It’s hard to believe how quickly summer is flying by. These warm days have been filled with community connection, exciting local events, and, of course, important conversations about the challenges we’re facing together.
While we all want to avoid the devastating wildfires we saw in 2023, I’ve heard from many of you about the confusion and frustration caused by the sudden and sweeping open fire ban this summer. The drought conditions that led to this ban are a direct result of climate change, and Nova Scotians need more than just reactive decisions and hefty fines. We deserve clear communication, transparency, and a government that’s planning ahead to protect our communities and our environment. My colleagues and I are continuing to push for clarity on how these decisions are made, and how people can stay safe and informed. In the meantime, fires are popping up daily, including in the HRM and conditions remain very dangerous. The woods ban is in effect throughout the province including in Dartmouth, so please be mindful of how you access our lakes, be sparing with your water use including refraining from watering lawns or washing cars, and head to a beach if you can! Up tp date information can be found by signing up for Halifax alerts or following the Department of Natural Resources on Instagram.
This week, I met with the Department of Public Works to bring forward a number of local concerns that I know are important to many in our community. We discussed the Opal Ridge development, the Portland street intersection, and the need to address growing traffic and accessibility issues. We also spoke about transportation and infrastructure in the Woodside area, including the need for more reliable service and adequate parking at the Woodside Ferry Terminal. We emphasized how better, more reliable public transit could reduce traffic and improve daily life for so many people in Dartmouth South and beyond.
I raised concerns about safety near The Bridge Shelter. This is a big topic for many in the community as the emergency shelter at the old Holiday Inn continues to be full, and vulnerable residents struggling with addiction and mental health move through the surrounding community and streets in dangerous ways. I’ve spoken to many of you about this issue, and in addition to raising it with the Deputy Minister of Public Works which holds the lease on the building, I am reaching out to the Ministers of Health, Mental Health and Addictions and Opportunities and Social Development to impress upon them the need for immediate action to find suitable, stable, and in many cases supported housing for the people sheltering at the Bridge. I have also made clear that while HRP is doing the best they can, they generally don’t arrest people for drug use or erratic behaviour as it doesn’t have the deterrent effect. Therefore, the Provincial government has a responsibility to keep local residents in the Bridge and in surrounding areas safe, and our parks and play areas safe and clean. I look forward to a meeting on this soon and will report back.
I want to thank everyone who continues to reach out to our office, your input makes a real difference in conversations like these.
Amid all of this, it’s been wonderful to see the community come alive with summer events. On August 23, Kindred Critters will be at The Sanctuary Arts Centre, a great opportunity for kids and animal lovers of all ages to get up close and personal with some fascinating creatures in a fun, educational setting. On August 28, join Ekko Music’s Lake City Orchestra at the New Apostolic Church (151 Joffre St) for a joyful summer concert celebrating community, creativity, and connection through music. Don’t forget to check out the MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning, where fall programming will be open for registration soon - always a great resource for youth looking to explore their creativity. And if you’re out and about on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon, stop by Ferry Terminal Park for lawn games from 12–4pm, hosted by the Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission (weather permitting, of course!).
Even as we tackle serious issues like climate change, housing, and public safety, I continue to be inspired by the strength, kindness, and energy of our community. Whether we’re coming together at events, looking out for vulnerable neighbours, or speaking up for the future we want to see, it’s clear that Dartmouth South is full of people who care and who are ready to act.
As always, if you need assistance, please reach out to my office at 902-406-2301 or claudiachendermla@gmail.com.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Claudia
