Halifax expanding Sackville river floodplain for first time in decades
Halifax Approves Expansion of Sackville River Floodplain, Sparking Mixed Reactions
Halifax has recently made a significant decision to expand the floodplain along the Sackville River, implementing new development restrictions that have garnered both praise from advocates and concerns from homeowners regarding potential impacts on property values.
During a council meeting on Tuesday evening, regional council members unanimously approved proposed changes to municipal planning strategies and land-use bylaws for communities situated along the Sackville River and Little Sackville River, including Bedford, Lower Sackville, and Middle Sackville.
Coun. Billy Gillis of Lower Sackville-Beaver Bank expressed his support for the decision, emphasizing the long-overdue protection of the Sackville river system in light of the destructive flood that occurred in 2023. This marks the first time that regulations in this area have been updated since the 1980s or early 1990s.
The municipality has introduced new floodplain maps that delineate a one-in-20-year map, representing areas with a five percent chance of flooding annually, and a one-in-100-year map, indicating areas with a one percent chance of flooding. These updated maps have been superimposed over the original boundaries from the 1980s.
Within the most restrictive zone, known as the floodway overlay or one-in-20 zone, certain non-residential uses such as parks, recreation facilities, trails, and parking lots are permitted. However, structures intended for human habitation are prohibited in this zone, which means that homes considered 75 percent destroyed cannot be rebuilt.
Halifax planner Maureen Ryan clarified that existing residents within this zone are not required to vacate their homes, but any future development that could pose risks to homeowners and waterways will be prevented. This adaptive floodplain management program aims to allow the community to evolve while safeguarding against potential flood damage.
In the less restrictive one-in-100 zone, also known as the flood fringe overlay, residential development may be permitted if habitable floors are elevated above the required flood elevation and structures are designed to withstand floods and facilitate water flow. However, certain facilities that are challenging to evacuate, such as shared housing, hospitals, or daycares, are not allowed in this zone.
Despite the unanimous approval by the council, some residents voiced concerns during a public hearing prior to the vote. They requested the removal of their properties from the floodplain map due to apprehensions about potential decreases in property values. Nick Antoft, a resident living near McCabe Lake, expressed frustration over the inclusion of his property within the new floodplain map and indicated plans to explore legal options with other affected residents.
The updated floodplain maps are based on a 2017 study that was revised last year to incorporate climate change models. Walter Regan, a longtime environmental advocate and past president of the Sackville Rivers Association, commended the council for passing these changes, emphasizing the benefits for public safety and environmental preservation.
Looking ahead, Regan hopes to see Halifax implement similar floodplain maps and development controls along other rivers within the municipality. While the province previously declined requests to buy out homeowners in flood-prone areas like Union Street in Bedford, ongoing discussions are underway to explore potential solutions with the federal government.
In conclusion, Halifax staff recommended updating the floodplain maps at least every 10 years or sooner if new data becomes available. Residents can access Halifax’s online mapping tool to determine their property’s placement within the new floodplain areas, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to mitigate flood risks and protect communities.
