Media Releases
More Governance Transition for the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society
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- Published: Wednesday, 29 October 2025 14:00
The Municipality of Colchester has given notice to the Town of Truro and management of the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society to end the existing Operating Agreement for the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC). This decision will result in governance structure changes to improve future operations and building conditions at the RECC and is not expected to impact immediate day-to-day service at the facility.
It is Colchester Council’s view that the management of the RECC has been compromised since contracts to lease and manage the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition property (NSPE) were signed by Society management without municipal approval in 2024. It’s believed that the initiative to manage two large complexes has not served the RECC well, resulting in a divided mandate and diluted efforts.
A new governance structure is anticipated to help speed up the resolution of the unauthorized contracts and refocus much-needed energy and attention on the RECC facility, enabling it to better serve community needs as intended.
This decision is not a reflection of support for a viable NSPE. The Municipality is and will always be a proud supporter of efforts to make the NSPE grounds viable and will be working collaboratively with the Province to support signature events like the Provincial Exhibition and the Nova Scotia Stampede moving forward.
The Municipality emphasizes that this decision is also in no way a reflection of the efforts of the Society’s Board. The Municipality greatly values their contributions and sincerely appreciates their time and commitment.
The Municipality extends its appreciation to the Board members of the Society and looks forward to working through this transition period to advance the interests of the RECC and the community.
Council Approves 2025/26 Operating Budget – No Increase in Tax Rates
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- Published: Friday, 25 April 2025 09:11
Colchester County Council has officially approved its 2025/26 operating budget with no increase to residential or commercial tax rates. This marks the seventh time in eight years that the Municipality has held tax rates steady, with only a modest half-cent increase occurring in 2019.
Residential property owners will continue to pay $0.885 and commercial property owners $2.28 per $100 of assessed value, as determined by Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC), the independent, not-for-profit agency responsible for all property assessments in Nova Scotia.
This year’s balanced operating budget totals just over $45 million, up from $42 million last year. The increase is supported by strong local growth, including new builds, resulting in a 7.63% rise in residential tax revenue and a 2.27% rise in commercial revenue, allowing the Municipality to expand services without raising rates.
The 2025/26 budget maintains support for core programs and services, while investing in critical infrastructure, economic development, and community wellbeing. Funding continues for the County’s comprehensive grant programs supporting local not-for-profit and volunteer organizations.
“Council reviews requests from many dedicated community groups each year,” said Mayor Christine Blair. “These organizations—often volunteer-run—are the backbone of our communities, providing vital services and facilities. We’re proud to continue our support for their incredible work.”
Despite increasing financial pressures, including rising mandatory contributions to the Province, Council has delivered a responsible, forward-looking budget. This year, over 43% of the Municipality’s tax revenue—$19.3 million—will be transferred to the Province to fund services such as education, libraries, policing, and assessment. Education costs alone rose by $828,000, following last year’s $973,000 increase, while policing costs increased by $434,000, building on a $670,000 rise in 2024.
That leaves $25.7 million to fund essential local services such as wastewater treatment, environmental planning, recreation, and solid waste management.
“This budget is a reflection of smart planning, strong growth, and a deep commitment to our residents. Holding the line on tax rates—while still expanding services and supporting vital community initiatives—is no small achievement. I’m proud of the work Council and staff have done to ensure we’re not only meeting today’s needs but preparing for a stronger, more resilient future.” – Mayor Christine Blair.
Joint Regional Transit Feasibility Study
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- Published: Thursday, 20 March 2025 09:22
Town of Truro and Municipality of Colchester Announce Joint Regional Transit Feasibility Study
Truro, NS – March 20, 2025 – The Municipality of the County of Colchester and the Town of Truro are pleased to announce the launch of a collaborative initiative to explore the feasibility of introducing new public transit options in the region. The municipalities have retained Arcadis, in collaboration with Colliers Project Leaders, to conduct a Regional Transit Feasibility Study that aims to explore how new transit solutions can connect communities, enhance economic opportunities, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve social equity throughout the Truro and Colchester region.
This study marks an important step toward improving transportation infrastructure and fostering more sustainable and accessible mobility options. By assessing various public transit models, the project will consider how best to serve the diverse needs of residents, businesses, and visitors, with a strong focus on economic, environmental, and social outcomes.
The municipalities are committed to ensuring that the views, ideas, and concerns of the community are central to the planning process. An engagement strategy has been developed to gather meaningful feedback from residents, community organizations, local businesses, transit users, and other identified groups and stakeholders. Community engagement will run from March to May and consist of a variety of outreach activities, including a stakeholder workshop and interviews, pop-up information centres, and two public surveys.
"We are excited to embark on this important initiative with the Municipality of Colchester," said Cathy Hinton, Mayor of the Town of Truro. "Public input is critical to understanding the needs of our community and how best we can create a transit system that works for everyone. Together, we can develop a plan that not only improves transportation but also contributes to a more sustainable and equitable future."
The study is expected to evaluate different models of public transit that could be implemented across the region, taking into account environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. It will also explore potential partnerships and funding opportunities, with the goal of building a transportation network that enhances the quality of life for all residents.
"We believe this study represents a significant opportunity to enhance transportation in our region, reduce environmental impact, and improve accessibility for all," said Christine Blair, Mayor of the Municipality of Colchester. "The success of this project depends on the active participation of the public, and we encourage everyone to get involved and have their say."
The first public survey will be open from April 1-22, 2025, and will seek insights into residents’ current transportation challenges. Further details about engagement activities will be shared in the coming weeks.
For more information on the Regional Transit Feasibility Study or to learn how you can participate in upcoming engagement activities, please follow the Town of Truro or Municipality of Colchester's social media or visit their websites.
Together, the Town of Truro and the Municipality of Colchester look forward to working with the community to explore innovative public transit solutions that will benefit everyone in the region.
For more information, contact:
Alison Grant
Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Communications
Town of Truro
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (902) 893-1434
or
Joanna Burris
Sustainability Planner
Municipality of the County of Colchester
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (902) 897-3170
French River Watershed Designated as Protected Water Area
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- Published: Thursday, 27 January 2022 09:03
Provincial Environment Minister Tim Halman has designated the French River Watershed as a Protected Water Area. As a result, the watershed that gives people of Tatamagouche their drinking water is now protected provincially, further safeguarding access to quality water for area residents.
The application process for the Protected Water Area designation was initiated by the Municipality of Colchester in 2018. Extensive public consultation, including a public survey and community meetings, supported the application and informed the regulations implemented to protect the watershed area.
“It was clear from the public consultation process that most area residents were in favour of advancing the application for the Protected Water Area designation,” said Christine Blair, Mayor of the Municipality of Colchester. “Clean water is one of the most fundamental needs of a community. It is essential to human health, a healthy environment, and a sustainable economy. We are pleased to be able to protect this valuable resource for generations both now and into the future.”
The Protected Water Area regulations protect drinking water supplies by giving municipalities the authority to manage watersheds, including restricting or prohibiting activities that may impact water quality or quantity. Now that the watershed is designated as a Protected Water Area the Tatamagouche Water Utility, owned and operated by the Municipality, is responsible for protecting the area and enforcing the regulations.
“The watershed provides water for the village of Tatamagouche. It’s important that we maintain the pristine water that the village is fortunate enough to have. I am pleased the government has taken into consideration the work that was done to protect the watershed and has designated it as a Protected Water Area. Kudos need to go to the staff of the Municipality for the work that went into getting here and to the community for standing up to be heard. I am over the moon,” said Michael Gregory, Councillor, Municipality of Colchester and Chair of the Tatamagouche Source Water Protection Committee.