Port Hawkesbury council grappling with municipal plebiscite results

Port Hawkesbury Officials Seek Resolution Following Plebiscite Vote

A month after a majority of Port Hawkesbury residents voted to revert to a four-lane alignment for Reeves Street, municipal officials are actively working to address concerns and engage with the province for a resolution.

In 2019, the provincial pilot project known as Destination Reeves Street reduced the main street to three traffic lanes, with strategic turning lanes aimed at guiding motorists to local businesses and services. However, a plebiscite held during October’s municipal elections revealed that 60% of participating voters preferred the previous four-lane configuration. The town council had initially raised concerns with 14 problem areas related to the project before launching the plebiscite.

While the latest town council, with new members occupying three of the four seats, respects the plebiscite results, they are not seeking to impose them on the province. Instead, a motion was passed during a recent council meeting to inform the province of the vote and resume discussions on addressing the identified issues with Reeves Street.

Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton emphasized the importance of addressing various aspects such as signage, intersection improvements, and modern lighting fixtures to instill confidence among residents that their concerns are being taken seriously.

Collaborative Efforts for Safe Development

Deputy Mayor Iain Langley highlighted the need for collaboration between the town and province to ensure the safety and development potential of Reeves Street. While acknowledging the province’s authority over the matter, Langley emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety before focusing on economic and community development opportunities along the street.

He expressed a desire to see the vacant spaces along Reeves Street utilized for further development once safety measures are in place.

The Nova Scotia Department of Public Works refrained from commenting on Destination Reeves Street or the plebiscite until after the conclusion of the provincial election campaign on November 26.