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Seeking Public Feedback on Planning Recommendations
Seeking Public Feedback on Planning Recommendations

Seeking Public Feedback on Planning Recommendations

Council Seeking Feedback on Planning Advisory Committee Recommendations

The Council of the Municipality of the County of Inverness is seeking public feedback on the following recommendations from the Planning Advisory Committee:

  • Rezoning – request to rezone 110 Main St., Whycocomagh (PID #50116144) from commercial to residential to allow the conversion of the building into a residence.
  • Bylaw and Strategy Amendments – request to amend the Chéticamp Secondary Plan Area Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Planning Strategy to allow additional dwelling units to a maximum of three within existing residential dwellings.
  • Rezoning – request to rezone lands on Redbird Drive, Big Harbour Centre (by PID# 50330547) from Agriculture Potential to Commercial Recreation to allow building Geodomes as Short-Term Rentals.
  • Rezoning – request to rezone 12723 Cabot Trail, Grand-Étang (PID# 50064955) from Agriculture Potential to Commercial Recreation to allow building a Campground and Accommodations.

Council invites public input on each item. Residents may provide written or oral submissions – either in support or opposition – at a Public Hearing on Thursday, July 30, at the Municipal Administration Building (375 Main St., Port Hood) at 10:00 a.m.

Written submissions must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 29 to:

Debbie Nicholson
375 Main St.
PO Box 179
Port Hood, NS B0E 2WO
Email: Debbie.Nicholson@invernesscounty.ca

Copies of the staff report providing more information on these proposals can be inspected at the above address of the Municipal Office on business days between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., or at www.edpc.ca.

This notice is published in accordance with requirements of the Municipal Government Act.

You’re Invited – Inverness Open House

The Municipality of Inverness County is inviting residents to one of two open house sessions for residents.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the Central Avenue Rebuild project, meet with municipal representatives, ask questions, and find out about other municipal projects, programs and services available in the community.

  • Location: Inverness Fire Hall, 15797 Central Ave., Inverness
  • Dates: Tuesday, July 28 and Thursday, July 30
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Whether you have questions, want to learn more, or simply want to see what’s happening in your community, drop in anytime during the event.

To learn more about the Central Avenue Rebuild project, visit: Central Avenue Rebuild | Municipality of the County of Inverness

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Update – July 15, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing the following project updates and reminders for residents and businesses.

Hours of Operation

The contractor has revised its hours of operation. Effective immediately, traffic control measures will begin at 6:30 a.m., with roadwork starting at 7 a.m. (previously 8 a.m.).

Work is expected to conclude each day by 5 p.m., unless unforeseen circumstances require additional time.

Bell Aliant/Nova Scotia Power Work

Residents may notice evening work taking place within the Phase One construction area. This work is being completed independently by a Bell Aliant/Nova Scotia Power contractor and is not part of the municipal project.

Sidewalk Closure

The northbound sidewalk between Broad Cove Banks Road and Shean Trail Crossing is closed to pedestrians until further notice.

Solid Waste Collection Reminder

Residents in Inverness are asked to place waste and recycling curbside by 6:30 a.m. (instead of 7 a.m.).

While collection routes may be adjusted due to construction, collection will continue on regularly scheduled days. Pickup times may occur earlier or later than usual.

Project Information Centre

The Project Information Centre will be open on Thursday, July 16, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Inverness Fire Hall (15797 Central Ave., Inverness).

Residents are encouraged to drop in to speak with a municipal representative, ask questions and receive the latest project information.

Stay Informed

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed throughout construction by using the following resources:

Inverness County Council Approves 2026–2027 Budget

Inverness County Council Approves 2026–2027 Budget Focused on Community Priorities

 Municipality of Inverness County Council has approved the 2026–2027 operating and capital budget totalling $31,153,611, supporting continued investment in the infrastructure, programs and services residents rely on while addressing rising costs and planning for future growth.

The approved budget includes a nine-cent increase to both the residential and commercial property tax rates. The residential rate will increase from $1.05 to $1.14, and the commercial rate from $1.91 to $2.00, per $100 of assessed property value.

The budget was developed through Council discussions, financial analysis, and consideration of community priorities. While identifying efficiencies wherever possible, Council recognized the need to respond to increasing costs, maintain aging infrastructure and continue delivering essential municipal services.

“This budget reflects Council’s commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of our community,” said Warden Bonny MacIsaac, Municipality of Inverness County. “While we recognize that any tax increase affects residents and businesses, it is necessary to ensure we can continue providing reliable services, maintain critical infrastructure and prepare for future growth.”

The tax rate increase will help address:

  • Higher mandatory provincial contributions for services such as education, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Property Valuation Services Corporation, regional libraries and provincial roads.
  • Provincial budget cuts have significantly reduced funding for municipal programs, including infrastructure projects and community organizations. As a result, many community organizations are now turning to the municipality to help offset the loss of provincial funding.
  • Aging municipal infrastructure, including solid waste and recycling services, municipal buildings, vehicles, and equipment.
  • Rising construction, workforce, and operating costs.
  • Increased demands related to climate adaptation, emergency management, and disaster response.
  • Growing housing pressures.

“We’ve heard from residents who are surprised to learn that municipalities are required to pay for services such as education and policing, while having no control over how much those costs increase each year,” added MacIsaac. “Over the past three years, mandatory provincial contributions have increased by more than $1.6 million, or 20.4 per cent. Today, nearly one-third of every municipal tax dollar is directed toward these provincially mandated costs.”

The tax rate increase is expected to generate approximately $1.59 million in additional revenue, helping offset the approximately $1.6 million increase in mandatory provincial contributions.

While the increase represents a change for property owners, municipal tax rates have remained relatively stable over the long term. Residential tax rates have declined from $1.50 in 1978 to $1.05 in 2025, while commercial tax rates have decreased from $2.30 to $1.91 over the same period.

Even with the approved increase, Inverness County’s property tax rates will remain well below the provincial average, 31 per cent lower for residential properties and 48 per cent lower for commercial properties.

For residential properties, the increase will add approximately:

  • $115 annually for a home with a taxable assessed value of $127,644 (the average taxable assessment in Inverness County).
  • $270 annually for a home with a taxable assessed value of $300,000.
  • $360 annually for a home with a taxable assessed value of $400,000.

Sewer rates are not changing as part of the 2026–2027 budget. The new property tax rates will take effect for the 2026–2027 fiscal year and will be reflected on property tax bills issued in July 2026.

The 2026–2027 capital plan includes investments in:

  • Water and wastewater infrastructure.
  • Solid waste and environmental services.
  • Recreation and community facilities.
  • Transportation and active transportation networks.

The Municipality will also continue to maximize external funding opportunities. Approximately 74 per cent of the 2026–2027 capital program is funded through provincial and federal partners, meaning every municipal dollar invested is expected to leverage approximately $2.75 in additional funding for community infrastructure.

More information about the 2026–2027 budget, including budget documents and project details, is available at Budget 2026-2027 | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

 

Central Avenue Rebuild Update – July 9, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County is advising that as part of the Central Avenue Rebuild project, the northbound lane of phase one (from Broad Cove Banks Road to James Street) will see pavement pulverized in preparation for digging. For pedestrian safety, the sidewalk will also be temporarily closed.

Originally construction was going to start between Broad Cove Banks Road to Shean Trail Crossing. However, due to equipment availability, the preparation work has adapted to include  the remaining portion of the northbound lane of phase one (Shean Trail Crossing to James Street).

Once the northbound lane preparation work is complete, it is anticipated that the focus will return to the area between Broad Cove Banks Road and the Shean Trail Crossing.

The Municipality thanks residents for their cooperation and patience as construction kicks off.

To learn more, visit Invernesscounty.ca/CentralAveRebuild.

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Update for July 7

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Begins July 8; Project Information Centre Opens and Resident Resources Available

The Central Avenue Rebuild Project is on track to begin construction on Wednesday, July 8, in the community of Inverness.

The project will take place in a phased approach. Phase One extends from the intersection of Broad Cove Banks Road to James Street.

To start, traffic control measures will be set up each morning beginning at 7:30 a.m. between Broad Cove Banks Road and the Shean Trail Crossing. As crews mobilize for the first day of construction, additional time may be required to establish traffic control, and setup may begin later than usual on July 8.

Once construction is fully underway, traffic will be reduced to a single lane from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Outside of construction hours, the roadway will reopen to two lanes of traffic.

Residents should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra travel time.

Project Information Centre Opens Today

Residents are invited to drop in and speak directly with a municipal representative about the project.

The Project Information Centre will open on select days throughout July, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., including today, July 7.

  • Location: Inverness Fire Hall, 15797 Central Ave., Inverness
  • July Dates:
    • Tuesday, 7
    • Friday, 10
    • Thursday, 16
    • Tuesday, 28
    • Thursday, 30
  • Hours: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Please note that hours are subject to change. Residents are encouraged to check www.invernesscounty.ca/CentralAveRebuild for updates.

How You Can Help

While construction can be inconvenient, small actions from residents can help keep Inverness moving and support our neighbours throughout the project. The Municipality has created a resource with practical tips to help everyone navigate construction safely and efficiently.

  • Keep intersections and driveways clear

When traffic slows or stops, avoid blocking driveways, side streets, and intersections. Leaving these areas open helps residents, businesses, emergency vehicles, and local traffic move safely.

  • Make room for others

A little courtesy goes a long way. When it’s safe to do so, allow drivers to merge or enter traffic from side streets, driveways, and businesses.

  • Support local businesses

Many local businesses remain open throughout construction. Shopping locally, dining locally, and continuing to visit your favourite businesses helps keep our community strong.

  • Slow down and stay alert

Construction zones are active work sites. Please follow posted signage, respect traffic control personnel, and watch for workers, equipment, cyclists, and pedestrians.

  • Plan ahead

Allow a little extra travel time during peak construction periods. If you’re travelling with children, consider bringing books, toys, games, or snacks to help keep them comfortable during delays. A quick washroom stop before leaving home can also make the trip more pleasant for everyone.

  • Be patient with one another

Construction affects everyone differently. A little patience, understanding, and kindness can make a big difference for residents, visitors, workers, and fellow drivers.

The handout if available online here Central-Avenue-How-You-Can-Help.pdf

Stay Informed

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed throughout construction by using the following resources:

Temporary Water Conservation Request – Inverness

Inverness, Nova Scotia – The Municipality of Inverness County will be conducting maintenance work on the Inverness water system on Tuesday, June 23.

While water service will not be interrupted, one well will be temporarily taken offline, reducing the amount of water available throughout the day.

As a result, residents are asked to voluntarily conserve water while the work is underway.

Once maintenance is complete, the well will return to service and normal water use may resume. Residents can help reduce water consumption by:

  • Taking shorter showers and turning off taps when brushing teeth or washing dishes.
  • Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
  • Avoiding non-essential outdoor water use, such as watering lawns or washing driveways.

The Municipality thanks residents for their cooperation and apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Central Avenue Rebuild – New Construction Start Date – July 8

The Central Avenue Rebuild Project is now anticipated to begin construction on Wednesday, July 8, in the community of Inverness.

Construction was originally scheduled to begin on Monday, July 6. The start date has been adjusted due to a delay in the delivery of required construction materials.

The anticipated July 8 start date remains subject to change based on material delivery timelines.

The project will take place in a phased approach. Phase One extends from the intersection of Broad Cove Banks Road to James Street. To start, residents will see traffic control measures being set up at 7:30 a.m. between Broad Cove Banks Road and the Shean Trail Crossing. Traffic will be reduced to one lane beginning at 8 a.m. and will remain in place until 4:30 p.m.

The roadway will reopen to two lanes of traffic outside of construction hours.

Residents should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra time for travel.

The Municipality thanks residents for their cooperation. Further updates will be provided should the construction schedule change.

Stay Informed

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed throughout construction by using the following resources:

Upcoming Roadside Photography for Central Avenue Rebuild Project

Inverness, Nova Scotia – The Municipality of Inverness County would like to advise residents that, over the coming days (June 22 – 26), municipal representatives will be taking roadside photographs throughout Phase One of the Central Avenue Rebuild Project, from Broad Cove Banks Rd. to James St., Inverness.

These photographs are required to document existing roadside conditions prior to the start of construction.

Municipal staff conducting this work will be clearly identified by high-visibility safety vests.

Staff will remain within the road right-of-way and will not enter private properties or take photographs of homes.

To learn more about the project:
Visit: Central Avenue Rebuild | Municipality of the County of Inverness
Email: CentralAve@invernesscounty.ca
Call: 1-866-258-0223, option 8

Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Update

Work continues on the replacement of the Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station, located at the corner of Main St. and Convent St., Port Hood

Over the past two weeks, crews have excavated trenches, assembled and installed piping, and connected the new infrastructure to the lift station system. This phase of the project is anticipated to be completed next week (June 22–26). Once this work is finished, the roadway will be graded and the area cleaned up.

Construction activities will then shift back to the lift station site.

Intermittent traffic control measures will remain in place on a portion of Main St. (in front of 375 Main St.), reducing traffic to a single lane for the duration of the project.

Motorists can expect minimal delays; however, they are encouraged to allow extra travel time when travelling through the area. Should the project schedule require additional time, an update will be provided.

The Municipality thanks residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation throughout this work.

To learn more about the Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Project, visit Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station Replacement | Municipality of the County of Inverness .