Rich countries pledge $4B to stop deforestation
By IAN MacDOUGALL (AP) – 2 days ago
OSLO, Norway — Developed nations pledged more than $4 billion Thursday to finance a program meant to help poor countries protect their forests and slow global warming.
An agency monitoring the aid will be up and running before U.N. climate talks start in Cancun, Mexico, later this year, the European Union's climate commissioner said at a conference on deforestation in Oslo.
Also, Indonesia agreed to a two-year moratorium on issuing new permits for forest destruction as part of a $1 billion deal with Norway that would pay Indonesia a fixed sum per ton of CO2 emissions reduced through rain forest preservation. Norway has had a similar deal with Brazil since the mid-1990s.
Deforestation, the burning of woodlands or the rotting of felled trees, is thought to account for up to 20 percent of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere — as much as is emitted by all the world's cars, trucks, trains, planes and ships combined.
The new program — called REDD Plus, for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation — will encourage rich nations to voluntarily finance forest-protecting projects while coordinating that aid to avoid waste and ensure transparency.
It was approved — but not implemented — at the U.N. climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December.
In Oslo, Germany, France, Norway, the U.S., Britain, Australia and Japan pledged $4 billion to finance REDD Plus through 2012, with Denmark and Sweden adding $73 million more to the effort on Thursday.
The new monitoring agency would oversee individual agreements between countries to fight deforestation and educate local populations who live off forests — estimated at more than 1 billion worldwide — to do so in a sustainable way.
EU climate commissioner Connie Hedegaard said the new agency, and a comprehensive database that will help streamline aid combating deforestation, were tangible results that would build momentum in climate talks ahead of the Cancun summit.
Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said the new agency would "decrease a trust deficit" that has stymied progress in wider climate talks, as wealthy countries express concern about how aid money is used in poor nations.
"Forests are worth more dead than alive. Today we commit to change that equation," said Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg, who was co-chairing the conference with the Indonesia president.
A political agreement at the U.N. climate summit in Copenhagen last year called for warming to be kept from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels by 2020 — which scientists say could trigger a climate catastrophe. But the Copenhagen conference disappointed many in failing to produce a legally binding deal for countries to limit emissions.
Thursday's meeting was the last on REDD Plus planned before Cancun, with work now starting on establishing the agency's infrastructure.
Britain's Prince Charles agreed that transparency was key in brokering a binding global climate agreement.
"In this period of increased stringency, governments will need to know that every dollar made available will be spent wisely in order to avoid any unnecessary duplication," he said in a speech.
While the $4 billion is only two-thirds of the $6 billion Brazilian Environment Minister Carlos Minc said he hoped would be in place by the Oslo conference, environmentalists said it was a good start for the fledgling program.
"For early phases, the kind of money we're talking about is probably sufficient," said Mark Tercek, the head of U.S. conservation group the Nature Conservancy.
Greenpeace welcomed the pledges of financing but warned that it remains unclear how the funds will be spent.
The funding so far comes exclusively from government budgets, and Stoltenberg called for "voluntary contributions" from private sector and industry players. He also said that ultimately "the most important source of money will be carbon pricing" — from carbon trading and carbon taxation schemes.
About 32 million acres (13 million hectares) of forests are cut down each year — an area about the size of England or New York state — and the emissions generated are comparable to those of China and the United States, according to the independent U.K. Eliasch Review on forest loss.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Quarry Expansion
NS: Municipal Enterprises faces backlash over quarry expansion
By Christy Marsters, Transcontinental Media
Source: The Hants Journal, May 26, 2010
[HANTS CO., NS] — Earlier this year, Panuke Road residents received notification of a proposed extension of a nearby quarry.
Municipal Enterprises Limited plans to combine the existing Panuke Quarry with the operations of a Hants County Aggregates Quarry Project increasing the size of the existing four-hectare quarry to nearly 14 hectares.
Municipal Enterprises’ David Clifton says the desired extension will begin, “as needed, upon approval.”
He says measures to protect the environment and community around Panuke Road will be taken “as required by environment department and as need arises.”
Panuke Quarry — Hants Journal Photo
According to a project information sheet provided by Municipal Enterprises, an environmental registration document — currently being prepared by environment consulting firm Stantec Consulting — will minimize the environmental effects of the project with appropriate mitigation and monitoring.
Elements to be evaluated in this document include: surface water resources; rare and sensitive flora; wetlands; groundwater resources; socio–economic environment; archaeological and heritage resources; wildlife; atmospheric environment, including considerations of dust and noise.
Panuke Road resident Garth Hazel says safety and lifestyle are already being interrupted by these quarries.
The community has put up with the noise, dust, dirt, fumes, trucks and pollution long enough, Hazel says.
“I do not think it should be allowed to continue unless [concerns] are addressed.”
There are no sidewalks on the shoulders of the narrow road, half paved and half dirt, he says. “I can’t open my window without dust and fumes from the trucks getting in.”
At one time, the road handled only local traffic and, occasionally, people going back and forth to the lake, Hazel adds.
“I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else , but, with all of these trucks going now, I might as well live in Halifax.”
Watershed protection should be considered a concern as well, he says.
“As of now, the water is fine but over time pollution builds up and we are going to have to have to pay for it in the end.”
At Panuke Road Recreation Park, not far from Panuke Quarry, there is a basketball court, a baseball field and a small playground.
Nobody wants kids traveling up and down the road though… it’s so dangerous, Hazel says. “From 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. trucks and trailers are constantly hauling. It’s driving the values of our homes down and down.”
A petition with over 200 names on it proves a high percentage of residents don’t want the quarries expanded, Hazel adds.
“Nobody, in any other community, would accept it. There’s been no consideration for people living in this area.”
Warden Richard Dauphinee says a letter was sent off to the Minister of Environment, shortly after April 13, to address safety issues on Panuke Road.
These properties are on a narrow street and a lot of the buildings are set close to the road, Dauphinee says.
“We could set up an area rate, but then they’d end up paying for their sidewalks and that’s not really fair,” he says.
“The municipality is trying to represent the people and I’ll take their side on this issue. It is up to the provincial government to do something here; it’s just getting worse and worse.”
A liaison committee should be established between the company and community, to improve communications, he says.
“It’s frustrating. The residents just want somebody to talk to.”
By Christy Marsters, Transcontinental Media
Source: The Hants Journal, May 26, 2010
[HANTS CO., NS] — Earlier this year, Panuke Road residents received notification of a proposed extension of a nearby quarry.
Municipal Enterprises Limited plans to combine the existing Panuke Quarry with the operations of a Hants County Aggregates Quarry Project increasing the size of the existing four-hectare quarry to nearly 14 hectares.
Municipal Enterprises’ David Clifton says the desired extension will begin, “as needed, upon approval.”
He says measures to protect the environment and community around Panuke Road will be taken “as required by environment department and as need arises.”
Panuke Quarry — Hants Journal Photo
According to a project information sheet provided by Municipal Enterprises, an environmental registration document — currently being prepared by environment consulting firm Stantec Consulting — will minimize the environmental effects of the project with appropriate mitigation and monitoring.
Elements to be evaluated in this document include: surface water resources; rare and sensitive flora; wetlands; groundwater resources; socio–economic environment; archaeological and heritage resources; wildlife; atmospheric environment, including considerations of dust and noise.
Panuke Road resident Garth Hazel says safety and lifestyle are already being interrupted by these quarries.
The community has put up with the noise, dust, dirt, fumes, trucks and pollution long enough, Hazel says.
“I do not think it should be allowed to continue unless [concerns] are addressed.”
There are no sidewalks on the shoulders of the narrow road, half paved and half dirt, he says. “I can’t open my window without dust and fumes from the trucks getting in.”
At one time, the road handled only local traffic and, occasionally, people going back and forth to the lake, Hazel adds.
“I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else , but, with all of these trucks going now, I might as well live in Halifax.”
Watershed protection should be considered a concern as well, he says.
“As of now, the water is fine but over time pollution builds up and we are going to have to have to pay for it in the end.”
At Panuke Road Recreation Park, not far from Panuke Quarry, there is a basketball court, a baseball field and a small playground.
Nobody wants kids traveling up and down the road though… it’s so dangerous, Hazel says. “From 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. trucks and trailers are constantly hauling. It’s driving the values of our homes down and down.”
A petition with over 200 names on it proves a high percentage of residents don’t want the quarries expanded, Hazel adds.
“Nobody, in any other community, would accept it. There’s been no consideration for people living in this area.”
Warden Richard Dauphinee says a letter was sent off to the Minister of Environment, shortly after April 13, to address safety issues on Panuke Road.
These properties are on a narrow street and a lot of the buildings are set close to the road, Dauphinee says.
“We could set up an area rate, but then they’d end up paying for their sidewalks and that’s not really fair,” he says.
“The municipality is trying to represent the people and I’ll take their side on this issue. It is up to the provincial government to do something here; it’s just getting worse and worse.”
A liaison committee should be established between the company and community, to improve communications, he says.
“It’s frustrating. The residents just want somebody to talk to.”
Labels:
Quarry Panuke Hants
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Promotion Opportunities
Marketing Update from DSWNA!
In This Issue:
DSWNA Marketing & Media Plan 2010-11, Booking Form
Explore Our Shores Advertising Campaign
2010-11 DSWNA Strategic Highlights
2010-11 DSWNA Advertising Campaign
Atlantic Market
Travel/Trade Market & Media
Consumer Events & Trade Shows
Dot-com Markets
NS Tourism Media Plan 2010
Municipal & Community Pages on dswna.com
Visitor Information Centre brochure distribution - deadline Friday June 4th
Chronicle Herald Opportunities
Where to Guide
Nova Scotia this Summer
Share Nova Scotia Favourites
2010 Newspaper Advertising Program
novascotia.com - advertising opportunities
Adventures in Taste: How you can Participate! Visit their website for more information
* Please note: all invoices will be submitted to partners via email where possible
Brochure distribution at regional and local Visitor Information Centres
Current partners of DSWNA are able to have their brochures delivered to the 25 visitor information centres in the region. You'll notice on the partnership form that the deadline for the first distribution (June) is Friday June 4th so please arrange to have your brochures at the Kentville VIC/DSWNA satellite office (341 Main St. Kentville) or at the Lunenburg office (18 Dufferin St) by this date. The second distribution deadline is Tuesday July 20th. The cost for parters is $25. Please contact abartram@dswna.com or call (902) 678-1728 if you have any questions.
Top of page
Municipal & Community Pages - content needed
As part of our ongoing work to refresh our website content and provide visitors with the most accurate and up to date information, we are revamping all existing community pages and creating new Municipality Pages for the "Explore The Area" section of the Destination website.
We encourage each community, town and municipality in the region to gather together a handful of images, including crests and logos and a few paragraphs of text that best describes the most important and interesting aspects of your area, and to send them to Kevin Estey at kestey@dswna.com, to be included in this refresh.
Top of page
In This Issue:
DSWNA Marketing & Media Plan 2010-11, Booking Form
Explore Our Shores Advertising Campaign
2010-11 DSWNA Strategic Highlights
2010-11 DSWNA Advertising Campaign
Atlantic Market
Travel/Trade Market & Media
Consumer Events & Trade Shows
Dot-com Markets
NS Tourism Media Plan 2010
Municipal & Community Pages on dswna.com
Visitor Information Centre brochure distribution - deadline Friday June 4th
Chronicle Herald Opportunities
Where to Guide
Nova Scotia this Summer
Share Nova Scotia Favourites
2010 Newspaper Advertising Program
novascotia.com - advertising opportunities
Adventures in Taste: How you can Participate! Visit their website for more information
* Please note: all invoices will be submitted to partners via email where possible
Brochure distribution at regional and local Visitor Information Centres
Current partners of DSWNA are able to have their brochures delivered to the 25 visitor information centres in the region. You'll notice on the partnership form that the deadline for the first distribution (June) is Friday June 4th so please arrange to have your brochures at the Kentville VIC/DSWNA satellite office (341 Main St. Kentville) or at the Lunenburg office (18 Dufferin St) by this date. The second distribution deadline is Tuesday July 20th. The cost for parters is $25. Please contact abartram@dswna.com or call (902) 678-1728 if you have any questions.
Top of page
Municipal & Community Pages - content needed
As part of our ongoing work to refresh our website content and provide visitors with the most accurate and up to date information, we are revamping all existing community pages and creating new Municipality Pages for the "Explore The Area" section of the Destination website.
We encourage each community, town and municipality in the region to gather together a handful of images, including crests and logos and a few paragraphs of text that best describes the most important and interesting aspects of your area, and to send them to Kevin Estey at kestey@dswna.com, to be included in this refresh.
Top of page
Labels:
DSWNA tourism nova scotia
Water Levels Low
N.S. dry spring equals low lakes
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 | 9:35 AM AT Comments14Recommend6CBC News
A record hot and dry spring in Nova Scotia means that the province's more than 5,100 lakes are getting low already.
Mike Taylor, who walks his dog regularly at Long Lake in Halifax, has noticed the drop.
"I haven't seen it this low ever before, and I've been coming here for years - six or seven years. For this time of year, it's pretty amazing how low it is," he said Tuesday.
According to Environment Canada, 2010 has so far been the driest year on record in the Maritimes.
For example, Halifax's Stanfield International Airport has received barely one half of its normal rain and snow. At the same time, the average temperatures were between one and three degrees above normal.
The province doesn't monitor water levels in rivers and lakes, but Dave Doggett of novascotiafishing.com can see the difference.
"It's the lowest I've ever seen in my 25 years of angling," Doggett said.
Many municipalities in Nova Scotia, including Halifax Regional Municipality, draw their drinking water from lakes.
Carl Yates, general manager of Halifax Water, said dams are so far keeping the utility's reservoir topped up.
"Right now, our lakes are full. We're not spilling anything, but we don't spill if we don't have to at this time of year to make sure we start the season full to the gunwales. And, right now, we're full to the gunwales," Yates said.
He said dry years are all part of the natural cycle. But, if there were several back-to-back dry years, the public could face more aggressive conservation measures.
Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2010/05/26/ns-lakes-water-low.html#ixzz0pAvdzHwn
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 | 9:35 AM AT Comments14Recommend6CBC News
A record hot and dry spring in Nova Scotia means that the province's more than 5,100 lakes are getting low already.
Mike Taylor, who walks his dog regularly at Long Lake in Halifax, has noticed the drop.
"I haven't seen it this low ever before, and I've been coming here for years - six or seven years. For this time of year, it's pretty amazing how low it is," he said Tuesday.
According to Environment Canada, 2010 has so far been the driest year on record in the Maritimes.
For example, Halifax's Stanfield International Airport has received barely one half of its normal rain and snow. At the same time, the average temperatures were between one and three degrees above normal.
The province doesn't monitor water levels in rivers and lakes, but Dave Doggett of novascotiafishing.com can see the difference.
"It's the lowest I've ever seen in my 25 years of angling," Doggett said.
Many municipalities in Nova Scotia, including Halifax Regional Municipality, draw their drinking water from lakes.
Carl Yates, general manager of Halifax Water, said dams are so far keeping the utility's reservoir topped up.
"Right now, our lakes are full. We're not spilling anything, but we don't spill if we don't have to at this time of year to make sure we start the season full to the gunwales. And, right now, we're full to the gunwales," Yates said.
He said dry years are all part of the natural cycle. But, if there were several back-to-back dry years, the public could face more aggressive conservation measures.
Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2010/05/26/ns-lakes-water-low.html#ixzz0pAvdzHwn
Labels:
water Nova Scotia climate
SWSDA Under Fire
Report blasts south shore authority
Proper accounting procedures not followed at SWSDA
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 | 6:14 PM AT
CBC News
The report criticized the way CEO Frank Anderson's organization was run. (SWSDA) An audit firm hired by the Nova Scotia government has found serious deficiencies at the South West Shore Development Authority.
Ernst and Young's report was released Wednesday. It suggests there was little control over the way CEO Frank Anderson ran the authority and another group, the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.
Ernst and Young said the board of directors had no clear mandate, lacked key skills and had little information on which to base decisions.
The authority is a regional development agency that represents nine towns, including Yarmouth and Shelburne.
The 73-page document examined the administration of the regional development authority from January 2008 to February 2010, the sale of the Shelburne Youth Centre and the relationship with the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.
The province was the authority's biggest funding partner.
Percy Paris, the minister of economic development, briefed reporters about the audit Wednesday afternoon.
"The question is, are taxpayers out of money? And I would say no, not that we know of," he said.
"However, having said that, is there still monies that are owed people in Yarmouth? Absolutely. Proper accounting procedures were not followed."
$500,000 missing
The report found the board of the organization didn't have the necessary skills or information to oversee the running of the development authority.
Paris said those who are owed money should sue the authority to try to recoup their losses.
The government audited the authority's books after irregularities in their accounting procedures were found by the Ombudsman's office.
Neal Conrad, executive director of community and rural development, says the authority owes or cannot account for close to $500,000.
"Board effectiveness and oversight needs significant improvement and immediate attention," the report states.
It calls for the hiring of a board advisor to help implement the report's recommendations.
Those recommendations include the creation of a board mandate, a code of conduct and a CEO position description. It also urges the board to develop executive policies that clearly set out the parameters in which the CEO can operate.
"The board has started the process of reviewing this report and has already started to act on these findings," said Phil LeBlanc, chairman of the South West Shore Development Authority.
Proper accounting procedures not followed at SWSDA
Last Updated: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 | 6:14 PM AT
CBC News
The report criticized the way CEO Frank Anderson's organization was run. (SWSDA) An audit firm hired by the Nova Scotia government has found serious deficiencies at the South West Shore Development Authority.
Ernst and Young's report was released Wednesday. It suggests there was little control over the way CEO Frank Anderson ran the authority and another group, the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.
Ernst and Young said the board of directors had no clear mandate, lacked key skills and had little information on which to base decisions.
The authority is a regional development agency that represents nine towns, including Yarmouth and Shelburne.
The 73-page document examined the administration of the regional development authority from January 2008 to February 2010, the sale of the Shelburne Youth Centre and the relationship with the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission.
The province was the authority's biggest funding partner.
Percy Paris, the minister of economic development, briefed reporters about the audit Wednesday afternoon.
"The question is, are taxpayers out of money? And I would say no, not that we know of," he said.
"However, having said that, is there still monies that are owed people in Yarmouth? Absolutely. Proper accounting procedures were not followed."
$500,000 missing
The report found the board of the organization didn't have the necessary skills or information to oversee the running of the development authority.
Paris said those who are owed money should sue the authority to try to recoup their losses.
The government audited the authority's books after irregularities in their accounting procedures were found by the Ombudsman's office.
Neal Conrad, executive director of community and rural development, says the authority owes or cannot account for close to $500,000.
"Board effectiveness and oversight needs significant improvement and immediate attention," the report states.
It calls for the hiring of a board advisor to help implement the report's recommendations.
Those recommendations include the creation of a board mandate, a code of conduct and a CEO position description. It also urges the board to develop executive policies that clearly set out the parameters in which the CEO can operate.
"The board has started the process of reviewing this report and has already started to act on these findings," said Phil LeBlanc, chairman of the South West Shore Development Authority.
Labels:
Southwest Shore SWSDA
Bear River Farmer and Artists Market
Bear River Farmers and Artists Market opening
Flora Doehler | May 27, 2010 at 6:19 pm | Categories: Bear River Board of Trade, artists, gardening | URL: http://wp.me/pfgTD-76
June 13 - 1-4 pm Grand opening of Bear River Farmers and Artists market. On the waterfront. Produce, artisans, musician Bob Snider, face painting, smokin' with Jeff.
info: 467 0469
Flora Doehler | May 27, 2010 at 6:19 pm | Categories: Bear River Board of Trade, artists, gardening | URL: http://wp.me/pfgTD-76
June 13 - 1-4 pm Grand opening of Bear River Farmers and Artists market. On the waterfront. Produce, artisans, musician Bob Snider, face painting, smokin' with Jeff.
info: 467 0469
Labels:
Bear River farm markets
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
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
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
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