Queens County wide By-law close to law

“It’s time to get it approved and in place,” said Mayor John Leefe.

Council met on June 23 to discuss issues brought up during the public hearing held on June 10, and hear any final words from the public. Mayor Leefe said the views were generally positive and encouraging from the public.

No more public meetings are going to be held, but Mayor Leefe said citizens still have the opportunity to speak during the public comments section of the council meeting. The public can also contact their councillor, Region Planner Mike MacLeod or Mayor Leefe if they have any other concerns they wish to share.

Final reading and voting will take place on July 20 during regular council.

The document will then go to the Minister of Service Nova Scotia for the department to either approve or reject. This can take up to 90 days.

Most, if not all, issues raised during the public meeting were addressed, and changes were made in some areas. For example, the definition of a qualified person was added.

At the public meeting, one criticism that came forward was the language was too difficult to understand for most people.

Mayor Leefe said it simply couldn't be changed, because it is a legal document. “It has to be written in a language that will stand the test of the courts, should any of it be challenged.”

They discussed the issue of industrial land set aside, and council felt it was enough. However the document leaves the possibility of adding more if needed. The land-use bylaws are meant to be a living document, which means changes can be made in the future even after it is approved.

Mayor Leefe also took time to thank those involved over the years. “Council is very grateful for all the work put in by the area advisory committees, the citizens on the planning advisory committee and all of those who have taken the time to come to the public sessions.”