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.
Investing in Infrastructure and Growth
Several major projects are moving forward as part of the Town’s capital plan.
The expansion of the Amherst Business Park will add more than 120 acres of development-ready land, supporting business growth and job creation. Initial infrastructure work is being funded through a $2.5 million investment.
Residential growth continues with the Marshview Drive extension, where new serviced lots are being developed to meet housing demand.
More than $700,000 has also been allocated to street paving and sidewalk improvements, extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure while enhancing safety and connectivity for residents.
Accessibility remains a key focus. Construction is set to begin on a new accessible playground at Beacon Street Park, designed to ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the space. This aligns with Nova Scotia’s goal of becoming a barrier-free province by 2030.
Preparations are also underway for the 2027 55+ Games, with upgrades planned for the Robb Complex and Rotary Park to improve accessibility and accommodate visitors.
Larger-scale projects under consideration include a new soccer and track complex at Dickey Park, which will proceed once additional funding is secured, and a major upgrade to the Amherst Stadium’s ice plant to ensure long-term reliability.
While plans for a new community centre are currently on hold, the Town continues to set aside funding for future development and is exploring partnership opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Through careful planning and targeted investments, the Town of Amherst is working to support growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
These efforts reflect a long-term commitment to building a strong, sustainable, and inclusive community for today and for the future.
