Media Releases

Appointments to Amherst Youth Town Council made

Amherst town council, at its Sept. 28, 2022, meeting, appointed eight members to the Amherst Youth Town Council.

The purpose of the Amherst Youth Town Council is to advise the Amherst town council on matters that impact youth in the community.

Appointed to the Youth Town Council were:

• Kiahna Brennan – Grade 11 – Returning
• Leah Brunt – Grade 10 – Returning
• Mathias Mayhew – Grade 7 – New
• Kennedy Allen – Grade 9 – Returning
• Rowan Blanch – Grade 11 – Returning
• Harmoni Caldwell – Grade 7 – New
• Ava Crocker – Grade 7 – New
• Oskar Sigtryggsson – Grade 12 – Returning

There are four vacant positions on the youth council. Students in Grades 7-12 can apply to be a member by filling out an expression of interest, which can be found at: https://amherst.ca/amherst-youth-town-council-expression-of-interest.html

Homeless shelter contribution

The council approved giving a “meaningful financial contribution” towards establishing an emergency shelter in the community.

Council noted the motion did not give specific details, but believes it gives staff some general guidance when discussing the issue with service provides and will provide service providers some level of indication the town is open and willing to provide meaningful financial support should a specific requested by submitted.

Guaranteed Basic Income

Council approved support for an Atlantic Mayors Congress resolution that is advocating for a guaranteed basic income. Council directed staff to write and the mayor to sign a letter on council’s behalf that will be sent to senior governments supporting a guaranteed basic income.

Amendment to Memorandum of Understanding

Council approved an amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding it has with the Amherst Lions club in relation to the operation of the Lions Park on Hickman Street. The amendment will see the town take over paying the water and sewer bills for the splash pad.

Taking over the cost, which is just under $12,000 annually, will enable the Lions Club to provide more funding to other worthwhile community projects.