Council Highlights - Town of Lunenburg

Welcome to Council Highlights, a concise digest of newsworthy decisions and issues from Town of Lunenburg Council meetings. For a more detailed account of Council meetings, check Council agendas and minutes on the Council Meetings page.

May 13, 2026 - Special Meeting: Electric Utility Budgets

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 05 13 2026 Special Council Agenda (Electric Utility Budgets)(2.51 MB)

Council Approves Electric Utility Budgets and Infrastructure Investments

2026/27 Electric Utility Capital Budget

Council approved the 2026/27 Electric Utility Capital Budget, including a five-year capital plan that will guide major upgrades to Lunenburg’s electrical infrastructure over the coming years. The approved 2026/27 budget totals $4.387 million, with the full five-year plan representing nearly $21 million in investments into the Town’s electric utility system.

The Town’s current electrical distribution system is operating near capacity in several areas, with aging infrastructure and limited backup capacity creating increasing pressure on the system. Staff advised that these constraints are affecting the Town’s ability to support future housing and commercial growth, accommodate increasing electricity demand, and maintain reliable service during peak periods and outage restorations.

To address these challenges, Council approved a five-year capital modernization program totalling nearly $21 million. The plan includes construction of a new Green Street substation, upgrades to electrical feeders and infrastructure throughout Town, replacement of aging equipment, and future smart meter and grid modernization initiatives.

These investments are expected to improve reliability, reduce outage times, significantly increase system capacity, and better position the Town to support long-term growth, renewable energy integration, electric vehicle infrastructure, and increasing electrification within the community.

Key projects included in the first year of the budget include:

Construction of a new double-circuit feeder on Green Street;
Upgrades to electrical infrastructure in the Knock Lane and Blue Rocks areas;
Transformer upgrades and replacement of remaining PCB-filled transformers;
Early engineering, land preparation, and technical studies for the future Green Street substation.

For residents and businesses, these investments are expected to:

Improve overall electrical reliability and reduce outage times;
Support future housing and commercial growth within Town;
Increase the utility’s ability to accommodate electric vehicle charging infrastructure;
Better support renewable energy integration;
Modernize aging infrastructure to meet future demand.

The project also positions the Town to better handle increasing electrical demand as more homes, businesses, and transportation systems continue to transition toward electrification (like electric heat pumps and electric vehicles) in the coming years.

2026/27 Electric Utility Operating Budget

Council approved the 2026/27 Electric Utility Operating Budget, totaling $8.896 million, which supports the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and administration of the Town’s electric utility system while maintaining a modest projected surplus of $24,500.

The operating budget funds the ongoing delivery of electricity services to approximately 2,300 customers across Lunenburg, including residential, commercial, industrial, and street lighting accounts.

A significant portion of the budget, approximately $6.6 million, is dedicated to purchasing electricity for resale to customers. The remaining operating costs support utility operations, infrastructure maintenance, vegetation management, engineering support, customer billing, communications, and outage response.

The 2026/27 operating budget reflects a $1.25 million increase over the previous budget year. Major factors contributing to the increase include higher power purchase costs, debt repayments tied to ongoing infrastructure investments, and deficit elimination measures.

The budget also reflects increasing electricity demand within the community. The Utility’s billed demand reached a new peak in January 2026, highlighting growing system usage as homes, businesses, and technologies continue transitioning toward greater electrification.

Council Approves Next Steps for Potential Electric Utility Rate Adjustments

Council approved moving forward with an application to the Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB) that would allow the Town’s Electric Utility to adjust electricity rates in response to increases from Nova Scotia Power.

Nova Scotia Power’s municipal electricity rates are increasing on May 1, 2026 and again on January 1, 2027. Because the Town purchases all of its electricity from Nova Scotia Power before distributing it to local customers, these increases also affect the Town’s Electric Utility costs.

The application process, called a “flow-through application,” is required before those increased power costs can be reflected in local utility rates. Council’s approval allows staff to begin that regulatory process with the NSEB.

Power purchase costs make up approximately 80% of the Utility’s rate revenue, and staff advised that absorbing the increases without a rate adjustment would not be financially sustainable for the Utility long term.

May 12, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 05 12 2026 Council Agenda(30.51 MB)

Council Supports Accessibility Improvements for the Opera House

Council supported a proposal to improve accessibility at the Lunenburg Opera House through changes to the street area on Lincoln Street, including a sidewalk “bump-out” and accessibility ramp.

The proposed improvements are intended to provide barrier-free access to the Opera House’s main entrance while creating a safer and more accessible space for pedestrians and event crowds. The project is part of the larger Opera House revitalization effort, which includes major upgrades to help preserve and modernize the historic building.

The matter came to Council because the proposed accessibility plaza and sidewalk extension would extend into Town-owned street space and require Town approval. The proposal would also remove three existing parking spaces along the Opera House frontage.

Council heard that the accessibility improvements are considered critical to the long-term use of the Opera House and important to securing funding for the broader restoration project.

The proposal was also reviewed through heritage and UNESCO reviews, with staff finding no expected negative impact on Old Town Lunenburg’s World Heritage values (Outstanding Universal Value).

Additional detailed staff review and approvals are still required before construction can proceed, including engineering review and final approval for the street changes. The building owner would be responsible for funding the accessibility improvements.

Public Hearing Held for Proposed Paid Parking By-law

Council held a public hearing for the proposed new Paid Parking By-law, which would repeal and replace the Town’s existing Parking Meter By-law.

No speakers commented directly on the proposed by-law itself. One resident spoke about possible locations where the Town could explore additional parking opportunities in the future.

The proposed by-law is intended to modernize the Town’s parking rules to reflect the use of newer payment systems, including the HotSpot parking app, alongside traditional parking meters.

The proposed changes would also:

formally exempt vehicles with volunteer firefighter licence plates and accessible parking permits from paid parking fees;
remove parking time limits on Bluenose Drive, Montague Street, and Pelham Street to better support longer visits;
maintain two-hour parking limits on King, Duke, and Lincoln streets;
add two free 30-minute parking spaces on Lincoln Street near the Post Office and pharmacy for short visits to essential services; and
increase the parking ticket penalty from $15 to $25.

The proposed by-law would not change the current parking rate of $2 per hour. It would also continue free parking on Sundays and during certain seasonal periods, while proposing additional free parking during January and February.

Council is expected to consider approving the by-law at its May 26, 2026 meeting.

Town Participating in “Menstrual May” Collection Drive

The Town of Lunenburg is participating in “Menstrual May,” a community collection drive organized by the United Way of Lunenburg County to help address period poverty in the region.

Community members are invited to donate menstrual hygiene products such as pads, tampons, and liners throughout May.

Donations can be dropped off at Town Hall (119 Cumberland Street, Lunenburg) during regular business hours:

Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

All products collected in Lunenburg County will stay local and be distributed through community organizations supporting individuals and families in need.

April 28, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 04 28 2026 Council Agenda(2.15 MB)

Update on Regional Committee and Next Steps for Anti-Racism Work

Council received a report on the future of the regional Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Advisory Committee (ARADAC). The committee was created in partnership with the five South Shore municipalities to support anti-racism and equity work across Lunenburg County.

Over the past two years, the regional model has faced challenges, including staffing capacity and differing priorities among municipalities. Recently, three of the five municipal partners have chosen to withdraw from the agreement, which means the current regional structure will come to an end.

Council acknowledged that while the regional model is no longer continuing in its current form, the importance of anti-racism and anti-discrimination work remains unchanged. This work is required by the Province and continues to be a priority for the Town.

Council directed staff to:

Continue advancing this work locally, with a focus on clear accountability and community engagement; and

Explore opportunities to partner with the Town of Mahone Bay and other interested municipalities on a revised advisory or resource-sharing approach.

Council and staff also recognized the valuable contributions of the volunteer committee members, who shared their time, knowledge, and lived experiences to support this work.

While this particular regional initiative is ending, Council emphasized that the Town continues to have strong working relationships with neighbouring municipalities and remains committed to collaborating regionally where it makes sense.

First Reading of Updated Parking Meter By-law Approved

Council approved first reading of an updated Parking Meter By-law, which reflects the Town’s transition to a modern paid parking system, including the use of mobile app payments alongside traditional meters.

The updated by-law reorganizes parking rules into a clearer format and introduces a schedule that outlines parking fees, time limits, and penalties in one place, making it easier to understand and update in the future.

A public hearing will be held before Council considers second reading and final approval of the by-law.

The draft by-law is available in the agenda package for this meeting.

Low Income Property Tax Relief Policy Update

Council approved amendments to the Low Income Property Tax Relief Policy to update income thresholds and exemption amounts, reflecting decisions made during the 2026/27 budget process.

The policy is intended to provide financial relief on property taxes for low-income households.

The updated policy increases support as follows:

Households earning $37,532 or less are now eligible for a $1,500 exemption

Households earning $37,533 to $43,371 are eligible for a $750 exemption

Households earning $43,372 to $49,210 are eligible for a $375 exemption

These changes expand eligibility and provide increased financial relief to low-income residents.

No other changes were made to the policy.

Council Proclaims May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month

Council proclaimed May 2026 as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in the Town of Lunenburg.

The proclamation recognizes the growing presence of ticks and tick-borne diseases in Nova Scotia and aims to raise awareness about prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions, such as regular tick checks and proper removal, to reduce the risk of illness.

April 14, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 04 14 2026 Council Agenda(4.20 MB)

Council Approves 2026/27 Operating Budget

Council has approved the Town’s 2026/27 Operating Budget in the amount of $12,054,200 (Option E in the April 14 staff report).

This budget maintains current service levels while introducing the first tax rate increase since 2021/22, alongside a contribution toward future infrastructure needs, reflecting increased costs across municipal services and operations.

The approved rates are:

Residential Tax Rate: $1.455 per $100 of assessment (increase of 7.9 cents)
Commercial Tax Rate: $3.479 per $100 of assessment (increase of 12.1 cents)
Seasonal Tourist Tax Rate: $2.609 per $100 of assessment
Residential Sewer Rate: $750.82 per dwelling unit
Non-Residential Sewer Rate: $0.7175 per $100 of assessment
Church Sewer Rate: $440.98 per quarter

The $135,000 contribution is money the Town is setting aside now to help pay for future infrastructure work, such as possible roads, sidewalks, or major facility upgrades. Building up this reserve over time helps reduce the need for larger tax increases or borrowing when those projects move forward.

Municipal budgets are typically divided into two parts: operating and capital. The operating budget covers the ongoing costs of running the Town year-to-year, while the capital budget focuses on longer-term investments, such as infrastructure upgrades, facility improvements, and major construction projects. While the operating budget ensures services continue without disruption, contributions like the one included in this year’s budget help build capacity for those larger, future investments.

Council selected this option as a way to balance maintaining services today with planning for known and upcoming infrastructure needs.

More detailed budget documents and a full breakdown of the 2026/27 budget will be shared separately.

Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law Approved

Council has approved a new Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law, replacing the former Hack and Trolley By-law.

The updated by-law sets out clear rules for how tour vehicles and horse-drawn carriages operate in Lunenburg, bringing everything into one modern, easy-to-follow framework.

It also strengthens protections for horses, including requirements around care, rest, and operating in safe weather conditions.

Overall, the new by-law improves clarity for operators and supports public safety.

Inclement Weather Policy Deferred

Council deferred making a decision on the proposed Inclement Weather & Temporary Facility Closure Policy, which will return for consideration at a future meeting.

The proposed policy is intended to provide a clear framework for how the Town manages operations during periods of inclement weather or hazardous conditions, including when to delay openings, close facilities, or adjust services to protect the safety of employees and the public.

The draft policy is available in this meeting’s agenda package.

Carry-Over Project Approved

Council approved the carry-over of $20,000 for interpretive panels from the 2025/26 Capital Budget into the 2026/27 Capital Budget.

This project includes the design, fabrication, and installation of interpretive panels in Town parks, which will help share local history.

The project was originally approved in the 2025/26 budget but was not completed within that year. Carrying the funding forward allows the work to continue, with completion anticipated by the end of June.

In addition to the Town’s funding, the project is also supported by external funding through the ACOA Tourism Growth Program.

A carry-over allows approved funding for a project to be moved into the next budget year if the work was not completed as planned. This ensures the project can move forward without needing to re-approve new funding.

March 3, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 03 03 2026 Council Agenda(6.18 MB)

Mayor Provides Update on Recent Power Outages and Ongoing Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades

The Mayor Jamie Myra provided an update on the recent power outages affecting the community.

Council previously approved the Electric Utility’s five-year capital plan of more than $15 million to support infrastructure upgrades and improve the reliability of the Town’s electrical system. Earlier in the day, Town representatives met with Nova Scotia Power to review the recent outage and discuss ongoing efforts to stabilize the electrical grid and improve restoration times.

Several infrastructure upgrades are already included in the capital budget, and the Town is exploring additional options that could accelerate improvements and reduce strain on the system.

Council reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing the Town’s electrical infrastructure, recognizing that these upgrades will take time but are already contributing to improved outage response and recovery.

Residents are encouraged to monitor updates during outages through multiple channels, including local radio, the Town’s website, and social media, and to contact the Electric Utility directly if they require assistance.

March 2026 is Kidney Month

Council proclaimed March 2026 as Kidney Month, recognizing the impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on communities across Canada. One in ten Canadians lives with CKD, with significantly higher rates among Indigenous peoples. Kidney disease is the tenth leading cause of death in Canada and accounts for approximately 71% of the national organ transplant waitlist.

The proclamation also acknowledges the work of the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Council further recognized World Kidney Day on March 12, 2026, highlighting efforts by the Kidney Foundation’s Atlantic Branch to raise awareness about kidney health, reduce the impact of kidney disease, and encourage organ donation.

To learn more, visit: https://kidney.ca/News-Media/Campaigns/Kidney-Health-Month

Council Approves Sponsorship for Gary L. Wentzell March Break Hockey Tournament

Council approved a Silver Sponsorship of $500 for the Gary L. Wentzell March Break Hockey Tournament, which will take place March 16–22, 2026.

Council Holds Public Hearings for Two Proposed By-laws

Council held public hearings for the proposed Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law and the Short-Term Accommodation Levy By-law.

Members of the public spoke and submitted written correspondence regarding the Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law. Council requested that staff review potential amendments before bringing the by-law forward for further consideration.

No members of the public spoke at the public hearing for the Short-Term Accommodation Levy By-law, though one written submission was included in the agenda package.

The Short-Term Accommodation Levy By-law is expected to return to Council for second (final) reading on March 10, while the Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law is expected to return for second (final) reading on March 24.

Region 6 Solid Waste Management Budget Approved

Council approved the Town of Lunenburg’s required municipal contribution of $3,839 to the 2026/27 Region 6 Solid Waste Management Budget. This contribution represents the Town’s share of the Region 6 Inter-Municipal Committee’s overall budget of $147,885, which supports regional waste reduction, education, enforcement, and administrative services delivered across 12 member municipalities.

Council Pre-Approves Staff Positions and Use of Town Land for Construction Soil

Following a closed (private) session, Council returned to public session and approved the following items:

Council pre-approved the hiring of two staff positions, a By-law/Electric Meter Reader and a Water and Wastewater Supervisor, in advance of the approval of the Town’s 2026/27 operating budget. These approvals allow recruitment planning to move forward while the budget is being finalized.

Additional information about the positions will be presented as part of the budget discussions scheduled for March 9.

Council also approved allowing the Chief Administrative Officer and Town Engineer to decide whether Town-owned land on Schwartz Street (PID 60500006) can be used for the permanent placement of soil from the construction of the new Harbourview Haven Seniors Facility. Allowing the soil to be placed on this property will help reduce issues caused by trucks transporting dirt through the area, particularly along Hall Street and Victoria Road.

Feb. 10, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 02 10 2026 Council Agenda(10.46 MB)

Mayor Addresses Recent Power Outage

At the start of the meeting, the Mayor acknowledged the frustration many residents experienced during the recent power outage, particularly during winter conditions.

The Mayor also addressed reports that frontline utility workers restoring power were verbally harassed. While frustration with outages is understandable, abuse directed at workers in the field is not acceptable.

Utility crews are not responsible for corporate or infrastructure decisions and often work long hours in difficult conditions to restore service as quickly and safely as possible.

Council encouraged residents to continue to treat frontline workers with respect, especially during challenging circumstances.

Council Approves First Reading of Marketing Levy By-law

Council approved first reading of the proposed Marketing Levy By-law.

The by-law would establish a 3% marketing levy on all short-term accommodations located within the Town of Lunenburg. This includes traditional hotels, inns, and short-term rentals listed on platforms such as Airbnb. The levy would be collected by operators at the time of booking and remitted to the Town on a monthly basis.

Under provincial legislation, all short-term accommodations must be registered with the Province. This registration system will assist the Town in identifying operators who are required to collect and remit the levy.

If approved, funds collected through the levy may only be used for tourism promotion purposes authorized under provincial legislation. This can include activities such as marketing and advertising campaigns, visitor guides and digital promotion, supporting festivals and events that attract visitors, and contributions to tourism-focused organizations.

If adopted, the levy would take effect January 1, 2027, providing operators time to prepare their systems.

Council will schedule a public hearing in the coming weeks to provide an opportunity for public input. Following the public hearing, Council will consider second reading. Approval of second reading would formally adopt the by-law.

Further details, including public hearing information, will be shared once scheduled.

The draft by-law can be found in the agenda package for this meeting.

Council Approves First Reading of Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law

Council approved first reading of the proposed Tour and Horse-Drawn Vehicle By-law.

This by-law would replace the Town’s existing Hack and Trolley By-law and modernize the framework for licensing and regulating commercial tour vehicles and horse-drawn carriage operations in Lunenburg.

Council directed staff to review the current by-law in 2025 following public concerns related to animal welfare during periods of extreme heat and dry weather. The updated draft strengthens animal welfare protections while also improving clarity, transparency, and enforceability.

The proposed by-law also consolidates requirements that were previously spread across multiple documents and Council resolutions into a single, modern by-law.

Further details, including public hearing information, will be shared once scheduled.

The draft by-law can be found in the agenda package for this meeting.

Council Approves Sponsorship for Jennifer Collins Classic

Council approved providing a Diamond-level in-kind sponsorship for the Jennifer Collins Classic Hockey Tournament for the next three years (2026–2028).

The Jennifer Collins Classic is a volunteer-run, community-based event that includes recreational hockey and golf tournaments and social events. The tournament was originally created to support Jennifer Collins following a life-altering injury and has since grown into a major community homecoming event. To date, the Classic has raised over $570,000 for individuals and causes facing financial hardship in the Lunenburg area, with 100% of proceeds returned to the local community.

Council approved in-kind support that includes:

Waiving non-prime time and weekend morning ice rental fees at the War Memorial Arena
Waiving the Community Centre rental fee for the event dance
Promoting the event through the Town’s communication channels

The 2026 hockey tournament will take place March 26–29, with additional related events throughout the season.

Council Approves Sponsorship for Lunenburg County Music Festival

Council approved a $200 Platinum-level sponsorship for the Lunenburg County Music Festival.

The Lunenburg County Music Festival is an annual youth-focused event that provides local students with opportunities for public performance, growth, and mentorship from professional adjudicators. In 2025, more than 350 local youth participated, with the final gala concert drawing a full audience of families and community supporters.

Feb. 2, 2026 Special Capital Budget Meeting

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 02 02 2026 Budget Agenda(19.83 MB)

APPROVED: 2026/27 Town & Water Utility Capital Budgets

Following the initial presentation of the 2026/27 Capital Budget on January 12, Council held its second capital budget meeting on February 2, where decisions were made on both the Town General Capital Budget and the Water Utility Capital Budget.

At this meeting, Council approved both capital budgets, with a small number of adjustments to the Town’s General Capital Budget.

Changes to the Town General Capital Budget

Council approved the 2026/27 Town’s General Capital with the following changes:

Removed:
- $70,000 for the Recreation Master Plan
- $10,000 for the Lunenburg Academy Public Washroom site preparation
Moved ahead:
- $20,000 for the Back Harbour (Maple Stairway Removal – Accessibility Improvements) project

This project was originally scheduled for 2027, but will now move forward sooner. The work will improve accessibility and connectivity between the Back Harbour Trail and the Bay to Bay Trail, supporting safer and more inclusive trail access.

All other previously presented capital projects remained unchanged and were approved as part of the 2026/27 Capital Budget.

Approved Capital Budgets

Town General Capital Budget: $3.815 million
Focused on maintaining and upgrading core infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, buildings, recreation facilities, and accessibility improvements.
Water Utility Capital Budget: $777,000
Focused on maintaining a safe, reliable, and resilient drinking water system, including major work at the Water Treatment Plant, ongoing meter installation, and system upgrades.

Council’s review process included two dedicated meetings to allow time for questions, discussion, and public feedback before final decisions were made.

The full budget documents can be found in the agenda package from this meeting: pdf 02 02 2026 Budget Agenda(19.83 MB)

Jan. 27, 2026

A full recording of the meeting is available on YouTube. The full agenda package is available here: pdf 01 27 2026 Council Agenda(8.08 MB)

Council Supports Pilot “Young Chefs” Program

Council received a presentation on the Young Chefs program, a volunteer-run, free cooking and nutrition initiative for children and youth. The program focuses on teaching basic cooking skills, healthy eating, and social connection through hands-on, and screen-free sessions.

Following the presentation, Council agreed to support a short-term pilot by partnering with Town staff to allow the use of the Community Centre kitchen for trial sessions of the program.

Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC) Presentation

Council received a presentation from the Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC) on the 2026 Property Assessment Roll for the Town of Lunenburg. The presentation outlined PVSC’s role in assessing property values across Nova Scotia, how assessments are determined based on market conditions and property characteristics, the application of the Capped Assessment Program (CAP), and the process available to property owners who have questions or wish to appeal their assessment.

Good to Know Information:

Property assessments are based on market value and are set by PVSC under provincial legislation, not by the Town.
The Capped Assessment Program (CAP) limits annual increases to taxable residential assessments for eligible properties; the 2026 cap rate is 2.6%.
An increase in assessment does not automatically result in the same increase in property taxes.
Property owners with questions about their assessment are encouraged to contact PVSC directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 1-800-380-7775
The deadline to appeal a 2026 assessment is February 12, 2026.

Jan. 13, 2026

Council Recognizes Local Workers for Life-Saving Action

Council recognized Tony Schleihauf and Sourav Sourav of William Gerhardt Property Improvement for their actions during an emergency in Bayswater on December 31, 2025.

The two men witnessed a serious incident involving a vehicle in the water and immediately took action to help. Using their training and quick thinking, they assisted a person in distress until first responders arrived.

Council thanked Tony and Sourav for their courage, calm response, and willingness to step forward in a critical moment, noting that their actions reflect the very best of community spirit.

Council Recognizes Restaurateurs Martin and Sylvie Ruiz Salvador

Council recognized Martin and Sylvie Ruiz Salvador, co-owners of Lunenburg Restaurants, including Beach Pea Kitchen & Bar, The South Shore Fish Shack, Salt Shaker Deli, and others, for their recent Taste of Nova Scotia Award.

The Taste of Nova Scotia Awards celebrate excellence across the province’s food and beverage sector, recognizing restaurants, producers, and industry leaders from communities across Nova Scotia.

Council congratulated Martin and Sylvie on this provincial recognition, noting their leadership in Lunenburg’s food and hospitality sector and their long-standing contribution to the community and local economy.

Jan. 12, 2026 Special Capital Budget Meeting

2026/27 Capital Budget Presentation: What Council Reviewed on January 12

At a Special Council Meeting on January 12, Council received the first presentation of the 2026/27 Capital Budget for both the Town and the Water Utility

A capital budget is different from the Town’s operating budget. It focuses on large, long-term investments in infrastructure and assets, including roads, sidewalks, buildings, water and wastewater systems, equipment, and major facility upgrades.

This meeting was the first step in Council’s review of the capital budget and was specifically scheduled to give the public an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback before any decisions are made.

What’s in the 2026/27 Draft Capital Budget?

Town General Capital Budget: $3.895 million

Staff presented a draft capital plan focused on maintaining and improving core Town infrastructure, including:

Public Works infrastructure and equipment ($1.6M)
Wastewater and stormwater projects ( $587,000, not including the major wastewater plant upgrade already underway)
Recreation facilities ($484,000)
Town buildings and facilities ($1.23M)

Some of the notable projects Council reviewed include:

Lunenburg Academy roof repairs ($1.039M, pre-approved in December)
Town Hall interior restoration planning to improve efficiency and accessibility
Sidewalk renewals on Pelham Street and Victoria Road
Street reconstruction on Pelham Street and design work for Maple Avenue
Accessibility upgrades to sidewalks, parking, and the Community Centre
Arena ice plant replacement to prevent breakdowns

Water Utility Capital Budget: $777,000

The Water Utility budget focuses on keeping the Town’s drinking water system safe, reliable, and resilient.

Key projects include:

Tank bypass line at the Water Treatment Plant ($586,000) to allow water to flow even if the storage tank is offline
Water meter rollout (multi-year project already approved)
Hydrant replacements and new services
Design work for Maple Avenue watermain renewal
Planning for future transmission main upgrades to protect long-term water supply reliability

The full budget presentation is available in the agenda for this meeting: pdf 01 12 2026 Budget Agenda(19.42 MB)

Reviewing Reserves

Alongside the Capital Budget, Council also reviewed how much money the Town has set aside for future repairs and major projects.

Staff explained that the Town has many large infrastructure needs coming up, like fixing Town Hall and upgrading stormwater systems, and that current savings aren’t keeping up with what those projects will cost. While the Town applies for grants whenever possible, grant funding isn’t guaranteed, so the Town also needs to plan for how it will pay for these projects over time.

To start that conversation, staff proposed:

Setting up a new capital reserve fund, funded through the tax rate, at a proposed rate of $0.10 per $100 of assessment to help pay for major infrastructure projects
Adding a part-time grants position to help bring more outside funding into the Town

These were early proposals only. Council will review these options as part of the full 2026/27 budget process, including the Operating Budget, and no decisions have been made yet.

What Happens Next?

This was the first presentation of the 2026/27 Capital Budget and the public’s first chance to comment.

The Capital Budget is scheduled to return to Council on Monday, January 26 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, where Council is expected to vote on the capital budgets.

Council may also choose to defer or amend parts of the budget if more discussion or information is needed before final approval.

How to share your feedback

Residents who were unable to attend the January 12 meeting, or who have additional comments, are welcome to email their questions or feedback to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than Tuesday, January 20 at 12:00 p.m.

All submissions received by that deadline will be shared with Council as part of the capital budget review.