Wharton public meetings in 2024

Council Meeting

The council will hold first readings for two rezoning bylaws: 19 McCully Lane from Agriculture to Commercial Recreation, and 1370 Southampton Road from Country Residential to Rural Industrial with added office use and a buffer. Several policy updates are up for approval, including expense reimbursement, grants, tax reduction, and safety lights. Council will also consider appointing a councillor to the physician recruitment committee, and discuss reports on food truck regulation and fines for unsightly premises.

• First reading to rezone 19 McCully Lane (PID 25189911), Wards Brook from Agriculture (AG) to Commercial Recreation (CRec) zone and schedule a public hearing
• First reading to rezone 1370 Southampton Rd (PID 25394958), West Amherst from Country Residential (RCou) to Rural Industrial (IRur) zone, add office as permitted use, and create a 10m buffer
• Approval of Expense Reimbursement Policy 24-04, repealing previous policy 21-03
• Approval of amended Grants Policy 15-11, Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy 19-03, and Policy Respecting Safety Lights 18-13
• Council requests a report on feasibility of a food truck bylaw in Springhill and a report on fines for repeat unsightly premises violations

Council approved first readings for two rezoning by-laws, scheduling public hearings for both. It also approved several policy updates, including a new expense reimbursement policy, and requested staff reports on food truck regulation and fines for unsightly premises.

• Approved first reading to rezone 19 McCully Lane, Wards Brook from Agriculture to Commercial Recreation (carried)
• Approved first reading to rezone 1370 Southampton Rd, West Amherst from Country Residential to Rural Industrial, adding office use and 10m buffer (carried)
• Approved Expense Reimbursement Policy 24-04, effective Nov 13, 2024, repealing Policy 21-03 (carried)
• Approved amended Grants Policy 15-11 (carried)
• Approved amended Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy Schedule A (carried)
• Approved amended Policy Respecting Safety Lights 18-13 (carried)
• Appointed Councillor Redmond to Physician, Recruitment & Retention Committee (carried)
• Requested staff report on food truck by-law feasibility (carried, 1 nay)

COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several policy amendments for recommendation to Council. Discussions include changes to tax reduction, safety lights, and grants policies, as well as a potential appointment to the Accessibility Advisory Committee.

• Amendment to Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy
• Amendment to Policy Respecting Safety Lights 18-13
• Changes to Recreational Residential Zone presentation
• Draft amendments to the Grants Policy
• Appointment of Christie Blackie to the Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Committee of the Whole forwarded several amended policies and an appointment to the December 18 Regular Council meeting for final approval. These include the Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy, the Safety Lights Policy, the Grants Policy (excluding section 8), and the appointment of Christie Blackie to the Accessibility Advisory Committee. Staff were directed to prepare draft LUB amendments for undersized lots for January meetings. No final decisions were made; all items are recommendations to Council.

• Forwarded amended Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy to Dec. 18 Council (carried)
• Forwarded amended Safety Lights Policy 18-13 to Dec. 18 Council (carried)
• Directed staff to draft LUB amendments for undersized lots for January meetings (carried)
• Forwarded amended Grants Policy (excluding section 8) to Dec. 18 Council (carried)
• Forwarded appointment of Christie Blackie to Accessibility Advisory Committee to Dec. 18 Council (carried)

Audit Committee

The Audit and Financial Sustainability Committee will meet to elect its leadership and review its Terms of Reference. The body will also discuss the budget process and review financial reports for the 2024-2025 period.

• Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Review of Audit Committee Terms of Reference
• Discussion of the Budget Process
• Overview of the 2024-2025 Budget Report
• Review of General Operating and Water Utility expenditure reporting as of September 30, 2024

The Audit Committee met on December 10, 2024, and approved the agenda and minutes from the October 2, 2024 meeting. Mayor Gilroy was nominated as Chair and Councillor Redmond as Vice Chair. The committee reviewed the 2024-2025 operating and capital budget report and the second quarter financial statements, but no substantive decisions were made beyond these procedural approvals and nominations.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of October 2, 2024 meeting
• Nominated Mayor Gilroy as Chair
• Nominated Councillor Redmond as Vice Chair

Council Meeting

Council will hold a public hearing and second reading for a bylaw to rezone PID 25150665 at 11339 Hwy 6, South Pugwash from Agriculture to Rural Industrial. Other business includes adopting a mandatory provincial code of conduct for elected officials, awarding a contract for a Parrsboro wellfield generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd., approving a fire protection agreement with the Town of Amherst, and selecting priority projects for provincial infrastructure funding. Routine items include committee appointments and conference attendance.

• Public hearing and second reading for rezoning of 11339 Hwy 6, South Pugwash from AG to IRur zone (By-law 24-15)
• Adoption of provincial model code of conduct for municipal elected officials (regulatory deadline Dec 19, 2024)
• Award of RFP-MCC-2427 Parrsboro Wellfield Emergency Standby Generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd.
• Approval of fire protection services agreement with Town of Amherst
• Application to provincial GRID program: Springhill Wastewater Treatment Plant Screening Equipment Upgrade (first priority) and Service Centre Office Entrance Improvements (second priority)

Council approved the second reading of a by-law to rezone a property in South Pugwash from Agriculture to Rural Industrial, adopted the provincial model code of conduct, and made several appointments and awards, including a generator contract and a fire service agreement with the Town of Amherst. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved second reading of by-law to rezone PID 25150665, 11339 Hwy 6, South Pugwash from Agriculture to Rural Industrial (carried)
• Adopted provincial model code of conduct for municipal elected officials (carried)
• Appointed Celina Kinnear to the Accessibility Advisory Committee (carried)
• Awarded RFP-MCC-2427 Parrsboro Wellfield Emergency Standby Generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd. (carried)
• Approved submitting application for Springhill Wastewater Treatment Plant Screening Equipment Upgrade as first priority for GRID program (carried)
• Approved fire service agreement with Town of Amherst (carried)
• Approved Councillor Houghtaling's attendance at FCM Sustainable Communities Conference in Feb 2025 (carried)
• Approved committee appointments as distributed (carried)

COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several administrative policies and project awards to forward to the regular Council meeting. Key discussions include infrastructure priorities for provincial funding and updates to zoning restrictions.

• Award of RFP-MCC-2427 for Parrsboro Wellfield Emergency Standby Generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd.
• Proposed infrastructure priorities for the Growth and Renewal for Infrastructure Development program: Springhill Wastewater Treatment Plant Screening Equipment Upgrade and Springhill Service Centre Office Entrance Improvements
• Adoption of the Code of Conduct for Municipal Elected Officials Regulations
• Proposed Expense Reimbursement Policy 24-04 and repeal of Policy 21-03
• Appointment of Celina Kinnear to the Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Committee of the Whole forwarded several recommendations to the November 20, 2024 Regular Council meeting, including approval of the Expense Reimbursement Policy 24-04, adoption of a Code of Conduct, appointment of Celina Kinnear to the Accessibility Advisory Committee, and awarding RFP-MCC-2427 for the Parrsboro Wellfield Emergency Standby Generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd. All motions were carried unanimously. No final decisions were made; all items are pending Council approval.

• Forwarded Expense Reimbursement Policy 24-04 and repeal of Policy 21-03 to Council (carried)
• Forwarded Code of Conduct adoption to Council (carried)
• Forwarded appointment of Celina Kinnear to Accessibility Advisory Committee to Council (carried)
• Forwarded award of RFP-MCC-2427 Parrsboro Wellfield Generator to Seacrest Electric Ltd. to Council (carried)
• Forwarded application for Springhill Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and Service Centre improvements to Council (carried)
• Forwarded approval of Councillor Houghtaling's conference attendance to Council (carried)
• Directed staff to prepare report on Recreational Residential Zone development restrictions (carried)

In Camera

This is a closed (in camera) meeting of Wharton, Nova Scotia. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive public items. No decisions or discussions are listed for public review.

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council Meeting will focus on the administration of oaths to the newly elected Mayor and Councillors. The agenda includes the election results memo and a territorial acknowledgement. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Oaths of office for Mayor Rod Gilroy and Councillors
• Election Results 2024 information memo
• Territorial acknowledgement for Mi'kma'ki

The special meeting was held solely for the swearing-in of the newly elected mayor and eight councillors following the 2024 municipal election. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and ceremonial, concluding with adjournment.

• Swore in Mayor Rod Gilroy
• Swore in Councillor Fred Gould (District 1)
• Swore in Councillor Anthony Fromm (District 2)
• Swore in Councillor Jennifer Houghtaling (District 3)
• Swore in Councillor Kathy Redmond (District 4)
• Swore in Councillor Angela McCormick (District 5)
• Swore in Councillor Scott Lockhart (District 6)
• Swore in Councillor Carrie Lee (District 7)

Special Council Meeting

The Council is meeting to approve updated policies regarding social media, video surveillance, and personnel. The session includes the appointment of members to the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee and the approval of 2023-24 audited financial statements.

• Approval of Audited Financial Statements for fiscal year ended March 31, 2024
• Approval of amended Social Media Policy 16-01 and Video Surveillance Policy 08-03
• Approval of new Personnel Policy and repeal of policies 19-02, 18-16, 18-14, and 18-01
• Appointment of Tammy Drew, Rachel Smith, Richie Wilcox, Michelle Parsons, and Jane Grady to the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee
• Intermunicipal Sanitary Sewer Agreement with the Town of Amherst

The Cumberland Municipal Council held a special meeting on October 2, 2024, and approved several administrative and policy items. The most significant decision was approving a new Personnel Policy, which repealed four older policies (19-02, 18-16, 18-14, 18-01). Council also approved amendments to the Social Media Policy, Video Surveillance Policy, and the Equity & Diversity Advisory Committee's Terms of Reference, as well as new committee appointments. Additionally, Council approved an intermunicipal sewer agreement with the Town of Amherst and the audited financial statements for fiscal year 2023-24.

• Approved amended Social Media Policy 16-01
• Approved amended Video Surveillance Policy 08-03
• Approved new Personnel Policy, repealing policies 19-02, 18-16, 18-14, 18-01
• Approved amended Terms of Reference for Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee
• Appointed Tammy Drew, Rachel Smith, Richie Wilcox, Michelle Parsons, and Jane Grady to Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee
• Approved Intermunicipal Sanitary Sewer Agreement with Town of Amherst
• Approved Audited Financial Statements for fiscal year ended March 31, 2024

Audit Committee

The Audit and Financial Sustainability Committee is reviewing draft consolidated and non-consolidated financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2024. The committee will consider forwarding these statements to a Special Council meeting on October 2, 2024.

• Review of draft Non-Consolidated Financial Statements for year ended March 31, 2024
• Review of 2024 Audit Findings letter
• Review of 2024 Management Letter
• Review of draft Consolidated Financial Statements for year ended March 31, 2024
• Information regarding prior year MLP removal

The Audit Committee reviewed the audit findings, management letter, and financial statements, and voted to forward the Consolidated and Non-Consolidated Financial Statements to a Special Council meeting on October 2, 2024. The agenda and prior meeting minutes were approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of July 24, 2024 Audit Committee meeting
• Forwarded Consolidated and Non-Consolidated Financial Statements to Special Council meeting (carried)

In Camera

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface text. There are no specific topics, decisions, or discussions listed for this meeting.

COW

The Committee of the Whole (COW) will meet to approve the agenda and minutes, receive a presentation on the Community Solar Program, and advance three amended policies—Social Media Policy 16-01, Video Surveillance Policy 08-03, and Personnel Policy—to a future Council meeting for approval. The meeting will also include updates from multiple departments and committees, including equity and diversity initiatives.

• Forward Social Media Policy 16-01 to future Council meeting for approval
• Forward Video Surveillance Policy 08-03 to future Council meeting for approval
• Forward Personnel Policy and repeal four existing policies to future Council meeting for approval
• Presentation on Community Solar Program Project by AREA
• Appointment of five members to the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee

The Committee of the Whole forwarded several policy amendments and appointments to future Council meetings for approval, including the Social Media Policy, Video Surveillance Policy, Personnel Policy, and Equity & Diversity Advisory Committee appointments. Council also approved a revised meeting schedule for October to December 2024, cancelling October regular meetings and scheduling special sessions. No final approvals were made at this meeting; all substantive items were forwarded for future Council consideration.

• Approved agenda with addition of item 4.3 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 19 and July 24, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
• Forwarded amended Social Media Policy 16-01 to future Council meeting (unanimous)
• Forwarded amended Video Surveillance Policy 08-03 to future Council meeting (unanimous)
• Forwarded Personnel Policy approval and repeal of four related policies to future Council meeting (unanimous)
• Forwarded amended Equity & Diversity Terms of Reference to future Council meeting (unanimous)
• Forwarded appointments of five members to Equity & Diversity Advisory Committee to future Council meeting (unanimous)
• Approved revised meeting schedule: cancel October regular meetings, special Council Oct 2, special Council Nov 13, reschedule November meetings to Nov 20, December COW to Dec 11, December Council to Dec 18 (unanimous)

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several land-use by-law amendments and rezoning applications. The meeting includes public hearings for housing and commercial developments and a proposal to designate lands for a protected wilderness area.

• Proposed rezoning of 19 McCully Lane from Agriculture to Commercial Recreation
• Proposed rezoning of 11339 Highway 6 from Agriculture to Rural Industrial
• Designation of nine PIDs to form the Swan Creek Protected Wilderness Area
• Public hearing and second reading for Shaw Rural Housing Development Agreement in Springhill
• Proposed rezoning of Burns Dr. from Highway Commercial to General Commercial to allow medical offices

Cumberland Municipal Council approved the $25,000 sale of the Springhill Fire Department property to the Province of Nova Scotia, including an occupancy agreement through June 2025. Council also passed several zoning amendments, including a new housing development agreement in Springhill and rezonings in Wards Brook, South Pugwash, and Upper Nappan. Additionally, Council authorized the designation of lands for the Swan Creek Protected Wilderness Area.

• Approved $25,000 sale of Springhill Fire Department property to the Province
• Approved First Reading to rezone 19 McCully Lane, Wards Brook
• Approved First Reading to rezone 11339 Hwy 6, South Pugwash
• Approved Second Reading of Commercial Development Districts planning strategy
• Approved Second Reading to repeal Sunset Adult Residential Centre by-law
• Approved designation of lands for Swan Creek Protected Wilderness Area
• Approved Second Reading for Shaw Rural Housing development in Springhill
• Approved Second Reading to rezone portions of Burns Dr., Upper Nappan

Special Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several land-use by-law amendments and rezoning requests. The meeting includes first and second readings for property re-designations and an update to the water leak adjustment policy.

• First Reading of By-law 24-12 to rezone multiple PIDs at Mechanic, Elm & Crossin Street from Lower Density Residential to Multi-Unit Residential
• First Reading of the Shaw Rural Housing Development Agreement in Springhill
• First Reading of By-law 24-13 to rezone portions of PIDs 25072455 & 25359803 to General Commercial to allow medical offices
• Second Reading of By-laws 24-08 and 24-09 to re-designate and rezone a portion of PID 25044124 in West Amherst
• Proposed amendments to Water Leak Adjustment Policy 23-05 retroactive to December 20, 2023

Council approved first reading of a by-law to rezone 15 parcels in Springhill from Lower Density Residential to Multi-Unit Residential and approved first reading of the Shaw Rural Housing Development Agreement, scheduling a public hearing. Council also approved first reading of a rezoning for two PIDs in Amherst, second reading of a rezoning in West Amherst, and amendments to the Water Leak Adjustment Policy retroactive to December 20, 2023.

• Approved first reading of rezoning 15 PIDs to Multi-Unit Residential and Shaw Rural Housing Development Agreement, with public hearing scheduled
• Approved first reading of rezoning portions of PIDs 25072455 & 25359803 to General Commercial with medical offices as permitted use
• Approved second reading of rezoning portion of PID 25044124 from Urban Industrial to Commercial Recreation
• Approved amendments to Water Leak Adjustment Policy 23-05, retroactive to December 20, 2023

Special Council Meeting

Wharton (Nova Scotia) Council meets to decide on a major land transfer to Sunset Community Inc. worth $8,566,065 and to hold public hearings on three zoning amendments. The meeting also includes second readings for four land-use bylaws, policy amendments for ice-related activities, and contract awards for municipal equipment and upgrades.

• Approve $8.57M land transfer to Sunset Community Inc. with liability assumption
• Public hearings on rezoning PID 25044124 (West Amherst), commercial development districts, and Sunset land transfer
• Second readings for four zoning amendments (PIDs 25184144, 25510272, 25331612, 25115965)
• Award plow truck contract for $390,551.97 and UV disinfection upgrade for $141,516.31
• Approve Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee Terms of Reference

Council approved a transfer agreement of municipal lands to The Sunset Community Incorporated in exchange for the assumption of $8,566,065 in liabilities. The meeting also included several rezoning approvals and the awarding of public works contracts.

• Approved land transfer to The Sunset Community Incorporated for $8,566,065 in assumed liabilities
• Approved First Reading of By-law 24-11 to repeal Sunset Adult Residential Centre By-law
• Approved Second Reading of MPS 24-03 regarding public participation
• Approved Second Reading of LUB 24-04 to rezone PID 25184144 to Country Residential
• Approved Second Reading of LUB 24-05 to rezone PID 25510272 & 25331612 to Country Commercial
• Approved Second Reading of LUB 24-06 to rezone PID 25115965 to Country Residential
• Awarded $390,551.97 plow/salt truck contract to Nova Truck Centres
• Awarded $141,516.31 UV disinfection upgrade to Moncton Plumbing & Supply Co. Ltd.

In Camera

The agenda for the Wharton, Nova Scotia In Camera meeting on 2024-08-14 contains no listed items. It appears to be a procedural placeholder.

Special Council Meeting

Wharton Council will hold a special session to decide on multiple zoning amendments, policy updates, and a grant request. The meeting includes second readings of an omnibus repeal bylaw and amendments to conflict of interest, condolences, and flag policies. Council will also discuss rezoning requests for properties on Highway 307, Fox Point Road, and Highway 366, as well as a commercial development district designation.

• Second reading of Omnibus Repeal 2024 By-law 24-07
• Amendments to Conflict of Interest Policy 15-06, Condolences Policy 10-11, and Flag Policy 18-18
• Public hearings for rezoning PID 25184144 (Hwy 307), PID 25510272 & 25331612 (496 Fox Point Rd.), and PID 25115965 (8252 Hwy 366)
• First reading of rezoning PID 25044124 (Nappan) from Industrial to Commercial Recreation
• Approval of $8,000 grant to Amherst Golf Club and $4,000 to Heritage Models Association

The council approved a request for a six-month RCMP pilot for 24-hour policing, approved first readings for several rezoning by-laws, and passed amendments to policies. It also approved funding disbursements and a traffic study request.

• Approved request for RCMP six-month 24-hour policing pilot (motion carried)
• Approved second reading of Omnibus Repeal By-law 24-07 (motion carried)
• Approved first reading of MPS 24-08 and LUB 24-09 to rezone portion of PID 25044124 in Nappan (motion carried)
• Approved first reading of MPS 24-10 for Commercial Development Districts (motion carried)
• Approved amended Conflict of Interest Policy 15-06 (motion carried)
• Approved amended Condolences Policy 10-11 (motion carried)
• Approved amended Flag Policy 18-08 (motion carried)
• Approved receiving up to $8,000 for Amherst Golf and Country Club and $4,000 for Heritage Models Association (motion carried)

Special COW

The Special Committee of the Whole is reviewing proposed amendments to policies regarding ice arena helmet use and ice allocation. The body is also discussing the Terms of Reference for the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee.

• Amendment to Ice Related Activities Protective Helmet Policy 16-09
• Amendment to Ice Allocation Policy 20-06
• Terms of Reference for the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee

The Special Committee of the Whole forwarded three items to a future Council meeting for approval: amendments to the Ice Related Activities Protective Helmet Policy 16-09, the Ice Allocation Policy 20-06, and the Terms of Reference for the Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee. No final decisions were made; all motions were procedural.

• Forwarded amended Ice Related Activities Protective Helmet Policy 16-09 to future Council meeting (carried)
• Forwarded amended Ice Allocation Policy 20-06 to future Council meeting (carried)
• Forwarded Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee Terms of Reference to future Council meeting (carried)

Council Meeting

The Municipality of the County of Cumberland Council is reviewing five property rezoning requests that would change agricultural land to commercial or residential zones. The agenda also covers approval of a draft illegal dumping policy, an omnibus repeal by-law, and several administrative appointments. These items affect local land use classifications, waste management enforcement, and municipal operations.

• Second reading to rezone Kolbec Rd., Port Howe (PIDs 25144031 & 25143215) from Agricultural to Commercial Recreation.
• First reading to rezone 2019 Hwy 307, Russell; 496 Fox Point Rd., Parrsboro; and 2852 Hwy 366, Linden from Agricultural to Country Residential or Commercial zones.
• Approval of draft Illegal Dumping Policy 24-03 and first reading of Omnibus Repeal 2024 By-law.
• Award of RFP-MCC-2413 for roll-off dumpsters to Miller Waste Systems for Advocate, Pugwash, and River Hebert transfer stations.
• Disbursement of up to $20,000 from the River Philip Foundation to the Centennial Golf Club and $10,000 from Pugwash Baptist Church to Six Rivers Hope Centre Ministries.

Council advanced several land-use by-law amendments and rezoning requests for properties in Port Howe, Parrsboro, and Linden. The board also approved a new illegal dumping policy and awarded a waste dumpster contract to Miller Waste Systems.

• Approved second reading to rezone Kolbec Rd., Port Howe to Commercial Recreation (Carried)
• Approved first reading and public hearing for Municipal Planning Strategy amendment 24-03 (Carried)
• Approved first reading and public hearing to rezone 2019 Hwy 307 to Country Residential (Carried)
• Approved first reading and public hearing to rezone 496 Fox Point Rd., Parrsboro to Country Commercial (Carried)
• Approved first reading and public hearing to rezone 2852 Hwy 366, Linden to Country Residential (Carried)
• Approved draft Illegal Dumping Policy 24-03 (Carried)
• Awarded RFP-MCC-2413 for transfer station roll-off dumpsters to Miller Waste Systems (Carried)
• Approved changing pension plan providers to the Nova Scotia Public Superannuation Plan (Carried)

In Camera

The Wharton municipal council is scheduled to meet in camera on June 19, 2024. In-camera sessions are closed to the public and typically cover sensitive administrative or legal matters. The provided agenda text contains only placeholder fields and does not list specific topics, votes, or decisions.

• No public agenda items, rezonings, contracts, or fee changes are listed in the source document.

COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several land use amendments and a petition regarding glyphosate-based herbicide spraying. Members are also considering policy updates for illegal dumping and potential fund disbursements from community foundations.

• Rezoning of PID 25144031 & 25143215 on Kolbec Rd., Port Howe
• Rezoning of PID 25478355 at 11175 Highway 6, Pugwash
• Petition regarding aerial spraying of glyphosate-based herbicides
• Draft Illegal Dumping Policy review
• Request to disburse up to $20,000 from River Philip Foundation to Centennial Golf Club

The Cumberland County Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and May 15, 2024 minutes, received public hearings on two land use bylaw amendments, and received a petition on aerial herbicide spraying. The committee voted to forward the draft Illegal Dumping Policy, a Christie Foundation funding request, and a River Philip Foundation funding request to the June 26 Council meeting, and requested a staff report on a drinking water well for River Hebert and Joggins.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Approved the May 15, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting minutes
• Received the petition regarding aerial application of glyphosate-based herbicides
• Defeated motion to place aerial spraying of glyphosate on a future agenda for further discussion
• Referred draft Illegal Dumping Policy to the June 26, 2024 Regular Council meeting for approval
• Directed staff to create a report on a well for drinking water in the River Hebert and Joggins area
• Forwarded Christie Foundation request for up to $1,000 to Heritage Models Association to June 26 Council agenda
• Forwarded River Philip Foundation request for up to $20,000 to Centennial Golf Club to June 26 Council agenda

Special Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing a second reading of a bylaw to rezone PID 25478355 at 11175 Highway 6. The proposal includes a text amendment to allow the operation of a Propane Fueling Facility within the Rural Industrial Zone.

• Second reading of amendment to rezone PID 25478355 from Agricultural (AG) to Rural Industrial (IRur)
• First reading of text amendment to Section 11.3.2 to permit a Propane Fueling Facility
• Amendment to add Propane Fueling Facility to Section 14 Definitions of the Land Use Bylaw

Council approved the second reading of a bylaw amendment to rezone a property in Pugwash from Agricultural to Rural Industrial. The amendment also includes a text change to permit the operation of a propane fueling facility and updates the Land Use Bylaw definitions.

• Approved second reading to rezone PID 25478355 (11175 Highway 6, Pugwash) from Agricultural to Rural Industrial
• Approved second reading of text amendment to Section 11.3.2 to permit Propane Fueling Facility operations
• Approved amendment to add Propane Fueling Facility to Section 14 Definitions of the Land Use Bylaw

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several land use amendments and potential demolition orders for various properties. Additionally, they are considering the approval of annual organizational grants totaling $837,818.66.

• Demolition Order: 3344 Hwy 302, Maccan (Garage only)
• Demolition Order: 191 McGee St., Springhill
• Demolition Order: 219 King St., Parrsboro
• Rezoning: Kolbec Rd., Port Howe from Agricultural to Commercial Recreation
• Rezoning: 11175 Highway 6, Pugwash from Agricultural to Rural Industrial

Cumberland Municipal Council approved a $1,244,310.06 contract to Cumberland Paving and Contracting for Princess Street road improvements and raised that project's capital budget to $1,294,310.06. Council also approved 2024/2025 grants to organizations totaling $837,818.66, agreed to receive and pass along up to $20,000 from the River Philip Foundation to the River Hebert Joggins & Area Development Association, and issued three demolition orders for unsafe properties. Several land-use bylaw amendments advanced through first and second reading, including rezoning requests in Port Howe, Pugwash, Springhill and Parrsboro. All recorded motions carried; no vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Awarded Princess Street Road Improvements tender T-MCC-2402 to Cumberland Paving and Contracting for $1,244,310.06 (including non-recoverable HST)
• Increased Princess St. Road Improvements capital budget to $1,294,310.06 (including non-recoverable HST)
• Approved 2024/2025 grants to organizations totaling $837,818.66 and directed the recipient list be made public
• Approved receiving up to $20,000 from the River Philip Foundation and disbursing it to the River Hebert Joggins & Area Development Association
• Issued demolition order (garage only) for 3344 Hwy 302, Maccan (PID 25064940)
• Issued demolition order for 191 McGee St., Springhill (PID 25238445), owner given until September 16, 2024
• Issued demolition order for 219 King St., Parrsboro (PID 25215666)
• Approved first reading to rezone PID 25144031 & 25143215, Kolbec Rd., Port Howe from Agricultural to Commercial Recreation, with a future public hearing

In Camera

The provided document contains no substantive agenda items or discussion topics. The record consists of empty fields and software interface text.

In Camera

The provided document contains no substantive information regarding the contents of this meeting. It consists of empty fields and software interface text.

COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a request for the municipality to receive up to $20,000 from the River Philip Foundation. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Beaubassin Historic Site and discussions regarding provincial capital assistance projects.

• Request for Municipality to receive up to $20,000 from River Philip Foundation
• Selection of Parrsboro Wellfield Generator project for Provincial Capital Assistance Program
• Presentation on the vision for Beaubassin Historic Site at Fort Lawrence
• Update on correspondence from Pictou regarding coastal protection

The Committee of the Whole met May 15, 2024 and forwarded two items to the May 29, 2024 Regular Council meeting: a request for the Municipality to receive up to $20,000 from the River Philip Foundation and disburse it to the River Hebert Joggins & Area Development Association, and a decision on submitting a Parrsboro Wellfield Generator application to the Province of Nova Scotia's Provincial Capital Assistance Program. The committee also approved its agenda and the minutes of its April 17 and April 24 meetings, and received a presentation on the Beaubassin Historic Site at Fort Lawrence. Monthly departmental reports for April 2024 were included and reviewed. No final decisions on the two funding items were made at this meeting.

• Forwarded River Philip Foundation request (up to $20,000 for River Hebert Joggins & Area Development Association) to May 29, 2024 Regular Council (carried)
• Forwarded decision on Parrsboro Wellfield Generator application to Provincial Capital Assistance Program to May 29, 2024 Regular Council (carried)
• Approved the May 15, 2024 agenda as presented (carried)
• Approved minutes of the April 17, 2024 Regular Committee of the Whole meeting (carried)
• Approved minutes of the April 24, 2024 Special Committee of the Whole meeting (carried)
• Received presentation on Beaubassin Historic Site at Fort Lawrence seeking municipal support (no decision recorded)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:15 p.m.

Special Council Meeting

The Council is meeting to discuss the 2024/2025 budget and updates to tax and fee policies. They will also consider a public hearing regarding a demolition order for a property in Pugwash.

• Demolition Order for 89 Water St., Pugwash, NS
• Amended Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy
• Amended Fees Policy
• Budget 2024/2025 Approval
• Appointment of McIsaac Darragh Chartered Professional Accountants as external auditors

Council approved a total revenue and expenditure budget of $38,935,554 for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. The meeting also established tax rates, sewage and street light fees, and approved a general capital budget of $14,709,015.

• Approved 2024/2025 budget of $38,935,554 (Motion Carried)
• Set general residential tax rate at $1.14 per $100 of assessment (Motion Carried)
• Approved $14,709,015 General Capital Budget and $764,054 Water Capital Budget (Motion Carried)
• Authorized borrowing up to $11,500,000 from CIBC (Motion Carried)
• Issued Demolition Order for 89 Water Street, Pugwash (Motion Carried)
• Approved amended Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy and Fees Policy (Motions Carried)
• Approved 2024-2025 Water Utility Operating Budget of $2,513,860 (Motion Carried)
• Appointed McIsaac Darragh Chartered Professional Accountants as external auditors (Motion Carried)

Special COW

The Special Committee of the Whole is reviewing proposed changes to the municipal fees policy. Council is asked to forward the amended policy to the Final Budget Meeting.

• Amended Fees Policy (Policy 18-12)

The Special Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and decided to move an amended Fees Policy to the Final Budget Meeting.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Forwarded amended Fees Policy to the Final Budget Meeting

Council Meeting

The council will review public hearing requests for land use amendments and a demolition order in Springhill and Parrsboro. They will also vote on appointing a returning officer for the 2024 election and awarding paving tenders.

• Paving contract award to Dexter Construction Company Ltd for $1,551,798.70
• Rezoning public hearing for 189 Main St., Springhill
• Rezoning public hearing for 121 Main St., Parrsboro
• Demolition order for 123 Junction Rd., Springhill
• Appointment of Cathy Coon as Returning Officer for the 2024 election

Council awarded two pavement tenders, including a $1.55 million contract to Dexter Construction Company Ltd. The board also appointed a Returning Officer for the 2024 Municipal Election and ratified a board appointment for the Cumberland Senior Care Corporation.

• Awarded Part A and Part C of T-MCC-2401 to Dexter Construction Company Ltd. for $1,551,798.70
• Conditionally awarded Part B of T-MCC- to Cumberland Paving and Contracting for $297,025.74
• Appointed Cathy Coon as Returning Officer for the 2024 Municipal Election
• Ratified appointment of Ronald Alan Webb to the Board of the Cumberland Senior Care Corporation
• Rescheduled May 2024 Council meeting to the 5th Wednesday of the month

In Camera

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COW

The Committee of the Whole will review a presentation regarding the proposed Blueberry Acres Wind Energy Project. The agenda also includes discussions on draft amendments to the 2025-2026 Grants Policy and a proposal to reschedule the May 2024 Council meeting. Various departmental monthly reports are included for review.

• Presentation on proposed Blueberry Acres Wind Energy Project
• Draft amendments to the 2025-2026 Grants Policy
• Proposal to reschedule the May 2024 Council meeting
• Cumberland Public Libraries March financial results

The Committee of the Whole approved the agenda and previous minutes. Members decided to remove the 2025-2026 Grants Policy from the current agenda and will consider rescheduling the May Council meeting at a future session.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved March 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Removed Grants Policy for 2025-2026 from agenda for future meeting
• Approved motion to consider rescheduling May 2024 Council meeting at the April 24th meeting

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several land use amendments for Pugwash, Springhill, and Parrsboro. They are also considering insurance service awards, a new asset management policy, and administrative preparations for the 2024 election.

• Demolition Order for 87 Mechanic Street, Springhill
• Rezoning of 189 Main Street, Springhill to Multi-Unit Residential
• Rezoning of 121 Main St, Parrsboro to Mixed Use
• Insurance award: $352,623 to Arthur J. Gallagher and $427,856 to BFL Canada
• 2024 Election advance polling period: October 10 to October 19

The Cumberland Municipal Council approved a $5,384,483 contract for a new Springhill Fire Station and a $649,921 purchase for a Wallace Volunteer Fire Department pumper truck. Council also approved first readings for three land use bylaw amendments regarding zoning in Pugwash, Springhill, and Parrsboro, pending public hearings. Additionally, the council approved a collective agreement with CUPE Local 919 and awarded insurance contracts totaling over $780,000.

• Approved $5,384,483 contract for new Springhill Fire Station
• Approved $649,921 purchase for Wallace Volunteer Fire Department pumper truck
• Approved demolition order for 87 Mechanic Street, Springhill
• Approved first reading of LUB amendment for personal service shops in Pugwash
• Approved first reading of rezoning for 189 Main Street, Springhill
• Approved first reading of rezoning for 121 Main Street, Parrsboro
• Approved collective agreement with CUPE Local 919
• Awarded insurance contracts to Arthur J. Gallagher ($352,623) and BFL Canada ($427,856)

In Camera

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COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several policy drafts and administrative items to forward to the regular Council meeting. Key discussions include preparations for the 2024 election and updates to signage guidelines and fee policies.

• Setting 2024 advance polling dates from October 10 to October 19
• Establishing a $200 candidate deposit fee for the 2024 election
• Reviewing the draft Commercial Development Support By-Law
• Amending the Fees Policy to include free equipment loans for non-profit organizations
• Ratifying Ronald Alan Webb's appointment to the Cumberland Senior Care Corporation Board

The Committee of the Whole reviewed and forwarded several items to the Regular Council meeting scheduled for March 27, 2024, for final approval. These items included 2024 election administrative details, a revised signage policy, an asset management policy, and user fee amendments. The committee also directed staff to contact Pictou County regarding coastal protection plans and requested early budget review from Cumberland Public Libraries.

• Agenda and previous minutes approved
• Draft Commercial Development Support By-Law reviewed; referred to Council for first reading
• Amended User Fees Policy forwarded to Council for approval
• Draft Asset Management Policy forwarded to Council for approval
• 2024 Election dates, voter list usage, $200 candidate deposit, and fee tariff forwarded to Council
• Revised Public Highway Signage Guidelines and Ft Lawrence zone adjustments forwarded to Council
• Appointment of Ronald Alan Webb to Cumberland Senior Care Corporation Board forwarded to Council
• Staff directed to contact Pictou County regarding Coastal Protection Act plans

In Camera

The provided document contains only procedural software interface text and no meeting details. There are no specific topics, discussions, or decisions listed for this In Camera meeting.

Special COW

The Special Committee of the Whole is reviewing requests for early approval of capital projects ahead of the 2024/25 budget. The proposed items include water line replacement and road paving in Parrsboro and Springhill.

• Parrsboro Waterline Replacement ($1,641,333)
• Springhill Princess St Rebuild ($1,131,307)
• Springhill Capital Paving ($1,126,591)
• Parrsboro Capital Paving ($444,113)

The Committee of the Whole voted to forward four capital projects for approval at the February 28, 2024 Regular Council meeting. These projects are intended for approval in advance of the full 2024/25 Capital Budget.

• Forwarded Parrsboro Waterline Replacement ($1,641,333, contingent on senior govt funding) for approval
• Forwarded Springhill Princess St Rebuild ($1,131,307) for approval
• Forwarded Springhill Capital Paving ($1,126,591) for approval
• Forwarded Parrsboro Capital Paving ($444,113) for approval

Council Meeting

The Council is considering several early approval capital projects for waterlines and road rebuilding. They are also reviewing a development agreement for Sunrise Landing, a rezoning request for 60 Elm Street, and updates to low-income tax exemption policies.

• Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement second reading
• Rezoning of 60 Elm Street from Parks and Open Space to Multi-unit Residential
• Low Income Tax Exemption Policy update with income cut-off of $35,776
• Parrsboro Waterline Replacement: $1,641,333
• Springhill Princess St Rebuild: $1,131,307

Cumberland Municipal Council approved early funding for four capital projects totaling about $4.34 million, including waterline replacement in Parrsboro and road and paving work in Springhill and Parrsboro. Council also approved second reading of the Sunrise Landing development agreement and a rezoning at 60 Elm Street in Springhill, and adopted a Low Income Tax Exemption Policy with higher income and exemption amounts. All recorded motions carried; no public hearings or strategic priority items were on the agenda.

• Approved early capital projects: Parrsboro Waterline Replacement $1,641,333 (contingent on senior government funding), Springhill Princess St Rebuild $1,131,307, Springhill Capital Paving $1,126,591, Parrsboro Capital Paving $444,113
• Approved second reading of the Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement for PID 25517459
• Approved second reading of a Land Use Bylaw amendment to rezone 60 Elm Street, Springhill (PID 25228214) from Parks and Open Space (P) to Multi-unit Residential (RMul)
• Approved the Low Income Tax Exemption Policy, raising the income cut-off to $35,776 and exemption amount to $525
• Approved amendments adding AAN 10598761 and AAN 04774485 to Schedule A of the Tax Reduction and Exemption Policy
• Approved appointment of an Accessibility Advisory Committee
• Approved the agenda as presented and the minutes of the January 24, 2024 regular meeting
• Meeting adjourned at 4:33 p.m.

In Camera

The provided document contains only procedural software interface text and no meeting details. There are no specific topics, discussions, or decisions listed for this In Camera meeting.

COW

The provided text contains only software interface elements and procedural boilerplate. There are no specific meeting topics, decisions, or discussions recorded in the document.

COW

The Committee is reviewing several municipal policies including low income tax exemptions and grant procedures. Discussions also include public hearings for the Sunrise Landing project and a proposed rezoning near Robertson Ave.

• Public Hearing: Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement (PID 25517459)
• Public Hearing: Proposed Rezoning for Lands Adjacent to Robertson Ave (PID 25228214)
• Low Income Tax Exemption Policy update with income cut-off of $35,776
• Proposed tax exemption for properties owned by Sunset Community Inc.
• Review of Public Highway Signage Guidelines

The Committee of the Whole approved several motions to forward items to the Regular Council meeting on February 28, 2024, including a Low Income Tax Exemption Policy update and a request to add Sunset Community properties to the tax exemption schedule. The committee also voted to dissolve the Poverty Reduction Advisory Committee and defer the amended Grants Policy to March 20, 2024. A motion to dissolve the Nova Scotia Border Committee was withdrawn.

• Approved Low Income Tax Exemption Policy update (income cut-off $35,776, exemption $525) for Feb 28 Council
• Deferred amended Grants Policy to March 20 COW meeting
• Dissolved Poverty Reduction Advisory Committee (PRAC)
• Directed staff to review signage guidelines for Ft Lawrence Highway 2
• Authorized CAO to use draft terms of reference for RCMP Advisory Board discussions
• Forwarded request to appoint accessibility advisory committee to Feb 28 Council
• Directed staff to prepare amendments to Tax Reduction Policy for Sunset Community properties
• Directed staff to write to NS Dept of Public Works regarding road responsibility in Cumberland County

In Camera

The provided document contains only procedural software interface text and no meeting details. There are no specific topics, discussions, or decisions listed for this In Camera meeting.

Special Council Meeting

The Council is meeting to discuss the second reading of a development agreement for the Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project by Elemental Energy. This item involves several property identifiers and includes various project documents such as a community benefits plan and a complaint resolution plan.

• Second Reading of Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement - Elemental Energy

The Cumberland Municipal Council held a special meeting on January 31, 2024. The primary action was the approval of the second reading for the Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement with Elemental Energy. The agenda was also approved as presented.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved second reading of Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement for PIDs 25267428, 25267410, 25360041, 25088725, and 25088733

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several land sale proposals in Springhill and a rezoning request for New Prospect. They are also addressing municipal election appointments and the cancellation of a previous fire station Request for Proposals due to budget concerns.

• Demolition Order for 64 Taylor Road, River Hebert
• Rezoning of PID 25477431 from Rural Resource to Rural Industrial in New Prospect
• Sale of Robertson Ave, Springhill to Shaw Living Retail Limited for $42,000 plus HST
• Sale of 53 Junction Road and 25 Junction Road, Springhill to Cross Roads Cycle Sales
• Cancellation of Fire Station construction RFP due to budgetary concerns

Council approved the sale of three surplus properties in Springhill and a demolition order for a property in River Hebert. The council cancelled a Request for Proposals for fire stations in Springhill and Parrsboro due to budget concerns, opting to pursue a revised RFP for Springhill only.

• Approved Demolition Order for 64 Taylor Rd, River Hebert
• Approved second reading of By-Law to Establish and Regulate Fire Departments
• Approved Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy 24-01 and repealed Policy 09-02
• Approved rezoning of PID 25477431 in New Prospect from Rural Resource to Rural Industrial
• Appointed Shelley Hoeg-Eaton and Amanda Kinnear as 2024 election officers
• Approved deregistration of 40 Chapel Street, Springhill as a Municipal Heritage Property
• Approved sale of Robertson Ave lands to Shaw Living Retail Limited for $42,000 plus HST
• Approved sale of 25 and 53 Junction Rd and 22 Drummond St to Cross Roads Cycle Sales

In Camera

The provided agenda contains only procedural software boilerplate. No specific topics, discussions, or decisions are documented for the January 24, 2024, session.

COW

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several administrative items including a rezoning public hearing and updates to the Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy. The committee is also discussing preparations for the 2024 Municipal Election and potential household hazardous waste drop-off locations.

• Public hearing for rezoning of PID 25477431 at 3331 Highway 2, New Prospect
• Proposed amendment to the Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy
• Appointment of Shelley Hoeg-Eaton and Amanda Kinnear as Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officer
• Direction for staff to administer the 2024 election via a 'Hybrid Model'
• Request for cost information regarding a household hazardous waste drop-off at Little Forks

The Committee of the Whole forwarded motions for the appointment of election officers and the use of a hybrid election model to the January 24 Council meeting. Council also moved to advance an amended Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy for approval and requested waste disposal costs from GFL.

• Forwarded amended Dangerous or Unsightly Premises Policy to Jan 24 meeting for approval
• Forwarded motion to appoint Shelley Hoeg-Eaton and Amanda Kinnear as Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officer for 2024 election
• Forwarded motion to use 'Hybrid Model' for 2024 election administration
• Approved request for cost information from GFL for a Household Hazardous Waste drop-off at Little Forks
• Approved agenda and minutes from Nov 15 and Dec 13, 2023

In Camera

The provided document contains no substantive agenda items or descriptions of business to be discussed. The record consists of empty fields and software interface text.

Special Council Meeting

The Council will hold a public hearing regarding the Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement with Elemental Energy. They will also consider the first reading of the Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement for PID 25517459. A future public hearing will be scheduled for the Sunrise Landing project.

• Public hearing: Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement (Elemental Energy)
• First reading: Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement (Sunset Community Inc.)
• Scheduling of a future public hearing for Sunrise Landing

Council approved the first reading of the Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement for PID 25517459 and scheduled a future public hearing. A public hearing for the Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement was held with no public submissions or questions.

• Approved first reading of Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement for PID 25517459
• Scheduled public hearing for Sunrise Landing Project Development Agreement
• Conducted public hearing for Higgins Mountain Wind Energy Project Development Agreement