Welcome to Council Highlights, a concise digest of newsworthy decisions and issues from Town of Lunenburg Council meetings. For a more detailed account of Council meetings, check Council agendas and minutes on the Council Meetings page.
March 11, 2025
Watch a recording of the meeting on YouTube or read the full agenda package.
Council Approves Electric Utility Capital Projects
Council has approved two key electric utility capital projects for 2025/26, totalling $2.373 million, to upgrade and expand the town’s electrical infrastructure. This decision builds on previous funding approvals, ensuring the necessary upgrades move forward without delays.
- Feeder 81W-233 Upgrade to Dufferin Street ($1.721M)
- Green Street Double Circuit Installation ($652K)
These upgrades are essential for supporting new developments, including Harbour View Haven and the Housing Trust’s medical housing on Knickle Road, and will improve grid reliability, accommodate future growth, and modernize the electrical system for long-term sustainability.
In September 2024, Council approved $1.896 million as part of the 2024/25 Electric Utility Capital Budget, which was allocated within a $3.8 million multi-year plan for feeder upgrades to support new developments in the Knickle Road area. However, as project planning advanced and detailed cost estimates were refined, adjustments to project phasing and funding were necessary. With the 2025/26 pre-approval of $2.373 million, Council ensures the continuation of these critical upgrades, preventing delays in electrical service for future developments.
The projects still require final approval from the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (NSUARB).
Council Approves $345,000 for Bandstand Restoration
Council has approved $345,000 for the Bandstand Restoration Project in the 2025/26 Capital Budget, with funding from Capital Reserves. This investment will address serious structural issues identified during inspections, ensuring the Bandstand is safe and accessible for public use.
An engineering inspection in 2024 found severe deterioration in the steel deck sub-framing, requiring immediate closure. Other necessary repairs include re-coating steel columns, replacing decking and guardrails, and restoring ornamental features.
With the design work almost finished, the Town will soon start looking for contractors to do the restoration. Staff are also applying for grants to help cover the costs and reduce the amount taken from Capital Reserves.
Lunenburg Board of Trade lease renewed for 10 years
Council has approved a 10-year lease with the Lunenburg Board of Trade (LBOT) for the tourist bureau and campground on Blockhouse Hill.
Under the agreement, LBOT will pay $20,000 per year, with annual rent increases tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), capped at 5% per year.
Feb. 25, 2025
Watch a recording of the meeting on YouTube or read the full agenda package.
Council Approves Pelham Lofts Development in Heritage District
Council has approved the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the Pelham Lofts development, allowing for the construction of a residential-style building on Lot 2, Pelham Street, and a commercial-style building on Lot 3, Montague Street.
What to Expect from the Development:
Lot 2, Pelham Street will feature a 2½-storey gambrel-style residential building, designed to complement the existing streetscape and historical character of the area.
Lot 3, Montague Street will see the construction of two 3½-storey commercial buildings, connected by a recessed enclosed walkway, designed in keeping with traditional Old Town commercial architecture.
Design renderings for both are available in the agenda package from this meeting.
Certificate of Appropriateness & Compliance with Heritage Regulations
A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) is required for any construction or exterior alterations within the Heritage Conservation District (HCD) to ensure projects maintain the architectural integrity of Old Town Lunenburg. In many instances, COAs are issued by the Town’s Heritage Officer, but in some cases—such as this one—COAs require Council approval.
Both buildings meet the requirements of the HCD Plan and Bylaw. Key aspects such as height, roof design, building separation, materials, and façade design are in full compliance, ensuring the new buildings are designed to complement the historic character of Old Town.
Council to Sponsor the Jennifer Collins Classic
Council has approved a sponsorship for the Jennifer Collins Classic, including a $2,960 waiver in arena rental fees, a contribution of silent auction items, and event promotion support.
Formerly known as The BURG Classic, this annual event was renamed to honour Jennifer Collins, whose resilience and community spirit inspired its creation. What began as a recreational hockey tournament in 2013 has since grown into a multi-weekend event that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support individuals and families facing financial hardship due to life-altering circumstances.
Council Approves Funding for Dares Lake Dam and Spillway Upgrades
Council has pre-approved $1.031 million in the 2025/26 Water Utility Capital Budget for the Dares Lake Dam and Spillway Upgrades—a critical project to ensure the Town’s water supply remains secure and reliable.
A spillway is a structure that helps control water flow from a dam, preventing overflow and managing water levels safely. The existing spillway at Dares Lake—Lunenburg’s primary water source—has deteriorated, and replacement is necessary to maintain water quality and infrastructure reliability.
Along with replacing the spillway, the project must include a federally mandated eel passage, required by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to support fish migration. This federal requirement has significantly increased the project's cost by an estimated $500,000 to $700,000.
Project Cost & Funding
The project will be funded through:
- $446,000 from Water Utility Depreciation Funds.
- $500,000 in Water Utility Capital Debt.
- $85,000 from a Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP) grant.
Next Steps & Additional Funding Efforts
With pre-approval secured, the Town can begin tendering the project immediately to ensure work is started within the 2025 construction window. The Town will also continue seeking additional grant opportunities to help offset the added costs of meeting federal requirements.
Council Approves Updated Expense and Hospitality Policy
Council has approved an updated Expense and Hospitality Policy, replacing the previous version to provide clearer guidance, stronger oversight, and improved accountability for expense claims by elected officials and Town staff.
Under the Municipal Government Act (MGA), all Nova Scotia councils must review and either re-adopt or amend their Expense and Hospitality Policy following each regular election.
Council Approves Public Input Policy
Council has approved a new Public Input Policy, which establishes clear processes for requesting to make a presentation to Council, submitting letters, and participating in public input sessions during Council meetings.
Feb. 11, 2025
Watch a recording of the meeting on YouTube or read the full agenda package.
Council Recognizes Local Curlers Heading to Canadian U18 Championships
Council took a moment to recognize Marcus Hannam and Bruno Whynot, who will represent Lunenburg and Nova Scotia at the Canadian U18 Curling Championships in Saskatchewan. The two athletes were presented with Town of Lunenburg pins, flags, and commemorative plaques in honour of their achievements.
Council commended Marcus and Bruno for their dedication, sportsmanship, and hard work, wishing them the best of luck in the national competition.
Public Hearing Held for New Daycare Site, Council Selects Starr Street Location
Council held a public hearing to discuss leasing Town-owned land for a new Lunenburg Daycare Centre. The daycare, which has secured conditional provincial funding, was seeking a long-term lease agreement on municipal land to move forward with the construction, which is expected to create up to 88 new childcare spaces. The two sites that were under consideration were a lot on Starr Street and the Blue Building on Victoria Road.
Following the hearing and discussions, Council selected the Starr Street site as the preferred location for the new daycare. This site, located near Hillcrest Cemetery and the dog park, is undeveloped and offers enough space for the daycare’s needs. While there are no existing sidewalks or parking, the site allows for on-site parking development, and existing water and wastewater services are available nearby.
The Blue Building site presented several challenges that factored into Council's decision. This site would require rezoning and planning amendments, which could take several months to complete. Additionally, the existing building would need to be demolished before construction could begin, potentially affecting project timelines. Other considerations included flood risks, parking constraints, and the need to relocate Town equipment currently stored at the site. With the daycare facing tight funding deadlines, Council determined that the Starr Street site would allow the project to proceed more quickly.
The next step will be negotiating a lease agreement, which will be brought back to Council for final approval.
Council Defers Decision on Certificate of Appropriateness for Proposed Developments
Council held a public hearing to review a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for two proposed developments in Lunenburg’s Heritage Conservation District (HCD). The proposed developments include a residential-style building on Lot 2 (Pelham Street) and a commercial-style building on Lot 3 (Montague Street). Since these lots are within Old Town Lunenburg’s Heritage Conservation District, all new developments must align with the Heritage Conservation District Plan and Bylaw to ensure they complement the historic character of the area.
A Certificate of Appropriateness is required for any construction or exterior alterations within the HCD to ensure projects maintain the architectural integrity of Old Town Lunenburg. The Town’s Heritage Officer typically issues these certificates; however, under Policy 4.6 of the HCD Plan, new commercial or multi-unit residential buildings require an additional layer of review, including a public hearing and final approval by Council.
After discussion, Council deferred making a decision on this application to allow more time for consideration. This item is scheduled to return for Council’s decision at the February 25 meeting.
During the meeting, concerns were raised about parking availability in the downtown core. This Certificate of Appropriateness ensures that new developments align with Lunenburg’s heritage standards and does not regulate zoning, density, or parking requirements, which are governed by the Land Use Bylaw. However, Council has directed Staff to develop proposed amendments to the Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS) and Land Use Bylaw (LUB) to require on-site parking for future developments.
Accessible Housing Incentive Policy Approved
Council has approved the Accessible Housing Incentive Policy, a new initiative aimed at increasing the number of fully accessible housing units in Lunenburg. The policy provides fee reimbursements to developers who go beyond the minimum accessibility standards required by the Nova Scotia Building Code.
Under this three-year pilot program, the Town will reimburse municipal service hookup fees and subdivision fees for projects that exceed the required number of accessible units. These fees typically range from $3,500 per unit for service hookups and $2,000–$5,000 for subdivisions. By offsetting these expenses, the Town hopes to encourage the inclusion of barrier-free entrances, wider doorways, and maneuverable kitchens and bathrooms in new housing developments.
To qualify, projects must provide more accessible units than required by the provincial building code. For buildings with fewer than 20 units, at least one fully accessible unit must be included. For larger buildings, the requirement is two accessible units per 20 units, plus one additional unit for any remaining units beyond multiples of 20. Developers will receive fee reimbursements only after the final occupancy permit is issued, ensuring that accessibility commitments are met.
This policy is part of the Town’s Housing Accelerator Fund initiatives and will be in effect for three years. Council will review its impact before deciding whether to continue or modify the program beyond the initial pilot period.
Civic Square Building Condition Assessment
The pdf Civic Square Condition Assessment Report (14.32 MB) was presented to Council, summarizing the state of four Town-owned buildings: Town Hall, the Old Fire Hall, the Electric Light Shop, and the Bandstand. The assessment, which had been included in the 2024/25 Town Operating Budget, provides a detailed evaluation of each structure’s condition and estimates the cost of necessary repairs.
The Civic Square Condition Assessment Report highlighted:
- Bandstand (125 Cumberland St.): The steel sub-framing is in very poor condition and requires immediate replacement before reopening. Additional work includes repairs to decking, guardrails, benches, and the potential addition of an accessibility ramp.
- Town Hall (119 Cumberland St.): Major concerns include roof leaks, deteriorating masonry, and failing windows. Roof repairs are the most urgent, but a full rehabilitation is recommended within five years.
- Old Fire Hall (40 & 42 Duke St.): The roofing membrane is deteriorating, allowing water to enter the building. Other issues include brickwork degradation and outdated doors/windows.
- Electric Light Shop (107 Cumberland St.): Cracking in the brick structure requires monitoring, with targeted repairs recommended within two years.
This report was presented to Council for information purposes only, meaning no immediate funding decisions were made. However, unlike the other buildings in the report, the Bandstand is already included in the consultant’s scope for tender document preparation. This means that the next step for the bandstand is for the consultant to develop detailed tender documents, which will provide a further refined cost estimate and detailed scope of repairs.
Council Considers Affordable Housing Tax Forgiveness Policy
Council is considering a new Affordable Housing Tax Forgiveness Policy to encourage the construction of affordable rental housing in Lunenburg. The policy would provide a three-year municipal property tax exemption for eligible projects, helping to reduce costs for developers and accelerate new housing supply.
To qualify, projects must be newly built (not conversions or renovations) and include at least five residential units with affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility requirements aligned with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Affordable Housing Fund. At least 30% of units must be rented below 80% of the Median Market Rent (MMR) for 20 years, and buildings must meet national energy and accessibility standards.
Council is scheduled to make a decision on this policy at its Feb. 25 regular meeting. The proposed policy can be found in the agenda package from the Feb. 11 meeting.
Council Sets Fixed Schedule for Committee of the Whole Meetings
Council has established a fixed schedule for Committee of the Whole (COTW) meetings, which will now take place on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. This schedule will be reflected on the Council calendar, available here:https://townoflunenburg.ca/town-government/meeting-schedule.html
COTW meetings provide a forum for informal discussions on key municipal matters, but no formal decisions are made. Topics often include budgets, development proposals, strategic planning, and policy reviews. The goal is to allow Council to explore issues in-depth before bringing them forward for a vote at a regular Council meeting.
Jan. 28, 2025
Watch a recording of the meeting on YouTube or read the full agenda package.
Community Recognition – Dave Robb
Council recognized Dave Robb for his years of dedication to the Lunenburg community as he retires from his role at Foodland. Beyond his work at the store, Dave has been an active community leader, contributing to fundraising initiatives and serving as Deputy Chief of the Lunenburg District Fire Department.
Congratulations on your well-earned retirement, Dave!
Lunenburg Traffic and Parking Study
Council received the Lunenburg Traffic and Parking Study, which explores solutions to seasonal traffic and parking challenges.
Recommendations include installing an all-way stop at Dufferin/Lincoln/Falkland, upgrading the Community Centre parking lot, and introducing a pay-by-plate parking system.
Please note: This was just a presentation—Council will discuss the report and other parking and traffic issues in the Town further at a future Committee of the Whole meeting to prioritize recommendations and consider solutions.
The full study can be found in the agenda package from this meeting.
Council also directed staff to work with the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg and the local MLA to advocate for improvements to the Trunk 3/Route 332 intersection, where sightlines and stop sign compliance are concerns.
CUPE Local 1780 Collective Agreement
Council ratified the 2024–2028 collective agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1780. The agreement, approved by CUPE members on January 14, 2025, reflects a collaborative effort to address labour priorities and support municipal operations.
The Interim Chief Administrative Officer has been authorized to execute the agreement on behalf of the Town of Lunenburg.
For more details, please refer to the release: https://townoflunenburg.ca/town-of-lunenburg-signs-new-four-year-collective-agreement-with-cupe-local-1780.html
Curbside Waste Collection Services Contract
Council awarded the Curbside Waste Collection Services Contract to GE’s All Trucking Limited for a seven-year term. The decision followed a regional Request for Proposal (RFP) led by the Lunenburg Regional Municipal Joint Services Board.
Annual cost increases of up to 2.89% will be included in future budgets. The new agreement now includes provisions for storm debris and electronic waste collection, enhancing service delivery.
Stormwater Separation Masterplan – RFP Award
Council approved an additional $17,000 for the Stormwater Separation Masterplan Project funded by Sewer Reserves for a total of $127,000. They also awarded the Request for Proposal (RFP) to CBCL Limited for $109,975 + HST. The updated budget includes $12,000 in contingency funds to cover any unforeseen costs.
This project is a key step in developing Lunenburg’s Asset Management Plan by creating detailed models of the town’s stormwater infrastructure. The masterplan will provide street-by-street recommendations to improve stormwater and sewer systems, ensuring they can handle future growth and address saltwater intrusion.
Accessible Housing Incentive Policy
Council gave notice to approve a new Accessible Housing Incentive Policy aimed at encouraging the development of accessible housing in Lunenburg.
The policy provides financial incentives by reimbursing developers for municipal service hookup and subdivision fees when they include accessible units exceeding Nova Scotia Building Code requirements. These fees can represent significant costs, averaging $3,500 per unit for hookups and $2,000–$5,000 for subdivisions.
The policy applies to all building types requiring permits, including new builds, renovations, and accessory units, and will run as a three-year pilot program.
This policy is scheduled to be approved at the Feb. 11 Regular Council meeting.
Jan. 14, 2025
Watch a recording of the meeting on YouTube or read the full agenda package.
January is Alzheimer Awareness Month
Council proclaimed January as Alzheimer Awareness Month in recognition of the growing impact of dementia in Nova Scotia.
The proclamation highlights the vital work of the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, which is dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by dementia while promoting research into its causes and potential cures.
For more information, visit the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia website.
Council to Schedule Public Hearing to Discuss Potential Sites for New Daycare Facility
At last night’s meeting, Council reviewed several possible locations for a new daycare facility to address the growing childcare needs in Lunenburg. After discussing various options, Council identified two potential sites for further consideration:
- Starr Street: Land near Hillcrest Cemetery, close to the existing Dog Park.
- Blue Building: Located at 87 Victoria Road
A public hearing will be held to gather community input on the use of these sites for the daycare project. The hearing date will be determined and advertised on the Town’s website and social media pages.
The proposed new facility, spearheaded by the Lunenburg Daycare Centre (LDCC), aims to add 96 licensed childcare spaces to alleviate a waiting list of over 230 children. The Blue Building site offers proximity to recreation facilities but would require Public Works to relocate. The Starr Street site is centrally located but would need significant infrastructure upgrades, including sidewalks and utilities.
The hearing will provide an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on these locations as Council moves forward with this community project. LDCC’s presentation to Council is available within the agenda package from this meeting.
Support for Regional Housing Market Study
Council expressed its support for collaborating with the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) on a comprehensive housing market study, which MODL will manage. The study aims to gather accurate data on rental rates, vacancy rates, and other key metrics to address housing challenges and support affordable housing projects.
The Town of Lunenburg’s expected contribution to the $50,000 study is between $3,000 and $5,000, with final approval and funding allocation to be determined through the Town’s budget process. This initiative will provide vital information to guide housing strategies and access federal funding opportunities.