Town of Amherst Proclaims May 18–23 as VON Week
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Mayor Small has officially proclaimed this week - May 18-23, 2026 - as VON Week in Amherst.
The Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) is a charitable, community-based healthcare organization that has been supporting the health and well-being of Canadians for 129 years. In Amherst, VON nurses, home support workers, coordinators, and volunteers deliver critical care to residents.
Safe Approach and Rescue Vehicle Officially Handed Over
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Yesterday at Dickey Park in Amherst, the Amherst Police Department and first responders from near and far came together for the community’s annual Police Week Celebration Day, including a special handover ceremony.
The event featured games, tasty treats, and first responder vehicles of many kinds for kids and adults alike to explore. One such vehicle was the Amherst Police Department’s Safe Approach and Rescue Vehicle, also known as the SARV.
Pictured beside APD’s new Safe Approach and Rescue Vehicle are APD Chief Dwayne Pike, Mayor Rob Small, APD Sergeant Aaron Graham, and Darrell Coffin of GardaWorld.
Key Budget Investments Build On Year of Progress in Amherst
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The Town of Amherst continues to make steady progress on Mayor and Council’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan, with pdf this year’s budget investments(1.33 MB) focused on supporting growth, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life for residents.
Advancing Council’s Strategic Priorities
Amherst’s Strategic Plan is centered on two priorities: economic prosperity and a vibrant community. Over the past year, a number of initiatives have moved forward in support of these goals.
A new town-wide beautification strategy, developed with input from residents and staff, is designed to help foster community pride and encourage shared responsibility for public spaces.
Efforts to attract healthcare professionals are also delivering results. Through a jointly funded Community Navigator position, 19 physicians have been recruited to Cumberland County, along with 45 new nurses in Amherst, improving access to care across the region.
To support housing development, Council has adopted an updated pdf Municipal Planning Strategy(9.84 MB) and pdf Land Use Bylaw(12.71 MB) . The changes allow for more flexible residential development, including increased density and fewer barriers for builders. Since 2025, 149 new housing units have been approved in Amherst, contributing toward the Town’s goal of 400 new units by 2028.
The Town is also taking a closer look at its parks and green spaces to ensure they meet the needs of a growing community. With nearly four times the national average of parks per capita, the focus is on enhancing flexibility, accessibility, and long-term sustainability.
Additional progress includes the development of a new live fire training facility, which will improve firefighter training and safety
A transit feasibility study was completed that involved input from public, Town staff, and community organizations. At this time, Council has chosen not to pursue a transit system, instead prioritizing other high-impact infrastructure and service investments.
Responsible Budget with Targeted Investments
The Town’s 2026–2027 budget reflects a balanced approach to maintaining services while planning for the future.
Overall residential and commercial tax rates remain unchanged. While sewer rates have increased slightly – about $20 per year for the average household – this is more than offset by a $28 annual reduction in solid waste charges.
Changes to the deed transfer tax will bring Amherst in line with other municipalities across Nova Scotia, with an increase to 1.5% (from 1.25%) set to take effect July 1 this year.
Support for residents remains a priority. The income threshold for the Town’s Tax Reduction Policy has been raised to $32,000, allowing more households to qualify for financial relief.
The budget also includes increased funding for marketing and communications initiatives, which will help promote Amherst and support economic development efforts.
Investments in core services include new equipment for fire, police, and public works departments, ensuring frontline staff have the tools needed to continue delivering reliable services.
May Proclaimed Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Amherst
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Did you know that Lyme Disease is a serious illness caused by the bite of a blacklegged tick infected with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi? Blacklegged ticks carrying a variety of diseases or illnesses can now be found in all parts of Nova Scotia.
May has been proclaimed as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Amherst and everyone is encouraged to learn about the dangers posed by ticks and how to take preventative measures.
Let's all enjoy being outside in our beautiful province, now and through the seasons ahead, while also being mindful of these risks.
Mayor Small Proclaims May, 2026 As Gaelic Nova Scotia Month
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WHEREAS 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Gaelic Nova Scotia Month, which is a time to embrace, honour, celebrate, and raise awareness of the language, culture, history, contributions, and achievements of Gaels across the province; and,
WHEREAS Gaelic language and culture are integral components of the identity of Nova Scotia, and that Gaels represent one of the earliest non-Indigenous cultural groups to settle in Mi’kma’ki; and,
WHEREAS new generations of language learners and cultural champions continue to build upon the legacy of Gaelic Nova Scotia’s tradition bearers; and,
WHEREAS government commits to collaborating with Gaelic communities to support the growth of Gaelic Nova Scotia through opportunities for language acquisition, cultural awareness and capacity building within communities to ensure Gaelic language and culture remain vibrant elements of the living linguistic and cultural landscape of Nova Scotia.
BE IT RESOLVED, THEREFORE, that I, Robert Small, Mayor of Amherst, proclaim May, 2026 as Gaelic Nova Scotia Month in the town of Amherst.
2026 Census Coming Soon
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The 2026 Census is coming, and we need your support!
The Census of Population collects demographic, social and economic data from households, which is used by all levels of government, Indigenous communities, businesses, community organizations, and many others to support decision-making. The high-quality information collected by the census helps Canadians make important decisions that affect their families, their communities and their businesses.
Census collection begins on May 4, 2026. Completing the census questionnaire online is the best way for Canadians to fulfill their census obligation. It's secure and confidential. Respondents without reliable access to the Internet can call the Census Help Line to complete their census questionnaire over the phone or request a paper questionnaire.
How you can help spread the word:
- Share the resources in the 2026 Census Community Supporter Toolkit, including articles, posters, web images, and social media content.
- Engage on social media and share posts using the hashtag #2026Census.
For more information, please visit census.gc.ca.
French Toast Fest Returns to Amherst March 23–30
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The Town of Amherst is excited to welcome back French Toast Fest, returning this year from March 23–30. The week-long celebration invites residents and visitors to explore creative French toast dishes prepared by participating restaurants across the community.
Each year, local restaurants put their own spin on the classic breakfast favourite — from sweet to savoury — creating unique menu items that can only be enjoyed during the festival.
This year, Amherst is also welcoming Hub City Foodies, who will be visiting participating restaurants throughout the week. He will be sharing behind-the-scenes content, photos, and videos as restaurants prepare their special creations.
Check out Hub City Foodies
French Toast Fest has quickly become a favourite local tradition, highlighting Amherst’s vibrant food scene while supporting local businesses and giving residents a fun reason to explore restaurants around town.
More details about participating restaurants and featured dishes can be found at amherst.ca/frenchtoastfest or visit Amherst Community Living and Recreation Department on Facebook.
