February Feedback Loop Survey Focuses on Youth
The Municipality of Inverness County is launching the February edition of The Feedback Loop survey today, February 19, with a focus on youth.
The Feedback Loop is a monthly survey initiative designed to gather resident feedback on a variety of municipal topics throughout 2026. Surveys are released on the third Thursday of each month, inviting residents to share their perspectives, experiences, and ideas.
“We were thrilled to see many responses to our January survey on winter recreation programming and hope to see that momentum continue,” says Warden Bonny MacIsaac, Municipality of Inverness County. “Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate and share their perspectives. The more responses we receive, the stronger the information our staff can use to guide decisions and, where possible, implement improvements.”
While this month’s survey focuses on youth, residents of all ages are encouraged to participate and have their say.
The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and all responses remain anonymous.
Residents can complete the survey online, with paper copies available at the Municipal Administration Building, 375 Main St., Port Hood and various locations throughout the County.
The survey will close on March 18, with the next survey launching March 19.
As participation grows and feedback is collected, the Municipality will compile and share summary reports highlighting key themes and insights gathered from residents.
For more information, including a list of locations where paper copies are available, visit The Feedback Loop | Municipality of the County of Inverness .
PSA: Port Hood Fire Hydrant Replacement
Port Hood Fire Hydrant Replacement – Temporary Water Service Interruption
The Municipality of Inverness County advises residents that municipal staff will be replacing a fire hydrant in Port Hood on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
As a result of this work, nearby residents will experience a temporary interruption in water service. Traffic control personnel will be on site, and the roadway will be reduced to one lane during the replacement process. Motorists are asked to proceed slowly and exercise caution.
Project Details:
- Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2025
- Time: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Should additional time be required, the Municipality will provide an update. - Fire Hydrant Location: Main St., Port Hood, near 165 Main St., Port Hood
Residents Affected:
It is anticipated that residents from 105 to 207 Main Street may be affected; however, the impacted area could extend beyond or fall short of this range. Residents in the surrounding area are advised to prepare accordingly.
How to Prepare:
- Fill containers with drinking water in advance.
- Fill your bathtub to ensure water is available for flushing toilets.
- Monitor the Municipality’s website and Facebook page for updates regarding service restoration.
Residents are encouraged to share this advisory with neighbours, friends, and visitors to help ensure everyone remains informed.
The Municipality thanks residents for their patience and cooperation and apologizes for any inconvenience this temporary disruption may cause.
Inverness County Annual Volunteer Recognition Program Kicks Off
The Municipality of Inverness County is inviting residents to nominate outstanding local volunteers through its Annual Volunteer Recognition Program, celebrating the people who work hard everyday to help communities across the County thrive.
The program recognizes volunteers for their contributions with a certificate of recognition and a gift certificate from a Municipality of Inverness County business of their choice.
Recognition continues throughout the year through weekly volunteer highlights on the Municipality’s official Facebook page and featured in the Summer 2026 issue of the Participaper.
The program kicks off during National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026), which highlights volunteerism across Canada.
How to nominate:
- Submit your form online: Online Form Submission | Municipality of the County of Inverness
- Contact Culture & Community Development Project Coordinator, Shannon MacLean at maclean@invernesscounty.ca or 1-866-258-0223, select option #7.
Nomination Deadline: April 10, 2026
Early-Bird Nomination Deadline: March 13, 2026
All early-bird nominees will be entered into a draw for the opportunity to represent Inverness County at the Provincial Volunteer Recognition Ceremony in September.
Residents looking for inspiration are encouraged to review the 2025 Inverness County Volunteers of the Year here.
We thank our volunteers for their continued dedication and service.
To learn more about the awards, visit Volunteer Recognition | Municipality of the County of Inverness .
PSA: Judique Voluntary Water Conservation Directive Ends
The Municipality of Inverness County is advising that the voluntary water conservation directive for Judique water system users has ended today, February 4, 2026.
The municipality thanks the community for their patience and cooperation.
Please share this message with friends, family, and neighbors who may not receive this notice.
Reminder: Detect and Report Leaks
Leaks can waste thousands of litres of water and often go unnoticed. Watch for:
- Persistent puddles or soggy ground
- Running water or unexplained streams
- Sudden drops in water pressure
If you suspect a water leak in your community, please report it immediately by calling 1-866-258-0223, select option #9.
Council Marks Day of Girls and Women in Sport
February 9, 2026
Council Marks Day of Girls and Women in Sport
At the regular meeting of council held on February 5, Warden Bonny MacIsaac read a proclamation officially recognizing National Girls and Women in Sport Day and acknowledged seven women who have championed sport in Inverness County for decades.
Those recognized include Velda Aucoin, a dedicated athlete, coach and long-time supporter of local sport who has consistently encouraged and uplifted young athletes in her community.
Ashley Crowley and Nadine Clark were also recognized for their leadership with the Cape Breton West Wave Volleyball Club, a women-led organization that has seen significant success in recent years. Crowley, the club’s director, is committed to growing volleyball opportunities in Inverness County, while Clark, an assistant coach, has spent decades fostering inclusive, welcoming sport environments.
Norma MacKinnon was acknowledged for her more than 30 years as an athlete, coach and advocate for girls and women in sport. Known for fostering community and connection, MacKinnon has worked tirelessly to create opportunities and remove barriers for women and girls.
Lori Shaw, an athlete, teacher, and coach, was recognized for her instrumental role in the success of school sports in her community. Through her coaching, Shaw empowers athletes and helps create a strong sense of belonging on and off the field.
Coline MacEachern, founder of the Port Hood Triathlon, was honoured for her contributions to sport and healthy living. A Boston Marathon participant, MacEachern has been a champion for running, fitness and active lifestyles in her community.
Janet MacIsaac was recognized for an extraordinary 50 consecutive years of coaching, making a lasting impact in ringette, track and field, cross country and softball. Known for her inclusive approach, MacIsaac ensures every athlete feels they belong and has an opportunity to participate.
“Sport and recreation in Inverness County would not be what it is today if not for these women and many others,” says Warden Bonny MacIsaac. “We’re proud to be able to recognize them for their leadership, advocacy, and the impact they’ve had on athletes and other coaches and mentors throughout the county.”
National Girls and Women in Sport Day highlights the important role women play as athletes, coaches, officials, mentors and volunteers, and the lasting impact they have on building strong, inclusive sport communities. Council hopes to continue to highlight the achievements of female coaches, mentors, athletes, and volunteers annually on this day.
Rural Mentor Network Recap
February 2, 2026
Municipality, partners host Rural Mentor Network session in Chéticamp
The Municipality of the County of Inverness joined Ignite Atlantic and community partners on Thursday, January 29, to host an information session on the Rural Mentor Network in Chéticamp.
The Rural Mentor Network, powered by Ignite Atlantic, connects youth, entrepreneurs and newcomers with local mentors who can share their knowledge and experience. The goal is to build local capacity and strengthen rural communities.
The session, held at local restaurant Last Chance Sandwich, invited residents who are retired or nearing retirement to learn how they can support the next generation through the network.
Ignite Atlantic staff were thrilled to see more than 20 people at the event.
“It’s exciting to see this level of interest,” said Ocean Le, the municipality’s healthcare navigator. “Our retirees have a wealth of experience living and working here, and this program creates a meaningful way to connect them with youth and newcomers.”
Representatives from the Welcome Network, the Cape Breton Connector Program and Le Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse (CDENE) also attended. The municipality’s Culture and Community Development team works closely with these organizations to expand support for residents across Inverness County.
Ignite Atlantic plans to host a follow-up session in Inverness County to build momentum for the initiative. For more information, visit igniteatlantic.com.
Gauging Interest for Book Clubs
February 2, 2026
Municipality Gauging Interest for Community Book Clubs
The Municipality of Inverness County’s Recreation and Community Wellness team is exploring the idea of supporting the startup of community book clubs and invites residents to share their interest.
The proposed book clubs would offer relaxed settings for people to connect in person, share perspectives and enjoy conversation centred on a shared read. The idea is to have it in-person monthly and provide some light refreshments for people to enjoy while sharing their insights on that month’s book.
Staff would like to hear from residents on what communities are interested in starting book clubs. Additional feedback on preferred meeting location, the timing of gatherings and book genres is also being sought. Interested residents can complete a form online at https://forms.office.com/r/YRsE31fpW1. Those unable to access the form online can contact recreation programmer Jason Calder at 902-258-7232 or by email Jason.Calder@invernesscounty.ca.
“Living in a rural place like Inverness County, it can sometimes be difficult to build and maintain social connections,” Calder said. “Part of our role is to create opportunities for people to come together through recreation, and a book club is a simple, low-barrier way to do that.”
As the department continues to expand and diversify its programming, it will keep engaging residents to ensure offerings reflect community interests.
For a full list of the department’s programming, visit invernesscounty.ca/recreation to view the monthly flyer.