HALIFAX REGIONAL COUNCIL

MINUTES

Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 10:00 a.m.; Reconvene 6:00 p.m.

Council Chamber, 3rd Floor City Hall, 1841 Argyle Street, Halifax

Present:

• Deputy Mayor Tony Mancini
• Councillor Cathy Deagle Gammon
• Councillor David Hendsbee
• Councillor Becky Kent
• Councillor Trish Purdy
• Councillor Sam Austin
• Councillor Laura White
• Councillor Virginia Hinch
• Councillor Shawn Cleary
• Councillor Kathryn Morse
• Councillor Patty Cuttell
• Councillor Janet Steele
• Councillor Nancy Hartling
• Councillor John Young
• Councillor Billy Gillis
• Councillor Jean St-Amand

Regrets:

• Mayor Andy Fillmore

Staff:

• Cathie O’Toole, Chief Administrative Officer
• John Traves, K.C., CD, Municipal Solicitor/Chief Governance Officer
• Krista Vining, Team Lead, Legislative Assistants
• Simon Ross-Siegel, Legislative Assistant
• Dorothy Maponga, Legislative Assistant
• Olawumi Odeyinka-Apantaku, Legislative Assistant

The following does not represent a verbatim record of the proceedings of this meeting. 

The agenda, reports, supporting documents information items circulated and video (if available) are online at halifax.ca. 

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1.

CALL TO ORDER AND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Deputy Mayor Mancini called the meeting to order at 10:01 a.m. and acknowledged that the meeting took place in the traditional and ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaq people, and that we are all treaty people. 

1.1

SPECIAL PRESENTATION - WILL BREWER, HRM TOWN CRIER - 10:00 A.M.

Will Brewer, HRM Town Crier was presented with a medal and provided a proclamation to Halifax Regional Council. 

2.

SPECIAL COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Cathie O'Toole, Chief Administrative Officer provided an update on the response to the wildfire in Musquodoboit Harbour.

Councillors noted special community announcements and acknowledgements.

3.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES - June 3, 2025 Special Regional Council & June 10, 2025 Regional Council

MOVED by Councillor Deagle Gammon, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT the minutes of June 3, 2025 & June 10, 2025 be approved as circulated. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. 

4.

APPROVAL OF THE ORDER OF BUSINESS AND APPROVAL OF ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS

Additions: None 

Deletions: None

As provided for in section 37 (1) of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, Simon Ross-Siegel, Legislative Assistant requested that Item 17 In Camera (In Private) session be considered prior to Item 9.

As provided for in section 37 (1) of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, Simon Ross-Siegel, Legislative Assistant requested that Item 13.3.1 Events East Business Plan be considered immediately following Item 17 In Camera (In Private).

As provided for in section 37 (1) of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, Simon Ross-Siegel, Legislative Assistant requested that Item 10.2 Deputy Mayor Mancini - Board of Police Commissioners 2024-2025 Annual Report and Work Plan be considered at 1:00 p.m.

MOVED by Councillor Deagle Gammon, seconded by Councillor Hendsbee 

THAT agenda be approved as amended. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. 

Later in the meeting, the following was deferred to a future meeting of Halifax Regional Council:
•    Item 15.2.1 Wanderers Block Functional Plan

Later in the meeting, during the In Camera (In Private) session, Council agreed to add the following item to the agenda:

•  Item 17.5 PERSONNEL MATTER - Private and Confidential Report

5.

CONSENT AGENDA

As provided for in section 41 (3) of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council: 

•    Item 15.2.1 Wanderers Block Functional Plan was removed from the consent agenda at the request of Councillor Cuttell
•    Item 15.3.1 First Reading Proposed By-Law L-202, Amendments to By-law L-200, Respecting Licensing of Construction and Demolition Recycling and Disposal Operations was removed from the consent agenda at the request of Councillor Hendsbee
•    Item 15.4.1 Proposed Residential Parking Permit Surcharge for Heavy Vehicles was removed from the consent agenda at the request of Councillor Purdy

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council approve recommendations in the following items: 
•    15.1.2 – First Reading Proposed By-law S-317, Respecting Streets, Repeal of Ordinance180, the Streets Ordinance of the City of Halifax, and By-law R-100, the By-law and Ordinance Repeal By-law;
•    15.5.2 – 2025/26 Rural Transit Funding Program;
•    15.5.3 – HRM Community Grants Program: Fiscal 2025 - Recommended Awards; and
•    15.6.1 – HRTG-2025-01168: Substantial Alteration to the Municipally Registered Heritage Property at 7895 Highway 7, Musquodoboit Harbour.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

6.

BUSINESS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES

None

7.

CALL FOR DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTERESTS

Deputy Mayor Mancini acknowledged that Councillors Hendsbee and Purdy had a perceived bias with respect to item Case 23563: Appeal of Site Plan Approval – Highway 7, Porters Lake, PID 40740276 and would not be present for this item.

8.

MOTIONS OF RECONSIDERATION

None

9.

MOTIONS OF RESCISSION - February 8, 2022

9.1

Councillor Kent

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Extract from the February 8, 2022 Halifax Regional Council minutes 

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT Halifax Regional Council rescind Item 15.8.1 from the February 8, 2022 Regional Council meeting which requested a staff report as follows:

“That Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare a staff report for consideration prior to the 2023/2024 budget process, outlining what additional staff and other resources are required to advance the capital mobility projects and increase Halifax Regional Municipality’s capacity for major capital projects, especially proposed road networks and functional plans.”

John Traves, K.C., CD, Municipal Solicitor/Chief Governance Officer responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

10.

CONSIDERATION OF DEFERRED BUSINESS - June 10, 2025

10.1

By-law V-300, The Vehicle Noise By-law - Supplementary Report

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated May 3, 2023
• Supplementary staff report dated April 30, 2025
• Extract from the May 9, 2023 Halifax Regional Council minutes 

MOVED by Councillor Cleary, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT Halifax Regional Council maintain the current enforcement mechanism for excessive vehicle noise through the Noise By-law and Motor Vehicle Act.

Superintendent Greg Robertson, Halifax Regional Police, Sergeant Brian Palmeter, Halifax Regional Police, John Traves, K.C., CD, Municipal Solicitor/Chief Governance Officer, Cathie O'Toole, Chief Administrative Officer and Bill Moore, Commissioner of Public Safety responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.  

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. (11 in favour, 5 against) 

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Kent, Purdy, White, Morse, Cuttell, Steele, Hartling, Young, Gillis, St-Amand

Against: Councillors Deagle Gammon, Hendsbee, Austin, Hinch, Cleary

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

10.2

Deputy Mayor Mancini - Board of Police Commissioners 2024-2025 Annual Report and Work Plan

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Board of Police Commissioners report dated May 21, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 24, 2025
• Staff presentation dated June 24, 2025

Greg O'Malley, Chair, Board of Police Commissioners and Josh Bates, Policing Policy Strategist gave a presentation and responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

Cathie O'Toole, Chief Administrative Officer and Bill Moore, Commissioner of Public Safety responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

10.3

Robie Street Transit Priority Corridor: Project Update

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Transportation Standing Committee report dated April 25, 2025 with attached revised staff report dated April 7, 2025 
• Correspondence from Katherine Kitching, Margaret-Anne Bennett, Andrée Champagne, Odette Murphy, Wayne Fiander, Meghan Nieman, Myra Donnelly-Gay, Michael Speraw, Molly DeShong, Morgan Christie, Mary Evans, Larry Bjornson, Peggy Cameron and Howard Epstein, Pytrik Oosterhof, Cindy Brown, Terry Arnason, Amy Scott, Elizabeth Heffelfinger, Eryn Foster, Gabriela V., Krista Blaikie Hughes, Hugh Chisholm, Barbie Shanks, Janette Freeman, Patricia De Meo, Krista Simon, Carmelitta MacIntyre, Cyrah Upshaw, Venessa Upshaw, Josolyn Cuvelier
• Staff presentation dated June 24, 2025

MOVED by Councillor Hinch, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT Halifax Regional Council receive the report dated April 25, 2025 for information and receive a presentation. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

Dave Reage, Executive Director Strategic Infrastructure & Transportation Planning and Mike Connors, Manager Strategic Transportation Planning Program gave a presentation and responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

Cathie O'Toole, Chief Administrative Officer and Rob Jahncke, Manager Client & Project Management Services responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

10.4

Councillor Cuttell

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Draft Federation of Canadian Municipalities Resolution

MOVED by Councillor Cuttell, seconded by Councillor Hendsbee

THAT Halifax Regional Council introduce a resolution for submission to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to advocate to the federal government for preventative screening for fire fighters for all municipalities.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

11.

NOTICES OF TABLED MATTERS

None

12.

SITE PLAN APPROVAL HEARING

12.1

Case 23563: Appeal of Site Plan Approval – Highway 7, Porters Lake, PID 40740276

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated May 28, 2025
• Staff presentation dated June 24, 2025
• Appellant presentation from Brayden Thomas dated June 24, 2025
• Appellant presentation from Derick Stoddard dated June 24, 2025
• Appellant presentation from Randy and Janice Stoddard dated June 24, 2025
• Correspondence from Annette and David Newton, Linda Mosher, Pat Bonn and Heather Flatters 

Chris Rennehan, Principal Planner gave a presentation and responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.
 
Erin MacIntyre, Director, Development Services responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

The Chair reviewed the rules of procedure for hearings and invited the appellants to come forward and address Regional Council.

Brayden Thomas, appointed representative for Shu Wei Chen, Appellant gave a presentation and expressed concern about Shu Wei Chen's attempt to sell their property dating back to 2021, with a lot of difficulty in doing so due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding the potential C&D facility. Thomas also noted the inadequate vegetative buffer for dust, noise, and light control, major concern of the wetland, with no actual field-based delineation having been completed, and was concerned about consideration for wildlife and species at risk within the community. Thomas responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

Derick Stoddard, Appellant gave a presentation and raised concerns about the environmental impact of C&D property in the area, such as the noise transferred and the effect on wildlife in the area.

Randy and Janice Stoddard, representing the Estate of Jean Stoddard, Appellant gave a presentation, and submitted their speaking notes to the Clerk. Stoddard raised concerns on the environmental impact of the C&D facility, which was potentially harmful to the habitat of humans in the area and stated that the sitemap provided is approximately 10 years old, which was inaccurate and does not closely reflect the multiple wetland areas and waterways that would be affected. Stoddard noted there was no complete environmental assessment of the area done by a qualified environmental engineer of the Municipality.

The Chair invited any other speakers who identified as being affected by the decision to come forward and address Regional Council.
 
Deb Day, Lodge Lake and Eastern Preston, Chair of the Committee for Safe and Healthy Communities noted that the wetland data in the report was not up to date. Day stated that the data required a more in-depth scientific study in order to determine not what a wetland was, but what a wetland consisted of, to be able to determine a risk assessment of the area.

Linda Mosher, Lake Echo raised concerns about the fire risk associated with having such a facility in the area. Mosher noted that rising temperatures could lead to more fires, posing a threat to the community. Mosher referenced a major fire that had occurred nearby days earlier and expressed worry that a similar event could not be ruled out in the future. Mosher also pointed out that the facility sites lacked sufficient information to properly educate the community.

Amanda (Amy) Gunderson, representing Nature Ridge Subdivision said the site plan approval caused worry among homeowners and clients who invested in Nature Ridge. Gunderson were concerned that property values would drop, resale chances would go down, and the quality of life would suffer. Gunderson explained that the site’s approval would bring noise from dump trucks unloading, heavy machinery working, and dust from crushing and moving materials. This dust could harm the health and enjoyment of families nearby and in Nature Ridge. They also said the proposal did not include anything to protect the environment. Gunderson answered questions from Halifax Regional Council.

Mike Thomas, a founding member of the Concerned Residents Group spoke to their family, living in the community and raised concerns about buffering, noise, and dust from the construction materials.

The Chair noted that appellants Cody White and Natasha Warnell White, and Patricia Bonn were not present. Patricia Bonn's written submission had been forwarded to Regional Council.

The Chair invited the Applicant/Respondent to come forward and address Regional Council.

Jennifer Tsang, representative of Kiann Management, Applicant/Respondent spoke about the reuse and recycling of construction and demolition (C&D) material as a crucial component of the industry. Tsang noted that C&D materials included products reusable in their current form, such as lockers from old schools and steel beams from buildings, which could be repurposed into new products for road construction, garden mulch for smaller projects, and various other uses. Tsang stated that, like other forms of recycling, this process diverted waste from landfills and as HRM was a leader in Nova Scotia by requiring the recycling of C&D material through its By-law L-200, approved in 2002 as part of its Integrated Waste Resource Management Strategy, the by-law mandated that C&D material originating from the municipality be processed or disposed of within HRM.

Tsang also noted that while other C&D sites existed in Nova Scotia, HRM did not allow workers to transport C&D material to those locations. Instead, HRM required that all C&D material from the municipality be processed within its boundaries. Tsang explained that the Regional Council’s decision at the June 24, 2025 meeting was not about whether a C&D operation could or should take place at the location. Rather the decision had already been made through the rezoning process and the board’s ruling. The decision before Council was to consider whether the site plan met the criteria outlined in the land use by-law.

Tsang responded to questions from Halifax Regional Council regarding the different community views on the wetland present on the property and what was shown on Kiann’s site plan. Tsang spoke to the most recent environmental reports completed during the rezoning process, the appropriate vegetation for the site based on soil conditions, the stormwater pond surrounding the wetland and watercourse, both regulated under By-law L-200, and the monopoly of other existing C&D sites within HRM.

John Traves, K.C., CD, Municipal Solicitor/Chief Governance Officer outlined the process and clarified the rules on the motion to Regional Council.

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT the appeal be allowed.

Rennehan and MacIntyre responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council regarding the approval criteria, the need for the applicant to obtain a development permit regarding buffers, wetlands, and watercourses upon the appeal being approved, the noise verification assessment done by staff, and the screening done regarding vegetation retention.

Traves responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council regarding the criteria for the landscape on adjoining lands, and the risk associated with the C&D facility not meeting the criteria process if approval was granted.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. (7 in favour, 6 against) 

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Deagle Gammon, Kent, White, Hinch, Cuttell, Hartling

Against: Councillors Austin, Steele, Morse, Young, Gillis, St-Amand

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillors Hendsbee, Purdy, Cleary

13.

CORRESPONDENCE, PETITIONS & DELEGATIONS

13.1

Correspondence

Correspondence was received and circulated for items: 10.3, 12.1, 15.2.1 and 16.1. 

For a detailed list of correspondence received refer to the specific agenda item. 

13.2

Petitions

13.2.1 Councillor Young

Councillor Young submitted a petition from the Lucasville Heritage Community regarding the revocation of permit extensions for apartment buildings in the Lucasville Heritage Community with approximately 382 signatures to revoke construction permits or extensions that have not seen active development in the community, and further halt development approvals for apartment buildings in Lucasville pending consultation with the community. 

13.3

Presentations

13.3.1

Events East Business Plan

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Presentation dated June 24, 2025

Carrie Cussons, Events East and Suzanne Fougere, Events East gave a presentation and responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

14.

INFORMATION ITEMS BROUGHT FORWARD

None

15.

REPORTS

15.1

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

15.1.1

Proposed Amendments to Administrative Order 2023-002-ADM, Respecting Public Participation for Planning Documents, Certain Planning Applications, and Engagement with Abutting Municipalities - the Public Participation Administrative Order

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated April 3, 2025 

MOVED by Councillor Steele, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council adopt the proposed amendments to Administrative Order 2023-002-ADM, the Public Participation Administrative Order as set out in Attachment 1 of the staff report dated April 3, 2025.

Byungjun Kang, Planner III and Josh Adams, Principal Planner responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.1.2

First Reading Proposed By-law S-317, Respecting Streets, Repeal of Ordinance 180, the Streets Ordinance of the City of Halifax, and By-law R-100, the By-law and Ordinance Repeal By-law*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated May 16, 2025

The following motion was approved as part of the Consent Agenda:

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council give First Reading to By-law S-317, amending By-law S-300, the Streets By-law; repealing Ordinance 180, the Streets Ordinance of the City of Halifax; and amending By-law R-100, the By-Law and Ordinance Repeal By-law, as set out in Attachment 1 of the staff report dated May 16, 2025.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.1.3

Proposed Amendments to Administrative Order 29, Respecting HRM Civic Addressing Policies - CA143 - Street Naming from January 1, 2025 to March 31, 2025

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated April 3, 2025

MOVED by Councillor Deagle Gammon, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT Halifax Regional Council adopt the proposed amendments to Administrative Order 29, Respecting Civic Addressing Policies as set out in Attachment A of the staff report dated April 3, 2025 to approve: 

1.    The naming of 10 private roads; and

2.    The naming of 2 public streets. 

Kurt Pyle, Manager, Culture, Heritage & Planning Information Services responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.1.4

Proposed Administrative Order 2025-003-ADM, Respecting Grants for Affordable Housing, and Proposed Repeal of Administrative Order 2020-008-ADM - Changes to the Affordable Housing Grants Administrative Order

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Staff report dated April 28, 2025

MOVED by Councillor Cuttell, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council repeal Administrative Order Number 2020-008-ADM and adopt Administrative Order Number 2025-003-ADM, as set out in Attachment B of the staff report dated April 28, 2025.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.2

COMMUNITY PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STANDING COMMITTEE

15.2.1

Wanderers Block Functional Plan*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Community Planning and Economic Development Standing Committee report dated June 11, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 11, 2025
• Correspondence from Peggy Cameron, Ralf Dreimains, Margo Grant

This matter was deferred; refer to the Order of Business.

15.3

ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY STANDING COMMITTEE

15.3.1

First Reading Proposed By-Law L-202, Amendments to By-law L-200, Respecting Licensing of Construction and Demolition Recycling and Disposal Operations*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Environment and Sustainability Standing Committee report dated June 5, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 1, 2025

MOVED by Councillor Hendsbee, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council give First Reading to By-law L-202, the purpose of which is to amend By-law L-200, Respecting Licensing of Construction and Demolition Recycling and Disposal Operations, including repealing Administrative Order 27, Respecting Materials That Shall Not Be Disposed Of In A C&D Disposal Site, as set out in Attachment C of the staff report dated April 1, 2025.

Shannon Betts, Director, Solid Waste and John Traves, K.C., CD, Municipal Solicitor/Chief Governance Officer responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.4

TRANSPORTATION STANDING COMMITTEE

15.4.1

Proposed Residential Parking Permit Surcharge for Heavy Vehicles*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Transportation Standing Committee report dated June 12, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 14, 2025

MOVED by Councillor Purdy, seconded by Councillor Cleary

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to direct staff to prepare amendments to implement a pricing model based on vehicle weight for annual residential parking permits, as described in the discussion section of the staff report dated April 14, 2025, and return to Halifax Regional Council for approval. 

Jeff Nephew, Supervisor, Parking Operations and Roddy MacIntyre, Director Traffic & Parking Management responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. (12 in favour, 4 against) 

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Deagle Gammon, Kent, Austin, White, Cleary, Morse, Cuttell, Steele, Hartling, Gillis, St-Amand

Against: Councillors Hendsbee, Purdy, Hinch, Young

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.5

GRANTS COMMITTEE

15.5.1

Less than Market Value Land Lease - multiple locations: Block HC-2 Wood Avenue, Halifax (PID 40268534), Block BO Victory Lane, Halifax (PID 00127928); and Block L Imo Lane, Halifax (PID 00035675)

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Grants Committee report dated June 18, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 30, 2025

MOVED by Councillor St-Amand, seconded by Councillor Gillis

THAT Halifax Regional Council approve the lease agreement, with the key terms and conditions set forth in the staff report dated April 30, 2025, with Nova Scotia’s Department of Growth and Development for the premises located at Block HC-2 Wood Avenue, Halifax (PID 40268534); Block BO Victory Lane, Halifax (PID 00127928); and Block L Imo Lane, Halifax (PID 00035675) and authorize the Mayor and Municipal Clerk to execute the agreement.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.5.2

2025/26 Rural Transit Funding Program*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Grants Committee report dated June 18, 2025 with attached staff report dated April 29, 2025

The following motion was approved as part of the Consent Agenda:

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Regional Council approve grants, pursuant to the Rural Transit Grants Administrative Order, for the 2025/26 fiscal year, to a maximum of $503,851, set forth in Table 2 of the staff report dated April 29, 2025.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.5.3

HRM Community Grants Program: Fiscal 2025 - Recommended Awards - REVISED*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Grants Committee report dated June 18, 2025 with attached revised staff report dated May 26, 2025

The following motion was approved as part of the Consent Agenda:

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council: 

1. Approve 63 awards as detailed in Attachment 2 of the staff report dated May 26, 2025, for a combined total of $476,430 from Operating Account M311-8004 Community Grants;

2. Amend the funding conditions for #56 Petpeswick Yacht Club in Attachment 2 of the staff report dated May 26, 2025, to remove the holdback condition, having the society confirmed provincial funding;

3. Recommend reduction in Grant award for #48 Kiwanis Club of Cole Harbour Westphal in Attachment 2 from $5,000 (full funding) to $1,000 as a result of the soil been donated and not a cash expenditure, and if a reduction is approved, the Financial Implications section of the staff report dated May 26, 2025 be amended to a revised balance remaining of $23,750; and

4. Approve that the application for St. Peter Parish be referred to staff for further review on the basis of the historic significance of the building and the need for remediation.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.6

HERITAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

15.6.1

HRTG-2025-01168: Substantial Alteration to the Municipally Registered Heritage Property at 7895 Highway 7, Musquodoboit Harbour*

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Heritage Advisory Committee report dated June 18, 2025 with attached staff report dated June 5, 2025

The following motion was approved as part of the Consent Agenda:

MOVED by Councillor Kent, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council approve the proposed substantial alteration to the municipally registered heritage property 7895 Highway 7, Musquodoboit Harbour, as set out in the staff report dated June 5, 2025.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

15.7

MEMBERS OF COUNCIL

15.7.1

Councillor Austin - Point in Time Count Presentation

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Request for consideration form from Councillor Austin

MOVED by Councillor Austin, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council receive a public presentation of the latest Point in Time Count data.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore

16.

MOTIONS

16.1

Deputy Mayor Mancini

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Correspondence from Joshua Hitchon, Stephen Chisholm, Matthew Baker, Jess Younker

Deputy Mayor Mancini stepped down from the Chair and Councillor Deagle Gammon assumed the Chair. Councillors Hendsbee and Purdy re-joined the meeting. 

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to write a staff report of all AAA bike network capital projects defined in current the four year Capital Plan for years 2026-29.

The staff report will include:

1. A list of bike lane projects proposed in the fiscal years 2026-29 with their estimated budget requirement;

2. Assesses the feasibility of alternative network solutions that could reduce future costs; and

3. Provides opportunities for additional external funding sources.

Councillor White proposed the following wording be added to the first recommendation "separated into general traffic, public space, pedestrian and bike lane improvements". As provided for in section 53 (2) of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, the amendment was accepted as friendly.

The motion now read:

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to write a staff report of all AAA bike network capital projects defined in current the four year Capital Plan for years 2026-29.

The staff report will include:

1. A list of bike lane projects proposed in the fiscal years 2026-2029 with their estimated budget requirement (separated into general traffic, public space, pedestrian and bike lane improvements);

2. Assesses the feasibility of alternative network solutions that could reduce future costs; and

3. Provides opportunities for additional external funding sources.

Cathie O’Toole, Chief Administrative Officer and Brad Anguish, Commissioner of Operations responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council regarding the approval of capital plans and the details of the staff report coming forward.

As set out in section 34 of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, a motion was required to extend the time of the meeting. 

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council extend the time of the meeting past 10:00 p.m.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED.

MOVED by Councillor White, seconded by Councillor Steele

THAT the motion be amended to includes a holistic cost-benefit analysis in the staff report.

MOTION TO AMEND PUT AND DEFEATED. (7 in favour, 8 against)

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Austin, White, Hinch, Morse, Steele, Hartling

Against: Councillors Deagle Gammon, Hendsbee, Kent, Purdy, Cuttell, Young, Gillis, St-Amand

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Cleary

The question was called on the main motion:

As provided for in section 90 of Administrative Order One, Respecting the Procedures of the Council, the motion was separated for voting purposes.

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to write a staff report of all AAA bike network capital projects defined in current the four year Capital Plan for years 2026-29.

The staff report will include:

1. A list of bike lane projects proposed in the fiscal years 2026-29 with their estimated budget requirement (separated into general traffic, public space, pedestrian and bike lane improvements).

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. (13 in favour, 2 against) 

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Deagle Gammon, Hendsbee, Kent, Purdy, Austin, White, Morse, Cuttell, Steele, Hartling, Gillis, St-Amand

Against: Councillors Hinch, Young

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Cleary

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to write a staff report of all AAA bike network capital projects defined in current the four year Capital Plan for years 2026-29.

The staff report will:

2. Assesses the feasibility of alternative network solutions that could reduce future costs.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. (11 in favour, 4 against) 

In favour: Deputy Mayor Mancini, Councillors Deagle Gammon, Hendsbee, Kent, Purdy, Cuttell, Steele, Hartling, Young, Gillis, St-Amand

Against: Councillors Austin, White, Hinch, Morse

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Cleary

MOVED by Deputy Mayor Mancini, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to write a staff report of all AAA bike network capital projects defined in current the four year Capital Plan for years 2026-29.

The staff report will:

3. Provides opportunities for additional external funding sources.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Cleary

16.2

Councillor Cuttell

Deputy Mayor Mancini resumed the Chair.

MOVED by Councillor Cuttell, seconded by Councillor St-Amand

THAT Halifax Regional Council direct the Chief Administrative Officer to provide a staff report to consider amending Administrative Order 2018-003-ADM respecting private road maintenance to include additional roads that are not public roads, such as private driveways, lanes, and right-a-ways, to enable the establishment of area rates for maintaining such roads.

Brad Anguish, Commissioner of Operations responded to questions of clarification from Halifax Regional Council.

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present:  Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Cleary

17.

IN CAMERA (IN PRIVATE)

MOVED by Councillor Steele, seconded by Councillor Gillis 

THAT Halifax Regional Council convene to In Camera (In Private) to discuss Item 17.1 In Camera (In Private) Minutes, 17.2 PROPERTY MATTER, 17.3 PERSONNEL MATTER and 17.4 INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. 

17.1

In Camera (In Private) Minutes - June 3, 2025 In Camera Special Regional Council

This matter was dealt with In Camera (In Private) and ratified in public as follows: 

MOVED by Councillor Cleary, seconded by Councillor Deagle Gammon

THAT the In Camera (In Private) minutes of June 2, 2025 be approved as circulated. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED. 

17.2

PROPERTY MATTER - Private and Confidential Report

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Private and confidential staff report dated June 6, 2025
• Private and confidential staff presentation dated June 25, 2025.

This matter was dealt with In Camera (In Private) and ratified in public as follows: 

MOVED by Councillor Cleary, seconded by Councillor Deagle Gammon

THAT Halifax Regional Council:

1. Adopt the recommendations as outlined in the private and confidential report dated June 6, 2025; and

2. Direct that the private and confidential report dated June 6, 2025 be maintained private and confidential. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillors Hinch, Young

17.3

PERSONNEL MATTER - Private and Confidential Report

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Private and confidential staff report June 16, 2025

This matter was dealt with In Camera (In Private) and ratified in public as follows: 

MOVED by Councillor Deagle Gammon, seconded by Councillor Kent

THAT Halifax Regional Council:

1. Adopt the recommendations as outlined in the private and confidential report dated June 16, 2025; and

2. Direct that the private and confidential report dated June 16, 2025 be maintained private and confidential. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Hinch

17.4

INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS - Private and Confidential Report

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Private and confidential report dated June 24, 2025 

This matter was dealt with In Camera (In Private) and ratified in public as follows: 

MOVED by Councillor Austin, seconded by Councillor Hartling

THAT Halifax Regional Council:

1. Adopt the recommendations as outlined in the private and confidential report dated June 24, 2025; and

2. Direct that the private and confidential report dated June 24, 2025 be maintained private and confidential. 

MOTION PUT AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY. 

Not present: Mayor Fillmore, Councillor Hinch

17.5

PERSONNEL MATTER

The following was before Halifax Regional Council:

• Private and confidential staff report dated June 4, 2025

This matter was dealt with In Camera (In Private). 

18.

ADDED ITEMS

None

19.

NOTICES OF MOTION

19.1 Councillor Morse

TAKE NOTICE that, at a future meeting of Halifax Regional Council, I intend to propose amendments to Administrative Order 2014-015-ADM, Respecting Reserve Funding Strategies, the purpose of which is to enable emergency flexibility, ensure timely replenishment, prohibit deficit positions, and impose time limits on commitments.

19.2 Councillor Cuttell

TAKE NOTICE that, at a future meeting of Halifax Regional Council, I intend to move a motion to direct the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare a staff report to consider renaming and renumbering Mansion Avenue from civic 11 to 27, and that Mansion Avenue from civic 38 to 94 remain as Mansion Avenue and be renumbered as required by civic addressing. 

19.3 Councilllor Purdy

TAKE NOTICE that, at a future meeting of Halifax Regional Council, I intend to propose amendments to Administrative Order 2022-008-ADM, Respecting the Implementation of Area Rates to Fund Sidewalks Outside of the Urban Tax Area, the purpose of which is to adjust the area rate charged to $0.021 per $100 of taxable assessment.

19.4 Councillor Kent

TAKE NOTICE that, at the next regular Regional Council meeting, to be held on Tuesday, the 8th day of July, 2025, I propose to move that Regional Council request a staff report and recommendations for potential amendments to HRM Bylaw T-1000, Respecting the Regulation of Taxis, Accessible Taxis, Limousines and Transportation Network Companies to create a new category providing legislation that relates to the tourism industry, operating passenger vehicles, with a maximum seating capacity of eight passengers within HRM.

20.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.

21.

INFORMATION ITEMS

21.1

Proclamation - Filipino Heritage Month - June 2025

21.2

Proclamation - World Kidney Cancer Day - June 19, 2025

21.3

Proclamation - Viola Desmond Day - July 6, 2025

21.4

Proclamation - 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica, Bosnia, and Herzegovina - July 11, 2025

21.5

Memorandum from the Municipal Clerk dated June 16, 2025 re: Requests for Presentation to Council - None

21.6

Memorandum from the Chief Administrative Officer dated May 30, 2025 re: Cogswell District Project Update Report #7

22.

IN CAMERA (IN PRIVATE) INFORMATION ITEMS

22.1

Private and Confidential In Camera (In Private) Information Report re: Personnel Matter

Private and Confidential In Camera (In Private) Information Report re: Personnel Matter