Chester Trust • Notices
Minutes for the Chester Trust AGM. August 11th 2009 at 5pm.
Chester Curling Rink . Church Memorial Park Chester.
Present : Stewart Spahr ( Chair) John McCurdy, Suzi Fraser ,
Lynn Cochrane, Anne Macdonald.
Apologies : Mike Mulrooney
Approval of last years minutes was proposed by Michael Peers and seconded by Peter McCurdy.
TREASURERS REPORT :Suzi Fraser presented the report .
Re the VOCTADA membership, the $80 in brackets is the amount still not paid due to late membership dues .
Re the MICA donation . Last year as it was the beginning of their campaign we decided to give a large donation of $1000 but this year the amount was $100.
Re the Lightfoot Tower Social , we raised $3,200
Approval of the Treasurers report was proposed by Joy Calkin and seconded by Dudley Grove.
OLD BUSINESS:
Tower Update:
Lynn Cochrane plans to meet with the Minister of Culture and Heritage this winter to discuss government funding for the Tower renovation . Mike Mulrooney is willing to approach other government offices.
Dudley Grove asked whether the Trust should co-ordinate with the Heritage Society and see if they have asked the same people for funding and should we combine our efforts ?
Lynn Cochrane commented that the Tower is a unique feature and so it might be best to leave the Tower and Lordly House as separate challenges .
Joy Calkin stated that there has been less money donated to causes in Chester as the donors decided to give to the cause with the lowest bid .
The person to liase with at the Heritage Society is Barbara Richmond .Lynn volunteered to speak with Barbara to discuss who has already been asked for donations etc .
Books:
Wayword Books has been the most successful seller of the Chester Books to date .
NEW BUSINESS:
Dudley Grove briefly presented the new fundraiser for Lordly House (an online bid for a weekend at the Captains House)
Apparently the Lordly House Restoration has made great progress and there is an event on August 27th to let everyone know the progress that has been made and to Thank those who have helped it happen.
ROUTE 3 ZONING:
( please see attached letter) . Suzi Fraser has written an open letter on behalf of the Trust re the proposed new Route 3 Zoning changes.
Suzi asked the membership to write /email to councillors protesting the changes .
Dudley Grove agreed that it was important that everyone lets Council know how they feel .
The consensus was the Councils plan to commercialise the area is inappropriate particularly in the light of the new process for planning we have had lately.
Joy Calkin stated that the decision will be deferred until the end of December.
Please do speak to Brad Armstrong as our representative as he is anti the changes.
There was discussion as to whether emails or letters to Council were more effective.
Joy Calkin suggested that groups voicing an opinion rather than just individuals may carry more weight with Council.
Michael Peers asked whether the Trust had made it quite clear as to their position of opposition and Suzi Fraser responded that she had been very clear at the meeting she had attended.
Peter McCurdy asked whether we should have a sign on behalf of the Chester Trust stating that we oppose the changes to zoning on Route 3.
No decision was made regarding that suggestion .
SEPTIC IN BACK HARBOUR:
John McCurdy has sent a letter to the Municipality on behalf of the Trust opposing the dumping of raw sewage in the Back Harbour.
A motion was proposed by Michael Peers that The Chester Trust is formally opposed to the pumping of raw sewage into the Back Harbour.
Dudley Grove seconded the motion and all were in favour.
THANKS TO MICHAEL PEERS:
Stewart Spahr thanked Michael Peers for all his hard work and commitment to the Trust over the past years.
ELECTION OF NEW BOARD MEMBER:
Rob McInnes has been approached and may be interested in joining the Board.
The Board will meet with Rob at the next Board meeting and report back to the members if Rob decides to join us .
Joy Calkin and Dudley Grove were both interested if there were any particular criteria the Board would ask for when approaching new potential members .
GUEST SPEAKER :
Our guest speaker was Allison Kouzovnikov from the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia.
Allison presented an excellent and interesting talk which resulted it several questions.
Michael Peers suggested we ask all the other community groups to another talk in the future . Suzi Fraser had in fact invited nearly 25 groups but only one sent a representative and that was the Chester Arts Centre.
This may have been due to the busy time of year etc.
We may consider asking Allison to come and speak again and have the time to ask more questions .
MOTION to ADJOURN :
Suzi Fraser proposed and John McCurdy seconded.
The AGM adjourned at 6.05pm
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Call meeting to order
Approval of minutes from 08 AGM
Treasurer’s report
Old business:
Tower update
Books update
New business:
Route 3 zoning
Septic in Back Harbour
Elections: 1 new board member
Guest Speaker:
Allison Kouzovnikov: Community Foundation of Nova Scotia
Adjourn |
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| Please join us for the 2nd annual Lightfoot Tower Social on Wednesday August 5th.The venue is the Zoé Library Grounds. The time is 4-6 pm. It's a HAT party so wear your finest "lid". Prize for the most creative headwear. Light refreshments will be served. Paul and Eilidh will be entertaining us. Hope to see you there. |
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The AGM of the Chester Trust will be held at 5 pm Tuesday August 11th and the Chester Curling Club.There will be elections for one board member.We have invited a representative from the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia.
This group engages in 3 core activities:
* we establish and maintain endowment funds to support registered charities and other eligible reciients;
* we engage in strategic grant-making;and
* we provide leadership with respect to a broad range of community issues,connecting people who care with causes that matter.
Hope to see you there. |
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Heritage Weekend Events - Chester's 250th Anniversary - All
events at The Captain's House, Central Street, Chester
June 18 - Local Ghost Stories 7:30-9:30 PM : Gail Smith, Sharon Houghton and Carol Nauss. If you have a ghost story you would
like to share come prepared to tell it.
June 19 - Genealogy Day - Information from Blandford, New Ross
and Chester. Guest speaker Dr. Terrence Punch topic , "Early Chester
Families" at 2:00 PM - ALSO Show and tell treasures - bring something you would like to show and tell others about.)
June 20 - Founder's Tea and Period Fashion Show - 2 PM catered by
Leslie's Pantry, piano music by George Bryson. Tickets available
at the Train Station or from Heritage directors. Cost $12.00
June 21 - Treasure Valuation Day - 1-5 PM - with Roger Crowther
from CBC's Canadian Antiques Road Show and Wayne Cameron from Cameron's Fine Art and
Antiques. - Cost is $20.00 limited to two appraisals per person.
Don't want an evaluation but would like to watch, please join us.
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The V.O.C.T.A.D.A. meet the candidates event.
May/27/2009-7:00 to 9:00 P.M.
Royal Canadian Legion
Corner of Union and Duke Streets, Chester Village
ALL VOTERS IN CHESTER-St. MARGARET'S ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
Candidates Invited:
LIBERAL-Jo-Ann Grant
PC- Judy Streatch
NDP- Denise Peterson-Rafuse
GREEN- Ryan Cameron
GUEST MODERATOR- Amanda Gwynne
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The Chester Trust has recently been asked by the Trustees of the Zoé Vallé Library to assume the role of caretaker of the Lightfoot Tower. The Tower is located on the library grounds across from St Stephen’s Church. It was built by Zoé’s husband, Alfred Ross Lightfoot in 1903 and is in dire need of restoration.
"When it was built, the Lightfoot Tower would not have been unique. It has been said that there were perhaps five such towers in the Chester area at one time. Alfred built the tower to get a better view of sailing activity in the Bay, as he had an interest in yachts and sailing from a young age. Alfred Lightfoot died in 1911. Apparently, the top was blown off the tower during a storm in 1918 and Zoé replaced it with a simple roof. The stairs eventually rotted away and the basic shell remained untouched until the Chester Municipal Heritage Society restored the tower in the early 1980's, working from a small watercolor that had probably been in the Library since Zoé’s time. Today, the Tower is a key part of the Library’s listing on the Canadian Register of Historic Places.” Glen MacLeod, Librarian.
The Chester Trust has agreed to act as caretaker of the Lightfoot Tower and in this capacity has met with several architects who have kindly offered their expertise regarding The Tower and guided us to the next step. We have engaged an engineer to do a feasibility study and to provide us with working drawings for a restoration. We hosted a “Tower Social” last summer to raise awareness for the need for restoration and we are planning another social event in conjunction with the 250th celebrations of the founding of the Hamlet of Chester. We had “Chester:A Pictorial History” 3rd edition reprinted with the kind permission of Sir Christopher Ondaatje. We are selling these books with the proceeds earmarked for the Tower restoration.
A firm cost for the restoration will not be available until we put the job out for tender. However, the engineer and a reputable local contractor have suggested a best guess of $80,000. To date we have raised $15,000. We need your financial help to bring this project to completion. Every contribution of $10.00 or more made to this project will be issued a Canadian tax receipt.If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by email info@chestertrust.ca or by phone 902-275-4638. Together we can keep this lady upright for the generations who follow.
Sincerely
Suzi Fraser
Coordinator of the Lightfoot Tower Restoration Project December 2008
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To the members of the Chester Trust,
With many of you arriving in Chester for the 2008 summer season, it’s time for a Chester Trust update before our Tuesday, August 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM).
1. Proposed Mission statement and mandate revision
This winter we sent out a proposal to revise the mission for your review and comment. As you will recall, at that time we interpreted the mission as obligating the Board to perform excessive resident consultations before acting in pursuit of the ideals stated in the mission to “ensure the future growth of Chester along traditional and historic lines.”
In reviewing your feedback we, as a board, have backed away from our initial interpretation as having been extreme.
We will hold off on the mandate revisions and take a step back and ask you to review the mission and confirm that this organization’s purpose, as stated, still holds value for you. Value that you will support with your dues, your time, and some of your talent.
To this end we have attached a survey asking for your input into the Trust’s purpose and priorities moving forward for the next three years (2008-2010). Either respond to this email, include your completed survey in your membership renewal envelope, or send it separately to Box 800.
Note: We will post on the web site the original (undated) memorandum proposing the original mandate statement and the context that saw the creation of the Trust.
As a refresher, our mission statement is attached.
The Chester Trust has addressed many issues and opportunities since it was created. We started off as an informal lobby group to preserve the integrity of the Village and have since:
• facilitated the sale of three Chester history books
• fought (and lost) the Rafuse Island access issue
• established guidelines for responsible recreational usage of the rails-to-trails program
• provided financial support to the island acquisition program of the
Mahone Island Conservation Association
• lobbied municipal council on various zoning and environmental issues.
2. Board trustee and chair elections
At the 2008 AGM two trustee positions will be open for nominations from among the current membership. The position of chair will also be open for nomination from among the current membership and trustees.
The board meets approximately five times each year, as necessary. Current trustees and their residency status are: Suzi Fraser (semi-permanent), Anne MacDonald (permanent), John McCurdy (semi-permanent), Michael Mulrooney (permanent), Michael Peers (seasonal), Michael Dunn (seasonal-Halifax), and Stewart Spahr (seasonal).
Members can nominate other members for the trustee positions, and may nominate current members and Board trustees for the position of chair.
Nominations may be submitted in writing or email to the current Board chair in advance of the AGM, or nominations may be made from the floor at the AGM. Chester Trust members and Board trustees may nominate themselves. Nominees must be present at the AGM to accept their nominations and stand for election. Voting details and instructions will be outlined at the AGM.
3. Trust bylaw project
We are seeking a member to skim previous AGM minutes and compile the Trust’s bylaws into a stand alone document. From there, our web master can post the bylaws on the Trust site, making them available to all current and potential members.
4. VOCTADA
I feel our co-membership with VOCTADA is important. Many of their objectives are in line ours. Here is their Mission: “ The association seeks to enhance our community through obtaining feedback from members, as well as the wider community, about improvements in our surroundings and seeking to have those improvements implemented and maintained.”
...Initial VOCTADA activities were Christmas wreaths around the Village, and hanging flower baskets now done by the Village Commission. Front Harbour renewal, the Back Harbour wharf, visitor signage, side walks and curbs in the Village T, tree planting, the art fair on the street, public safety, and a number of other initiatives, have been carried out by our members, done in collaboration with other groups, or by encouraging action by elected bodies...
They are a very active group, or should I say “we” as you are all members.
5. Lightfoot Observation Tower restoration reception
The Trust is sponsoring an afternoon social in the garden below the Lightfoot Observation Tower to kick off our tower restoration campaign.
• Wednesday August 6th, 5-6 p.m.
• Beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks will be served.
We hope you can attend and bring your family
The Lightfoot Observation Tower is on the Zoé Vallé library property on Regent Street, across from St. Stephen’s Anglican Church.
Information on the history of the Tower will be on display, Chester history books will be on sale (proceeds go to the tower restoration), and you are welcome to wander through the Zoé Vallé Library.
We are currently conducting the necessary research to restore the Tower to the same level of active public use that generations of Chester families and tourists enjoyed before it fell into disrepair. This research will tell us what the restoration will cost. It is currently off limits to the public as it is deemed unsafe.
If you’d like to help with the Tower restoration campaign, please let us know. Canadian tax receipts will be issued from the Municipality, the Tower’s owner.
Tower restoration update:
Our contracted engineer fell ill and we lost some time replacing him. We now have another local engineer who will work closely with the local building inspector to do the necessary restoration technical drawings at a cost of $5,100. We will need the members to approve this expenditure during the AGM. As it will be open to the public we have a lot of building code hurdles to navigate.
5. Chester history books – free delivery in Chester Village
These coffee table books are a great read and reference resource. Let us know if you’d like a few copies delivered to you while you are here.
5. AGM & Membership
Please invite your friends and neighbours to attend the AGM this year and learn about the Chester Trust. It is open to all. If they like what they hear, we welcome them to join. The cost of $50 per household, per year.
Please mark your calendars: 2008 Annual General Meeting
• August 12th, 5:00 p.m.
• Chester Curling Club on Pig Loop Road
Sincerely,
Suzi Fraser
on behalf of the board of the Chester Trust
Chester Trust – Mission Statement
We are a community based group who endeavour to:
• To encourage the future growth of the Chester area along traditional and historic lines.
• To participate actively at all levels of government in pursuit of its objectives.
• To present the views of both seasonal and permanent residents in town planning and other matters.
• To utilize the breadth and width of experience of Chester’s residents in pursuit of its goals.
• To encourage participation by as broad a spectrum of the community as possible.
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Chester Trust AGM Minutes 12th August 2008
at The Chester Rink .
Suzi Fraser ( Chair ) opened the meeting at 6:10pm
The Agenda was approved by Stewart Spahr and Seconded by Michael Mulrooney.
The 2007 AGM Minutes were approved .Proposed by Stewart Spahr and Seconded by Michael Mulrooney .
Suzi Fraser presented the Treasurer’s Report and there were no questions pertaining to her report.
Peter McCurdy proposed to accept the report and Michael Mulrooney seconded .
Over the twelve month period from 2007/2008 there have been five Board meetings .
From the meetings , the Board would like to share with the membership the following:
MISSION STATEMENT
We have had some feedback from our questionnaire but not enough to formulate a new concrete statement. There was a decision to put the rewrite of the Mission Statement on the ‘backburner’
THE LIGHTFOOT TOWER PROJECT
The Social Gathering was extremely successful and raised over $10,000 in pledges .
It also enabled lots of visitors to find out more about the Tower and our hopes for it’s future.
BOARD NOMINATIONS
The Board made a decision to change from the past appointed Board to an elected Board .
This was based on some feedback from our members and through Board discussion.
UNDER OLD BUSINESS
John McCurdy proposed a new Mission Statement
It is not far removed from the original one but we would wish to encourage growth along traditional lines , not encourage growth per se .
Please see minutes of previous Board meeting as the complete statement is there , but not taken by the writer of the minutes at the AGM .
Peter McCurdy motioned to approve the change in the Mission Statement and David McIinnes seconded.
UNDER NEW BUSINESS
Book Sales have been good
By Laws . Project for a volunteer .
We would like someone to volunteer to chronicle the past minutes and high light any changes in our by-laws .
Once that is done we need that person to post them on our website .
John McCurdy volunteered and Suzi Fraser to help.
THE LIGHTFOOT TOWER
We received over $9,000 in pledges at the evening Social at the Zoe Valle Library.
We need approval from the membership to go ahead with an engineers plan.
The engineer is Andre Veinotte .The Municipal Building Inspector recommended three engineers and the Building Inspector recommended Andre Veinotte .
He is considered to have good experience and has voiced a definite interest in the appropriate historical restoration of the Tower.
The Quote for the Restoration and Re-engineering plan is $4,500 plus HST .
This would include Assessment /Salvage/Redesign/and new specs for plans/elevations etc
TOWER GENERAL QUESTIONS/COMMENTS
Is the Tower a Heritage responsibility or the Chester Trust ?
It was indicated that the Trust had happily inherited the Tower responsibility from the Heritage Society some time ago.
Should the Tower restoration be a ‘pure’ restoration asked Michael Peers or based on the engineers design ?
Michael Peers suggested help from Nicholas Lewin as to maintaining the integrity of the existing Tower.
Nicholas Lewin agreed to give advice.
Glen , the current curator of the Library suggested that any refurbishments should meet the public visitor needs as well as heritage accuracy.
The Tower as it is , is not historically accurate .
We need to consider insurance issues ,the financial costs of restoration and the future maintenance needs .
Peter McCurdy raised the issue of the fact that over the years the Tower no longer has a sea view. Should the Tower be raised?
Glen suggested that careful and dedicated pruning would be more appropriate rather than structural change .
Perhaps we could approach Brad Armstrong ?
David McInnes had a very good idea . To post the progress of the Tower’s change on our website as often as possible .
Suzi Fraser proposed should we access more quotes or choose to go with Andre Veinotte ?
Michael Peers moved that we accept the quote and move to work with a Tower sub-committee .
David McInnes seconded that proposal.
There were several other areas that the Board had raised for discussion at the AGM based on the returned questionnaires.
ROADS in the Village . Not our responsibility . It is the Provinces / Municipality.
RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS .
SEWAGE IN CHESTER . The Front Harbour is OK but the Back Harbour needs addressing.
MORE INFORMATION AND MEETINGS FOR OUR MEMBERS
We hope to provide some more informative speakers and other meetings , social and otherwise so that we can all get together and also ask and learn more regarding historical and newly relevant issues for our village .
OTHER BUSINESS
David McInnes asked what is the role in the Chester Trust re the sale and change in our offshore islands ?
There has been the purchase of Sacrifice Island by the Heritage Island Preservation .
What is the role of the Chester Trust ?
Suzi Fraser voiced that the Trust would be happy to offer our support vocally and in writing .
There was discussion as to whether the Chester Trust should offer support financially .
David McInnes asked whether other heritage and preservation groups should be invited to the Chester Trust AGM or other meetings?
Other suggestions were;
Should Chester Trust be talking to key families re preservation of the Islands?
Should Chester Trust be having a Summer Event with an inspirational speaker rather than just the AGM ?
Make it more of a fun event and encourage new members , along with seeing more of our existing members .
David McInnes had the idea of one party …… members and new comers/visitors all getting together .
He very kindly offered to help the Board with future meetings and with trying to tie in the Preservation of the Islands with the Tower Project.
Suzi Fraser volunteered to look at linking our website with chesterns.ca
There was discussion as how best to approach this .
CHESTER 250th ANNIVERSARY 2009
David McInnes asked if there was a role for the Chester Trust next year ?
Suzi Fraser replied that the Trust would host a Social for the Tower as it’s final Fundraiser, hoping that we will have raised many other funds before then.
There were other considerations that it would be possible to have a joint Island Preservation /Tower Social to help raise awareness for both .
John McCurdy suggested that the Board have an Autumn meeting to discuss the way forward for 2009.
ELECTIONS
John McCurdy explained to the meeting how the voting for the Board would commence.
He stated that the Board would select their own Chair Person.
He asked for any other nominations to the New Board.
David McInnes was very interested in being on the Board.
There was discussion as to how local David is to Chester for the majority of the year as the Board were hoping for someone more all year round .
Michael Peers proposed Nicholas Lewin , who graciously declined as he lives in Montreal.
Suzi Fraser reiterated that the new Board Member should be someone who is in Chester a lot, or all year round .
Suzi nominated Lynn Cochrane.
Jim Grove motioned the acceptance of Suzi’s proposal and David McInnes seconded .
There were no votes cast and the floor accepted the existing board with the addition of Lynn Cochrane .
Suzi Fraser offered her resignation as Chair .
There were many Thanks from the floor and the Board.
Stewart Spahr and Anne Macdonald will co-Chair for 2007/8
The AGM adjourned at 6.50pm
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The Chester Trust is having a party!
You are invited to an afternoon social at the Lightfoot Tower located next to the Zoé Vallé Library.
Wednesday August 6th at 5 pm.
Come and learn about the history of the Tower.
Bring your family, have some refreshments and hors d'oeuvres.
Wander through the grounds and the library. Get re acquainted with the history of the village and the Zoé Vallé Library and Lightfoot Tower.
Hope you can join us ! |
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>Minutes 07 CHESTER TRUST AGM
> Meeting opened at 5 pm
Board members introduced
Approval of Agenda
Approval of ‘06 minutes
>
> Paula MacDonald - Giving Back $10 from her sales of books.
> Books available in Book Store, Country Crafts, Village Emporium,
> Hubbards Barn
>
> Books to be sold at the Chester Art Fair on August 25th
> Proposed: Joy Calkin
> 2nd: Dudley Grove
>
> TREASURER REPORT:
> Opening Balance is $7173.82
> GIC $7359.72
> Book: $7,450
> Late Memb: $210
> Interest: $9.30
> IT Mailing List: $213.75
> Office Supplies $249
> Rental Meeting space $28.50
> VOCTADA: $690.00
> Book PR: $95.00
> Closing Balance $3021.78
>
> Motion to accept :Michael Peers
> 2nd: Peter McCurdy
> 1) Board Meetings -> Heels of AGM -> Back Harbour Estuary and Bridge
> development
> 2) Zoning 157 Duke.
> 3) Recap
> 4) Book Launch
> 5) VOCTADA Collections
>
OLD BUSINESS
Neighbourhood Watch is done by e-mail. There is one Block Captain who keeps
everyone informed. Information and a sign up list are available.
Regarding 157 Duke Street being rezoned for a day care:
Bill Polk and Tom Cangiano had concerns of a willy-nilly application of
zoning .
We need to keep an eye on this.
AMENDMENTS TO THE CHESTER TRUST MISSION AND MANDATE .
' Board versus the Planning Process.'The Mandate is to represent all
members of the
Village not just members of Chester Trust. We need to look at the
feasibility of what
volunteers can achieve .Does our mission statement give the board a mandate
to make decisions on certain circumstances without full representation.?
The Chester Trust Board role is the to mobilise resources when changes
occur in Chester.
Joy Calkin suggested two thirds majority of the board agree when taking a
stand on development matters in Chester.
David Booher discussed involving the entire membership.
David Booher formally propsed this ,seconded by Clark Reed.
David Booher’s reason was that he considered there was too much power for the
board when it is not an elected Board. He felt that Chester
Trust members should be e-mailed on any issue the board feels important and
in the email explain why the Board sees a situation as such and request a
response in order that the Board can better represent the membership.
Michael Peers asked for recommendations and comments from the floor.
David Booher felt this discussion should not be rushed and motioned that
we revisit this issue one year from now.
VOCTADA
It was felt that the Chester Trust and VOCTADA not in sync with each other
therefore not a standing endorsement.
Question of how Chester Trust and VOCTADA can move together. Suzi Fraser
felt that VOCTADA should be supported.
It's felt that VOCTADA and Chester Trust work better together rather than
separately.
Together we can improve Village.
It was suggested we revisit the link between VOCTADA and the Chester
Trust ,as VOCTADA deals with Tourism in
Chester and the Chester Trust deals with historical integrity of our
community.
Joy Calkin will speak to VOCTADA and get back to us.
OTHER BUSINESS
Peter McCurdy discussed our membership and suggested that the Clipper
publicizes Chester
Trust meetings and perhaps cover some to promote our membership.
Suzi Fraser will look at advertorials not editorials.
Dudley Grove: Thank you for the book launch.
GUEST SPEAKER JEFF MacDONALD Director of Planning in Chester.
Jeff spoke about the 157 Duke St. zoning issues. Council has the power to
amend the planning strategy and in the case of 157 Duke St has now been
empty for months despite being rezoned.
Property is now zoned institutional and Colin McDonald could set it up for a
variety of functions unless $200 is paid and an application made to
change the zoning back to residential.
Liquor commission: The NSLC would like the Liquor Store to be in a
mall next to a grocery
store and hence are ready to look for new location. It is understood they
are
in the process of acquiring the old RCMP building but might also go into
Dooleys. Development of new liquor store will go out to tender soon as the
provincial government considers the building and it will take six to 12
months to settle.
Once the liquor store has moved location the old building will be abandoned
and the Municipality Offices/Public Works Department or a daycare
could occupy the space.
Michael Dunn questioned about the liquor commission pursuing the RCMP
building.
Dudley asked if liquor commission refit could look more in keeping with
the village.Jeff MacDonald said there was no law requiring refit to be in
accordance with the village's appearance.
Stewart Spahr felt zoning would be an issue with new building because RCMP
headquarters are zoned residential.
Regarding the Porter-Hall property- There are five lots with limited
possibilities. There is the possibility of one
more division into six lots but access is an issue.
Michael Dunn pointed out that it has not been rezoned.
Shannon Black asked about the monument to Admiral Piers and the process
for the application.
Jeff MacDonald explained that the monument is on provincial government
property and
was erected by the Department of Transportation.
No municipal approval was necessary as the D of T are autonomous from the
Municipality.
.
Shannon Black also asked about the density of a former Jim Adams House
property. Jeff MacDonald explained that there is a lot of history to that
house. It did not conform to the present zoning regulations but was a
pre-existing structure. The absolute height and width of new building is
within the footprint of the old building and within the building shadow.
Peter McCurdy asked if there were zoning issues within view planes ie the
amount of frontage you can cover.
Apparently that is hard to do in Chester.
A new government means a new deal is expected regarding municipalities and
cities. The federal gas tax is being rebated in policies and cities
throughout the provinces. It is part of a five-year plan and eligible
projects need to be proposed.
Part of this is a community sustainability plan and the the provincial
government is working on next year.
Sustainable settlements will be looked at including an emphasis on roads
and services and sewage
treatment. Chester's Planning Department is working on this to come up with
long-term plans for funding. Our villages' main issues need to be
identified so they
can be addressed.
Zoning needs to define where we are headed and why. In the past regular
development has been 40 lots a year. In the last two years 400
lots of been developed. and the Mill Cove development proposes 300 to 400
more lots be developed.
JOY CALKIN - Speaking on behalf of VOCTADA
Joy was representing VOCTADA chair Phil Elwood and came to
give the members some background information and projects
they are working on.
1) 157 Duke St VOCTADA had no position regarding that zoning change.
2) Three years ago there was a long-term sustainable development plan for
the wider
community of Chester for the next 25 years. Vote taken last fall and a
proposed plan drawn up for the planning committee, this included a
voluntary sector in
municipality planning. VOCTADA is working with the Municipality and has
met with Darrell
Hiltz and other groups in voluntary sector in anticipation of the gas
tax coming.
3) VOCTADA is grateful to Chester Trust membership for one year's support
and
hopes for continued support.
Michael Dunn asked if we can afford to continue to support them.
John McCurdy agreed to continue support on a case-by-case basis.
Stewart Spahr felt working together makes sense.
Peter McCurdy pointed out that coincidentally our interests conform.
It is felt that memberships do not get muddled but that maybe Chester
Trust members should get
VOCTADA information. Chester Trust pays a $10 flat rate.
Shannon Black pointed out that last year's fees Chester Trust fees were
$35 but this year is $50.
Russell Perry - Moved to continue to support VOCTADA
2nd : Dudley Grove
Three members opposed
FRANK METZGER from The Heritage Society:
2009 is Chester's 250th Birthday
Frank spoke of the proposed Restoration of Lordly Park. It is three acres
virtually untouched in Chester.
It incorporates a Natural Wetland and Lorldy House, along with various
Flora and Fauna.
There are two reports on how to rebuild the House and develop the Park.
The House was built in 1801 by a Capt McCurdy. and is virtually intact
although in poor condition.
The plan is to restore the House in the Spring and Fall of 2008
in 2009
The Heritage Society seeks a Letter of endorsement from the Chester Trust.
The Heritage Society will raise the funds required.
Michael Peers: Moved to support the initiative
2nd Lisa Totman
Suzi Fraser will send a letter of endorsement on behalf of the
membership of The Chester Trust.
There was no further discussion and the meeting adjourned at 6:05pm
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As part of our mandate to encourage Chester’s growth along traditional and historic lines and keep seasonal and permanent residents informed and engaged in town planning, we want to notify you that Chester Municipal Council will hold a public meeting at the Chester Legion at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday February 7th (storm date: Wednesday, February 14th) on the issue of rezoning a house on a Village residential block to institutional.
This meeting is troublesome as it indicates the Council is ready to disregard our shared and hard-won Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law (the “Strategy”), and thereby encourage further “commercial creep” into the residential zones of our Village.
Here is our understanding of the facts followed by suggestions on how you can help:
1. As with many communities, Chester needs more day care spaces to accommodate working families and Chester Municipal Council has been under pressure to help find a speedy solution.
2. Colin MacDonald has offered use of a residential property (house) he owns at 157 Duke Street to the Chester Area Family Resource Centre (CAFRC) to use as a commercial day care. The property would require renovation and other capital investment to meet provincial day care requirements and receive a day care license. Louisiana Pacific Canada (LPC) has pledged money toward a day care structure which the Chester Clipper reports would be named “LP House”.
3. The house is on the block bound by Duke, Main, Queen and Tremont streets and is currently zoned residential with the exception that the CAFRC was grandfathered in as commercial property. The zoning application is the responsibility of the property owner – Colin MacDonald.
4. Setting up a day care at 157 Duke Street also requires the Municipal Council to bypass the Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law and rezone the lot to institutional. Chester Trust has learned that such “spot rezoning” from residential to institutional purposes is permissible if rezoning is shown to be in the best interest of the community.
Notwithstanding citizen concerns about the wisdom of opening a day care on a busy road with no parking, Chester Trust is concerned that any business could move into the house if the day care moves out and become a liability/nuisance for block residents.
5. Changing the zoning of this lot is contrary to the Strategy that was painstakingly researched and developed over 5 years. Chester needs the Strategy to be respected, protected and implemented if the Village is to retain its rare charm and if its properties are to retain their value. Ours is an excellent strategy that will guide the Municipality through tough development decisions.
6. 157 Duke Street abuts the property now owned (and recently restored) by Tom and Linda Cangiano of New Jersey. The Cangianos are teachers with three young children and all live on campus in New Jersey during the school year, and their lovely Duke Street home is their principle residence. In addition to the Cangianos, the rezoning threatens the property values of 8 other homes on this block. Tom will attend the public meeting.
7. Chester clearly needs more day care spaces. However, there are more suitable properties available within blocks currently zoned commercial. Chester can have new day care spaces without destroying the integrity of our Strategy and without undermining the integrity and property values of a residential neighbourhood.
8. We must support our Council in doing the right thing for Chester residents both by protecting the integrity of the Strategy from this challenge, and by helping the CAFRC find appropriate commercial space for a new day care. It is hoped that Mr. MacDonald and LPC will extend their generosity to an appropriate, commercially zoned property. If Council allows Mr. MacDonald's application, then it will have returned Chester to the chaotic past when "anything goes" was our development strategy.
9. In a January 16th Chester Clipper article on the rezoning application, Municipal Warden Allen Webber said that council will follow the directions of the public at the meeting. “If we get a lot of irate people, then we won't rezone. If most of the people are in favour, we will.”
Here's what you can do:
1. Given Warden Webber’s comment, attend the public meeting at the Chester Legion at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday February 7th (storm date: Wednesday, February 14th), and
2. If you attend the meeting or not, please write or e-mail Council:
Municipality of the District of Chester – Attn: Council
P.O. Box 369, Chester, Nova Scotia, B0J 1J0
or email Council at: administration@district.chester.ns.ca.
3. Whatever you do, please urge Council to protect the integrity of the Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law and property values by rejecting this rezoning application, and helping CAFRC find an appropriate commercial location for the day care.
Should you have any questions or comments for the Chester Trust on this or other matters, please contact us at info@chestertrust.ca.
Given my usual winter absence, my Chester Trust Board colleagues look forward to seeing you there.
Sincerely,
Suzi Fraser, Chair
P.S. Need transportation? Please call 275-5423 within Chester or 422-6014 from Halifax.
Also, please copy the Chester Trust on your correspondence (both paper and email) so we know what kind of support we have generated when we attend the meeting.
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The Chester Trust has financed the printing of a limited third edition of
"Chester: A Pictorial History."
Originally published in 1983, the book has been reprinted and the proceeds will fund the rebuild of the Zoe Valley Tower stairs.
The price is $50.00 The book is hardcover and it is a great reproduction!
For purchase please ring 902-275-4638 |
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Hi everyone
In light of the recent break-ins and other events in the village and surrounding area, there will be a town meeting on Monday, July 17th, 7pm at the Chester Legion to discuss setting up a neighborhood watch program in Chester. Officer Susan Foote, who is the new community liaison with the RCMP will be presenting the program. If there is enough interest as a group, we will be setting up this program for Chester.
Please attend if you are free - 1100 pairs of eyes looking out for one another can only help a small community.
Tell your friends as well.
Regards,
Joanne Corbett |
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The Spring Meeting of the
Village of Chester Tourism and Development Association
Date: May 18, 2006
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Chester Fire Hall (upstairs meeting room)
Agenda includes committee reports, an update on the expansion of the Save Easy; a report on Tourism and Economic Development within the village and the subject of Vandalism will also be addressed.
Please join us if you can. The Association is growing with your support.
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Chester Trust
AGM Minutes
August 9 2005
Call to Order 1700
Minutes of 2004 meeting read
Moved by David Booher , seconded by Michael Peers
Treasurer’s Report:
GIC account- $23,991.71
Website build and hosting $1735.00
Office Supplies $241.61
Current account August 9th 2005: $4346.52
Old Business: Rafuse Island issue presented by Michael Peers. Jim Hartling had hired a lawyer to investigate the water lot that the Stoddard’s claim they own. The NS Sand and Gravel lot had reverted to the NS government in 1923 after bankruptcy. Stoddard has reinstated (bought) the water lot and now has mining rights ie owns the water lot and therefore there is no access for the public to the island.
John Carroll asked if one needs to conduct mining to secure the rights? and could the Trust support Mr Hartling in his further investigation of this issue.
Dudley Grove asked what we need to protect the character of the Village and was there a mandate on protecting the islands.
MICA: Andrews Island purchase discussed. Motion to approve pledge from the Chester Trust to donate $5000.00 towards the purchase. Moved by John McCurdy, seconded by John Carroll.
Dues: Dues have dropped to $35 to encourage more members to join. Dues also include a membership to VOCTADA
VOCTADA association: Would enhance representation; an active lobby group.
Chester Pictorial History: The Chester Trust will have the book reprinted to sell as a fundraiser to rebuild the steps on the Zoe Valley Tower which are currently condemned. Joy Calkin suggested preselling the books to get an idea of numbers
Update on Chester Properties:
Hall property/back harbour discussion: There are 6 lots zoned estate residential.
Haddon Hall Property: For sale. There are 100 acres and it is zoned “rural” Currently for sale for $4,000,000.John Carroll raised the question if the property could be added to the current sewer system. Asked if a representative from the Trust could meet with the planning committee in the zoning of Haddon Hall property. Mike Mulrooney said he would look into the matter. Moved by Dudley Grove, seconded by Peter McCurdy.
Website: Please feel free to add your input. Please check it regularly for updates. The ‘06 newsletter will be posted there. It will NOT be mailed out.
New Business: Vandalism report. Joy Calkin said that we must approach Warden Webber as the Municipal Council pays the RCMP. Offered suggestions to define underlying problems and explore options. Discussion ensued regarding the degree of vandalism in the Village. Peter McCurdy suggested a public relations person on behalf of the Trust put the word out to alleviate the problem. Pam Peers made a motion for Chester Trust to send a letter to Warden Webber to see steps and action taken. Seconded by Dudley Grove.
John McCurdy raised the issue of raw sewage being dumped into the Back Harbour. Wanted to find out what can be done about it; push the Municipality or the Department of Environment. It was suggested to talk to Bruce Forrest at the municipality. John McCurdy moved, seconded by David Booher to ask the Municipality what they planned to do about it.
Dudley Grove informed the members of the Roseate Tern Project meeting August 22nd @7:00 pm
Motion for adjournment by Michael Peers, seconded by David Booher.
Meeting adjourned 1800 hours. |
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