Media Releases

Deputy Mayor Stewart Elected First Vice President of National Board

Details: Published: Tuesday, 06 June 2023 08:41

The Municipality of Colchester’s Deputy Mayor, Geoff Stewart, was recently elected First Vice President of the Federation of Canadian Municipality’s (FCM) at the organization’s annual conference held recently, May 25-28, 2023. After completing a term as 3^rd Vice President in 2021, and 2^nd Vice President in 2022, Stewart is now second in command to FCM’s newly elected President, Scott Pearce, Mayor of the Township of Gore, Quebec.

“Once again, I am honoured to be re-elected as a Table Officer of the FCM Board and Executive Committee. I am also proud to represent Colchester in this important work that benefits all Canadian municipalities,” says Deputy Mayor Stewart.

FCM advocates for municipalities across the country and ensures citizens' needs are reflected in federal policies and programs. It has been the national voice of municipal government since 1901. Members include more than 2,100 municipalities of all sizes, from Canada's cities, and rural communities, to northern communities including 20 provincial and territorial municipal associations. Together, they represent more than 92 percent of all Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

French River Watershed Designated as Protected Water Area

Details: Published: Thursday, 27 January 2022 09:03

Provincial Environment Minister Tim Halman has designated the French River Watershed as a Protected Water Area. As a result, the watershed that gives people of Tatamagouche their drinking water is now protected provincially, further safeguarding access to quality water for area residents.

The application process for the Protected Water Area designation was initiated by the Municipality of Colchester in 2018. Extensive public consultation, including a public survey and community meetings, supported the application and informed the regulations implemented to protect the watershed area.

“It was clear from the public consultation process that most area residents were in favour of advancing the application for the Protected Water Area designation,” said Christine Blair, Mayor of the Municipality of Colchester. “Clean water is one of the most fundamental needs of a community. It is essential to human health, a healthy environment, and a sustainable economy. We are pleased to be able to protect this valuable resource for generations both now and into the future.”

The Protected Water Area regulations protect drinking water supplies by giving municipalities the authority to manage watersheds, including restricting or prohibiting activities that may impact water quality or quantity. Now that the watershed is designated as a Protected Water Area the Tatamagouche Water Utility, owned and operated by the Municipality, is responsible for protecting the area and enforcing the regulations.

“The watershed provides water for the village of Tatamagouche. It’s important that we maintain the pristine water that the village is fortunate enough to have. I am pleased the government has taken into consideration the work that was done to protect the watershed and has designated it as a Protected Water Area. Kudos need to go to the staff of the Municipality for the work that went into getting here and to the community for standing up to be heard. I am over the moon,” said Michael Gregory, Councillor, Municipality of Colchester and Chair of the Tatamagouche Source Water Protection Committee.

More information on the Protected Water Area regulations.

Colchester Honours and Remembers Those Lost During April 2020 Tragedy

Details: Published: Thursday, 15 April 2021 08:36

April 15, 2021

As the anniversary of the tragic events of April 18 & 19, 2020 approaches, the Municipality of Colchester prepares to honor and remember the 22 lives and unborn child that were so senselessly taken one-year ago.

In remembrance, the Municipality will be lowering flags at its offices and facilities to half-mast and lighting the Municipal Office at 1 Church Street, Truro in blue. Other organizations and community members are encouraged to join in similar expressions of observance that may include hanging a flag in a window or tying Nova Scotia tartan to a mailbox.

In addition to deeply impacting local communities and the province it has been apparent by the outpouring of love and support received from around the country, and the world, that this tragedy has greatly affected many.

The Municipality of Colchester would like to thank all who have offered condolences, kind gestures, expressions of remembrance, and donations to support the community and victims’ families. All have been a light that has helped restore and lift spirits during a very dark and difficult time.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with all who continue to grieve and heal. We hope that comfort and solace may be found in those around us both now and in the days ahead,” said Christine Blair, Mayor of Colchester County.

Media Contact:

Devin Trefry
Mayor and CAO’s Office
Cell: 902-956-3239
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Major Rural Broadband Network Taking Shape in Cumberland and Colchester

Details: Published: Wednesday, 02 September 2020 15:06

One of the largest optic fibre-based high speed internet networks in rural Canada is being built in the Municipalities of Colchester and Cumberland. An Agreement between the Municipalities and Xplornet Communications Inc. was signed on August 21^st following unanimous approval of both Councils.

Cliffs of Fundy Achieves UNESCO Global Geopark Designation

Details: Published: Friday, 10 July 2020 15:20

The Cliffs of Fundy Geopark, spanning the Fundy shore of Cumberland and Colchester counties from Apple River to Lower Truro, has officially been named a “UNESCO Global Geopark”. The prestigious designation was announced today at a meeting of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Executive Board in Paris and is anticipated to be a catalyst for tourism growth in Nova Scotia.

A Message of Condolences

Details: Published: Monday, 20 April 2020 09:38

“Words cannot describe the depth of sadness we are feeling as we mourn those lost to this senseless tragedy. The news has been shocking and for many of us, we are still coming to terms that this nightmare is indeed reality.

On behalf of Colchester County Council I would like to extend our sincerest and most heartfelt sympathies to all the families, friends and community members affected. Our hearts go out to you.

We especially acknowledge RCMP Constable Heidi Stevenson who was killed in the line of duty as she bravely worked to serve and protect her community. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the entire RCMP organization. Moreover, we thank all first responders for their selfless courage and heroic efforts and extend our profound appreciation for all involved.

In memory of those lost, the flags at our Colchester Municipal Offices are being flown at half mast.

For those affected by these tragic events and in need of help, please reach out.

The Mental Health Provincial Crisis Line is available 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis, or someone concerned about them, by calling 1-888-429-8167 (toll free).
Kids Help Phone is available 24/7, by calling 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free).
Morneau Shepell has also opened its 24/7 bilingual crisis support line to help anyone in need of emotional support as a result of these tragic events. The number is: 1-844-751-2133

In closing, as we learn more details about the tragic events of April 18th &19th and the true impact to our community, we would encourage all to show love and support to one another as we process this unfathomable event together. We will get through this difficult time."

Mayor Christine Blair On behalf of Colchester County Council

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