Public Engagement Session – Port Hood Park

You’re invited: Port Hood Community Park Public Engagement Session

Work is well underway on designing a new vibrant community park project in the heart of Port Hood. To support the ongoing design process, residents are invited to attend a public engagement session to learn more and share their input.

Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Location: St. Peter’s Parish Hall, Port Hood

What to expect:

Design consultants from Glenn Group Landscape Architects and Park Planners will present potential design concepts based on community input gathered to date, including feedback from a recent online survey. This is a chance for residents to view the initial plans and provide additional ideas or comments to help shape the next phase of the design.

Next steps:

Following the engagement session, a revised design will be developed. Once finalized and funding is secured, the project will move into the construction phase.

For more information or if you have questions about the project, visit Port Hood Community Park Project, email construction@invernesscounty.ca or call 1-866-258-0223, select option #5.

June Physical Activity Challenge Announced

Municipality of Inverness County Gears up for ParticipACTION Community Challenge

The ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk, is back, and the Municipality of Inverness County is ready to get moving!

This national initiative encourages individuals and communities across Canada to embrace the benefits of physical activity, both for health and for fun. The challenge also brings a significant opportunity: the chance to be named Canada’s Most Active Community and earn a $100,000 prize to invest in local sport and recreation activities.

The Municipality of Inverness County is calling on residents to take part!

Here’s how you can join the movement:

Local organizations: Register your June physical activity programs and events on the ParticipACTION website. Track participation to help the municipality’s chance of winning.
Individuals: Sign up on the ParticipACTION website and take the pledge to be active throughout June, whether at home, school, work, or in your neighbourhood. Every step counts!

“We’ve consistently been ranked among the top communities in Nova Scotia, and we’re ready to push even harder this year!” said Jason Calder, Recreation Program Coordinator. In fact, in 2023 Inverness County was crowned the Most Active Community in Nova Scotia. This year, we are aiming to be the most active in Canada!”

Municipal Challenge

To support the ParticipACTION Community Challenge, the municipality will also be running a physical activity challenge throughout June. Starting June 1, residents can submit their minutes of activity (e.g. 120 minutes of activity) by email to recreation@invernesscounty.ca to compete for prizes of fitness equipment and gift cards from the Recreation & Community Wellness Department.

Participants are also welcome to include photos with their submissions to help celebrate active living in our communities. Sharing a photo is optional, but submitted images may be featured on the Municipality’s Facebook page.

About the ParticipACTION Community Challenge

The Community Challenge is a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June in search of Canada’s Most Active Community. The challenge is open to all communities and individuals, ultimately recognizing Canada’s Most Active Community and awarding it $100,000 to support local physical activity and sport initiatives. In addition to the national winner, there is also a prize for the most active community in each province and territory as well as organization prizing.

The ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk is proudly funded by the Government of Canada and Novo Nordisk.

Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Events Announced

May 9, 2025

Municipality of Inverness County Announces Spring 2025 Residential Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Events

The Municipality of Inverness County will host two Household Hazardous Waste Residential Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Events on Thursday, June 5, 2025. These events, which are free to residents of the municipality, provide residents with an opportunity to safely and conveniently dispose of hazardous materials that are not collected through regular waste collection or accepted at municipal waste management facilities.

Event Details:

Judique Firehall

30 River Denys Rd. Judique

4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Margaree Firemen’s Club

7811 Cabot Trail, Margaree Forks

4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Accepted materials:

1lb propane cylinders
Household cleaners
Pesticides
Bleach
Fire extinguishers
Helium tanks
Pool chemicals
Paint thinner/Varsol

Commercial and biohazardous waste will not be accepted.

Residents are encouraged to use the Waste Wizard online at www.invernesscounty.ca/services/sortitout/ for questions regarding waste disposal. Broader questions regarding solid waste may be directed to waste@invernesscounty.ca or by calling toll-free 1-866-258-0223, select option #1.

Statement: Lapu-Lapu Festival, British Columbia

May 2, 2025

Municipality of Inverness County Statement: Lapu-Lapu Festival, British Columbia

On this day of mourning in British Columbia, we, the Warden, Council Members, and staff of the Municipality of Inverness County extend our deepest condolences to the Filipino community. The recent tragedy during the Lapu-Lapu Festival in British Columbia was a senseless act that has caused profound grief and loss.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have been affected, and with all members of the Filipino Canadian community during this difficult time, including those who call Inverness County home. We share in your sorrow.

As a municipality that values diversity, inclusion, and the strength of multicultural communities, we recognize the immense contributions of Filipino Canadians to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our province. This loss is felt by us all.

May those who have been lost rest in peace, and may their loved ones find comfort and strength in the support of their communities and neighbors.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Warden Bonny MacIsaac
On behalf of Municipality of Inverness County

Gaelic Nova Scotia Month

May is Gaelic Nova Scotia Month, which is a time to celebrate and promote awareness of the history, culture, language, contributions, and achievements of Gaels across the province.
This year’s theme is “‘S ann beò a tha a’ Ghàidhlig an Albainn Nuaidh | Gaelic Lives in Nova Scotia.” One third of Nova Scotians are descendants of Gaels from the Scottish Highlands who settled here in the 1700s and 1800s. While not all speak the Gaelic language, our heritage and identity remain vital elements of Nova Scotia life.

To celebrate, the Municipality of Inverness County is proudly displaying a Gaelic flag and shared a proclamation during the Regular Council Meeting on Thursday, May 8.

Read the Gaelic & English proclamations here:

Proclamations

To learn more about Gaelic Nova Scotia Month, visit www.gaelic.ca.

Tax Sale by Public Auction

Pursuant to Part VI of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) of Nova Scotia, take notice that the following mentioned lands situated in the Municipality of the County of Inverness will be sold for arrears of rates, taxes, interest and expenses as set forth below on May 27, 2025 10:00 AM at St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 260 Main Street, Port Hood.

For a more detailed description of the property, contact the Municipality of the County of Inverness by calling (902) 787-3510 or by email at beverly.macdonald@invernesscounty.ca.

TERMS: Payment of Cash,Certified Cheque, Money Order, Debit, Bank Draft or Lawyer’s trust cheque to cover rates, taxes, interest and expenses must be made at the time of the sale. The balance of the Purchase Price, if any, must be made within three (3) days of the sale by cash, debit, certified cheque, bank draft, money order or Lawyer’s trust cheque. $200.00 is also required at the time of the sale to cover recording fees of the Certificate of Purchase and Deed, refundable if the property is redeemed.

View Additional Information

Municipal Planning Strategy & Land Use Bylaw -Info Session Invite

April 29, 2025

Municipality of Inverness County & Eastern District Planning Commission to Host Information Session

In 2018, the Province of Nova Scotia passed legislation through Bill 58 that required every municipality (and all land within the municipalities’ area of responsibility) to be subject to a Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw.

In response, the Municipality of Inverness County launched Plan Inverness, a project to develop a new Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw. This project is part of Plan Eastern Nova, a joint initiative with the Counties of Antigonish, Richmond, and Victoria to bring consistent land use planning to Eastern Nova Scotia.

In support of this work, the Municipality of the County of Inverness and the Eastern District Planning Commission is inviting the public to attend an upcoming information session regarding the proposed new Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw.

Information Session

Wednesday, May 7, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
St. Peter’s Parish Hall, 260 Main St., Port Hood

This session offers community members an opportunity to meet directly with representatives from the Eastern District Planning Commission, learn more about the proposed new documents, and ask questions.

Following the information session, a public hearing will be held to formally receive input from residents.

Public Hearing

Wednesday, May 7, 2025
6:00 p.m.
Council Chambers, Municipal Administration Building, 375 Main St., Port Hood

Members of the public may submit oral or written presentations either in support of or in opposition to the proposed changes. Written submissions may be sent in advance to:

Debbie Nicholson
P.O. Box 179, Port Hood, NS B0E 2W0
Debbie.Nicholson@invernesscounty.ca

Draft documents are available for public review at the following links:

Printed copies can also be reviewed at:

Municipal Administration Building, 375 Main St., Port Hood
Eastern District Planning Commission office, 606 Reeves St., Unit 3, Port Hawkesbury

Following the public hearing, Municipal Council will consider adopting the proposed strategy and bylaw at its regular meeting scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

For more information, please contact the Eastern District Planning Commission toll-free at 1-888-625-5361.

About Eastern District Planning Commission:

In Nova Scotia, it is a legal requirement to obtain development and/or building permits before starting any construction on a site or building. For residents of the Municipality of Inverness County, these services are provided by Eastern District Planning Commission (EDPC).

Inverness Outfall Partial Replacement Beach Work Complete

April 29, 2025

Municipality of Inverness County Announces Completion of Inverness Beach Work

The Municipality of Inverness County is pleased to announce the successful substantial completion of the Inverness Wastewater Treatment Plant – Outfall Partial Replacement Project. This vital infrastructure upgrade involved the replacement of a section of the outfall pipe that safely transports treated effluent from the treatment plant into the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Remaining work includes the installation of a valve on the end of the outfall pipe. This will happen from the water and is expected to have no impact on the public.

As part of the restoration efforts, dune grass has been replanted in the impacted area, and spruce boughs will be placed to help protect the delicate dune ecosystem. The area will continue to be monitored over the next year to ensure successful regrowth and environmental stabilization.

Additionally, a section of the boardwalk, which was removed to facilitate the project and had deteriorated over time, has been replaced with a newly constructed segment, improving accessibility and safety for beachgoers.

“The successful replacement of the outfall is a major step forward, not only for the Inverness Wastewater Treatment Plant project but for the long-term health and vitality of the community and county,” said Melanie Beaton, Deputy CAO for the Municipality. “This work reflects our municipal commitment to building resilient infrastructure that protects the environment, supports future growth, and ensures the community and county of Inverness remains a thriving place for generations to come.”

The Municipality extends its gratitude to community for their patience and respect of the project’s safety measures, along with the Government of Canada, Province of Nova Scotia, CBCL Engineering & Environmental Design Services, Zutphen Contractors, and Davis MacIntyre & Associates Limited for their expertise, flexibility, and commitment to this important project.

For a complete overview of the project, along with photos taken throughout the duration of the project, visit Inverness Wastewater Treatment Plant – Outfall Partial Replacement Project .

Flower Potting Series Continues – Registration Open

Municipality of Inverness County to Host Flower Potting Workshops

The Municipality of Inverness County is hosting a series of flower potting workshops throughout the County. Administered through the Recreation and Community Wellness Department, the workshops aim to bring people together and reduce social isolation, improve overall well-being, and share knowledge with friends. The workshops will be hosted in the communities of Inverness and Chéticamp.

Workshop Details:

Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location: Rodney Room, Inverness Manor, 72 Maple Street, Inverness

Date: Friday, May 9, 2025

Time: 1:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m.

Location: La Salle des Retraités de Chéticamp, 15108 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp

Each participant will be planting their own large flowerpots just in time for spring. The workshop will be led by knowledgeable gardeners who can answer any planting questions. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided.

Registration:

To attend, advance registration is required, and the cost is $10 per person. Please contact Maggie MacDonald, Accessibility Coordinator, at Maggie.macdonald@invernesscounty.ca or by phone at (902) 258-7960 to reserve a spot.

Inverness County Celebrates Healthcare Heroes

April 24, 2025

Municipality of Inverness County Celebrates Healthcare Professionals’ Excellence at Awards Gala

The Municipality of Inverness County proudly celebrated the outstanding contributions of local healthcare professionals at the first annual Awards for Excellence in Healthcare, held at a gala event at the Canton Culturel de Chéticamp on April 23.

Nearly 140 community members gathered to honour the remarkable individuals and teams who go above and beyond in caring for residents across Inverness County.

2025 Award Recipients:

• Dr. Raymond Lok, Outstanding Physician

• Mary Anderson, Outstanding Nurse Practitioner

• Yvon Pino, Outstanding Allied Health Professional

• Edith Anne MacKay, Outstanding Nurse

• Lori Ann Gillis, Outstanding Palliative Care Professional

• Graham Patrick McIsaac, Outstanding Young Healthcare Professional

• Inverness Cancer Care Clinic, Outstanding Collaborative Care Team

“It was a beautiful evening, and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our incredible healthcare workers,” said Warden Bonny MacIsaac, Municipality of Inverness County. “On behalf of the Municipality, I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the nomination process and joined us last evening to make the event so memorable. I also want to extend heartfelt congratulations to all the well-deserving winners.”

Each award winner received a unique stained-glass ornament, handcrafted by local Acadian artist Polycarpe LeBlanc of Polycarpe Glass Art. The designs reflected the natural beauty of their home communities: scenic views of Le Buttereau for Chéticamp honourees, and a depiction of Margaree Island for those from Inverness.

Attendees had the chance to hear from a variety of guests including Dr. Annalee Coakely, Assistant Dean of Student and Resident Affairs with the Cape Breton Medical Campus on behalf of Cape Breton University President & Chancellor, David Dingwall, Senator Réjean Aucoin,MLA Kyle MacQuarrie, Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone Executive Director of Community & Rural Health, Glenn Cox and Director of Integrated Rural Health, Andrew Heighton. Ginette Chiasson was the MC for the event and gave a wonderful bilingual presentation.

Special Leadership Recognition:

In addition to the individual and team awards, two special honours were presented to recognize exceptional leadership in healthcare.

• Heather Gillis, Site Lead at Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital

• Johanne Doucet, Site Lead at Sacred Heart Community Health Centre

Both were celebrated for their dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Funded by the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment and Doctors Nova Scotia, the Inverness County Awards for Excellence in Healthcare is set to become an annual tradition, recognizing and uplifting the healthcare heroes who make a difference every day.