At a special meeting of Amherst Town Council on Monday night, the 2026/27 Operational and Capital budgets were presented by staff and approved by Council.
“I am very pleased that our 2026/27 Operational and Capital Budgets have been approved by Council,” shared Mayor Rob Small. “I would like to thank Director of Finance Sarah Wilson, her staff and the directors and managers who helped develop this budget.”
“I would also like to point out the engagement of all of Council in ensuring that these budgets reflected the priorities of Council, while ensuring prudence in our spending programs. This year’s operating and capital budgets continue to implement our Strategic Plan and represent generational change for the Town of Amherst.”
Amherst Business Park
An investment of approximately $2,500,000 will be made to install street, water, sewer and active transportation infrastructure in the first phase of the new business park. This investment will immediately open up approximately 40 acres of new land for commercial and industrial development, with an additional 100 +/- acres in future phases. It will also create a new primary entrance to the business park at Ancestral Drive, which will alleviate traffic congestion at the intersection of South Albion Street and Robert Angus Drive. The design of this new infrastructure is already underway, and it is possible street construction will commence this fall.
Accessible Playground
Just under $1,300,000 is included in this budget for a new accessible playground at Beacon Street Park. This park will be a showstopper for the Town and will provide an inclusive facility for all children – regardless of ability – to play and call their own.
Soccer and Track Complex
The largest single initiative in this budget is a new artificial turf soccer field and track and field complex at Dickey Park. The Town has set aside $3,100,000 for this $8,100,000 facility. However, it cannot be accomplished alone. Construction will commence once the remaining $5,000,000 is secured via grants and fundraising.
Community Centre and Ice Making Equipment
There has been much talk about a new community centre for the Town. After careful fiscal analysis, a decision has been made to continue to plan for a new facility, with construction not commencing until funding is in place. As this will be a long-term initiative, Council will continue to set aside funds each year to pay for this new facility when the time is right. To bridge the gap, the ice making equipment at the current stadium will be replaced, at an estimated cost of $1,500,000.
Additional Initiatives
These include increased funding for marketing and communication initiatives, investments in Town streets and sidewalks, economic development, and equipment for Police, Fire and Public Works departments. Additional funds are being allocated so all streets will be included in the salt route.
Significant dollars are being invested for social issues, such as increased accessibility in parks and playgrounds, an increase to the low-income tax rebate threshold and preparation for hosting the 55+ Games in 2027.
A Decision on Transit
In order to ensure fiscal capacity for the above initiatives Council had to make some difficult decisions and has decided not to pursue a public transit system at this time.
Tax Rates
“We are very happy to be able to present this budget, one that sets a new course for the Town, its residents and businesses, without impacting our residential and commercial tax rates,” said Mayor Small.
- Due to the provincial CAP program, residential assessments for tax purposes will increase by a maximum of 2.6% for those properties that did not sell during the past fiscal year.
- There will be some changes to the tax system. Deed transfer tax was increased from 1.25% to 1.5% which puts Amherst at the same rate as most other municipal units in Nova Scotia.
- In order to continue to invest in sewer infrastructure, sewer rates have been increased. This increase will see an average household pay approximately $20 more per year for this service.
- The solid waste charge has been reduced by $28 per year, more than offsetting the sewer rate increase for households.
“Council feels that this budget is strategic, prudent and will positively impact the town for future generations, said Mayor Small. “The investments we are making will allow us to attract new residents to our community, and allow us to capitalize on the new economy, one based on energy and critical minerals, last mile delivery of goods, and defence manufacturing. Once these provincial and national initiatives gain traction, we will be ready.”
