N.S. government asked municipalities to support more resource development. It hasn’t happened
Many Nova Scotia municipalities have not publicly supported the province’s request for increased resource development, citing concerns over the vague nature of the appeal and the potential environmental impacts of projects like fracking and uranium mining. Municipal Affairs Minister John Lohr sent a letter to all 49 municipalities in February, asking for their support for greater resource development without providing specifics on the types of resources involved. This lack of clarity has left many municipal councils questioning the government’s intentions and hesitant to offer their endorsement.
Warden Penny Smith of the District of Shelburne described the request as disrespectful and inappropriate, echoing the sentiments of many councillors who feel that the province is asking for a blanket approval without providing necessary details or assurances about the potential risks. Coun. Keith Rhyno of East Hants expressed concerns about the impact of fracking on groundwater and land contamination, emphasizing the need for evidence that resource projects will not harm the environment.
Mayor Christine Blair of Colchester criticized the lack of specifics in Lohr’s letter, calling it vague and demanding more information before offering support. The Municipality of the County of Cumberland approved a letter expressing a cautious approach to resource development, emphasizing the need to evaluate each project’s risks and benefits before making a decision. Similarly, Mahone Bay Coun. Kelly Wilson highlighted the importance of considering the details and potential impacts of resource projects before lending support.
Residents and advocacy groups have also raised environmental concerns with municipal councillors, urging them to reject Lohr’s request. Former councillor Leitha Haysom criticized the province for seeking municipal support on resource issues while disregarding local concerns on other environmental issues in the past. Many municipalities have opted to have the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities represent their interests on resource development matters, rather than endorsing the province’s request individually.
Yarmouth District Council took a different approach by expressing support for responsible resource development in a letter to Lohr, citing the economic benefits and job creation potential. Deputy Warden Trevor Cunningham emphasized the importance of upgrading the district’s port and airport infrastructure as part of the province’s resource development efforts. However, most municipalities have refrained from explicitly supporting Lohr’s request, expressing concerns about potential impacts and the need for more information.
Premier Tim Houston assured that there would be full consultation on resource projects, emphasizing the importance of proceeding cautiously while moving forward with development plans. The Department of Municipal Affairs highlighted the need for collaboration with municipal partners to ensure sustainable resource development that benefits all Nova Scotians. The Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities is currently drafting a formal response on resource development, aiming to address municipal concerns and establish a framework for future collaboration with the province.
