Today, more than ever, strong coordination is required amongst the various levels of government. Intergovernmental cooperation is key to ensuring success in meeting citizen needs, and providing effective and efficient public service.

Each level of government has a different mandate for the types of services they are responsible for, along with various methods of providing services to their citizens. Understanding the authority and responsibility of each level of government is key to understanding how to develop intergovernmental relationships. Maximizing the benefits of the different responsibility areas, and coordinating the activities of each level, further enhances overall service to the public.

Municipal governments are the closest point of intersection to the community and the citizen. In Nova Scotia, the municipal mandate, roles and responsibilities are set out in the provincial Municipal Government Act (MGA). The growing significance of municipal governments in an urbanized country is now being recognized. HRM needs to capitalize on this opportunity and work with our government (and non-government) partners to further common objectives.

In undertaking government relations and partnership development, HRM is committed to:

- focussing on priorities
- setting clear goals that address public good
- collaboration
- creating solutions
- providing credible, reliable, factual information

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jennifer Church
Managing Director of External & Corporate Affairs
Halifax Regional Municipality
(902) 490-3677
(902) 401-7547 cell