? TOWN OF BRIDGEWATER PROCLAMATION
>>> International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

WHEREAS the Human Rights Act of Nova Scotia recognizes that no one can be discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression;

and WHEREAS Bridgewater is a society open to everyone, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people (LGBTQ+) and to all other people who identify with sexual diversity and the multiplicity of gender identities and expressions;

and WHEREAS, despite recent efforts towards greater inclusion of LGBTQ+ people, homophobia and transphobia are still present in society;

and WHEREAS May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia;

THEREFORE, Town Council for the Town of Bridgewater hereby proclaims May 17, 2022, as INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA AND TRANSPHOBIA and recognizes this day as such.

For more information, visit https://may17.org/about/.

? TOWN OF BRIDGEWATER PROCLAMATION
>>> Lyme Disease Awareness Month

WHEREAS Lyme disease is a serious illness caused by the bite of a black-legged tick infected with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi:

and WHEREAS black-legged ticks carrying a variety of diseases or illnesses can now be found in all parts of Nova Scotia;

and WHEREAS awareness, education and practicing preventative measures, such as daily tick checks and proper tick removal, can help reduce your chances of contracting tick borne diseases;

THEREFORE, be it resolved that Town Council for the Town of Bridgewater, does hereby proclaim May 2022 as "Lyme Disease Awareness Month."

? TOWN OF BRIDGEWATER PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, members of the Shriners International fraternity, with vision, generosity and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, opened the first Shriners Children's hospital 100 years ago;

and WHEREAS, Shriners Children's offers care for orthopedic conditions, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, and craniofacial conditions, regardless of a family's ability to pay or insurance status;

and WHEREAS, since 1922, from that single hospital has grown a unique and beloved health care system with locations across the United States, as well as in Mexico and Canada;

and WHEREAS, Shriners Children's three-part mission has one goal: to change and improve lives by caring for patients, conducting research to gain knowledge and develop new treatments,

and providing educational opportunities for physicians and other health care professionals;

and WHEREAS, Shriners Children's has improved the lives of more than 1.5 million children since its founding 100 years ago;

and WHEREAS, it is fitting and appropriate to acknowledge the positive impact Shriners Children's has made in its first century of caring for children;

NOW, THEREFORE, Town Council for the Town of Bridgewater hereby congratulates SHRINERS CHILDREN'S UPON CELEBRATING the 100th anniversary of its founding and offering hope and healing to children and families around the world.

? SURVEY LAUNCH!
>>> McGill University team looking for info on energy use, housing, and connections to well-being

Calling residents of Bridgewater: we want to hear from you!

A research team from McGill University is conducting a study to understand how energy use and housing conditions relate to health and well-being in Bridgewater. This study is conducted in collaboration with the Town of Bridgewater.

Residents of the Town of Bridgewater, aged 19 years and older, who are either renters or homeowners, and who have lived at their current address at least since January 2022 are eligible to participate in the survey.

Those who complete the survey will receive a $10 gift card for Fresh Cuts Market!

You can participate online, over the phone, or in person.

Complete the survey online here: https://surveys.mcgill.ca/ls3/477489?lang=en

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment to complete the survey in-person or over the phone, contact the research team at 902-930-2561 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

? PUBLIC NOTICE >>> FIRE PRACTICE

Bridgewater Fire Department will be carrying out a "forestry-type" practice this evening, Monday, April 25, from approximately 7 to 8:30 p.m. near the Duck Pond at Woodland Gardens.

If you see fire crews in the area, it is only a practice.

REMINDER: EARTH WEEK CLEAN UP + FREE MOVIE SATURDAY!

Remember, it's still not too late for you or your business or organization to get involved with the Lunenburg Regional Community Recycling Centre!

To register and receive your clean-up supplies, call (902) 543-2991. Groups have been out doing their part to keep their neighbourhoods looking beautiful.

Thank you for all your hard work!

EARTH DAY DOCUMENTARY

For Earth Day, the Town of Bridgewater is hosting a free documentary screening.

Bring a chair and join us on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at 7 p.m. at HB Studios for a screening of Hell or Clean Water, the inspiring story of one Newfoundlander's obsessive quest to clean up the coastal ocean floors.

This event is free, but registration is required. Register by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 902-543-2274.

>>> More about Hell or Clean Water

In what appears to be an impossible task, Newfoundland diver Shawn Bath has devoted himself to cleaning up the ocean floor one rotting tire at a time. On the brink of bankruptcy and a break-up, his obsessive endeavour catches the attention of locals and a controversial non-profit organization who would like to assist him in scaling up his operations.

Watch the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/532048344

? EASTER WEEKEND WASTE COLLECTION CHANGES
>>> Easter Holiday Collection & Site Hours

Please note that the following changes will take place regarding waste collection as a result of the Easter weekend:

➡️ Friday, April 15, 2022: No waste collection will take place in the Municipality of Lunenburg and Town of Bridgewater. This collection has been rescheduled for Saturday, April 16, in both areas. The Community Recycling Centre will be closed.

➡️ Saturday, April 16, 2022: Recycling Centre open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

➡️ Monday, April 18, 2022: Waste collected AS USUAL in the Municipality of Lunenburg and Town of Bridgewater. The Community Recycling Centre will be open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Questions? Call 902-543-2991 or visit www.communityrecycling.ca.

COUNCIL NOTES - APRIL 11, 2022, REGULAR & BUDGET MEETING
>>> Town Council approves 2022-23 Capital & Operating Budgets

On Monday night, Bridgewater Town Council concluded its 2022-2023 budget planning process by unanimously approving both the Capital and Operating Budgets for the coming fiscal year. The budget calls for no residential or commercial tax rate increases in the community for 22-23.

Bridgewater's budgeted gross operating expenses for the coming year will amount to about $25.9 million. On the capital side of the ledger, Bridgewater's gross capital expenditures are budgeted to total $26 million, with $16 million in new capital investments planned and $10 million being carried over from 2021-22, making it the largest single-year capital investment in the town's history.

"We're preparing our community to meet the demands of the future and to ensure that Bridgewater can thrive as more and more people come to the South Shore, and in particular to our community, to live, work, play, and grow together," said Mayor David Mitchell.

"Our Council is investing significantly in roads, water, and wastewater infrastructure, and that will continue to position Bridgewater as a destination of choice for developers looking to build more housing - including affordable housing projects," Mayor Mitchell added.

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS
► Residential tax rate remains at $1.75 per $100 of assessment.

► Commercial tax rate remains at $3.97 per $100 of assessment.

► There will be a 5% increase in the Wastewater rate, with money from that increase being set in reserve for future wastewater-related capital projects.

► The commitment of $26 million in capital projects this year includes:

- A total of $5 million will be invested in wastewater infrastructure to support residential and business growth and development. Ongoing investment in wastewater infrastructure and capacity will also have positive implications for the environment and the health of the LaHave River.

- A $4 million investment in road upgrades, including major infrastructure renewal projects on High Street and St. Phillips Street, and more than $800,000 dedicated to pavement renewal projects throughout Bridgewater.

- Detailed construction design work ahead of future infrastructure and paving improvement projects earmarked for Empire Street.

- Ongoing investment in infrastructure work in the Bridgewater Business Park and the lands surrounding the new Exit 12A interchange, amounting to approximately $3.6 million.

► The Town's commitment to core services and strategic priorities remains strong, including allocations for Fire Protection ($1.5 million), Bridgewater Police Service ($4.0 million net), and REMO ($31,458).

Energize Bridgewater's PACE program has been expanded to allow more homeowners to make affordable housing upgrades that will save them money over the longer term. The Town also continues its investment in Bridgewater Transit service, which has seen ridership remain strong, even through the pandemic.

► Council is also investing in several initiatives designed to enhance quality of life in the community and enhance Bridgewater's profile as a desirable destination:

- An allotment of $230,000 total has been earmarked for Bridgewater Memorial Arena, with renovations scheduled to take place this year in the second-floor Auditorium. Additional renovations will also take place on the main floor stemming from the planned removal of the Annex, while roof repairs for the building will be carried over from 21-22 and completed this spring.

- The pilot project to provide wintertime maintenance to select trails in Bridgewater is being continued and there will also be additional investments made to enhance the wintertime sidewalk clearing program.

- Council is also investing in placemaking and the community's Active Transportation Plan, with the implementation of a trail on High Street and dedicated park improvements throughout the community.

- Bridgewater is also continuing to support non-profit organizations in the community and the work they do through $29,000 in direct investments by way of grants, and approximately $100,000 in indirect support by way of property tax exemptions.

► Download the full budget document at www.bridgewater.ca/budget22.

WATCH THE MEETING -- To watch the final meeting and approval for the 2022-2023 Town of Bridgewater Capital & Operating Budgets, click here.

"The investments we make in our town today will continue to pay dividends for years to come," Mayor Mitchell said. "From wastewater to roads, from community safety to various programs and services, we know the work that needs to be done and this budget helps get us there."

In the Spring of 2022, our partners from McGill University will be conducting a survey about energy costs for Bridgewater residents, and we want to hear from you! Visit www.energizebridgewater.ca/news for the latest details including updates on when the survey has launched.

You will be able to participate online, over the phone, or in person. Meanwhile, if you have any questions, contact the research team at 902-930-2561 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

? PROPOSED FORESTRY ACTIVITIES IN OUR WATERSHED
>>> How you can have your say on the harvesting proposal being considered by the Province

The Town of Bridgewater and the Public Service Commission of Bridgewater (PSCB), which oversees water services for our community, have been made aware of the proposal to harvest forest on Crown Lands located within the protected watershed area that serves our community.

A consultation process is now being carried out by the Department of Natural Resources on this proposal. The Town and PSCB have a detailed Source Water Protection Plan for our watershed area and both organizations are committed to ensuring stewardship of the watershed and protecting the quality of our drinking water supply.

Our organizations intend to provide comment on the proposal through the Province's consultation process and we encourage members of the public to take a few minutes to participate in that process as well.

To share your thoughts on the proposed harvesting on Crown Lands within the Town's watershed area, visit https://nsgi.novascotia.ca/hpmv/ and zoom in on the highlighted lands near Minamkeak Lake in Lunenburg County.

Then, click the "envelope/arrow" icon on the left side of the map. You will be prompted to click on the map and select an area to submit a comment. You may wish to do this for each different highlighted parcel in the area of Minamkeak Lake.

The proposals will be open for public comment until April 23, 2022.

For more information on Bridgewater's Source Water Protection Plan, visit www.bridgewater.ca/swp.

We invite you to share this message.

SCHEDULED SEWER CLEANING - SMITH/PINECREST AREA
The public is advised that sewer cleaning is scheduled to take place in the Smith and Pinecrest areas of Bridgewater for a two-week period from Monday, February 28 through March 11, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily and weather permitting.

WHAT ARE SEWERS?
Sewers are underground pipes that carry wastewater from homes and businesses to the wastewater treatment plants where it is treated and then released to the river. Everything you pour down your drains or flush down your toilet goes into a sewer.

WHY DO YOU CLEAN THE SEWERS?
The cleaning and inspection program keeps the sewer system operating efficiently by:
• Helping prevent blockages and backups.
• Removing built-up debris, such as tree roots, grease, grit and sand.
• Determining the condition of the sewer so we can repair or replace sewers as necessary.

HOW DO YOU CLEAN THE SEWERS?
We use a high-pressure nozzle to flush water down the sewer. The dirt and debris are sucked up through a manhole by a large vacuum truck and taken to the landfill.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLEAN SEWERS ON EACH STREET?
It usually takes about one day to clean the sewer on each block. However, some sewers can take longer, depending on their size and condition.

DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING BEFORE YOU CLEAN THE SEWERS ON MY STREET?
Yes. Occasionally during cleaning and inspection, air pressure in the sewer can cause water to splash out through toilets, sinks and drains.

Take the following precautions to prevent water damage in your home:
• Close the lids on all toilet bowls when not in use.
• Insert drain plugs in all sinks and bathtubs when not in use.
• Remove all floor mats in bathrooms.
• Place an old towel around the base of toilets.
• If you have a float plug in your floor drain or a backwater valve installed in your house, ensure that it is free of debris and operating properly.
• Wrap the cover of your basement floor drains with plastic (i.e., a freezer bag). Place something heavy over the floor drains to keep the plastic-covered floor drain covers in place.

You may put things back as they were when the equipment has moved off your block.

WILL I NOTICE ANYTHING AFTER YOU HAVE CLEANED THE SEWERS ON MY STREET?
Sometimes the sewer cleaning and inspection leaves an odour in the home. If so, run some water down the sink and bathtub drains, flush the toilets, pour a pail of water into each basement floor drain and open the windows. After a short time, the odour should disappear.

CAN I USE THE TOILETS AND MY WATER WHILE YOU ARE CLEANING ON MY BLOCK?
Yes. However, be careful as air pressure in the sewer during the cleaning and inspection can sometimes cause water to splash out through toilets, sinks and drains. Remember to close the lids on all toilet bowls when not in use and insert drain plugs in all sinks and bathtubs when not in use.

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN YOU ARE CLEANING THE SEWERS ON MY STREET?
In most cases, we will put a notice in your mailbox before we clean the sewers on your street. If we need to clean the sewer quickly because of a blockage, we won't have time to let you know in advance.

WHEN DO YOU CLEAN AND INSPECT SEWERS?
We have two types of programs:
1. A sewer cleaning program only: We move around the Town all year cleaning areas where there are persistent problems and doing emergency work to clear blockages.
2. A sewer cleaning and inspection program: We clean and inspect sewers in selected areas of the town each year, usually from November to April, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We realize that the equipment is very noisy and may disturb residents. Sometimes this cannot be avoided and we appreciate your patience.

? CAPITAL BUDGET MEETING THIS WEEK
On Wednesday, January 19, 2022, Bridgewater Town Council will meet for its first public budget discussion on the 2022-2023 Capital Budget.

This meeting will be held virtually and will be livestreamed publicly on the Town of Bridgewater's Facebook page. Even if you are not a Facebook user, you will still be able to watch the meeting live at https://www.facebook.com/BridgewaterNS/live. A recording of the meeting will also subsequently posted to the Town's YouTube channel.

❓ WHAT IS THE CAPITAL BUDGET
The Town's budget is divided into two sections: the Operating Budget and the Capital Budget.

The Operating Budget is the normal day-to-day budget that provides services to the town's residents and businesses.

The Capital Budget is the part of the budget that focuses on long-term investments and includes things like roads, sewers, and water infrastructure improvements as well as improvements to facilities.

? YOUR INPUT
Each year as part of its budget process, the Town of Bridgewater invites input from the public prior to approval. Budget approval is tentatively scheduled for April 11, 2022. An additional Capital Budget meeting may take place on Monday, January 24, 2022, if required. The Operating Budget meetings are scheduled for Monday, March 28, and Monday, April 4, 2022, with additional meetings taking place as may be required. All budget meetings will be livestreamed and made available to the public online.

As the budget process unfolds, there will be several opportunities for you to provide feedback. At any time, you can submit your comments and suggestions for the 2022-2023 budget to the Director of Finance at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also keep an eye out for our annual online budget feedback form, which will be launched in the coming weeks and promoted on the Town's social media. Finally, you can also talk directly with your members of Town Council about what you would like to see in the budget or ask questions about Council's priorities. For contact information for members of Town Council, visit www.bridgewater.ca/council.