Highlighted below are a few recent decisions by Regional Council that reflect steps being taken by the municipality to make a difference in the Halifax region. For more details regarding all matters deliberated by Council and the direction given to municipal staff, please see the action summaries which are posted to the online meeting agendas within one business day as well as the meeting minutes which are posted online once approved by Regional Council.
Highlights from 14 Jan, 2020
Police service review recommendations have been accepted
In April 2018, Regional Council directed Halifax Regional Police (HRP) conduct a service review of the HRP and RCMP to prepare a recommendation report regarding the provision of adequate, efficient and effective policing in the municipality.
Regional Council has directed staff to accept and implement the recommendations from the Police Service Review with the exceptions of recommendations 1,2, and 20. The accepted recommendations will support the current policing model, while offering enhancements to the current strategic and operational processes.
Read the report for more information.
Eastern Passage area to have weekly recycling collection in 2021
The frequency of recycling collection varies across the eight collection areas of the municipality, as either weekly or bi-weekly collection. Though these areas have not changed significantly since amalgamation, whether an area receives weekly or bi-weekly collection is determined largely by lot size and financial considerations throughout the region.
The Eastern Passage area, including Cow Bay will begin to receive weekly recyclables collection as of July 2021, when the next collection contract cycle begins.
For more information, read the report.
Previous highlights of recent Council decisions
Community stadium update
Regional Council has directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to negotiate a one-time contribution of $20 million towards construction costs of a community stadium, payable upon substantial completion of the facility.
The contribution agreement with the stadium proponent, Schooners Sports & Entertainment, is subject to the selection of a site with optimal access to major transportation routes and necessary infrastructure acceptable to Regional Council.
Per Council direction, the municipality will not own or operate the stadium and there will be no municipal funds directed towards cost sharing in capital, operating or maintenance costs of the facility.
The CAO will return to Regional Council for approval of the site and contribution agreement before construction commences.
For more information, read the report.
Changes coming to Halifax Common
The municipality has completed extensive consultation on the future of the Halifax Common. Since the outset of the project, the current aquatic facility was labeled as a priority outcome of the consultation, due to its age and condition.
Regional Council has directed the CAO to initiate the capital planning and construction of the Halifax Common aquatics facility and related infrastructure, and to work with stakeholders to develop plans for the accommodation of uses such as a youth music and arts program within the aquatic facility and other nearby community spaces.
For more information, read the report.
Formalized strategy for the development of supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites
Regional Council has directed the CAO to formalize discussions with the provincial government, community partners and other stakeholders to co-develop a drug strategy for safer consumption.
Supervised consumptions sites (SCAs) provide hygienic environments where people can consume their own drugs, under supervision. These facilities can save lives while also reducing the social, economic and health risks associated with substance use.
Learn more by reading the report.