major Project Grant Requests for 2019-20. List of submissions: 5.2 Report for Information prepared by Engineering and Public Works dated February 15, 2019 regarding Aspotogan Ridge Development –Mill Cove Sewer. (TBC) 6.POLICY DEVELOPMENT/REVIEW: 6.1 Request for Decision prepared by Engineering and Public Works Department regarding Accessibility Terms of Reference. 7.CORRESPONDENCE: 7.1 Presentation by Marilyn Keddy and Connie Duchene on behalf of the Campaign to Protect Offshore Nova Scotia (CPONS). (appointment at 9:15 a.m.) a)DRAFT Municipal Council Resolution on Offshore Drilling. b)Additional correspondence received regarding offshore drilling: i.Email from Connie Duchene dated January 23, 2019 . 1) Church Memorial Park 2) New Ross Farmers Association 3) New Ross Trails Society 4) Shoreham Village Seniors Citizens Association Page 2 of 2 ii.Email from Dawn Harwood-Jones dated January 30, 2019. iii.Email from Martha Scott dated January 30, 2019. iv.Letter from Jane Moody dated January 30, 2019. v.Letter from Andrew Breen received February 14, 2019. vi.Letter from Judy Parsons received on February 15, 2019. 7.2 Presentation by Yvonne Mosley regarding Lyme Disease (appointment at 9:30 a.m.) 8.NEW BUSINESS. 8.1 Request of Councillor Barkhouse –Executive Certificate in Local Government. 9.IN CAMERA: 9.1 Section 22(2)(e) of the MGA –Contract Negotiations –Kaizer Meadow. 9.2 Section 22(2)(e) of the MGA –Contract Negotiations –Municipal Physical Activity Leader Program (MPAL). 10.ADJOURNMENT. APPOINTMENTS 9:15 a.m.Marilyn Keddy and Connie Duchene regarding Campaign to Protect Offshore Nova Scotia. 9:30 a.m.Yvonne Mosley regarding Lyme Disease Presentation. REQUEST FOR D IRECTION Prepared By:Chad Haughn Date February 14,2019 Reviewed By:Date Authorized By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date February 15, 2019 CURRENT SITUATION The deadline for not-for-profit organizations to submit Major Project Grant applications for the 2019-2020 fiscal year was January 31, 2019.Four applications were received prior to the deadline. RECOMMENDATION It is requested that Council review the Major Project Applications and give staff direction on figures to include in the 2019-20 budget. BACKGROUN D Following is a list of groups that submitted a Major Project Grant application and the amount they have requested: Group Request 1.Church Memorial Park $ 35,000.00 2.New Ross Farmers Association $100,000.00 3.New Ross Trails Society $35,307.00 4.Shoreham Village Seniors Citizens Association $ 98,694.00 TOTAL $269,001.00 **Aspotogan Heritage Trust (Previously Approved)$100,000.00 **In 2018-19 Council approved $200,000 to the Aspotogan Heritage Trust over a two-year period ($100,000 in 2018-19 and $100,000 in 2019-20). REPORT TO:Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY:Chad Haughn,Recreation & Parks Department DATE:February 21,2019 SUBJECT:Major Project Grant Requests 2019-20 ORIGIN:Municipal Grants Program 2 Request For D /Direction DISCUSSION A summary of each project is included in a separate table for quick reference.All the groups have met the criteria outlined in the grant guidelines.A full description of each project is available within the completed applications which are attached. IMPLICATIONS Policy Grants will be awarded based on criteria outlined in the MODC grant guidelines. The Wind Energy Revenue Policy (Policy P-79)allows one-third of revenue to be used for community based projects. Financial/Budgetary The forecast for the Wind Revenue, 1/3 Community Based Projects,for March 31, 2019 is $711,500.If all Major Project Grant requests were approved in full,$369,001 would be used from the reserve in 2019-20. Environmental NA Strategic Plan Strengthen and support environmental, cultural, and social resources . Work Program Implications NA ATTACHMENT S 1.Major Project Grants Summary Table 2.Copies of all four Major Project Applications ( ,; .s: L- ro a.. ro ·- L- 0 E Q) � ..c o L- :J ..c o - co a. ·- o ·- ·- +-' co +-' c (]) ' Cl) (]) s.... CL • • • • 0... � o t 0 c. c c. 0 :::J en en ro c "'O Cl) 0 Cl) Cf) (J) :::J co � .s � Cf) ...f,,-' .............. c I'-- 0) 0 � � (..) 0 .............. s.... N CO �oo :::J en N 0 ...f,,-' s.... � ..c � 0) � ·- en c ..c c ro 0) ro ..c ·- - I- I 0... en --- �en a, Q) . S:2 Q) ::::.. +J ....... '" > l"l"'C � \I.I \V ...- Q � s..... c o, -� � .92 s..... o o :::J O ';! 0 en o, en "O� c :!: co - co - c. co·- :::J o +J ·- "" (.) c � - Q) :::J ..o co=� co c Q) .:::::::: +Jo+Js..... . ;:: :;::; c Q) co co ·- +J '+- .c a, _ ... en O ot3�� en � ·u5 o :::J "O � ....... O c .c O "rn co o, en ·- Q) +J ©C_cC '--0+.JQ) s..... :;::; s..... "O O CO Q) ·- ....... u +J en � :::J en � a3 "O Q ....... -� Q) 0 0 en � ±"""' O> s..... "' c � co "O ·- o s..... c Q) >< Q) co ..0 Q) :!: I c ro 0) s.... 0 "O Q) en c co 0 ..0 ·- s..... ...f,,-' Q) ro °' N +J ·- c :::J - 0 > +J � 0 '+- s..... O c. � � Q 0 � c. 0 s.... z er I (].) en 0 o, L- ::J Cl. ( ( ( ,, ( • +-' c Q) E Q) � 0) +-' <( c I.... � m I.... Q) :J >, (.) -r (/) '+- +-' 0 c I.... m m I.... Q) 0) >, +-' (.) +-' Q) (/) ·---. m o- 1.... 00 c.. "t'""" 0 N (/) 0) c 0) c \ c 0 en ro (]) en co 0 N en I • ..c C) ·- ..c C) ·- I ( ( • • en a. :::s e (9 ·- c :::s � I... 0 c ·- � I... Q) Q) en E � � .C 01... co � .. � 0 \V Q) ·- e E co © .., :p 0::: (..) c :l Q) "O "O Q) 0 (..) c Q) "'E ·- :::s ....... co � c �LLCf) § (9 ·- c:' 0 ....... 0 I... c: co ·- co � (..) Q) :l en t5 c<( en © E :5 <C:::s c3 o o co E co 01 0 0 +-' c Q) E Q) (..) c ctl ..c c Q) :p en w en Q) ro E t.: 0 Q. � '"O Q) ·ro © '"O c 0 o � CJ:? I ..c C) ..c C) ·- I ·- f ( \ • • +-' o Q) ·--. 0 s.... a. en 0 Q) ·--. e a. � c Q) o � Q) � e> en a> "O "O c c Q) Q) 2 .s oes rn E s.... .s <i> 2 +-' +-' ro ro a> :::::,. Q) "O :> a. a> ro 0 ..c � .. 0 0 � +-' (.) � en Cl) ro "O ro .a. c > o :::J O c '+-- z :::J � '+-- � :::J O s.... :5 Q) Q) '+-- (.) +-' c en � s 's ...... .cw e c: 0 o, o, ns ... (!) o Q) +-' c ro +-' (/) � Q) c :::J """") "O c ro N Q) en ro .c o, s.... J2 en +-' c Q) E ro c s.... :::J 0 +-' 0) c 0 0) c 0 en s.... ro a. Q) s.... LO s.... c 0 "O � Q) Q) i.i= s.... +-' a. c Ei 0 ·- o a>s.... a> en 0 "-· ti'\ � ·= � ·--. ... - u, c ro +-' 0 ro ..c ro s.... a. en ·- E :::J .c Q) o, - o, �� .._.. .. 0 Q) co c-coO) c �o � a>�c o c "O I"-� Q) 0 ·- Q) s....�ro E .c......_ E c ro 0� a> � (9 N Cl) a. g' oes s....oa> E +-'© O> a> +-' s.... ro o c a>s....:::J �c ·- co co ro 0> � 0> en ro t: - ·- .._. ro � - ·- u.. == c "O c +-' o c E ro ·- a> en N O . - s.... :::J "O :::J +-' enc+-' en2 a§ ..c c a>·- o a> en '+-- � ro rn c E � �l -go E Q) 0 n,:+-' � S....+-,1 ·- • • Q) \U +-' (.) (0 S.... -55��-5� �� s :Jg_ o en m (/) Q) �:.a "o g>2 o s.... :::, s.... ..c ro :::J ti= s.... u.. '" s.... a> a> o :::J en W . . c v, Q) � s.... c t5 a('() en O c: o c Q) ·- 0 -- Q) ·- O E > s.... Q) � ·- +-' ·- ro ·a. E > � � a> en e> : =-c ....., a. en ......_ -c (.) +-' ro a> o c f! a> :::J ro ro Cl) � .c c ro o Cl) 0:: .8 Cl) u.. a> .o' > o, iu u.. 0 8- I I I C: I I I \ \ -<; CX) 0 N en c ro CL c 0 en ro (]) en 0) ( , ( • • • 2 2. Is your project: New Construction ___ Renovation ______ Large Capital Equipment ______ 3. Please describe your project and its benefits to residents (attach separately if insufficient space). Porcupine Hill • This builds on the previous trail work and establishment of Ruby’s Spot (the new scenic overlook over New Ross and the Gold River Valley) • Drainage and surface upgrades to existing woodlot roads and connector paths • Rolling topography through a working Christmas Tree farm • Culverts to be installed in a low-lying area • Existing stream crossing bridge to be re-decked • Wayfinding and trailhead signage to be installed • Benches to be located through the trail system • Roofed shelter to be constructed to provide shade at Ruby’s Spot • 3000m of new/upgraded trail will be created, with the potential for more footpath connectors Poplar Hill right-of way • Permission has been granted by DoTIR to use the ROW • Wayfinding and trailhead signage to be installed • Benches to be located through the trail system • 3000m of new/upgraded trail will be created (x 2 for a return trip = 6000m route) 2020 School Connector • 2m wide crusher dust path • Minimal Slopes for optimum accessibility • Uses the existing Old Annapolis Road right-of-way (approximately 50% of the total length of trail) • Mostly forested; moderate climb; terminates in a Christmas tree farm • The ROW diverts on to the properties of Elliott and Sabean near the top of the route • A new connector road will be built from the parking lot at the Hughes property to the Old Annapolis Rd The vision of NRTS is to create a network of interconnected trails around the Village and across the New Ross region. Trails are universally understood to promote good physical and mental health and create safe connectivity within communities. Our trails are specifically being built to promote fitness, social interaction, and to create safe travel routes for users of all ages. Additionally, the trail work in New Ross, although still in its infancy, has quickly become a source of community pride and identity. The New Ross area has a scarcity of public land. We are fortunate that several private landowners have generously offered or agreed to open their lands for public use. They recognize the wisdom of building on existing assets and they subscribe to a spirit of cooperation and the need to build a community that is attractive to residents in the future. The work described below represents our construction priorities for the next two years. We have phased the components to reflect our realistic capacity to coordinate all this work. The School Connector schedule also allows time for the trail to be incorporated into the final site plan for the planned Community Care facility on the Christ Church property. The key elements of each component are: 2019 3 • The trail exits the school property at the north end of sports field, and re-emerges on the Forties Road at the Baptist Church property • Trail crosses forested properties owned by the Christ Church, Larder, Broome, Hughes, and the Baptist Church. The Community Care Society is in discussions with the Christ Church to purchase their property. Nevertheless, the Society has pledged to incorporate the trail into their site plan. • DoTiR has assessed and approved a trail crossing from the Baptist Church to the sidewalk in front of the New Ross Credit Union • This connects to the trails on Porcupine Hill • Wayfinding and trailhead signage to be installed • Benches to be located through the trail system • 500m of new/upgraded trail will be created (x 2 for a return trip = 1000m) Not only does this align with New Ross’ vision and mission (see below), as stated in the New Ross Strategic Development Plan 2014, but also complements and supports the six strategic goals identified in this document, to: 1. Increase business in the community 2. Retain present business in the community 3. Increase visitors to New Ross 4. Increase community vitality 5. Improve and expand partnerships 6. Improve community assets. Building and improving existing trails is listed specifically within these goals (Goal 4 & 6) but it is also highlighted in their definitions and mission: Goal 1- Trails will promote existing business and opportunity for new business, Goal 3- Trails will promote our location, friendly people and community spirit, and they increase local attractions, Goal 4- Trails will promote present recreation facilities, they will emphasize the natural beauty of the area and increase natural spaces for use, they will improve community beautification, and bring community groups together. Trails will also promote recreation – for all age levels. Goal 5- Trails promotes working more closely with everyone in the community (i.e. Credit Union & small businesses/churches), they will maximize the partnership between the school and community, recognizing the school as an integral part of community growth, and our youth’s development, they allow community groups to work toward common goals and promote our vision, mission and goals externally/Promote external partnerships (ie. NSTF). Goal 6-Trails encourage public and private properties participation, they support infrastructure, and will extend existing sidewalks (and trails). It also states specifically in this document, Section 3.5 that: New Ross residents want more trails for recreation and general travel to prompt healthy living choices, and Section 4.1/4.2 states the economic driver of New Ross is tourism and forestry-we can combine both with this project! Our Vision: New Ross is a vibrant and innovative rural community that values its natural environment, preserves its heritage, and has a thriving economy. We work together for the betterment of the community while enjoying a quality of life that fosters pride and prosperity. Mission: Our commitment as the community of New Ross will be to engage the skills and talents of community members to develop solutions to the challenges we face. We will work together to identify and encourage innovative ideas to improve the social, cultural, environmental and economic conditions in which we live while respecting and preserving our heritage. 4 4. If your project is new construction or renovation, who are the main users of the facility and for what purpose will they use it? 5. How much money are you requesting? $35,307.00 6. Budget 7. For construction or renovation projects, please specify whether you own the facility or have a long- term lease. • Please attach a project budget showing all revenue and expenses. (attached) • The budget must include all sources of revenue. • Please include a copy of your most recent annual financial statement. (attached) Our project seeks to connect the ‘four corners’ of the Village crossroads by both enhancing existing paths and creating new routes on private properties. The primary audience for the trails will be hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and trail runners. In some cases, the private property owners are also willing to allow motorized use where appropriate. Each of the components of this growing network will serve distinct users and needs. For example, the main users of the School Connector trail will be students, staff, children from the Family Resource Centre, sports field users, and families. However, this trail will also be built to accessible standards (2m wide, crusher dust, minimal slopes) to accommodate future residents of a planned Community Care facility to be built nearby. It will provide a safe route, away from highway 12 traffic, so that old and young may travel between the school property and the services and events located at the crossroads. The Poplar Hill trail will use portions of the Old Annapolis Road right-of-way. This existing road bed is well compacted; however, it does require some drainage improvements and a new connector path form the Hughes property. Re-routing the trailhead access is being done to be mindful of the adjacent neighbours at the existing road junction on Lake Lawson road. Poplar Hill is an attractive hiking/biking destination because it gives people access to the high point overlooking the Gold River valley. From this vantage point, one can see to the west and connect visually to the high point of Porcupine Hill. On Porcupine Hill, the Murphy family has continued to partner with NRTS to provide public usage across their entire 88-acre property. This is a series of woodlot roads. Several spots in this network require drainage improvements to make them suitable for foot and bike traffic. This approach and the principles are in keeping with the results of our trail survey whereby residents told NRTS that they desire a variety of trail types and experiences. It also builds on our attempts to activate users of the trails. In partnership with the Municipal Recreation Department, we have hosted several walks, snowshoe hikes, and family bike rides over the past two years. 5 8. Is there additional information that may support your grant application? Please attach letters of support, etc. Letters of support are attached. Please also see the attached route map that shows the new trail projects and their proximity to existing trails that, together, begin to create an exciting trails network around New Ross. 9. Did your organization receive funds last year from the Municipality of the District of Chester? Yes _____ No _____ If yes, was it a Council Grant __ Recreation Grant _____ Tourism Grant _____ How much was the grant? $____3,500.00_______________________________ (Attach copy of report if not previously submitted) - attached Application Checklist: DID YOU INCLUDE WITH YOUR APPLICATION: A written outline of the project and its benefits to residents Project budget including Revenues and Expenses Previous Years Financial Statement Incorporation Number (if applicable) Application signed by signing officer(s) Copy of report regarding previous year’s grant (if a grant was received last year) If you require assistance, please contact the Municipal Office at: The Murphy family has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NRTS to permit the use of their property for the public. This MOU is non-binding (90-day escape clause), yet is the standard MOU used by members of the Nova Scotia Trails Federation. The MOU is an attractive partnership tool because it extends liability insurance protection to the private landowner and allows them to retain control over the permitted uses and development plans on the property. Similarly, MOUs will be entered into with the landowners over which the entire trail network will cross (Hughes, Elliott, Sabean, Larder, Christ Church (via Community Care Society), Broome, School property, Baptist Church). All parties have been consulted prior to this submission and have signed letters of support which pledge their willingness to continue planning the trail construction with NRTS. (letters attached) Additionally, DoTIR have given written permission for the use of the Old Annapolis Rd right-of-way. (letter attached) 6 Phone (902) 275-3490 Fax (902) 275-3630 Email chaughn@chester.ca REPORT TO COUNCIL Following the completion of your project it is requested that you provide a very brief report regarding the project and how the Grant money was spent. If a follow-up report is not received future requests may be affected. Please forward applications and reports to the following: Director of Recreation & Parks “Grant Report” Municipality of the District of Chester PO Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 7 If you received a Council or Tourism Grant from the Municipality of the District of Chester within the last year, it is requested that you complete this brief report regarding how the grant funds were spent. Please include any information you feel is pertinent to show the success of the project or event. The Municipality is subject to audits by the Municipal Auditor General and may be required to provide proof of how funds have been allocated. As well, any organization receiving funds from the Municipality may be subject to an audit by the Municipal Auditor General in order to determine whether the funds received from the Municipality were spent as intended. A grant report form must be received before future funding requests are submitted. Please submit this report form to the following either by regular mail, email or fax: Recreation & Parks Director Email: chaughn@chester.ca “Council or Tourism Grant Follow-Up Report” Fax: 902-275-3630 Municipality of the District of Chester PO Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 *Please report on how the funds were spent. Name of Organization New Ross Trails Society (NRTS) Contact Person Sheena Isenor Amount of Grant Received $3500.00 Phone 902-689-2004 Email sobroome@hotmail.com Mailing Address 52 Rosebank Road, New Ross, B0J 2M0 MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER 151 King Street, PO Box 369 Chester NS B0J 1J0 COUNCIL AND TOURISM GRANT FOLLOW-UP REPORT 8 How were the funds spent? Please include any information you feel is pertinent to show the success of the program, activity or project. A successful partnership has also arisen with the New Ross Credit Union, and the New Ross Royal Canadian Legion. They have supported the use of their parking area as a trailhead, and the Legion even took in a few dollars from hosting a BBQ during the open hike. We’ve also received calls from interested hikers in the Valley and Halifax, inquiring as to the location and details of the trail. Were there any specific economic benefits from your project or event? If so, what were they? It is too early to ascribe long term economic benefits to this project. We believe that economic impacts will be realized over a longer period of time and once a broader trail network is developed in the region. The goal of NRTS is to create a network of trails that provide a variety of destinations and experiences for a wide range of users. Hence, our grant submission for a Major Project grant to further the network development. Attach additional pages if required. As of January 31, 2019, $2634.32 of the $3500 granted has been spent on the first phase of the Porcupine Hill Trails Project. Earthwork, materials and surfacing accounted for $2501 of this total. This work has been focused on the overlook location (Ruby’s Spot) and the access path up to it. Signpost purchase and installation account for the remaining $133. The only outstanding expenses are for a trailhead sign and wayfinding signage design and fabrication as per the original grant submission. The creation and promotion of Ruby’s Spot has been an incredibly successful endeavour. The Murphy Family, on whose property this trail is built, has created Ruby’s Travelling Rocks. They are in memoriam to their deceased granddaughter Ruby. These are small rocks painted as ladybugs and have been released from New Ross to travel around the world and they have indeed reached the far corners of the globe. Visit Facebook #rubystravellingrocks to see where they’ve gone. They’ve spread the name of New Ross, and the good work that is happening here, wherever they have gone. Their story, and the partnership with NRTS has also received attention in local/provincial media and in the American Christmas Tree Journal. NRTS also hosted an open hike day in early October. This attracted 53 people for their first hike onto the property to enjoy the excellent views from Ruby’s Spot. This gave NRTS a chance to not only share the view, but also to share the longer-range vison of trails development in the area. We know that a number of people have also been going up to Ruby’s Spot on their own. In February, NRTS, in partnership with the Chester Recreation Department, will be hosting a snowshoe hike onto Porcupine Hill. 9 2018-19 Income Statement 2018-19 Revenues Grants: Seed Funding-New Ross Regional Development Society 559.21$ Municiplaity of Chester- Council Grant 3,500.00$ Events & Fundraising -$ Membership Fees -$ Interest Earned 0.14$ Other -$ Excess NSTF membership fees reimbursement 100.00$ Total Revenue 4,159.35$ Expenses Programming -$ Nova Scotia Trails Federation Membership 330.00$ Liability Isurance 340.00$ Registry of Joint Stocks 43.60$ Trail Construction (earthwork, signage, amenities)2,634.32$ Banking fees 16.40$ Advertising 30.00$ Meeting Space -$ 3,394.32$ Net Income*765.03$ * NOTE: outstanding signage expenses still to be incurred for phase 1 of Porcupine Hill 10 2019-20 Project Budget Revenues MODC Major Projects Grant 35,307$ CCH Trail Expansion Program (pending)15,132$ In-kind cash/labour/equipment contributions 1,210$ Fundraising 1,000$ Total Revenues 52,649$ + expected volunteer contribution Expenses Earthwork, gravels, surfacing Porcupine Hill 15,524$ Poplar Hill 5,924$ School Connector 25,480$ 46,928$ Signage and Wayfinding Porcupine Hill 845$ Poplar Hill 938$ School Connector 938$ 2,721$ Amenities and landscaping Porcupine Hill 2,400$ Poplar Hill 300$ School Connector 300$ 3,000$ Total Expenses 52,649$ 11 12 LETTERS of SUPPORT Property Owners: General Letters of Support New Ross District Museum Society (Ross Farm Museum) New Ross Regional Development Society New Ross Family Resource Centre Colin Hughes Elliott Family Murphy Family Larder family Broome Family Community Care Facility Baptist Church New Ross Consolidated School South Shore Regional Centre for Education NS Department of Transportation REQUEST FOR DECISION /DIRECTION Prepared By:Greg Jonah, C.E.T.Date February 13, 2019 Reviewed By:Matt Davidson, P. Eng.Date February 14, 2019 Authorized By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date February 15, 2019 CURRENT SITUATION The Municipality of the District of Chester is required, under Nova Scotia Bill No.59,“An act Respecting Accessibility in Nova Scotia, 2017” (The Act), to prepare and make publicly available an accessibility plan and establish an accessibility advisory committee. RECOMMENDATION It is respectfully recommended to Council that; 1.The Municipality of the District of Chester join with The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, The Town of Bridgewater, The Town of Lunenburg, and The Town of Mahone Bay to establish the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee 2.The Terms of Reference for the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee be approved. 3.Council appoint a representative and an alternate to serve on the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee for a term of two (2) years. BACKGROUND Nova Scotia Bill No. 59, An Act Respecting Accessibility in Nova Scotia (Accessibility Act) was passed by the Nova Scotia Provincial Government on April 28, 2017. The Act recognizes accessibility as a human right and sets a goal of an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030. Section 39(1) of this Act states that every public sector body shall prepare and make publicly available an Accessibility Plan.Section 43 of the Act states that two or more public sector bodies may agree to have a joint accessibility plan, and, Section 44(1) further states that an accessibility advisory committee is required. Subsequent to the Act, The Province of Nova Scotia released Access by Design 2030, which provides a strategy for how to accomplish the goal of an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030. The strategy is founded on the principle that persons with disabilities in Nova Scotia hav e the right to equitable access to Buildings and outdoor spaces to live, work, learn, and play. REPORT TO:Municipal Council SUBMITTED BY:Engineering & Public Works Department DATE:February 21, 2019 SUBJECT:Lunenburg County Accessibility Committee ORIGIN:NS Bill No. 59, Accessibility Act 2 Request For Decision /Direction To meet the requirements of the Act, and best address the challenges of Access by Design 2030, a county wide accessibility committee known as the Lunenburg Cou nty Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) is proposed. The Chief Administrative Officers from five municipal units (The Municipality of the District of Chester, The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, The Town of Bridgewater, The Town of Lunenburg, and The Town of Mahone Bay)have drafted Terms of Reference for this committee. DISCUSSION The Terms of Reference for the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee (ACC) decrees: PURPOSE The AAC’S role is to assist the five municipal units develop an Accessibility Plan in accordance with “An Act Respecting Accessibility in Nova Scotia, 2017 (The Act). The AAC will provide advice to the five municipal councils on identifying, preventing and eliminating barriers to people with disabilities in municipal programs, services, initiatives and facilities. The Committee plays a pivotal role in helping the five municipalities become barrier -free communities and ensuring the obligations under the Act are met. MEMBERSHIP The ACC shall consist of ten (10) members including: five (5) community members five (5) Council members o Note that a minimum of 50% of the members shall be persons with disabilities or representatives from organizations representing persons with disabilities Each of the five councils shall appoint a council representative and alternate from their respective municipal units for a term of two (2) years. Applications for the appointment of community representatives to the Committee shall be invited by public advertisement. Applications will be sent to the Lunenburg County Accessibility Nominating Committee which will be comprised of the Mayors/Wardens of the five municipal units or their designate. IMPLICATIONS Policy N/A 3 Request For Decision /Direction Financial/Budgetary Committee members will serve without pay, except for associated expenses. The committee will also be supported by staff member(s) who will attend meetings as a resource to the committee. Municipalities will also provide administrative support to the committee.MODC has appointed Greg Jonah, Engineering Technologist with Public Works as support staff to the committee. Greg has successfully completed the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) Assessor Training Course. Environmental N/A at present, however; It should be noted that, as with all development, Environmental impact will need to be assessed during the design and construction of upgrades to various facilities in future. Strategic Plan 1.Maintain a high level of fiscal responsibility; 2.Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services; 3.Ensure sufficient infrastructure is available to best serve our residents and businesses; 5.Continually reinforce the positive image of the Municipality through leadership in public engagement and communication; Work Program Implications Staff and Council time associated with the ACC.Frequency and duration of the Committee meetings is to be determined.Additionally, staff may be able to devote additional time to the ACC by completing and/or reviewing RHFAC rating survey(s) of municipal properties subject to Public Works operational requirements. OPTIONS 1.Approve the Terms of Reference for the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee and to appoint a Council representative and an alternate to serve on the committee for a term of two (2) years. 2.Approve the Terms of Reference for the Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee and agree to appoint a Council representative and an alternate to serve on the committee for a term of two (2) years at a future date. 3.Defer any decision on the matter and direct staff to bring back further information as identified by Council. 4 Request For Decision /Direction ATTACHMENTS 1.Lunenburg County Accessibility Committee Terms of Reference 2.Bill No. 59 -An Act Respecting Accessibility in Nova Scotia3.Access by Design 2030 Presentation to the Municipality of the District of Chester February 21, 2019 Campaign to Protect Offshore Nova Scotia (CPONS): southshore.cpons@gmail.com protectoffshorens.wordpress.com Facebook.com/ProtectOffshoreNS/ CPONS MISSION To protect Nova Scotia waters, shorelines and ecosystems from risks associated with offshore exploration and development RECENT ACCIDENTS BY INDUSTRY •2016: Shell drops 2kms of pipe landing 12 metres from a wellhead. •June 2018: BP spills 136, 000 litres of synthetic ‘drilling mud’ •November 2018: Husky Energy spills 250,000 litres of oil into the ocean. It cannot been recovered. Leading Expert on Offshore Risk Assessment Dr. Robert Bea: “I felt déjà vu looking at BP’s proposals to drill offshore Nova Scotia” WHAT’S AT RISK? The export value of Nova Scotia’s seafood products in 2016: $1.8 billion Estimated revenues from tourism in 2016: $2.6 billion Royalty payments from offshore oil production between 2000 and 2016: $1.9 billion Seismic Blasts: The loudest human-produced noise, right after nuclear and chemical explosions WE NEED A PUBLIC INQUIRY •grossly inadequateregulatory system •lack of publicinvolvement •no public educationbased on unbiasedresearch •risk to our way oflife and sustainablefishery and tourism Sable Island National Park Reserve WHY MUNCIPALITIES SHOULD TAKE A STAND •municipalities offer residents the most immediate and accessible form of democracy •this issue fundamentally affects the economic and environmental health of our rural South Shore communities •municipalities heavily influenced the inquiry which resulted in the Georges Bank moratorium •towns and cities in the US were responsible for the moratorium in the US Atlantic •concerned citizens have been ignored in the regulatory approval process. Municipalities need to defend that right. Support the call for a public inquiry! Thank You! Drilling for Oil off Nova Scotia: Why we need a Public Inquiry 1) The people designated to protect and develop Nova Scotia’s ocean wealth should not have a vested interest. But they do. The Canada Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board (CNSOPB) is dominated by oil industry veterans. How can we trust them to protect our resources when they are on the side of development at any price? Now the Federal Government has introduced Bill C -69, which will give the CNSOPB an increased role in environmental assessment. 2) Developing offshore oil at any cost is risking our economic security. Nova Scotia’s sustainable fishery brings in close to 2 BILLION DOLLARS annually. The province’s tourism indus try is worth another 2.5 BILLION annually. Yet the TOTAL royalties from 16 years of oil and gas industry activity don’t even equal last year’s take from the fishery. And FISHERY MONEY STAYS IN NOVA SCOTIA. Most oil profits don’t. 3)What are we risking? Some of the richest fishing grounds and fish nurseries on the planet.After the disaster in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, the fishing industry there has STILL not recovered. Record amounts of compensation paid by BP went mainly to large industry companies. Small fishermen got next to nothing. BP was drilling off Nova Scotia until recently. Within a couple of months of exploratory activity, they spilled 136,000 litres of synthetic drilling mud. BP capped that well in November. But it still has leases on our offshore. Other accidents have happened: In 2016, Shell dropped 2 kilometres of pipe on the Scotian Shelf –just 12 metres from the wellhead. 12 metres away from a major catastrophe. A few months ago, off Newfoundland, a production vessel of Husky Energy spil led as much as 250,000 litres of oil into the ocean. WE ARE PLAYING RUSSIAN ROULETTE WITH OUR RESOURCES AND OUR FUTURE. A Public Inquiry would force governments and the oil industry to answer the questions Nova Scotians should be asking. What’s at risk? Why aren’t citizens being told about those risks? Why aren’t WE the ones to decide if we want to take those risks? Municipal Council Resolution on Offshore DrillingSummer, 2018 A healthy marine environment is critical to industries, likefishing and tourism,that are the primary lifeblood of NovaScotiacoastalcommunities.It is our responsibility to protect and nurture our localeconomies. It is also our right, and the right of our citizens tobe consulted on all major developments that might impactthose economies.The catastrophic effect of a major oil spill at an offshore drillsite is unthinkable, yet public knowledge of the risk andpotential consequences of such a spill remains inadequate.We hereby call for a full and independent public inquiry intothe pros and cons of oil industry exploration in offshore NovaScotiato provide our communities, who bear the lion’s share ofthe risk of a disaster in the offshore, a full appreciation of theextent of that risk and of the steps we can take to minimize it.We also call for a moratorium on all further oil and gasexploration in the offshore pending the compl etion of thatinquiry. 1 Cindy Hannaford Subject:FW: offshore drilling From:connie duchene < > Sent:Wednesday, January 23, 2019 10:10 AM To:Council <council@chester.ca> Subject:offshore drilling Jan. 23, 2019 Chester, N.S. To the Council of the Municipality of Chester: I am writing to express my grave concerns with the approved drilling of the deep oil and gas exploration wells in the oceans off southeast Nova Scotia by BP (British/Beyond Petroleum). The driving force for this approval is economic returns for the province of Nova Scotia. Historically, Nova Scotians have seen few jobs offshore, and after 17 years of industry activity, royalties have amounted to less than a year’s income from fishery. According to expert Dr. Robert Bea (an engineer that investigated the Space Shuttle Columbia, Exxon Valdez, and Deepwater Horizon disasters), BP “significantly underestimated” the likelihood of an uncontrolled blowout. BP has a spill modelling which predicts a 50% chance of: within 3 days of a blowout-shoreline oiling of Sable Island; within 4 days- spread to marine protected areas, home to North Atlantic right whale and 15 other species; within 6 days -reach key spawning and fishing grounds. Chester Municipality’s economy depends to a large degree on fishing. The direct contribution of the fishery to the province’s GDP in 2017 was close to $2 billion. For every dollar of this direct income, the fishery generates at least another $2-3 of secondary economic activity. Provincially,tourism revenue for 2016 was an estimated $2.6 billion. Again, our local economy very much depends on tourism. I’m sure you’ll agree that our pristine beaches and sailing waters are worthy of protection. And then there is the very real crisis of climate change. 100 fossil fuel companies have been the source of 71% of greenhouse gases. I personally do not have a waterfront property. However there are many landowners and tax payers that will see their investments endangered by rising sea levels. I am encouraged by some local governments, like the town of Shelburne, Municipality of Shelburne, Municipality of Barrington and Municipality of Lunenburg, having already passed motions expressing concerns over the risks of offshore drilling. I strongly believe that a full independent inquiry is required about the benefits and risks of offshore drilling. Please have the foresight to think of our municipality’s long-term future. We can influence these decisions, and we should. 2 Sincerely, Connie Duchene 1 Pam Myra From:Dawn Harwood-Jones Sent:Wednesday, January 30, 2019 3:03 PM To:Council Subject:Letter to the Council regarding BP disastrous record. Attachments:Dear Council.docx Please add my personal letter to the others supporting serious investigation into the risks of drilling off Nova Scotia's shores prior to the Council of Canadians' presentation. I believe this should concern all councillors - not just those on the coastline. Around the Gulf of Mexico the disaster was felt far inshore. The repercussions will be felt for decades if not centuries. My letter is attached but also pasted below so that councillors can click on the link to just one of thousands of stories about the disastrous effects an oil blowout can have on the livelihood of so many people hundreds of miles away from the disaster. Dear Council. There are so many things wrong with allowing oil exploration off Nova Scotia’s shores (let alone full drilling). The first concern is the fact that in the (likely) event of a blowout, it will take two weeks or more to bring a capping stack to our shores. This is unconscionable. The only reason not to have one in the area is money – not money the tax payers are saving, but money BP is saving for its shareholders – shareholders who live all over the world and are not terribly concerned about our tiny province. Make no mistake. BP lies. They said there would be little or no danger to drill in the Gulf of Mexico just weeks before one of the worst environmental disasters ever. They said they had safety backups for any event. They are saying the same thing now and have not made any significant changes to their safety practices. The other big lie is how much money Nova Scotians will reap from this industry. Yes there will be some dollars flowing into the provincial coffers but once the disaster occurs, they are gone as is the fishery and much of our tourism revenue. BP is now saying they have cleaned up the oil spill in the Gulf. They have not. They have used a toxic dispersant so that we cannot see the oil. The sea is poisoned. This is not exaggeration – please read the article published by a very credible source: The Gulf of Mexico is Dying A Special Report on the BP Gulf Oil Spill 2 By Dr. Tom Termotto https://gosrc.wordpress.com/2011/01/10/the-gulf-of-mexico-is-dying/ Yes there may NOT be a disaster. But can we take that chance on a company with such a poor record – a company that tries to tell us that the Gulf of Mexico is fine? Oil drilling off Nova Scotia is not worth the risk. Respectfully, Dawn Harwood-Jones Chester, NS-- ======================= Dawn Harwood-Jones 1 Pam Myra From:MARTHA SCOTT Sent:Wednesday, January 30, 2019 3:27 PM To:Council Subject:Oil and Gas Exploration Dear Members of Chester Council, Like you I have been following the media and discussion about proposed drilling of the deep oil and gas exploration wells in the oceans off Nova Scotia by BP (British Petroleum). I am writing to urge you to join other South Shore Municipalities in banning this high risk activity off shore in the pristine waters of Mahone Bay. Communities like ours are dependent on the tourism and fishery industries and even a minor catastrophe could have far reaching effects on our residents and their families. The risks are unmistakable and the rewards in terms of job creation are minimal. I hope you will join the neighbouring municipalities and the Council of Canadians in protecting out greatest assets - the oceans at our doors. Thank you for your good work on our behalf. Martha Scott Chester Basin 30 January 2019 To the Council of the Municipality of Chester: I have very serious concerns about the off shore exploration and by BP (British Petroleum). As you will know, two of the Chester Municipality’s economic big drivers are fishing and tourism. Both of these sectors would be greatly threatened by an oil spill. In fact, as in the Gulf of Mexico, they would be decimated. They say there are economic returns for the province. But historically, Nova Scotians have seen few jobs offshore, and after 17 years of industry activity, royalties have amounted to less than a year’s income from the fishery. BP has big dollars behind misleading the public. They say it is safe to drill. They said the same ting before the massive blowout in the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, they have already spilled drilling mud. This sounds benign but drilling mud is toxic. I strongly believe that a full independent inquiry is required about the benefits and risks of offshore drilling. Please think of our municipality’s long-term future. We can influence these decisions, and we should. Sincerely, Jane Moody Canaan, NS To the Municipal Council of Chester I am writing to you encouraging the Council to pass a motion expressing concerns over the risks of offshore drilling. I feel that the Municipality should follow the example of other municipalities along the South Shore and officially state its opposition/concerns. I realize that it’s merely a symbolic gesture but will show the progressive stance of the council. This type of exploration threatens our tourist and fishing industries which both, at present, provide direct benefits to our community. As the sign in our yard says, “Its not worth the risk.” Finally, as a parent I’m very concerned about our rapidly changing climate and environment degradation. I cannot foresee that allowing BP or any other oil company access to dr ill for oil will improve this dire situation.Therefore, I urge you to pass a motion stating the concerns of our community surrounding this issue. Thank you for your consideration Yours sincerely, Andrew Breen East Chester To the Council of the Municipality of Chester: I am writing to express my grave concerns with the approved drilling of the deep oil and gas exploration wells in the oceans off Nova Scotia by BP (British Petroleum). The driving force for this approval is economic returns for the province of Nova Scotia.But historically, Nova Scotians have seen few jobs offshore, and after 17 years of industry activity, royalties have amounted to less than a year’s income from fishery. According to expert Dr. Robert Bea (an engineer that investigated the Space Shuttle Columbia, Exxon Valdez, and Deepwater Horizon disasters), BP “significantly underestimated” the likelihood of an uncontrolled blowout. Which underscores the fact that the location of necessary well capping equipment should be readily available. Not several WEEKS away. Chester Municipality’s economy depends to a large degree on fishing and tourism. Both of these sectors would be greatly threatened by an oil spill. I am encouraged by some local governments, like the town of Shelburne, Municipality of Shelburne, Municipality of Barrington and Municipality of Lunenburg,having already passed motions expressing concerns over the risks of offshore drilling. I strongly believe that a full independent inquiry is required about the benefits and risks of offshore drilling. Please have the foresight to think of our municipality’s long-term future. We can influence these decisions, and we should. Sincerely, .Judy Parsons, Chester Additional information to support our concerns: In the Hearings of 1986,a Texaco official acknowledged the fact of a well blowout in waters off Sable Island. (I was working as a Weather Observer on that rig when it happened)but he stated clearly that that could not happen again. Since that time the very destructive blowout mentioned previously has happened as well as a recent incident off Newfoundland and Labrador.Blowouts of exploratory and production wells are not an insignificant occurrence and are not as unusual as the petroleum companies would have the public believe. In the early 1980s an Environmental study was done for the proposed exploration and drilling on and in the area of Georges Bank. Unfortunately ,the study only commented “that the development of these proposed wells posed no significant danger to the geological structures in the area”. No mention was made of damage involving marine life,fishing habitat,spawning areas and nursery areas which abound in this area.Unfortunately,that allows Oil companies and perhaps politicians to focus only on the favorable portion of the environmental study. Damage to any significant percentage of the fishery would impact income of fishermen and the long-term viability fish stock. Permission given by either Canadian or American governments for exploration and or drilling in these waters makes it much easier for permission to be granted by the other government. A fact that is obvious to oil companies. Although these issues were concerns of some years ago the ocean, fish stocks and oil companies are still the same,so the same issues remain a priority.Damage would last much longer than any time span mentioned here. For further detailed information on development sites go to: http://www.cnsopb.ns.ca/landmamagement/maps-and-coordinates Judy Parsons, Chester