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 Dec. 10, 2019
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.
Previous highlights of recent Council decisions
Fighting food insecurity in the municipality
Its estimated that 1 in 5 households in the municipality experience food insecurity. The municipality has a key role to play in tackling this complex issue.
Regional Council has affirmed the municipality’s membership on the Halifax Food Policy Alliance (HFPA) steering committee and has endorsed in principle the Halifax Food Charter, which will act as a guiding document for the Halifax Food Action Plan.
Further, Council has directed the CAO to negotiate a contribution agreement with the HFPA towards the development of the Halifax Food Action Plan.
Read the report for more information.
Regional Destination Development Plan gets green light
From conventions, to festivals, and sporting events, the municipality plays host to many tourists. To help prioritize efforts and investments related to tourism, Discover Halifax is leading the development of a Regional Destination Development Plan.
Regional Council has endorsed the plan and has approved a contribution of $50,000 towards the development of the plan. Outputs of the plan will include the identification of leading opportunities, and a five-year implementation, monitoring and evaluation plan to drive economic growth.
For more information, read the report from Audit and Finance Standing Committee and from Community Planning and Economic Development Standing Committee.