Council - April Minutes

Call to Order The Council meeting was called to order with Warden Thurber in the chair at 6:00 p.m.

Attendance
Councillors present:





Jim Thurber, Warden
Jimmy MacAlpine, Deputy Warden
Randall Amero, Councillor
Maritza Adams, Councillor

Staff present: Linda Fraser, Chief Administrative Officer
Gordon Wilson, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer
Cora Lee Bremner, Executive Secretary

Regrets: Linda Gregory, Councillor


Prayer Warden Thurber welcomed everyone to the meeting, read the Municipality’s mission statement and then asked everyone to pause to seek guidance for the meeting.

Agenda Councillor Adams added Maud Lewis Signage to Old Business.

MOVED and seconded that the agenda be approved as amended.

MOTION CARRIED


Presentations

Mike Gushue, ADEDA - 2010/2011 Business Plan MOVED and seconded that Mr. Mike Gushue from ADEDA come before Council to make a presentation on the 2010/2011 Business Plan.

MOTION CARRIED


Mr. Gushue came before Council to present ADEDA’s 2010-11 Business Plan. This document represents year one of their new 5 Year Investment Strategy, which forms the basis of the region’s economic transition plan.
The key to building our regional economy is to grow our population. The way to grow our population is to identify investment opportunities which will, in turn, create jobs. Therefore, with the goal to positively affect population growth, ADEDA has developed four key strategic pillars:
1. Strengthen the region’s existing businesses through their Business Retention and Expansion Program (BRE)

2. Attract new business and investment using an innovative 5 year strategic plan

3. Attract new residents via immigration, in-migration and tourism

4. Support the region’s creative economy (arts, culture and technology)

Of particular significance to the Agency’s 2010-11 Business Plan is their new 5 Year Investment Strategy. This series of documents provides a framework for future economic development based on a comprehensive understanding of the people, skills, businesses and natural assets in this Region.
A question and answer period followed the presentation.
Council commended the agency on the great job that they are doing and they look forward to working with them through the next five years of their plan.


Minutes

March 22, 2010

MOVED and seconded that the minutes from the Council of March 22, 2010 be approved as circulated.

MOTION CARRIED


Business Arising from Minutes NIL

Old Business

#1 Maud Lewis Signage Councillor Adams added this item to the agenda to find out the status of the signage for the Maud Lewis Site. The CAO advised that the funding was sent out last year and the signs have yet to be placed. The CAO will follow up on this as well as the upkeep for the lawn and gardens.


Warden Thurber No Old Business.

Deputy Warden
MacAlpine
No Old Business.

Councillor Gregory Absent.

Councillor Amero No Old Business.

Councillor Adams No Old Business.

New Business

#1 New Weymouth Library – Recommendation from Building Committee for name The Weymouth Library Building Committee met a couple weeks ago and is pleased with the progress. The project should be finished up within next couple weeks. The furniture has been ordered and will be set up by the company. They are estimating it will take a week to move. The plan is to have a grand opening this summer.
The Building Committee for the Weymouth Library has been working on a name for the new library and they are recommending that the Library be named “Weymouth Waterfront Library” as this name would recognize all the work the Weymouth Waterfront Committee has done as well as recognizing Weymouth.
There was a discussion of Council on the recommended name.




MOVED and seconded that Council accept the recommendation from the Weymouth Library Building Committee that the new library be named Weymouth Waterfront Library.

MOTION CARRIED


#2 Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre Association – Balancing Rock Trail – Signage The Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre Association is requesting permission to place signage along the balancing rock trail and in the parking lot.

MOVED and seconded that Council grant permission for the Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre to install signage on the Balancing Rock Trail and parking area as stipulated in their letter.

There was also a discussion regarding the need for signage to direct people to the trail. The Warden stated that if this hasn’t been done, it can be done prior to the trail’s opening.


MOTION CARRIED


#3 Planning Advisory Committee – Patricia MacConnell Application MOVED and seconded that Council accept Patricia MacConnell as citizen member for the Planning Advisory Committee.

MOTION CARRIED


#4 Plympton & Gilbert’s Cove Fire Department – Guarantee of $100,000 loan The Plympton and Gilbert’s Cove Fire Department is requesting that Council guarantee a loan of $100,000 from the Bank of Nova Scotia to pay off existing loans and purchase a used truck.

MOVED and seconded that Council do a loan guarantee resolution to be forwarded to the Province for approval for the Fire Department in the sum of $100,000.

MOTION CARRIED


#5 Trinity Anglican Church – Funding Request The Trinity Anglican Church is requesting funding to help with summer student wages.
Deputy Warden MacAlpine declared a conflict of interest. Warden Thurber asked him to stay as the item was going to be referred to the budget process.

MOVED and seconded that the funding request from Trinity Anglican Church be referred to the budget process.

MOTION CARRIED


#6 Wharf Rat Rally – Funding Request $5,000 The CAO recommended that the funding request from the Wharf Rat Rally be referred to the budget process.
There was a short discussion regarding the time sensitivity of this request.



MOVED and seconded that the funding request from the Wharf Rat Rally be referred to the budget meeting scheduled for April 3, 2010.

MOTION CARRIED


Administration

Request for decision/direction NIL

CAO Report

Rural Post Offices







Funding to Expand Smith’s Cove Sewer Connections




Municipal Office Renovations
The CAO report for April 26, 2010 was included in the meeting package.
The CAO wanted to note that the UNSM President has written a letter to Canada Post expressing municipal concerns over the Rural Mailbox Delivery Review Program. She noted that there has been no response to the two letters from Council. It was agreed by Council that Canada Post be contacted to invite them to make a presentation to Council when they are in this area.
The CAO is unaware of any funds available through the Build Canada fund or any other cost-sharing funds that could be accessed to extend sewer connections in Smith’s Cove. The CAO will follow up with the Municipal Advisor for the Province to see if there are any funding opportunities.
The advertisement for the tender for the building renovations will be placed in the Chronicle Herald either this Saturday or the following Saturday. The date for moving out is still scheduled for May 28, 2010.


Payables MOVED and seconded that the payables in the amount of $658,161.71 for the month of March 2010 be approved as presented.

MOTION CARRIED


Financial Report The financial report for March 31, 2010 was not available.


Council Committees

Committee of the Whole

Tax Exemption By-law – First Reading of amendment to add Nova Scotia Bird Sanctuary & Trust property



MOVED and seconded that first reading be held for the amendment to the Tax Exemption By-law adding Nova Scotia Bird Sanctuary & Trust property (Peter’s Island)


MOTION CARRIED

1 OPPOSED – Councillor Amero


Bylaw & Policy Review N/A




Advisory Committees

#1 REMO Management Planning Committee The REMO Management Planning Committee has not met since the last Council meeting. There is a meeting planned for May 4, 2010 for coordinators.


#2 Heritage Advisory Committee There has been no Heritage Advisory Committee meeting since the last Council meeting; however, there is a meeting scheduled for this week.


#3 Planning Advisory Committee The third spot for citizen representative has just been filled.


#4 Police Advisory Committee The Police Advisory Committee minutes for January 12, 2010 were included in the meeting package. There was a meeting on April 20, 2010. All three citizen representatives’ terms are up in July. The CAO wants to advertise in June. Wendell Gregory, who is currently a citizen representative, has resigned from the committee.
The CAO is going to follow up with the RCMP Staff Sergeant regarding the Share the Road Program.


#5 Tri County Housing Authority The Tri County Housing Authority was last reported on in October 2009. There is a report due; the CAO has requested one for the last two meetings.


Regional / Joint Committees

#1 Airport Working Group There is an Airport Working Group meeting scheduled for May 5, 2010.


#2 Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency The ADEDA meeting minutes for March 2010 as well as the Managing Director report were included in the meeting package. There have been two meetings since the last Council meeting. Mr. Gushue reported on the outcome of the meetings in his earlier presentation.
There were representatives from the YMCA at the last meeting who are looking into the possibility of taking over Lifeplex. There has not been a decision made on this at this time.
Kathleen Shea’s last day working for ADEDA was on April 23, 2010. She was a great asset to the organization and it is hoped that they can find someone who can fill her shoes.


#3 Digby Annapolis Development Corp The April DADC meeting has been postponed until May. It is hoped to schedule a meeting before FCM.


#4 Digby Area Learning Association DALA had a special meeting on April 14, 2010. Their regular meeting is scheduled for April 28, 2010.


#5 Digby Area Tourism Association No report.


#6 Digby Area Recreation Committee DARC didn’t have a regular April meeting. They held the annual volunteer recognition awards. The event was well attended and was a successful ceremony.
Deputy Warden MacAlpine would like Councillor Amero to raise his concern with the capital expenditures in relation to the Curling Club at the next DARC meeting.


#7 Digby Harbour Port Association No report.


#8 Fundyweb Broadband The Fundyweb Broadband meeting minutes from March 12, 2010 were included in the meeting package. The last meeting was held on April 15, 2010. The main discussions were the sale of fibre to Eastlink and also a review whether municipal representation on the board should be phased out. The CAO’s were asked to review this option. It is the feeling of the Board that the intent to provide a service has been met. They are holding regular meetings in an attempt to move forward.


#9 Industrial Commission The Industrial Commission meeting for April has been postponed. There has been no date set.


#10 Kings Transit Authority The Kings Transit Authority April board package was included in the meeting package. Councillor Amero was unable to attend the last board meeting. The Warden and CAO had a meeting with representatives from Kings Transit at which time they discussed their desire to use the transit funds to build a garage in the Valley. The Warden and CAO asked Kings Transit to present them with a business plan so that they would be able to see the savings that would take place by building the garage. Also discussed that this meeting was the desire to change the structure of the board to allow the non-voting partners to become voting partners on the board.


#11 Senior Safety Committee There is a Senior Safety Committee meeting scheduled for May. There is a special senior’s day planned for May, 2010 at the Digby Elementary School.


#12 Tideview Terrace There wasn’t a regular Tideview Terrace meeting this month as there was a retreat. Councillor Adams was unable to attend due to sickness. New mission statements and visions were established at the retreat. It was a good retreat and will help everyone to work together better.
Everything is on schedule for the new site. The target move in date is still scheduled for middle June 2011.
Councillor Adams and Councillor Gregory were both able to attend the volunteer tea.


#13 Waste Check There was no Waste Check meeting in April. They did have a strategic planning session on April 8, 2010. There was good representation from our Municipality. This will help with the goals of waste diversion.
The winners have been announced for the 2009-2010 Nova Scotia Recycles Contest. There were three winners in the Municipality of Digby. In the grade 4-6 category, Lacey Lewis from Digby Elementary School placed first. The school also received a cheque for $500. In the grade 2-3 category, Sawyer Burns from Islands Consolidated School received Runner-Up and the school received a cheque for $250. In the P-1 category, Ms. Theresa Nickerson’s class from Barton Consolidated School received Runner-Up and the school received a cheque for $250.
It was mentioned that there is a new garbage truck that can haul two streams. It is being hauled that way. There will be advertising done to help residents sort properly and as of June 1, 2010 people that do not comply will have their bags stickered.


#14 Western Counties Regional Library Western Counties Regional Library hasn’t met since the last Council meeting.
There is an adopt-a-book program going on and Deputy Warden MacAlpine encouraged everyone to go to a local library and adopt a book.


Council Reports

Warden Thurber Warden Thurber gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Deputy Warden MacAlpine Deputy Warden MacAlpine gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Councillor Gregory Absent.


Councillor Amero Councillor Amero gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Councillor Adams Councillor Adams gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings she has attended during the past month.


Comments from the gallery The meeting was opened up to the gallery for questions. There were no questions.


Recess MOVED and seconded that Council take a five minute recess before proceeding in camera.

MOTION CARRIED


In Camera MOVED and seconded that Council move in camera.

MOTION CARRIED


Regular session resumed.


Adjournment

MOVED and seconded that the meeting adjourn at 7:55 PM.

MOTION CARRIED

Call to Order The Council meeting was called to order with Warden Thurber in the chair at 6:00 p.m.

Attendance
Councillors present:





Jim Thurber, Warden
Jimmy MacAlpine, Deputy Warden
Randall Amero, Councillor
Maritza Adams, Councillor

Staff present: Linda Fraser, Chief Administrative Officer
Gordon Wilson, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer
Cora Lee Bremner, Executive Secretary

Regrets: Linda Gregory, Councillor


Prayer Warden Thurber welcomed everyone to the meeting, read the Municipality’s mission statement and then asked everyone to pause to seek guidance for the meeting.

Agenda Councillor Adams added Maud Lewis Signage to Old Business.

MOVED and seconded that the agenda be approved as amended.

MOTION CARRIED


Presentations

Mike Gushue, ADEDA - 2010/2011 Business Plan MOVED and seconded that Mr. Mike Gushue from ADEDA come before Council to make a presentation on the 2010/2011 Business Plan.

MOTION CARRIED


Mr. Gushue came before Council to present ADEDA’s 2010-11 Business Plan. This document represents year one of their new 5 Year Investment Strategy, which forms the basis of the region’s economic transition plan.
The key to building our regional economy is to grow our population. The way to grow our population is to identify investment opportunities which will, in turn, create jobs. Therefore, with the goal to positively affect population growth, ADEDA has developed four key strategic pillars:
1. Strengthen the region’s existing businesses through their Business Retention and Expansion Program (BRE)

2. Attract new business and investment using an innovative 5 year strategic plan

3. Attract new residents via immigration, in-migration and tourism

4. Support the region’s creative economy (arts, culture and technology)

Of particular significance to the Agency’s 2010-11 Business Plan is their new 5 Year Investment Strategy. This series of documents provides a framework for future economic development based on a comprehensive understanding of the people, skills, businesses and natural assets in this Region.
A question and answer period followed the presentation.
Council commended the agency on the great job that they are doing and they look forward to working with them through the next five years of their plan.


Minutes

March 22, 2010

MOVED and seconded that the minutes from the Council of March 22, 2010 be approved as circulated.

MOTION CARRIED


Business Arising from Minutes NIL

Old Business

#1 Maud Lewis Signage Councillor Adams added this item to the agenda to find out the status of the signage for the Maud Lewis Site. The CAO advised that the funding was sent out last year and the signs have yet to be placed. The CAO will follow up on this as well as the upkeep for the lawn and gardens.


Warden Thurber No Old Business.

Deputy Warden
MacAlpine
No Old Business.

Councillor Gregory Absent.

Councillor Amero No Old Business.

Councillor Adams No Old Business.

New Business

#1 New Weymouth Library – Recommendation from Building Committee for name The Weymouth Library Building Committee met a couple weeks ago and is pleased with the progress. The project should be finished up within next couple weeks. The furniture has been ordered and will be set up by the company. They are estimating it will take a week to move. The plan is to have a grand opening this summer.
The Building Committee for the Weymouth Library has been working on a name for the new library and they are recommending that the Library be named “Weymouth Waterfront Library” as this name would recognize all the work the Weymouth Waterfront Committee has done as well as recognizing Weymouth.
There was a discussion of Council on the recommended name.




MOVED and seconded that Council accept the recommendation from the Weymouth Library Building Committee that the new library be named Weymouth Waterfront Library.

MOTION CARRIED


#2 Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre Association – Balancing Rock Trail – Signage The Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre Association is requesting permission to place signage along the balancing rock trail and in the parking lot.

MOVED and seconded that Council grant permission for the Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre to install signage on the Balancing Rock Trail and parking area as stipulated in their letter.

There was also a discussion regarding the need for signage to direct people to the trail. The Warden stated that if this hasn’t been done, it can be done prior to the trail’s opening.


MOTION CARRIED


#3 Planning Advisory Committee – Patricia MacConnell Application MOVED and seconded that Council accept Patricia MacConnell as citizen member for the Planning Advisory Committee.

MOTION CARRIED


#4 Plympton & Gilbert’s Cove Fire Department – Guarantee of $100,000 loan The Plympton and Gilbert’s Cove Fire Department is requesting that Council guarantee a loan of $100,000 from the Bank of Nova Scotia to pay off existing loans and purchase a used truck.

MOVED and seconded that Council do a loan guarantee resolution to be forwarded to the Province for approval for the Fire Department in the sum of $100,000.

MOTION CARRIED


#5 Trinity Anglican Church – Funding Request The Trinity Anglican Church is requesting funding to help with summer student wages.
Deputy Warden MacAlpine declared a conflict of interest. Warden Thurber asked him to stay as the item was going to be referred to the budget process.

MOVED and seconded that the funding request from Trinity Anglican Church be referred to the budget process.

MOTION CARRIED


#6 Wharf Rat Rally – Funding Request $5,000 The CAO recommended that the funding request from the Wharf Rat Rally be referred to the budget process.
There was a short discussion regarding the time sensitivity of this request.



MOVED and seconded that the funding request from the Wharf Rat Rally be referred to the budget meeting scheduled for April 3, 2010.

MOTION CARRIED


Administration

Request for decision/direction NIL

CAO Report

Rural Post Offices







Funding to Expand Smith’s Cove Sewer Connections




Municipal Office Renovations
The CAO report for April 26, 2010 was included in the meeting package.
The CAO wanted to note that the UNSM President has written a letter to Canada Post expressing municipal concerns over the Rural Mailbox Delivery Review Program. She noted that there has been no response to the two letters from Council. It was agreed by Council that Canada Post be contacted to invite them to make a presentation to Council when they are in this area.
The CAO is unaware of any funds available through the Build Canada fund or any other cost-sharing funds that could be accessed to extend sewer connections in Smith’s Cove. The CAO will follow up with the Municipal Advisor for the Province to see if there are any funding opportunities.
The advertisement for the tender for the building renovations will be placed in the Chronicle Herald either this Saturday or the following Saturday. The date for moving out is still scheduled for May 28, 2010.


Payables MOVED and seconded that the payables in the amount of $658,161.71 for the month of March 2010 be approved as presented.

MOTION CARRIED


Financial Report The financial report for March 31, 2010 was not available.


Council Committees

Committee of the Whole

Tax Exemption By-law – First Reading of amendment to add Nova Scotia Bird Sanctuary & Trust property



MOVED and seconded that first reading be held for the amendment to the Tax Exemption By-law adding Nova Scotia Bird Sanctuary & Trust property (Peter’s Island)


MOTION CARRIED

1 OPPOSED – Councillor Amero


Bylaw & Policy Review N/A




Advisory Committees

#1 REMO Management Planning Committee The REMO Management Planning Committee has not met since the last Council meeting. There is a meeting planned for May 4, 2010 for coordinators.


#2 Heritage Advisory Committee There has been no Heritage Advisory Committee meeting since the last Council meeting; however, there is a meeting scheduled for this week.


#3 Planning Advisory Committee The third spot for citizen representative has just been filled.


#4 Police Advisory Committee The Police Advisory Committee minutes for January 12, 2010 were included in the meeting package. There was a meeting on April 20, 2010. All three citizen representatives’ terms are up in July. The CAO wants to advertise in June. Wendell Gregory, who is currently a citizen representative, has resigned from the committee.
The CAO is going to follow up with the RCMP Staff Sergeant regarding the Share the Road Program.


#5 Tri County Housing Authority The Tri County Housing Authority was last reported on in October 2009. There is a report due; the CAO has requested one for the last two meetings.


Regional / Joint Committees

#1 Airport Working Group There is an Airport Working Group meeting scheduled for May 5, 2010.


#2 Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency The ADEDA meeting minutes for March 2010 as well as the Managing Director report were included in the meeting package. There have been two meetings since the last Council meeting. Mr. Gushue reported on the outcome of the meetings in his earlier presentation.
There were representatives from the YMCA at the last meeting who are looking into the possibility of taking over Lifeplex. There has not been a decision made on this at this time.
Kathleen Shea’s last day working for ADEDA was on April 23, 2010. She was a great asset to the organization and it is hoped that they can find someone who can fill her shoes.


#3 Digby Annapolis Development Corp The April DADC meeting has been postponed until May. It is hoped to schedule a meeting before FCM.


#4 Digby Area Learning Association DALA had a special meeting on April 14, 2010. Their regular meeting is scheduled for April 28, 2010.


#5 Digby Area Tourism Association No report.


#6 Digby Area Recreation Committee DARC didn’t have a regular April meeting. They held the annual volunteer recognition awards. The event was well attended and was a successful ceremony.
Deputy Warden MacAlpine would like Councillor Amero to raise his concern with the capital expenditures in relation to the Curling Club at the next DARC meeting.


#7 Digby Harbour Port Association No report.


#8 Fundyweb Broadband The Fundyweb Broadband meeting minutes from March 12, 2010 were included in the meeting package. The last meeting was held on April 15, 2010. The main discussions were the sale of fibre to Eastlink and also a review whether municipal representation on the board should be phased out. The CAO’s were asked to review this option. It is the feeling of the Board that the intent to provide a service has been met. They are holding regular meetings in an attempt to move forward.


#9 Industrial Commission The Industrial Commission meeting for April has been postponed. There has been no date set.


#10 Kings Transit Authority The Kings Transit Authority April board package was included in the meeting package. Councillor Amero was unable to attend the last board meeting. The Warden and CAO had a meeting with representatives from Kings Transit at which time they discussed their desire to use the transit funds to build a garage in the Valley. The Warden and CAO asked Kings Transit to present them with a business plan so that they would be able to see the savings that would take place by building the garage. Also discussed that this meeting was the desire to change the structure of the board to allow the non-voting partners to become voting partners on the board.


#11 Senior Safety Committee There is a Senior Safety Committee meeting scheduled for May. There is a special senior’s day planned for May, 2010 at the Digby Elementary School.


#12 Tideview Terrace There wasn’t a regular Tideview Terrace meeting this month as there was a retreat. Councillor Adams was unable to attend due to sickness. New mission statements and visions were established at the retreat. It was a good retreat and will help everyone to work together better.
Everything is on schedule for the new site. The target move in date is still scheduled for middle June 2011.
Councillor Adams and Councillor Gregory were both able to attend the volunteer tea.


#13 Waste Check There was no Waste Check meeting in April. They did have a strategic planning session on April 8, 2010. There was good representation from our Municipality. This will help with the goals of waste diversion.
The winners have been announced for the 2009-2010 Nova Scotia Recycles Contest. There were three winners in the Municipality of Digby. In the grade 4-6 category, Lacey Lewis from Digby Elementary School placed first. The school also received a cheque for $500. In the grade 2-3 category, Sawyer Burns from Islands Consolidated School received Runner-Up and the school received a cheque for $250. In the P-1 category, Ms. Theresa Nickerson’s class from Barton Consolidated School received Runner-Up and the school received a cheque for $250.
It was mentioned that there is a new garbage truck that can haul two streams. It is being hauled that way. There will be advertising done to help residents sort properly and as of June 1, 2010 people that do not comply will have their bags stickered.


#14 Western Counties Regional Library Western Counties Regional Library hasn’t met since the last Council meeting.
There is an adopt-a-book program going on and Deputy Warden MacAlpine encouraged everyone to go to a local library and adopt a book.


Council Reports

Warden Thurber Warden Thurber gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Deputy Warden MacAlpine Deputy Warden MacAlpine gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Councillor Gregory Absent.


Councillor Amero Councillor Amero gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings he has attended during the past month.


Councillor Adams Councillor Adams gave an oral presentation to Council outlining the various meetings she has attended during the past month.


Comments from the gallery The meeting was opened up to the gallery for questions. There were no questions.


Recess MOVED and seconded that Council take a five minute recess before proceeding in camera.

MOTION CARRIED


In Camera MOVED and seconded that Council move in camera.

MOTION CARRIED


Regular session resumed.


Adjournment

MOVED and seconded that the meeting adjourn at 7:55 PM.

MOTION CARRIED






_______________________________ _____________________________

WARDEN CLERK











_______________________________ _____________________________

WARDEN CLERK

DATA News

Tourism Planning Framework
March 2008
Today’s Presentation
Tourism, Culture and Heritage – Tourism Division
Who’s Who in Tourism Development
Current initiatives
Funding programs and Development priorities
Tourism Division
Tourism Development
Bob Book, Director
Lisa MacIsaac, Acting Manager
Lori Blackburn, Tourism Development Officer
Heather Yule, Tourism Development Officer
Jennifer MacIntyre, Tourism Development Officer
Vacant, Tourism Development Officer
Mireille Roach, Acadian Tourism Officer
Jennifer Halliwell, Administrative Assistant
Response to changing times:
2010 Tourism Plan
The three key pillars:
Core experiences
Differentiate based on
experiences that match
our consumers’ passions
Focus on product areas
where Nova Scotia has
a competitive advantage
Core Experiences – Recent Initiatives
Connecting visitors with experiences
- Product Development Day
Destination development
- Experience Nova Scotia Tool Kit
- Outdoor Interpretation Guide
- Kiosk “how to” guide
- Bay of Fundy plan
- Roger Brooks Assessment
Core experiences – Recent Initiatives
Sustainable coastal development
- Communicating successes
- Develop coastal experiences
Industry Development
- Tourism Human Resource
Council
- Nova Scotia focused Best
Practices Missions
Tourism Development Investment Program
Destination Development
Tourism Planning
Interpretation Development
Tourism Infrastructure
Tourism Programming
Up to 50% of eligible project costs
Eligible Costs
Planning & Design
Capital Costs
Interpretation
Ineligible Costs
Land acquisition
Purchase of equipment
Operating Costs
Marketing Initiatives, Plans
Development Priorities

Destination Development
Destination / Community Planning
Living History – Making history come alive!
Attraction Development
Watchable Wildlife
Cultural Experiences
Beaches / Coastal
Hiking / Walking
Culinary and Wine
Sustainable / Responsible Tourism
Tourism Development Investment Program
Industry Development
Study Tours / Best Practice Missions
Seminars, workshops, conferences
Market-readiness Assessments
Strategic Community Tourism Planning
Professional Development
Up to 75% of eligible project costs
Development Priorities
Industry Development
Best Practice Missions
Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism
Bonavista Institute of Cultural Tourism
Market Readiness Programs
Study Tours
Training / Workshops
Nova Scotia Tourism Human Resource Council
Other stuff…
Environmental Assessments
Investment Portfolio
Business Counseling
Signage
Thank you!

ADEDA News

It’s a time of seasonal contradictions for many of us here in Annapolis Digby. On one hand, we’re getting ready to herald the arrival of summer in our beautiful area. And nothing signals this perhaps more than the annual Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival which begins this week. That long standing celebration has its official opening ceremony in Digby on May 27th, and detailed information is available at www.appleblossom.com.

On the other hand, the last reminder of winter past lingers with the seemingly interminable Stanley Cup hockey playoffs. It’s been good news for those many Montreal Canadiens supporters here who are following the surprising fortunes of their team – and particularly for me, a long time, and long suffering, Blackhawks fan who remembers (yes I can) their last Cup victory in 1961.

The Puck Stops – and Starts – Here
But a recent story reminds us that the soul of our national pastime still firmly resides – not in Montreal or Chicago – but in the dedication of all those local volunteers who make things happen in their home towns. So it was great to see Bridgetown’s Steve Clayton honoured nationally as part of RBC’s Local Hockey Leaders program.

A Legacy of Learning Leadership
And speaking of local leadership, for both our area’s young students as well as our lifelong learners, I couldn’t let this edition of the newsletter pass without a heartfelt “hats off” to Clyde Baltzer who is moving on from his latest stint as one of our premier educators. Clyde is winding up a crucially important six year term with the renowned Digby Area Learning Association (DALA) and taking a well deserved break. I was the Board Chair when Clyde was retained to lead DALA. We believed then that he was just the person to take DALA to the next level – and we were right.

High Acclaim on the High Seas
In a recent column in the Halifax Chronicle Herald, my friend Jim Meek wrote about the manner in which dogged economic optimism combined with a special lifestyle combine to make rural Nova Scotia a special place to live and work. And while his piece was set in our neighbouring area, it holds true for this region as well. Evidence of the ability of our traditional businesses to succeed in world markets was reported this week in the accolades accorded to Meteghan River’s A.F. Theriault & Son Boatyard.

New Site to House Ongoing Challenge
While the success of companies such as the Theriault Boatyard show the continuing vibrancy in our regional economy, challenges still remain in creating and maintaining a relevant workforce. That’s why it was encouraging to learn that PeopleWorx, a non-profit group that, since 1986 has run innovative programs for the unemployed and underemployed in this area, is getting a new, “green”, training facility.

I had a great time this past long weekend with visiting family attending local farm markets – and there are even more opening soon. Check our web site events listing for updates. Remember to take in the Blossom Festival activities if – and where – you can. And if you’re getting ready to finish those summer garden preparations, and at the same time support our own award winning Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, you may want to put aside next Sunday to attend the Gardens Society’s Spring Gala and Auction; check the events listings for time and place.

As for me, I’ll be alternating the begonias and the “boob tube”. Go ‘Hawks – and, OK, Go Habs Too!

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www.annapolisdigby.com.

A Simple Way to Help Fight Climate Change

A draft of the Green India [ Images ] Mission to double India's forest cover in 10 years at a cost of Rs 44,000 crore (Rs 440 billion) was released in New Delhi [ Images ] on Monday as part of the national action plan on climate change.

An environment and forest ministry spokesman said the draft, based on discussions with all the stakeholders, will be finalised after a series of public consultations across the country. The feedback has been solicited by email to kbthampi-mef@nic.in, varad.pande@nic.in, bmsrathore@yahoo.co.in.

As the executive summary of the draft stresses, the mission takes holistic view of 'greening' as it will not be limited to just trees and plantation but lay emphasis on restoration of eco-system and habitat diversity through development grassland and pastures, more so in arid/semi arid regions, mangroves, wetlands and other critical ecosystems.

Local communities will get a key role in project governance and implementation under the mission. Besides addressing climate change through carbon sinks in forests and other ecosystems, the mission will adapt vulnerable species/ecosystems as also the forest dependant-local communities.

The mission's goals include doubling the area of afforestation or eco-restoration to 20 million hectares in the next 10 years by 2020. The first year would be utilised in institution building, sensitisation, capacity building and baseline research. Actual field operations will commence from the second year of the Mission.

According to Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh [ Images ], the Green India Mission will not only affect the climate change but also influence food, water, environment and livelihood security of tribal and forest dwellers.

He says the biggest challenge before the mission is the demand-supply gap of various provisioning services from forests, particularly fuel wood, fodder, grass, grazing, timber, cane and bamboo, creating unsustainable pressure and degrading forests and their ecosystems. Its goals include adaptation of forest-dependent local communities in the face of climatic variability.

Fort Anne, Port Royal Plan Events

Big year ahead for Fort Anne, Port Royal

By GLEN PARKER
Tue. May 25 - 4:53 AM
This is a special year for Parks Canada’s Fort Anne and Port Royal National Historic Sites.

Celebrations this summer will include the 400th anniversary of the baptism of Grand Chief Membertou on June 24 at Port Royal and A Heritage Snapshot on Aug. 29 at Fort Anne.

"It’s a busy time of year for us right now with school groups visiting the parks," said Lillian Stewart, National Historic Site manager for Fort Anne and Port Royal. "The events planned for this summer are pretty exciting."

The season opened May 15.

The two sites are minutes apart in the Annapolis Royal area. Last year, Fort Anne had 30,650 visitors and Port Royal 22,230, Stewart said.

The loss of the Cat ferry running from Maine to Yarmouth will likely adversely affect those numbers this year, but Stewart said Parks Canada is making an effort to increase visitation from the Halifax region.

"We know a lot of our visitors come from the U.S. but we don’t track how they come," Stewart said. "Halifax is an important market for us. It’s close, two hours and 15 minutes away. We’ve participated in trade shows like the Saltscapes East Coast Expo in Halifax with an effort to raise awareness."

The Fort Anne and Port Royal National Historic Sites are open daily from May 15 to Oct. 15. For more information on this year’s special events, visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/fortanne.

( gparker@herald.ca)

Freeport Opens New Firehall

Firehall opens doors in Freeport


Mon. May 24 - 4:53 AM
Residents of Freeport celebrated the Victoria Day weekend with the grand opening of the Digby County community’s new firehall.

Freeport, on Long Island off the tip of Digby Neck, now boasts a 6,000-square-foot hall with an accessible community room and kitchen able to serve up to 161 people.

The facility will also serve as the local Emergency Management Office and an emergency gathering place for the nearby school and seniors complex, a federal government release states.

Ottawa contributed $240,000 to the project through its community adjustment fund, part of its economic stimulus plan.

"This new firehall is the result of a vision and many hours of hard work by the firemen of this department," Freeport Fire Chief Gerald Moore said in the release.

"It was also made possible with the support of the local communities and grants from both the provincial and federal governments."

Coyote Risk Low

Coyote encounter risk low: parks director
CBC News
Nova Scotia provincial parks officials aren't concerned about the potential for human interaction with coyotes during the first big camping weekend of the season.

The risk of encountering a coyote is low, said provincial parks director Harold Carroll.

"We've never had major issues in our camping parks," said Carroll, adding that information is made available to campers and other park visitors about coyote awareness.

"But you know you're in nature and they're certainly probably going to be out and about."

The Department of Natural Resources has received a record number of calls about coyotes this spring.

An official at Kejimkujik National Park said Saturday there have been no issues so far with coyotes in the park.


Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2010/05/22/ns-coyote-parks-camping.html#ixzz0omhBREXY