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MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
AGENDA
Thursday,November 14, 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. to 9:00 a.m.)
5.COMMITTEE REPORTS:
5.1 Committee of the Whole –October 24,2019 –Warden Webber
(receive minutes only)
5.2 Any other Committees.
6.MATTERS ARISING:
6.1 Request for Decision prepared by Recreation and Parks Department regarding
Council Grants Review:Fall Allocation.
1.Council Grants 2019-2020 Spreadsheet
a)Request from Chester Area Middle School -$7200.
b)Request from Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 44,Chester -$2000.
c)Request from Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 88, Chester Basin -
$1000.
d)Request form Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 144, Western Shore -
$3,425.
2.Tourism Grants 2019-2020 Spreadsheet
3.District Council Grants 2019-2020 Spreadsheet
a)Request from Forest Heights Community School: Spirit Council -
$1000.
4. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING:
4.1 Council – October 31, 2019
Page 2 of 2
7.PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS:
7.1 Presentation from Everett Backman regarding Gray Grant Property.
8.CORRESPONDENCE:
8.1 Letter from Councillor Wayne Mason, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of
Municipalities (NSFM)to Honorable Chuck Porter, Minister of the Department of
Municipal Affairs and Housing and cc’d to Chester Municipal Council regarding
Short-Term Rentals.
8.2 Letter of thanks from Lunenburg East Fire & Emergency Services Committee
dated November 8, 2019 regarding hosting the Annual Volunteer Firefighter
Appreciation Dinner.
9.NEW BUSINESS:
9.2 Request for Decision prepared by Community Development Department
regarding Amendment to Outdoor Burning By-law #142 -First Reading.
11.ADJOURNMENT.
APPOINTMENTS
(appointment @ 10:00 a.m.)
10:00 a.m. Everett Backman, regarding Gray Grant Property.
Hennigar, Economic Development
Officer and Stephanie Beaumont, Tourism Team.
9.1 Tourism 2020 Workplan presented by Heather
10. IN CAMERA.
REQUEST FOR DECISION
Prepared By:Chad Haughn Date November 7, 2019
Reviewed By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date November 7, 2019
Authorized By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date November 7, 2019
CURRENT SITUATION
The second Council and Tourism grant deadline for the 2019-2020 fiscal year was October 31,
2019.Applications have been received and reviewed to ensure groups have met the basic
criteria. The next step is for Council to review the submissions and make decisions on how the
remaining grants budget will be allocated.One District Grant application was also received and
requires review.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Council review the four Council Grant applications received to October
31st as well as a District Grant application and determine funding levels.
DISCUSSION
1.Council Grants
Total Council Grants Budget for 2019-20 $37,000
Total Council Grants Approved to Date $26,650
Total Funds Remaining $11,350
Grant Requests Received by October 31st:
Chester Area Middle School:Well Fed Students $7,200
Chester Legion: Nov.9 Luncheon, Nov.11 Ceremony, Jan.1 Levee $2,000
Chester Basin Legion: Nov. 11 Ceremony $1,000
Western Shore Legion: Nov. 11 Ceremony,Christmas Party,Jan. 1 Levee $3,425
Total $13,625
REPORT TO:Municipal Council
SUBMITTED BY:Chad Haughn,Recreation & Parks Dept.
DATE:November 7, 2019
SUBJECT:Grants Review:Fall Allocation
ORIGIN:Grants Program
2 Request For Decision /Direction
2.Tourism Grants
Total Tourism Grants budget for 2019-20 $18,000
Total Tourism Grants Approved to Date $14,500
Total Funds Remaining $ 3,500
*No tourism applications were received prior to the October 31st deadline.
3.District Grants
Total District Grant Budget for District 4 $5,000
Total Funds Approved to Date $3,000
Total Funds Remaining $2,000
An application was received from Forest Heights Community School, School Spirit
Committee requesting $1,000 for various school spirit activities.
ATTACHEMENTS1.2019-20 Grant Spreadsheets:1.1 Council Grants1.2 Tourism Grants1.3 District Grants2.Copies of all grant applications.
Council Grants 2019 - 2020
2018 - 2019 2019 - 2020 2019 - 2020
Grant Request Approved
A - ESSENTIAL SERVICES
B - REGIONAL SERVICES
Christmas Daddies 100.00$ 100.00$ 100.00$
Health Services Foundation of the South Shore -$ 1,000.00$ -$
Lunenburg Lyme Group -$ 8,000.00$ -$
Mahone Bay Centre Society (C.J.Feeney Bell Tower & Library)-$ 500.00$ 500.00$
Saint Vincent de Paul -$ 1,500.00$ -$
Second Story Womens Centre -$ 250.00$ 250.00$
United Way of Lun Co (Match employees)1,200.00$ 1,200.00$ 1,200.00$
C - LOCAL NON-PROFIT
Aenon Baptist Church (Community Family Fun Day)3,000.00$ 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Blandford Annual Weiner Roast (Deep Cove)500.00$ 500.00$ 500.00$
Chester Area Middle School 4,000.00$ 7,200.00$
Chester Cancer Fighters 300.00$ 300.00$
Chester Castaways Jr C Hockey Club 10,000.00$ 3,000.00$
Chester Minor Hockey -$ 10,000.00$ -$
Chester Municipal Heritage Society 6,000.00$ 11,200.00$ 6,000.00$
New Ross Community Care Society 1,500.00$ 750.00$
New Ross Country Market 1,500.00$ 750.00$
New Ross Regional Development Society 490.00$ -$
New Ross Fire Commission 10,000.00$ -$
Royal Canadian Legion, Br.44, Chester 2,000.00$ 2,000.00$
Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 88, Chester Basin 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 79, New Ross 1,000.00$ 3,500.00$ 1,000.00$
Royal Canadian Legion, Br. 144, Western Shore -$ 3,425.00$
St. Stephen's Anglican Church (Musical Friends)3,000.00$ 5,000.00$ 3,000.00$
Studio Singers 1,000.00$ 500.00$
Together We Can Commuity Society 10,000.00$ 4,000.00$
D - COMMUNITY HALLS
District No. 1 Community Centre 3,500.00$ 2,800.00$ 2,800.00$
E - PROVINCIAL / NATIONAL
REQUESTED APPROVED
94,965.00$ 25,650.00$
37,000.00$
11,350.00$
Council Grants Budget
Remaining Funds
Tourism Grants 2019 - 2020
2018 - 2019 2019 - 2020 2019 - 2020
Granted Request Approved
A - ESSENTIAL SERVICES
TOURISM
B - REGIONAL SERVICES
TOURISM Lunenburg County Fibre Trail Association 400.00$ 0
TOURISM South Shore Tourism Cooperative 3,693.00$ 0
C - LOCAL NON-PROFIT
TOURISM Chester Merchants Association 1,500.00$ 2,000.00$ 1,500.00$
TOURISM Chester Theatre Council (Playhouse)3,800.00$ 10,000.00$ 7,500.00$
TOURISM Chester Yacht Club (Chester Race Week)4,000.00$ 4,000.00$ 3,000.00$
TOURISM Hubbards Area Business Association 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
COUNCIL/TOURISM New Ross Regional Development Society 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
D - COMMUNITY HALLS
TOURISM Forties Community Centre 500.00$ 500.00$ 500.00$
E - PROVINCIAL / NATIONAL
TOURISM
REQUESTED APPROVED
22,593.00$ 14,500.00$
Tourism Grant Budget 18,000.00$
Remaining Funds 3,500.00$
District Council Grants 2019 - 2020
Updated November 6, 2019
Requested Approved
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED -$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 5,000.00$
Chester Castaways: Team Startup 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Aspotogan Fitness Club: 1st Aniversary Celebration 300.00$ 300.00$
Hubbards Lions Club: Foundation Repairs & Christmas Event 1,300.00$ 1,300.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 2,600.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 2,400.00$
Chester District Soccer Association: Team Jerseys 500.00$ 500.00$
Chester Castaways: Team Startup 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Chester Yacht Club: Chester Race Week Banner & Videos 1,000.00$ 500.00$
Chester Art Centre: Creative Soul Youth Project 500.00$ 500.00$
Chester Heritage Society: Gazebo Repairs 500.00$ 500.00$
Chester Heritage Society: Canada Day 2020 2,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Church Memorial Park: Beer Garden Fundraiser 500.00$ 500.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 4,500.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 500.00$
South Shore Pipes & Drums: Gaelic College Workshop 500.00$ 500.00$
Basin Recreation Park: Park Maintenance 2,500.00$ 2,500.00$
Forest Heights Community School: Spirit Council 1,000.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 3,000.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 2,000.00$
Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 144: Community Events 2,615.00$ 1,250.00$
Together We Can Society: Gold River Park Maintenance 1,250.00$ 1,250.00$
Western Shore & Area Improvement: Christmas Event 1,250.00$ 1,250.00$
Western Shore Fire Department: Annual Garden Party 1,250.00$ 1,250.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 5,000.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING -$
Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 79: Canada Day 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
New Ross Trails Society: 5K Scramble 500.00$ 500.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 1,500.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 3,500.00$
Chester Castaways: Team Startup 1,000.00$ 1,000.00$
Canaan & District Hall Association: Heat Pump Project 3,000.00$ 3,000.00$
TOTAL FUNDS APPROVED 4,000.00$
TOTAL FUNDS REMAINING 1,000.00$
Total Funds Approved 20,600.00$
Total District Grant Budget 35,000.00$
Remaining Funds 14,400.00$
District 6
District 7
District 2
District 3
District 1
District 4
District 5
LUNENBURG EAST FIRE &EMERGENCY SERVICES COMMITTEE
November 8th/19
Municipality of the District of Chester
PO Box 369, Chester, NS
B0J 1J0
Attention:MODC Councillors, Fire Services Co-ordinator & Staff
Dear Councillors, Bruce Blackwood and Staff
On behalf of the Lunenburg East Fire & Emergency Services Committee, I would like to thankyou for
hosting another delicious meal for Volunteer Firefighters from each of the seven fire departments within
MODC. As always, the meal was splendid and attendees had an opportunity to chat with each other in a
relaxed atmosphere rather than on the emergency scene.
Allen, you were a good sport during the photo shoot. Kudos to you!
Although we received sad news towards the end of the evening that Firefighter Grant P ayne had died
earlier, it was as if it was meant to be in that Grant was a constant during these annual dinners. This
year he was with us in spirit and it seemed like he was sending a message to us saying,“Take it from
here fellow firefighters. You got this.”I know that his brother, Gary,was moved by the show of respect
and gratitude towards Grant.
Once again, thankyou for hosting this annual dinner.
Sincerely,
Wendy Rafuse
Secretary, Lunenburg East Fire & Emergency Services committee
REQUEST FOR DECISION
Prepared By:Garth Sturtevant, Senior Planner Date November 6, 2019
Reviewed By:Tara Maguire, Director Date November 7, 2019
Authorized By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date November 7, 2019
CURRENT SITUATION
The Outdoor Burning By-law (#142) currently regulates the type and size of outdoor fires that are
permitted within the By-law area (Applicable Area).The By-law currently defines the Applicable Area as
aligning with the Chester Village Planning Area Bounda ry.
Council has recently given 1st Reading to a new Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law as well
as corresponding amendments to the Chester Village Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By -law.
The adoption of the new planning documents and the changes to the Secondary Planning Strategy and
Land Use By-law will reduce the area covered by the Chester Village Secondary Planning Strategy and
Land Use By-law. Without the interventions proposed in this report, a n indirect consequence of amending
the Chester Village Planning Area Boundary would reduce the Applicable Area covered by the Outdoor
Burning By-law.
RECOMMENDATION
1.Staff recommend Option 1: Give 1st Reading to the draft amendments proposed for the Outdoor
Burning By-law (#142). The effect of the draft amendments is to maintain the Applicable Area
currently regulated by the By-law;
DISCUSSION
The changes to the Chester Village Planning Area have been considered and discussed as part of the
reVISION Plan Review process. However, in preparing the required amendments for the Chester Village
Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law, staff identified that as an indirect consequence of
altering the Chester Village Planning Area, the area regulated by the Outdoor Burning By -law would be
reduced. This impact was not discussed or planned as part of the changes to the Planning Area Boundary,
and staff have drafted the amendments attached to this report in an effort to maintain the existing
coverage and impact of the Outdoor Burning By -law.
Included in the amendments is a small housekeeping amendment to fix the numbering in section 4.2.3.
IMPLICATIONS
Proceeding with the amendments to the Outdoor Burning By -law will maintain existing coverage areas.
No impact to service level or changes to the By-law are proposed as part of these amendments.
REPORT TO:Municipal Council
SUBMITTED BY:Community Development Department
DATE:November 14, 2019
SUBJECT:Amendment to Outdoor Burning By-law #142)
ORIGIN:Identified by Staff
2 Request For Decision /Direction
Policy
N/A
Financial/Budgetary
N/A
Environmental
N/A
Strategic Plan
Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services;
Work Program Implications
N/A
OPTIONS
1.Give 1st Reading to the draft amendments proposed for the Outdoor Burning By -law (#142). The
effect of the draft amendments is to maintain the Applicable Area currently regulated by the By -
law;
2.Reject the draft amendments proposed for the Outdoor Burning By -law (#142).If the proposed
By-law amendments to the Municipal Land Use Bylaw and the Chester Village Area Land Use By-
law are approved, this option would then r esult in the Applicable Area regulated by the By-law
being reduced to align with the Village of Chester Municipal Boundary;
3.Defer giving 1st reading to the draft amendments pending further changes or information (please
specify).
ATTACHMENTS
Draft Outdoor Burning By-law (#142), including amendments and new Schedule “B” Map indicating the
Applicable Area regulated by the By-law.
COMMUNICATIONS (INTE RNAL/EXTERNAL)
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 0 of 7
Municipality of the District of Chester
Outdoor Fire By -Law
By-Law No. 142
Amended:Effective Month xx 2019
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 2 of 7
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
BY-LAW # 142
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW
1.AUTHORITY:
Section 172 (a) (b) and (d) of the Municipal Government Act provides Municipalities with the
power to make bylaws respecting the health, well-being, safety and protection of persons, the
safety and protection of property, and activities that may cause nuis ances including burning,
odours and fumes.
2.INTERPRETATION:
In this By-Law
2.1.“Acceptable Fire Pit” means an outdoor receptacle which is constructed from Bricks,
heavy gauge metal, stone or other suitable non -combustible components, and has a
spark arrestor or metal mesh screen.
2.2.“Applicable Area” means that area of the Municipality indicated on referred to as the
Map attached as Schedule B Chester Village Area in the Revised Secondary Planning
Strategy and Land Use By-Law approved by Municipal Council and effective on the 24th
day of January,2004 ;
2.3.“Council” means the Council for the Municipality of the District of Chester;
2.4.“Emergency Management Organization”means Regional Emergency Measures
Organization (REMO);
2.5.“Fire Chief” means the Fire Chief for the Chester Municipal Fire Department;
2.6.“Garden and Yard Waste” means any shrubbery, tree prunings, leaves, brush, weeds,
grass, turf and similar vegetation;
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 3 of 7
2.7.“General Waste” means rubbish, garbage, non-wooden material, packing, containers,
bottles, cans,rags, clothing, petroleum products, manure or sewer;
2.8.“Hazard”means a risk of damage or nuisance which may be cause by the burning of
any general waste, and which may adversely affect property and/or persons;
2.9.“Municipality” means the Municipality of the District of Chester;
2.10.“Nuisance” means the causing of any smoke or other emission from any fire permitted
under this By-Law, or otherwise, that adversely affects the reasonable enjoyment by
other persons of their property;
2.11.“Outdoor Wood Furnace” means an outdoor wood -burning appliances, or a solid fuel
burning appliance, used for the space heating of buildings, the heating of water or
other similar purposes.
2.12.“Property” means for the purpose of the By-Law, a parcel of land owned by a person
or two or more contiguous parcels of land owned by the same person;
2.13.“Portable Barbecuing Appliance” means an appliance used for the purpose of cooking
food outdoors, normally fueled by liquefied petroleum gas, natural gas, compressed
briquettes or charcoal;
3.OUTDOOR FIRES PROHIBITED:
3.1.No person shall be permitted to operate an Outdoor Wood Furnace within the
Applicable Area;
3.2.No person shall be permitted to have an outdoor fire within the Applicable Area on any
land owned or occupied by such person,or on any public lands owned by the
Municipality unless contained within an acceptable fire pit;
3.3.No person shall be permitted to burn general waste, or garden and yard waste on any
lands owned or occupied by such person, or any other lands within the Applicable Area;
4.OUTDOOR FIRES PERMITTED:
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 4 of 7
4.1.Within the Applicable Area, persons shall be permitted to cook food using a portable
barbeque or other food preparation appliances designed for outdoor use;
4.2.Within the Application Area, persons shall be permitted to burn only clean, dry wood in
an acceptable fire pit provided that:
4.2.1.a spark arrestor or mesh screen is used to contain any sparks or blowing debris;
4.2.2.the acceptable fire pit is located in excess of 125 feet from any building,structure,
flammable,combustible material or property line;
4.2.3.notwithstanding 4.2.2 4(2)(ii), the acceptable fire pit, may be operated on a
wooden Deck, provided it is positioned on a fire-proof pad;
4.2.4.the fire does not create a nuisance or a hazard as defined in the By-Law;
4.2.5.a responsible adult is present on the property while the fire is burning and until
the fire is extinguished;
4.2.6.a fire extinguisher, or other means of extinguishing a fire, acceptable to the Fire
Chief/ or designate, is within reasonable distance from where the fire is located;
4.3.Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3.3,within the applicable area, a person shall
be permitted on their property to have one outdoor fire per day not in an acceptable fire
pit provided:
4.3.1.only garden and yard waste is being burned. No green tree stumps or ro ots are
permitted;
4.3.2.the size of the fire shall not exceed that permitted by Department of Natural
Resources for burning brush with a Domestic Burning Permit;
4.3.3.no nuisance or hazard as defined in this By-Law may be created. Any such fire
that does create a nuisance or hazard as defined in this By -Law shall be
immediately extinguished upon Notice or Order from the Fire Chief or designate
or any Municipal By-law Enforcement Officer or any other person duly
authorized by the Municipality to enforce Municipal by-laws;
4.3.4.a responsible adult shall be present on the property while the fire is burning and
until the fire is extinguished;
4.3.5.a Fire Extinguisher or other means of extinguishing the fire acceptable to the
Fire Chief or designate shall be within a reasonable distance from where the fire
is located;
4.3.6.all applicable Federal and Provincial laws and regulations hall be complied with.
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 5 of 7
5.OTHER PERMITTED CIRCUMSTANCES:
5.1.Persons or organizations shall be permitted to ignite an outdoor fire providing that:
5.1.1.the burning is for the purpose of training members for the Emergency
Management Organization or the Chester Volunteer Fire Department;
6.OFFENCES AND PENALTIES:
Any person who contravenes or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this By -Law or
any Notice or Order given pursuant thereof shall be liable to a penalty no less than $250.00
and not exceeding $5,000.00 for each offence, as per Schedule “A” attached.
7.EFFECTIVE DATE:Month xx, 2019
SCHEDULE “A”
OFFENCE PENALTY
First Offence $250.00
Second Offence $1,000.00
Third Offence $5,000.00
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)
____________________________________________________________________________________
Notice of Intention to Adopt -By-Law Committee May 28, 2009 (2009-230)
1st Reading –Council –June 11, 2009 (2009-276)
2nd Reading –Council –July 30, 2009 (2009-367)
Effective Date –August 11, 2009
Amended Date –November xx, 2019
Page 6 of 7
Annotation for Official By-Law Book
Date of First Reading June 11, 2009
2009-276
Date of advertisement of Notice of Intent to Consider July 9,2009
Chester Clipper
Date of Second Reading July 30, 2009
2009-367
Date of advertisement of passage of By-Law *August 11, 2009
Date of mailing to Minister a certified copy of By-Law August 14, 2009
I certify that the Outdoor Fire By-Law #142 was adopted by Council and published as
indicated above
_____________________________________August 14, 2009
P. M. Myra, Municipal Clerk Date
*Effective Date of the By-Law unless otherwise specified in the text of the By-Law
OUTDOOR FIRE BY-LAW # 142 (CONTINUED)Page 7 of 7
I,Pamela M.Myra,Municipal Clerk of the
Municipality of the District of Chester do hereby
certify that the above is a true copy of an
advertisement duly advertised in the Newspaper
Progress Bulletin on Day Tuesday,Month August
xx11, 201909
Given under the hand of the Municipal Clerk and
under the corporate seal of the said Municipality
the xx14th day of Month August, 201909.
____________________________________________________
Pamela M. Myra
Municipal Clerk
REQUEST FOR DIRECTION
Prepared By:Garth Sturtevant Date November 12, 2019
Reviewed By:Tara Maguire Date November 12, 2019
Authorized By:Dan McDougall, CAO Date November 13, 2019
CURRENT SITUATION
Municipal Council has now set a date for a Public Hearing to conclude the adoption process of a new
Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law.There has been discussion on the fees charged to
obtain a Development Permit in relation to the new documents. The expansion of the Mixed-Use Zone in
the new planning documents is expected to result in a moderate increase in applications for Development
Permits. In the interest of ensuring the new planning regulations are not overbearing and do not limit or
stifle development, staff has been asked review the fees charged for a Development Permit and provide
options for consideration.
RECOMMENDATION
For discussion and decision.
BACKGROUND
The adoption of the new Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By -law are likely to increase the
number of applications for Development Permits. The Mixed-Use Zone will require application for a
Development Permit for most new construction, and Council wishes to minimize any perceived negative
impact associated with obtaining a Development Permit.During the reVISION Plan Review process,
Council heard that expansion of permit requirements and zoning is another form of taxation or revenue
generation.Reducing or eliminating permit fees for Development Permits is one way to prove to the
public that the reVISION process and zoning does not generate money or taxes for the Municipality. In
fact, upon review of Municipal permit data the Municipality intakes only approximately $11,000 per year
currently from Development Permit fees, providing further evidence that Development Permits are not a
major source of revenue or profit for the Municipality.
DISCUSSION
Council has recently reviewed and updated its Fee Policy in early 2019, however, no changes were made
to Development Permit fees. The Municipality is also working with the District of Lunenburg, Town of
Lunenburg and Town of Mahone Bay to implement the Building Inspection Shared Services project.This
work will result in a combined Building and Development Permit application,with fees being set by each
individual Council.
REPORT TO:Municipal Council
SUBMITTED BY:Community Development Department
DATE:November 14, 2019
SUBJECT:Amendment to Fee Policy –
Development Permits
ORIGIN:Council Originated
2 Request For /Direction
In the interest of facilitating a smooth transition to the new planning documents, staff has been asked to
review fees for Development Permits and provide options to adjust the fee. Staff have reviewed Policy P-
20 (Fee Schedule) in addition to a review of fees charged by several other rural municipalities (District of
Lunenburg, Colchester County, Kings County and West Hants). There is a definite trend toward having a
combined application for Building and Development Permits.Most Municipalities reviewed by staff
appear to charge for Building Permits and either have no fee for Development or it is incorporated into
the Building Permit Fee.
The Municipality of Chester currently charges $40 for Development Permit for projects with a construction
value under $5000 or $60 for projects with a construction value greater than $5000.
IMPLICATIONS
Reduction of Development Permit fees is not anticipated to have a substantial impact on Municipal
finances or revenue.
Policy
The fees charged by the Municipality are contained within policy P -20. A change to fees for Development
Permits would constitute an amendment to policy P-20.
Financial/Budgetary
The reduction in permit fees will impact the overall permit revenue collected by the Municipality. While
there is expected to be an increase in permit applications, staff have not analyzed or forecast an exact
impact on Municipal revenues. As stated previously in this report the funds collected currently for
Development Permits do not constitute a significant portion Municipal revenue.
Environmental
N/A
Strategic Plan
Continually improve public satisfaction with municipal services;
Work Program Implications
Increased staff time will be required to administer and issue Development Permits relating to the new
planning documents. Changes to the fee charged for Development Permits will not impact thi s workload.
CONCLUSION
With the trend observed in other Municipal Units, the introduction of the new planning documents, and
the Shared Services initiative already underway, a change to reduce or eliminate the fee for a
Development Permits is reasonable. Building Permits have and will continue to be the primary revenue
source related to permitting for the Municipality of Chester. Development Control and permitting will
Development
Permit Fee
Building & Development
Permits Combined
Application
MODL $26 Yes
West Hants None Yes
Colchester None Yes
Kings None Yes
3 Request For /Direction
operate similar to other services that come at a cost and do not sustain themselves throu gh permits or
licensing.
OPTIONS
1.Give 1st Notice to amend Policy P-20 to eliminate fees for Development Permits;
2.Give 1st Notice to amend Policy P-20 to reduce fees for Development Permits for projects with
construction value over $5000 from $60 to $20 (or some other amount determined by council)
and eliminate fees for Development Permits for projects with construction value less than $5000;
3.Give 1st Notice to amend Policy P-20 to reduce fees for Development Permits for projects with
construction value over $5000 from $60 to $20 or another amount determined by Council) and
reduce fees for Development Permits for projects with construction value less than $5000 to $10
(or another amount determined by Council);
4.Give 1st Notice to amend Policy P-20 to reduce fees for Development Permits. All Development
Permits will now be a flat fee of $10, regardless of the value of construction ;
5.Make no changes to Policy P-20.
ATTACHMENTS
Fee Policy P-20 –including proposed amendments
Municipality of the District of Chester
Fees Policy
Policy P-20
Effective Date:January 10, 2019
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 2 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF CHESTER
POLICY P-20
FEES POLICY
1.PURPOSE
1.1.To establish a Schedule of Fees for licenses,permits, and services provided by the
Municipality of the District of Chester that Council will review and,if necessary,revise
during the annual budgeting process.
2.DEFINITIONS
2.1.“CAO” means the Chief Administrative Officer for the Municipality, or her/his designate.
2.2.“Council” means the elected officials that make up the Council of the Municipality of the
District of Chester.
2.3.“Director” means the senior staff person that leads one of the Municipality’s seven
administrative departments and who reports to the CAO.
2.4.“Municipality” means the Municipality of the District of Chester .
2.5.“Schedule A” means the authorized and consolidated list of fees that the Municipality
charges for a wide range of licenses, permits, and services.
3.POLICY STATEMENTS
3.1.It is appropriate for Council to charge fees, as authorized by the Municipal Government
Act and as applied through the Municipality’s by-laws, resolutions, and policies,in order
to help offset administrative costs through partial cost recovery.
3.2.This policy applies to all fees included in Schedule A unless in conflict with applicable
provincial legislation, or with fees set out in a by-law, resolution,or policy with an
effective date after the date this Fees Policy was last amended.
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 3 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
3.3.By listing all of the Municipality’s fees in one consolidated Fees Policy, the Municipality
is able to coordinate the review of fees for licenses, permits, and services and the impact
of any adjustments to these fees on projected revenues as part of the annual budgetary
process.
3.4.The responsibility for the accuracy and currency of the fees outlined in Schedule A rests
with the Municipality’s Directors. However,the CAO will coordinate the review of
Schedule A on an annual basis as part of the budgeting process and recommend
changes, if any, to Council for review.
3.5.Once approved by Council, the most recent amended version of this policy and the
associated Schedule of Fees will be shared by Directors with all staff and applied to the
Municipality’s administration of licenses, permits, and services.
3.6.Processing Agreements for materials from outside the Municipality are not subject to
the annual budgeting and fee review process outlined in this policy.Fee schedules
approved through Processing Agreements will be shared promptly by the CAO and the
Director of Solid Waste with Department of Solid Waste staff and applied to the
Municipality’s administration of Tipping Fees at Kaizer Meadows.
3.7.Council delegates the authority for setting fees for recreation programs to the Director
of Recreation & Parks or her/his designate. Such fees and any associated refund policy
will be managed outside of this policy.
Waiving Fees
3.8.The Municipality may waive fees for non-profit organizations or groups that do not have
the ability to raise revenue via taxation, with the exception of Fire Commissions when
applying for Letters of Concurrence. Proof of non-profit status is required prior to the
Municipality waiving fees.
Refunding Fees
3.9.The Municipality provides limited refunds for fees, but with the following restrictions:
3.9.1.For fees greater than $50,a refund will be issued with a deduction of $50 for
administration costs.
3.9.2.For fees of $50 or less, no refund will be provided.
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 4 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
3.9.3.For permits, refunds are available prior to the permit being issued only.
4.GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND VALUES
4.1.This policy communicates the Municipality’s principle of charging fees to help offset
costs for providing licenses, permits, and services.In so doing, Council works to
maintain a commitment to fiscal responsibility by partially recovering associated
administrative costs through user fees rather than through the general tax rate.This is
the guiding principle and approach that the Municipality may choose to apply at any
time to user fees not covered by this policy.
5.POLICY ROLES AND PROCEDURES
5.1.The following is a summary overview of roles and, where applicable, procedures
associated with the ongoing maintenance of this policy. Further detail for all policy
development and review work is captured in the Policy Review Check List.
Responsible Council
Accountable CAO; Municipal Clerk
Consulted All Department Directors
Informed All staff of the Municipality; residents
6.RELATED DOCUMENTATION
6.1.The following is related legislation, regulations, by-laws, resolutions, policies, and other
documentation that relate to this policy.
Document Name Document Type
Municipal Government Act Legislation
Tipping Fee Schedule, Solid Waste Department Administration
Processing Agreements, Solid Waste Department/CAO Administration
7.REVIEW REQUIREMENTS
7.1.The CAO will lead a review of this policy as part of the annual budgetary process. Any
recommendations for amendments or repeal must be authorized by Council.
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 5 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Amendments must be captured in the Version Log below. Note any former policies
replaced by a new or amended policy under ‘Amendment Description’, when applicable.
Version
Number
Amendment Description Consulted Accountable Approval Date
2014 Policy amended to update
Engineering & Public
Works and Solid Waste
fees.
Department
Directors
CAO July 10, 2014
2019 Clarification of policy
statements; updates to
Schedule A; updates to
policy format
Department
Directors
CAO January 10,
2019
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 6 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
SCHEDULE A
Administration Fee Other Information
MPS and LUB $10.00 per full document
Fax –Received $1.00 per page
Fax –Sent $2.00 per page
Parking Tickets $15.00
Photocopies -Colour (Single
Sided)$0.30
per page (service only for
residents copying Municipal
documents and for non-
profit groups copying their
own documents)
Photocopies -Colour (Double
Sided)$0.50
per page (service only for
residents copying Municipal
documents and for non-
profit groups copying their
own documents)
Photocopies -Black & White
(Single Sided)$0.10
per page (service only for
residents copying Municipal
documents and for non-
profit groups copying their
own documents)
Photocopies -Black & White
(Double Sided)$0.12
per page (service only for
residents copying Municipal
documents and for non-
profit groups copying their
own documents)
Photocopies -Plans & Drawings
(Black & White)$10.00
per sheet; limit 15 (service
only for residents copying
Municipal documents and for
non-profit groups copying
their own documents)
Photocopies -Plans & Drawings
(Colour)$20.00
per sheet; limit 15 (service
only for residents copying
Municipal documents and for
non-profit groups copying
their own documents)
Photocopies -Plans & Drawings
(Scan only)$3.00 per sheet; limit 15 (service
only for residents copying
Municipal documents and for
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 7 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Administration Fee Other Information
non-profit groups copying
their own documents)
Vendor License -Ratepayer (1
year)No Charge
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1/4 year)$25.00 unprocessed products of the
farm, forest, or sea
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1/2 year)$50.00 unprocessed products of the
farm, forest, or sea
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1 year)$100.00 unprocessed products of the
farm, forest, or sea
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1/4 year)$50.00 all other goods, wares, or
merchandise
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1/2 year)$100.00 all other goods, wares, or
merchandise
Vendor License –Non-Ratepayer
(1 year)$200.00 all other goods, wares, or
merchandise
Auctioneers $20.00
Tax Certificate Fee $30.00
NSF Cheque Fee $30.00
Deed Transfer Tax percentage established in By-
Law #137: Deed Transfer Tax
Interest on Overdue Taxes 12%1% per month
Third Party Credit Service Fee $3.00 per bill if the amount is less
than $100
$3.00 per $100 of bill amount up to
$500
2.65%of the bill amount over $500
Animal Control Fee Other Information
Dog License $15.00 five-year period; non-
transferable
Redemption Fee for Dogs $50.00
Kennel Application Fee $75.00 one-time fee
Kennel License $150.00
Building Inspection Fee Other Information
Construction Value -$0.00 to
$10,000 $10.00
Construction Value-$10,001 to
$20,000 $16.00
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 8 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Administration Fee Other Information
Construction Value-$20,001 to
$50,000 $35.00
Construction Value -$50,001 to
$100,000 $65.00
Construction Value-$100,001 to
$200,000 $125.00 plus $1.10 per $1,000 over
$100,001
Construction Value -$200,001
and over $250.00 plus $1.10 per $1,000 over
$200,001
Zoning Confirmation Letters $30.00
Civic Number Plate $14.00
Public Hearing Documents -
Entire package with all public
comments
$0.12 per page
LUB Amendment Application
Fee
$300.00
(refundable if
withdrawn within seven
business days)
plus a $500 deposit towards
advertising costs
MPS Amendment Application
Fee
$500.00
(refundable if
withdrawn within seven
business days)
plus a $500 deposit towards
advertising costs
Development Agreement
Application Fee or Substantial
Amendments to DA
$400.00
(refundable if
withdrawn within seven
business days)
plus a $500 deposit towards
advertising costs
Discharge of Development
Agreement Registry Fee recording fees in accordance
with Land Registry office fees
Unsubstantial Amendment to
Development Agreement $100.00 plus a $500 deposit towards
advertising costs
Development Permit
(construction value up to $5,000)$40.00 $XX.XX
Development Permit
(construction value over $5,000)$60.00 $XX.XX
Site Plan Approval
$75.00
(refundable within
seven days)
Final Subdivision Approval App.
Fee (six lots or fewer)$200.00 plus recording fees & public
open space dedication
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 9 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Administration Fee Other Information
Final Subdivision Approval App.
Fee (seven lots or more)$400.00 plus recording fees & public
open space dedication
Tentative Subdivision Approval $50.00
Zoning Confirmation Letters $30.00
Application for Letter of
Concurrence (Communication
Towers)
$400.00
(no refund)
plus a $500 deposit towards
advertising costs
Wharves & Berthage $40.00
Public Works Fee Other Information
Sewer Application Fee $50.00
Sewer Hook Up Deposit Varies Based on estimate to do the
job
Driveway Culvert Replacement Varies Based on estimate to do the
job
Sidewalk Entrance Replacement Varies Based on estimate to do the
job
Kaizer Meadow Fee*Other Information
*’Inside’ &‘Outside’ refers to materials originating from inside or outside the Municipality.
Interest on Overdue Accounts 12%1% per month
Asphalt & Brick $35.00 Inside
$40.00 Outside per tonne
Cardboard & Paper No Charge Inside
$275.00 Outside per tonne
Direct Haul –Bridgewater as per processing agreement
Direct Haul –Commercial
Organics as per processing agreement
Direct Haul –Lunenburg as per processing agreement
Direct Haul –Mahone Bay as per processing agreement
Direct Haul –Mirror as per processing agreement
Direct Haul –Other as per processing agreement
Mixed Construction &
Demolition Waste
$60.00 Inside
$66.00 Outside per tonne
Mixed Waste $175.00 per tonne
Organics & Blue Bags (Chester)No Charge
Residual Waste -Curbside
Collection $89.06 per tonne
Residual Waste -
Residential/Commercial
(Chester)
$89.06 per tonne
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 10 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Administration Fee Other Information
Sand Blasted Sand $89.06 per tonne
Soil -Contaminated $45.00 Inside
$50.00 Outside per tonne
Soil -Non-Contaminated $15.00 per tonne
Scrap Metal (commercial &
residential)
$35.00 Inside
$40.00 Outside per tonne
Septic Waste $22.00 Inside
$30.00 Outside per tonne
Wood (clean; residential)$35.00 Inside
$40.00 Outside per tonne
Tires -landfilled $89.06 per tonne
CKF/Minas Basin Residuals as per processing agreement
HRM -Compost (landfilled)
including host fee as per processing agreement
LRCRC Residuals (including host
fee)as per processing agreement
LRCRC Direct Haul Commercial
(including host fee)as per processing agreement
LRCRC C & D as per processing agreement
LRCRC Shingles as per processing agreement
Michelin –Bridgewater $89.06 per tonne
Michelin –Pictou $89.06 per tonne
Town of Lunenburg -Residuals
(including host fee)as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Blue Bags
&Cardboard as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Organics as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -
Commercial as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Special
Collection as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Scrap
Metal, Wood, Asphalt as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Mixed C &
D as per processing agreement
Town of Lunenburg -Leaf &
Yard Waste as per processing agreement
Valley Waste -Residuals
(including host fee)as per processing agreement
Valley Waste –Asphalt &gyproc as per processing agreement
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 11 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Administration Fee Other Information
Dead Animals
No Charge Inside
(under 500lbs)
$35.00 Insider (over
500lbs)
$100.00 Outside (per
tonne)
Household Hazardous Waste
(HHW)
No Charge Inside
Cost Recovery Outside
Paint and Propane Tanks No Charge Inside
Cost Recovery Outside
Septic Gravel (ICI)$35.00 Inside
$88.05 Outside per tonne
Septic Gravel (Residential)No Charge Inside
$88.05 Outside per tonne
Fees Policy P-20 (continued)Page 12 of 12
Notice of Intention to Amend –Committee of the Whole –October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
First Notice –Council –October 25, 2018 (2018-457/463)
Second/Final Notice –Council –January 10, 2019 (219-009)
Effective Date –January 10, 2019
Annotation for Official Policy Book
Reason for Amendment To ensure fees currently in use by departments
are accurate and consistent with current
practice.
Notice of Intention to Adopt Committee of the Whole
October 18, 2018 (2018-457)
Date of First Notice at Council October 25,2018 (218-457/463)
Date of Second Notice at Council January 10, 2019 (2019-009)
Effective Date January 10, 2019
I certify that this Policy was amended by Council as indicated above.
_______________________________________January 20, 2019
Pamela M. Myra, Municipal Clerk Date