Woodlawn, NS

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council is holding public hearings on zoning amendments for 1528 Queen St and street closures in the Cogswell District, Dartmouth, and Upper Tantallon. The council will vote on transferring $2,100,000 from the Cogswell fountain budget to finance a new water spray pad at Granville Park, with construction targeted for 2027. Other agenda items include first reading of By-law U-121 to update Halifax Transit fares, approval of street renamings in Dartmouth and Halifax, and directions to purchase 20 expansion buses for the 2026 Core Service Plan.

• Public hearing on zoning amendments for 1528 Queen St to reduce side lot setbacks to 0.0 metres
• First reading of By-law U-121 updating Halifax Transit user charges and fares for 2026
• Transfer of $2,100,000 from the Cogswell fountain budget to fund a Granville Park water spray pad
• Approval motions to rename Garden Court to Barrys Run Court (Dartmouth) and Lynwood Drive to Rockingham Drive (Halifax)
• Direction to include 20 expansion buses in Halifax Transit’s 2027/28 capital plan and tender schedule

The council approved the June 16 and June 23, 2026 minutes and the amended agenda. It unanimously adopted amendments to the Regional Centre Secondary Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By‑law to reduce the required setback at 1528 Queen Street to 0 m, and approved Administrative Order SC‑110 to permanently close the Cogswell District right‑of‑way. The council also granted two low‑altitude fly‑by permissions for a Convoy Cup sail‑past and a Remembrance Day ceremony.

• Approved June 16 and June 23, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Adopted planning amendment to reduce setback at 1528 Queen St to 0 m (unanimous)
• Approved Administrative Order SC‑110 to permanently close Cogswell District right‑of‑way (unanimous)
• Granted fly‑past permission for Convoy Cup sail‑past on Aug 29 2026 (unanimous)
• Granted fly‑past permission for Remembrance Day Porters Lake cenotaph ceremony on Nov 11 2026 (unanimous)
• Deferred Item 15.1.6 Dismantling Racism and Hate Strategy to a future meeting (unanimous)
• Added Item 17.8 Intergovernmental Relations to the agenda (unanimous)

Halifax Regional Council

Le Conseil régional de Halifax tiendra une audience publique concernant la vente de terrains excédentaires pour un programme pilote de logement abordable. L'organe examinera également des mises à jour des tarifs de stationnement, des subventions pour le transport rural et des règlements sur le dynamitage.

• Audience publique sur les terrains excédentaires du Fonds d'accélération du logement (HAF) pour le logement abordable
• Ajustements proposés des tarifs de stationnement pour le budget 2026/2027
• Subvention d'un an de 55 000 $ pour le Festival de jazz de Halifax 2026
• Amendements proposés au règlement B-600 pour restreindre les heures de dynamitage près des écoles et des garderies
• Permission de service d'alcool pour le parc du centre communautaire de Porters Lake le 15 août 2026

Halifax Regional Council approved the sale of surplus land for the Housing Accelerator Fund pilot program to Rooted, a developer focused on missing middle housing. The council also adopted administrative orders for 2026 parking rates, rural transit grants, and area rate costs, and directed staff to study blasting restrictions near schools.

• Approved sale of surplus land for affordable housing (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026/27 parking rate adjustments (unanimous)
• Adopted rural transit grants administrative order (unanimous)
• Adopted area rates and uniform charges administrative order (unanimous)
• Approved $55,000 MLSER funding for Halifax Jazz Festival (unanimous)
• Directed staff report on blasting restrictions near schools (14-3)
• Moved In Camera session for intergovernmental relations and property matters
• Received petitions on Dartmouth Commons baseball diamonds and Jack's Spa noise

Halifax Regional Council

Le Conseil régional d'Halifax tiendra une audience publique concernant un appel du plan de site sur la Highway 7 et votera sur plusieurs mises à jour administratives. Les décisions clés incluent un bail à long terme pour des pneus de transport en commun et des modifications aux règlements sur les collecteurs solaires et les propriétés patrimoniales.

• Contrat potentiel de 10 ans avec Michelin North America pour des pneus de transport en commun d'une valeur allant jusqu'à $21,290,685
• Audience publique pour le dossier 23563 : Appel de l'approbation du plan de site à la Highway 7, Porters Lake
• Augmentation proposée des tarifs de location de glace via le règlement U-120
• Modifications proposées à la planification pour le 1528 Queen Street et nouveaux règlements sur les systèmes de collecteurs solaires
• Approbation de $26,000 pour 13 subventions régionales d'événements spéciaux et $15,000 pour les Championnats nationaux de crosse en boîte mineure de Lacrosse Canada

Council voted 8-4 to deny an appeal against a site plan approval for a construction and demolition facility on Highway 7 in Porters Lake, upholding the Development Officer's decision. Council also adopted a by-law increasing ice rental rates (15-1) and approved a consent agenda including appointments, a transit tire contract, zoning amendments, solar collector regulations, and grants.

• Appeal of site plan approval for Highway 7, Porters Lake denied (4-8)
• By-law U-120 adopted to increase ice rental rates (15-1, Austin opposed)
• Emad Aziz appointed as Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator (unanimous)
• Transit tire lease and monitoring contract awarded to Michelin North America ($1.3M year 1, $21.3M over 10 years) (unanimous)
• Zoning amendment for 1528 Queen Street, Halifax approved (unanimous)
• Land use regulations for solar collector systems approved (unanimous)
• Seniors Recreation Services Plan 2026-2030 approved (unanimous)
• Regional Special Events Grants 2026 and Lacrosse Canada Minor Box Nationals grant approved (unanimous)

Halifax Regional Council

Le conseil vote sur des modifications aux frais d'aménagement pour Dartmouth Cove, fixe une audience publique pour la vente de terrains pour le logement abordable au 48 Pinecrest Drive, et examine une demande de désignation patrimoniale pour le 2636 Windsor Street. D'autres points incluent des subventions pour des événements, des augmentations des tarifs de location de glace et une dispense de tarif de traversier. Plusieurs rapports et séances à huis clos figurent également à l'ordre du jour.

• Deuxième lecture du règlement D-601 modifiant les frais d'aménagement pour Dartmouth Cove
• Audience publique pour vendre le 48 Pinecrest Drive pour le logement abordable
• Demande de désignation patrimoniale pour le 2636 Windsor Street, Halifax
• $691,250 en subventions pour événements approuvées, plus $400,000 pour Canada Pride 2027
• Première lecture de l'augmentation des tarifs de location de glace (règlement U-120)

Council adopted an amending bylaw for development charges in Dartmouth Cove, with a request for the Mayor to write to the Minister for approval. The vote was 13-1, with Mayor Fillmore opposed. Other key decisions included approval of a land transfer for a childcare facility at Amalfi Way Park (11-3) and setting a public hearing for the sale of surplus land for affordable housing.

• Adopted Amending By-law D-601 for Dartmouth Cove development charges (13-1)
• Approved conveyance of Amalfi Way Park land to province for childcare facility (11-3)
• Set public hearing date for sale of 48 Pinecrest Drive to Rooted Community Development Partners for affordable housing (unanimous)
• Approved public participation program for Upper Hammonds Plains Planning Strategy Review (unanimous)
• Approved public participation program for Lucasville Planning Strategy Review (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of ice rental rates increase (13-1)
• Approved heritage designation for 2636 Windsor Street, Halifax (unanimous)
• Approved helicopter fly-past for SailGP broadcast operations (unanimous)

Halifax Regional Council

Le conseil régional de Halifax votera sur des amendements proposés pour augmenter les frais de décharge dans les installations de déchets solides, effectifs le 1er août 2026. Ils décideront également d'un accord de partage des coûts avec la province pour le pavage des rues de lotissements et adopteront un règlement municipal modifiant les frais pour l'information fiscale. De plus, le Conseil discutera des autorisations de survol pour l'événement SailGP, d'un examen des remises sur les frais d'amélioration visuelle des clôtures de chantier, et des options pour un outil de rétroaction sur la bureaucratie. Une mise à jour sur le cadre de lutte contre l'itinérance sera reçue en tant qu'élément d'information.

• Vote sur l'augmentation des frais de décharge dans les installations de déchets solides
• Autoriser l'accord de partage des coûts avec la province pour le pavage des rues de lotissements
• Adopter un règlement municipal modifiant les frais pour l'information fiscale
• Envisager d'autoriser les survols de CF-18 et d'hélicoptères pour l'événement SailGP du 18 au 21 juin
• Demander au personnel de réexaminer les remises sur les frais d'empiètement pour les améliorations visuelles des clôtures de chantier

Halifax Regional Council unanimously approved amendments to Administrative Order 16 increasing tip fees at solid waste facilities effective August 1, 2026. Council also authorized a cost-sharing agreement with the province for paving subdivision streets, directed staff to study encroachment fee discounts for hoarding (14-1), and requested reports on red tape feedback tools and sidewalk patio permit fees. Several in-camera items were ratified, including an 8-5 vote on an intergovernmental relations matter.

• Adopted tip fee increase amendments to Administrative Order 16 (unanimous)
• Authorized Cost Sharing Agreement for paving J-Class streets (unanimous)
• Directed CAO to incorporate young people in active transportation planning (unanimous)
• Directed CAO to study encroachment fee discounts for hoarding (14-1)
• Directed CAO to provide options for red tape feedback tool (unanimous)
• Directed CAO to review sidewalk patio permit fees for reduction/elimination (unanimous)
• Ratified direction provided in In Camera item 17.2 (8-5)
• Adopted amendments to By-law F-300 for taxation information fees (unanimous)

Halifax Regional Council

Le Conseil régional votera pour orienter le personnel à négocier un bail pour l'expansion des Mooseheads d'Halifax au RBC Centre de Dartmouth, et examinera une proposition budgétaire visant à maintenir les dépenses au même niveau pour 2027/2028. Une audience publique est prévue sur des modifications de zonage pour permettre des habitations à logements multiples sur Main Road à Eastern Passage. Le Conseil entendra également un appel de dérogation pour le 41 Cowie Hill Road.

• Négociation de bail d'expansion des Mooseheads d'Halifax au RBC Dartmouth
• Direction budgétaire 2027/2028 pour maintenir les dépenses au même niveau
• Appel d'offres de 1 308 274 $ pour les améliorations du rivage du parc Sir Sandford Flemming, phase 5
• Audience publique pour des changements de zonage permettant jusqu'à 32 unités sur le site #1 et 24 unités sur le site #2, Main Road, Eastern Passage
• Audience d'appel de dérogation pour le 41 Cowie Hill Road, Halifax

Regional Council approved zoning amendments to allow multiple-unit dwellings on two sites along Main Road in Eastern Passage. Site #1 (PID 00374710) will allow up to 32 units and 3 stories (13-1); Site #2 (PIDs 00374728 and 00471698) will allow up to 24 units (unanimous). A separate variance appeal for 41 Cowie Hill Road was denied, upholding the Development Officer's decision.

• Approved 32-unit, 3-story development on Site #1, Main Road (13-1)
• Approved 24-unit development on Site #2, Main Road (unanimous)
• Denied variance appeal for 41 Cowie Hill Road (unanimous, appeal defeated)
• Approved fly-past for HMCS Sackville recommissioning (unanimous)
• Approved Facility Operating Agreement for East Preston Recreation Centre (unanimous)
• Directed CAO to incorporate gender-based violence focus in Public Safety Strategy (unanimous)
• Approved 2026-27 Events East Business Plan for Halifax Convention Centre
• Approved consent agenda items including shoreline improvements and museum grants

Halifax Regional Council

Le Conseil régional d'Halifax discutera de l'abandon du programme de zonage inclusif sur la base d'une analyse de marché. Ils donneront également une première lecture à un règlement sur les redevances d'aménagement pour Dartmouth Cove, examineront les demandes de survol, et entendront des rapports sur la stratégie événementielle, les partenariats en logement et la gestion des déchets de construction.

• Analyse du marché du zonage inclusif et mise à jour des options politiques - Le Conseil pourrait abandonner le programme
• Première lecture du règlement D-601 (Redevances d'aménagement pour Dartmouth Cove)
• Demandes de survol pour le match d'appréciation du MDN (30 mai) et la cérémonie des FAC (16 mai)
• Audience patrimoniale pour le 2636, rue Windsor, Halifax
• Motion du conseiller Mancini : partenariats en logement pour remplacer les casernes de pompiers vieillissantes

Council accepted a market analysis report on inclusionary zoning and voted to discontinue the process to create an inclusionary zoning program, directing staff to consider it as a future tool combined with incentive zoning. Other decisions included endorsing the Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 implementation approach, adopting amendments to construction site management and revenue collection policies, and approving first readings of by-laws for development charges and taxation fees.

• Discontinued inclusionary zoning program (14-1)
• Endorsed Downtown Halifax Vision 2030 municipal alignment (12-2)
• Adopted amendments to Construction Site Management administrative order (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Revenue Collections Policy for tax sale fees (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Dartmouth Cove Development Charge By-law D-601 (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Taxation Information Fees By-law F-304 (unanimous)
• Approved fly-past for Halifax Wanderers DND Appreciation Game (unanimous)
• Adopted Integrated Mobility Plan Action Update with equity as fifth pillar (unanimous)

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council will decide on a $30 million budget increase for the Windsor Street Exchange Phase 2 construction, bringing the total to $180 million. Council will also consider discontinuing an inclusionary zoning program, requesting full property tax from Nova Scotia Power, and proposing changes to dangerous-dog legislation. Other items include transit prioritization, bus purchases, and a heritage designation for 5219 Artz Street.

• Windsor Street Exchange Phase 2 construction contract with $30M increase to $180M total budget
• Staff report recommends discontinuing the Inclusionary Zoning Program process for affordable housing
• Request to repeal section of Nova Scotia Power Privatization Act for full property tax on HRM properties
• Councillor motions for transit prioritization options and purchase of 20 buses for Halifax Transit
• Heritage hearing to include 5219 Artz Street, Halifax in municipal heritage registry

Halifax Regional Council approved several staff reports regarding transit speed, bus funding, and the Halifax Green Network. The council also voted to include 5219 Artz Street in the Registry of Heritage Property.

• Approved request for Mayor to seek strengthened dangerous-dog policies (Unanimous)
• Directed CAO to report on transit parking enforcement options (Unanimous)
• Directed CAO to report on transit engineering and dedicated lane options (15-1)
• Directed CAO to report on funding plan for 20 remaining Halifax Transit buses (Unanimous)
• Directed CAO to report on Halifax Green Network implementation and governance (Unanimous)
• Approved inclusion of 5219 Artz Street in the Registry of Heritage Property (Unanimous)
• Approved Canadian Armed Forces fly-past request for August 15, 2026 (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Administrative Order 29 regarding street naming (Unanimous)

Budget Committee - Continuation

This is a continuation of the Budget Committee meeting that began March 3, 2026. The sole item on the agenda is the proposed 2026/27 budget. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; it is a procedural continuation for further discussion.

• Proposed 2026/27 Budget (continuation from March 3, 4, 5, and 10)

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council is meeting to discuss a comprehensive neighbourhood plan for the M District Future Growth Node in Dartmouth. The body will also consider a $82.49 million debenture issuance and the 2026/27 Halifax Water Annual Business Plan.

• Proposed mixed-use development in M District with up to 2,800 dwelling units
• Temporary Borrowing Resolution for $82,491,000 for debt-funded projects
• Payment of $590,385 to Halifax Wanderers Football Club for stadium expenditures
• Write off of uncollectible accounts totaling $144,779.77 across tax, revenue, and recreation accounts
• Proposed refusal of a 12-storey building at 169 Wyse Road

Halifax Regional Council refused to initiate amendments to the Regional Centre Secondary Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By‑Law that would allow a 12‑storey building at 169 Wyse Road in Dartmouth, passing the motion 15 in favour and 1 against. A motion directing the CAO to prepare a report on amending the Complete Streets Policy was defeated 7‑9. The consent agenda items, including a transfer of business‑systems funding and a heritage‑property alteration, were approved unanimously. Several items were deferred to future meetings.

• Refused to initiate amendments for 12‑storey building at 169 Wyse Road (15‑1)
• Defeated motion to direct CAO to prepare Complete Streets policy report (7‑9)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous): business‑systems funding transfer, write‑off uncollectible accounts, Wanderers Grounds stadium expenditures, conflict‑of‑interest letter request, heritage property alterations
• Deferred Halifax Green Network Progress Report (future meeting)
• Deferred Dangerous Dog Legislation (future meeting)
• Deferred Transit Prioritization item (future meeting)
• Deferred staff report to purchase 20 buses for Core Services Plan (future meeting)
• Deferred Property Matter private/confidential report (future meeting)

Budget Committee - Continuation

This is a continuation of the Budget Committee meetings from March 3, 4, and 5, 2026. The committee will discuss the Revised 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan. No other items are listed.

• Revised 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan (discussion continued)

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee is continuing its review of the 2026/27 budget and capital plan. The meeting is a continuation from previous sessions and will resume on March 10, 2026.

• 2026/27 Budget Adjustment List for Consideration
• Revised 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan
• Meeting continuation scheduled for March 10, 2026

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee is continuing its review of the 2026/27 budget and capital plan. The meeting is scheduled to run from 9:30 a.m. on March 4, 2026, until 8:00 p.m., with a continuation on March 5 and March 10.

• Continuation of 2026/27 Budget Adjustment List
• Review of Revised 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan

Budget Committee

The Halifax Regional Council Budget Committee will meet to finalize the 2026/27 operating budget, approve a revised multi-year capital plan, and consider proposed budget adjustments. The meeting is scheduled to continue over multiple days.

• Approval of 2026/27 Operating Budget and Tax Rates
• Revised 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan
• 2026/27 Budget Adjustment List
• Amendments to Administrative Order 2018-003-ADM (Private Road Maintenance)
• In-camera discussion on Intergovernmental Relations

The committee approved the minutes from the February 11, 2026 meeting. It also approved the agenda as circulated. No other formal decisions were recorded in this session.

• Approved February 11, 2026 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved agenda as circulated (motion passed)

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Woodlawn Budget Committee meeting on February 24, 2026 is a continuation of the February 18, 19, and 20 budget meetings. No specific items are listed on the agenda and there are no attachments. The committee will likely address items carried over from the earlier sessions, but no decisions are documented for this meeting.

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council will hold a joint meeting with Harbour East‑Marine Drive Community Council to give first reading on amendments to the Regional Centre Secondary Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By‑law to enable comprehensive development of the M District Future Growth Node in Dartmouth, between Micmac Boulevard, Horizon Court and Highway 111, including up to 2,800 dwelling units and other uses. The council will also consider a motion to refuse initiation of amendments allowing a 12‑storey building at 169 Wyse Road in Dartmouth. Additional items include approval of the 2026/27 Multi‑Year Capital Plan and Capital Reserves withdrawals, a $225,000 contribution to Centre for Art Tapes for a property at 2199 Gottingen Street, and adoption of amendments to By‑law T‑1008 governing taxis and transportation network companies.

• First Reading of amendments to Regional Centre Secondary Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By‑law for M District Future Growth Node (up to 2,800 units) between Micmac Blvd, Horizon Court, Highway 111 (joint with Harbour East‑Marine Drive)
• Motion to refuse initiation of amendments for a 12‑storey building at 169 Wyse Road, Dartmouth (PID 00045351)
• Approval of the 2026/27 Multi‑Year Capital Plan and Capital Reserves withdrawals, with schedule for 2027/28‑2029/30 capital projects
• One‑time $225,000 contribution to Centre for Art Tapes for purchase of 2199 Gottingen Street, Halifax
• Adoption of amendments to By‑law T‑1008 (taxi, limousine, transportation network companies) and to Administrative Order 39

The council approved the 2026/27 Multi‑Year Capital Plan and the first reading of amendments for the M District Future Growth Node, authorizing a mixed‑use development of up to 2,800 units. It also approved a $225,000 contribution to Centre for Art Tapes, the Fly‑past request for the Battle of the Atlantic ceremony, and the Core Service Plan for transit. Several items – the Halifax International Airport update, the Complete Streets policy review, the Halifax Green Network report, and the 169 Wyse Road initiation report – were deferred to a future meeting.

• Approved minutes of Feb 10, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved Fly‑past request for Battle of the Atlantic ceremony (unanimous)
• Approved 2026/27 Multi‑Year Capital Plan (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of M District Future Growth Node amendments (16‑1)
• Approved $225,000 contribution to Centre for Art Tapes (13‑4)
• Approved Core Service Plan and Strategic Roadmap (unanimous)
• Deferred Halifax International Airport Authority update, Complete Streets policy review, Halifax Green Network progress report, and 169 Wyse Road initiation report

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee is continuing its review of proposed budgets for Corporate Services, Halifax Regional Libraries, and Fiscal Services. The session will resume on February 24, 2026.

• Continuation of 2026/27 Corporate Services Budget and Business Plan
• Continuation of 2026/27 Halifax Regional Libraries Budget and Business Plan
• Continuation of 2026/27 Fiscal Services Budget and Business Plan

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Woodlawn Budget Committee will continue its February 18 meeting. It will consider the proposed 2026/27 budgets and business plans for the Mayor’s Office, Corporate Services, Halifax Regional Libraries, and Fiscal Services. No attachments or dollar amounts are listed for these items.

• Proposed 2026/27 Mayor’s Office Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Corporate Services Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Halifax Regional Libraries Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Fiscal Services Budget and Business Plan

Budget Committee

This Budget Committee (standing committee of the whole on budget) is reviewing and voting on proposals to incorporate several 2026/27 departmental budgets and business plans into the Draft Operating Budget. Items include the Auditor General, Mayor’s Office, Corporate Services (covering CAO, Finance, HR, IT, Legal), Halifax Regional Libraries, and Fiscal Services. No dollar amounts or specific project details are provided in the agenda text; decisions will be based on supporting documents and presentations.

• Proposed 2026/27 Auditor General Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Mayor’s Office Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Corporate Services Budget and Business Plans (CAO, Finance, HR, IT, Legal)
• Proposed 2026/27 Halifax Regional Libraries Budget and Business Plan
• Proposed 2026/27 Fiscal Services Budget and Business Plan

The Budget Committee approved the minutes from February 4, 2026 and adopted the agenda as presented. Councillor Cathy Deagle Gammon stepped down as chair and Mayor Andy Fillmore took over the chairmanship. No other motions or budget decisions were recorded.

• Approved February 4, 2026 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved agenda as presented (motion passed)
• Chair changed from Councillor Deagle Gammon to Mayor Andy Fillmore (motion passed)

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee will continue its review of the Proposed 2026/27 Public Safety Budget and Business Plans, following meetings on February 11 and 12, 2026. The agenda also includes a request to approve the In Camera (In Private) Minutes from January 28, 2026.

• Continuation of 2026/27 Public Safety Budget and Business Plans
• In Camera (In Private) Minutes - January 28, 2026

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee is continuing its review of the 2026/27 Halifax Transit and Public Safety budgets. The meeting was delayed by weather and will resume on February 13, 2026.

• Continuation of 2026/27 Halifax Transit Business Unit Budget and Business Plan
• Continuation of 2026/27 Public Safety Budget and Business Plans
• In Camera (In Private) Minutes - January 28, 2026

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will consider proposed 2026/27 budgets and business plans for Halifax Transit and four public safety entities (Community Safety, Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency, Halifax Regional Police, and RCMP Halifax Detachment). A motion directs the CAO to incorporate each into the Draft 2026/27 Operating Budget.

• Proposed 2026/27 Halifax Transit Budget and Business Plan (motion to incorporate into operating budget)
• Proposed 2026/27 Community Safety Budget and Business Plan (motion to incorporate)
• Proposed 2026/27 Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Budget and Business Plan (motion to incorporate)
• Proposed 2026/27 Halifax Regional Police Budget and Business Plan (motion to incorporate)
• Proposed 2026/27 RCMP Halifax Detachment Budget and Business Plan (motion to incorporate)

The Budget Committee approved the minutes from the January 27‑28, 2026 meetings and adopted the agenda as presented. Both motions were passed without recorded vote tallies. The remainder of the meeting consisted of public comments on policing, property taxes, transit, and other municipal issues, with no further decisions taken.

• Approved minutes of Jan 27 & 28 2026 (motion passed)
• Approved agenda (order of business) as presented (motion passed)

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council will consider a series of motions, including budget, staffing, and policy items. The council will vote to increase the approved 2025/26 capital budget for Project CB210021 PR‑BLT Recreation Centre Recap by $1,400,000, funded from debt. Other items include extending the application deadline for a surplus property on St. Margaret’s Bay Road, appointing two development officers, and setting a heritage hearing for 5219 Artz Street. The council will also direct staff reports on the Complete Streets policy and a pilot high‑occupancy‑vehicle lane project.

• Increase capital budget for Recreation Centre Recap (Project CB210021 PR) by $1,400,000 (net HST included), funded from debt
• Extend deadline for Beechville Community Development Association to acquire Lot 1, St. Margaret’s Bay Road, Highway 3 (PID 40050098) to on or before July 31 2026
• Appointment of Isabella Volpe Raghiante and Aidan MacFarlane as Development Officers
• Set a date for a heritage hearing to consider inclusion of 5219 Artz Street in the Registry of Heritage Properties
• Direct CAO to prepare a staff report on amending or discontinuing the Complete Streets Policy and evaluating a Maintenance‑First approach

The council approved a staff report on a high‑occupancy vehicle lane pilot (12‑3) and directed a report on alternative bike‑network options (10‑5). It increased the Recreation Centre recap budget by $1.4 million and extended the deadline for the Beechville property acquisition to July 31 2026. Additional actions included rescinding a prior salt‑management directive, approving disposal of surplus land, appointing two development officers, and scheduling a heritage hearing for 5219 Artz Street.

• Approved staff report on HOV lane pilot (12 in favour, 3 against)
• Approved staff report on AAA bike‑network alternatives (10 in favour, 5 against)
• Increased Recreation Centre Recap budget by $1,400,000 (unanimous)
• Extended Beechville property acquisition deadline to July 31, 2026 (unanimous)
• Rescinded Item 15.3.2 parts 1 and 2 (unanimous)
• Set date for heritage hearing on 5219 Artz Street (unanimous)
• Approved disposal of surplus real property PID 40050098 Lot 1, St. Margaret’s Bay Road, Highway 3 Beechville (unanimous)
• Appointed Isabella Volpe Raghiante and Aidan MacFarlane as Development Officers (unanimous)

Budget Committee - Continuation

The Budget Committee is holding a continuation meeting to discuss the Proposed 2026/27 Operations Business Units Budget and Business Plan. The session is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.

• Continuation of February 4, 2026 Budget Committee meeting
• Discussion of Proposed 2026/27 Operations Business Units Budget and Business Plan
• Meeting location: Council Chamber, 3rd Floor City Hall, 1841 Argyle Street, Halifax

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will consider a motion to direct the CAO to incorporate proposed 2026/27 budgets and business plans for six operations units—Major Projects Office, Strategic Infrastructure & Transportation Planning, Public Works, Parks & Recreation, Planning & Development, and Property, Fleet & Environment—into the Draft 2026/27 Operating Budget. The meeting spans three days (Feb 4-6, 2026) and includes a staff presentation and a CAO memorandum with requested budget briefing notes.

• Motion to incorporate Major Projects Office proposed 2026/27 Budget and Business Plan into Draft Operating Budget
• Motion to incorporate Strategic Infrastructure & Transportation Planning proposed budget
• Motion to incorporate Public Works proposed budget
• Motion to incorporate Parks & Recreation, Planning & Development, and Property, Fleet & Environment budgets
• Information item: CAO memorandum on requested budget briefing notes (Jan 30, 2026)

The committee approved the agenda as presented after a motion moved by Councillor Purdy and seconded by Councillor Austin. No other substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes.

• Agenda approved (motion passed)

Budget Committee - Continuation

This is a continuation meeting of the Budget Committee to discuss the 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan. No attachments or further details are provided in the agenda.

• 2026/27 Multi-Year Capital Plan (continued from January 28, 2026)

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will meet to approve the schedule for the 2026/27 Capital Budget and Capital Reserves Withdrawals. The committee will also discuss the 2027/28 to 2029/30 capital plan.

• Approval of 2026/27 Capital Budget schedule
• Approval of 2026/27 Capital Reserves Withdrawals
• Discussion on 2027/28-2029/30 Capital Plan
• Public participation period
• Approval of December 9, 2025 minutes

The committee recommended that Halifax Regional Council approve the 2026/27 Capital Budget schedule and the corresponding Capital Reserves withdrawals. An amendment to defer Project CB190013 – Forum Redevelopment for one fiscal year was adopted by an 11‑to‑5 vote. The inclusion of Corporate Accommodations (combined $2,800,000) on the 2026/27 Budget Adjustment List passed 15‑1, while the $3,000,000 Wanderers Grounds bleacher replacement was defeated 6‑10. A motion to reduce Councillor District Capital funds by 50% for 2026/27 passed 9‑7.

• Recommend Council approve 2026/27 Capital Budget schedule (motion passed, no vote recorded)
• Recommend Council approve 2026/27 Capital Reserves withdrawals (motion passed, no vote recorded)
• Defer Project CB190013 – Forum Redevelopment for one fiscal year (11 in favour, 5 against)
• Add Corporate Accommodations $2,800,000 to 2026/27 Budget Adjustment List (15 in favour, 1 against)
• Add Wanderers Grounds Bleacher Replacement $3,000,000 to Budget Adjustment List (defeated 6 in favour, 10 against)
• Reduce Councillor District Capital funds by 50% for 2026/27 (9 in favour, 7 against)
• Provide briefing note on cancelling CV210013 Mill Cove Ferry Service (defeated 4 in favour, 10 against)
• Include BT74 AI Innovation Initiatives $250,000 on Budget Adjustment List (defeated unanimously)

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council will consider first reading of By-law T-1008, which would regulate taxis, limousines, and transportation network companies. Other items include a heritage designation for 1530 Oxford Street, a noise exemption for Dalhousie Sno-Fest 2026, and a pilot for discounted recreation passes. Council will also vote on grants, bike network planning, and several councillor motions.

• First reading of By-law T-1008 regulating taxis, accessible taxis, limousines, and transportation network companies
• Heritage hearing to include 1530 Oxford Street, Halifax in the Registry of Heritage Properties
• Public hearing on noise exemption request for Dalhousie Sno-Fest 2026
• Pilot project for 75% discount on day passes for HRM recreation facility members
• Approval of 16 Anti-Black Racism Grants totaling $100,000

Halifax Regional Council gave a first reading to the amended By‑law T‑1008, updating taxi, limousine and transportation network company regulations, with a 14‑2 vote. The council also directed the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare a staff report with input from a temporary working committee of taxi and TNC operators. In addition, the council approved the heritage designation for 1530 Oxford Street, granted a noise‑bylaw exemption for Dalhousie Sno‑Fest 2026, and adopted several consent‑agenda items including a pilot discount for recreation facility passes.

• Approved first reading of amended By‑law T‑1008 (14 in favour, 2 against)
• Directed CAO to prepare staff report with temporary working committee on taxi/TNC policy
• Approved inclusion of 1530 Oxford Street in the heritage property registry (unanimous)
• Approved noise exemption for Dalhousie Sno‑Fest 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved HRM One Membership pilot discount for recreation passes (unanimous)
• Approved encroachment agreement for Downtown Halifax Business Commission sign (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Housing Trust of Nova Scotia contribution agreement (unanimous)
• Approved definitions and access criteria for Police Extraordinary Investigation Reserve (unanimous)

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will meet on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, immediately after the Regional Council public hearing. The agenda consists solely of procedural items: call to order and land acknowledgement, approval of the order of business, declaration of conflicts of interest, public participation, and adjournment. No substantive budget proposals or decisions are listed.

• Call to Order and Land Acknowledgement
• Approval of the Order of Business and Additions/Deletions
• Call for Declaration of Conflicts of Interest
• Public Participation
• Adjournment

The committee voted to approve the agenda as circulated, with the motion moved by Councillor Kent and seconded by Councillor Steele. No other motions or votes were recorded. The remainder of the meeting consisted of public comments on housing, cycling infrastructure, living‑wage policies, climate action and other community concerns.

• Approved agenda as circulated (motion passed)

Halifax Regional Council

Halifax Regional Council will consider awarding a mobile wireless contract to Eastlink, approve event grants for university and canoe championships, and discuss housing and parking enforcement options.

• Award contract to Eastlink for mobile wireless services
• Approve $90,000 grant for U SPORTS Men’s University Cup
• Approve $1,000,000 grant for ICF Junior and U23 Canoe Sprint World Championships
• Direct staff to explore options for more than one short-term rental on a single property
• Direct staff to consider hiring more parking compliance officers

Halifax Regional Council approved the minutes from December 2025 and adopted the amended agenda. The council adopted By‑law P‑1204 amending on‑street parking permits (11‑5) and unanimously approved amendments to By‑law B‑403. A comprehensive litter‑strategy motion was amended and passed (15‑1). The council defeated a full renaming of Mansion Avenue (3‑13) but approved renaming a segment to Lindhurst Dr unanimously.

• Approved December 2, 9 & 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted By‑law P‑1204 amending on‑street parking permits (11 in favour, 5 against)
• Adopted amendments to By‑law B‑403 (unanimous)
• Approved amended comprehensive litter‑strategy motion (15 in favour, 1 against)
• Defeated full renaming of Mansion Ave (3 in favour, 13 against)
• Approved renaming segment of Mansion Ave to Lindhurst Dr (unanimous)
• Directed CAO to engage on missing‑middle housing and report back (unanimous)
• Approved consent‑agenda items: MPSA planning amendment, mobile wireless service award, 2026 MLSER major events (unanimous)