There’s an old saying that all work and no play is bad for you.
Well, Halifax Regional Municipality has begun a major review of all its community recreation services, to make sure the right kind of “play” is there when you and your family need it.
Regional council has asked staff for an overview of the different kinds of recreational services available and the way in which they’re being delivered. In other words, when it comes to recreation, we want to know how well we’re doing for everyone, no matter your age. It goes without saying that we also want to know if you think we’re notdoing well, in which case the next question will be: how can we do things better?
The review will take a year and there are going to be numerous opportunities for your input. We’ll have public meetings; surveys; and special Internet on-line comment lines.
We need to hear what you want in the way of recreation for your children, for your neighbours and for yourselves. Recreation is such an important part of the quality of life we all enjoy here in HRM that I sincerely hope you’ll share your thoughts and suggestions with us as our study advances.
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By the timeyou’re reading this, regional councillors will have decided how they wish to proceed in adopting a wind-energy policy for our municipality.
Members of staff reported to Committee-of-the-Whole this week on their progress in preparing proposed wind-energy amendments to the Regional Municipality Planning Strategy.
In late 2006, council directed staff to undertake a study into wind energy and to consult with the public as part of the process. In particular, we needed the study to recommend appropriate policies governing the siting of the actual wind turbines themselves, from individual roof-mounted ones right up to the huge machines common in large commercial wind-farms.
As I’m sure you’re aware, the larger turbines can be quite controversial; some people find their size intimidating while others find the noise from the blades intrusive. The challenge facing HRM is to find a way to embrace the environmental/economic advantages of wind power without hurting the quality of life of residents.
The project is timely because the province has passed the Renewable Energy Act committing Nova Scotians to receiving 25 per cent of their electrical power from renewable sources by 2015. In addition, the province has indicated it intends to raise that target to 40 per cent by 2020.
Obviously, HRM has a huge part to play in advancing this renewable-energy timetable. However, we have such a mix of urban, suburban and rural dwellings and lifestyles that we must proceed carefully with amendments to our development policies.
With carefully planning, the future can be both green and friendly!
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If youenjoy seeing history in action, make a point to be outside City Hall this Friday at lunchtime.
That’s when the 78th Highlanders will march down from Citadel Hill to receive the Freedom of the City in the Grand Parade. It’s got everything including swirling kilts, flashing bayonets and all the bagpiping you could ever wish for.
I hope you’ll join me to witness this unforgettable annual spectacle.
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And finally,on a personal note, I’ll be packing my bucket and spade and heading off to beautiful Clam Harbour Beach this Sunday morning (August 21) for the famous annual Sandcastle Contest.
If you’ve never been to this amazing one-day event before, make a point of going this year because you’ll be astounded at what creative people can do with just a little sand, some water and a ton of imagination. (Check out http://www.halifax.ca/sandcastle/)
And listen, if you dogo, please keep an eye out for me. I usually have to park so far down the highway that I need to flag down a ride to get to and from the action.
So if you see a thumb sticking out, please stop because, odds are I’ll be attached to it!
Reach me at kellyp@halifax.ca or on my personal website www.peterkelly.ca or by phoning 490-4010. You’re also most welcome to join me on my Facebook or Twitter pages. Or talk to me on my blog at http://mayorpeterkelly.wordpress.com/.
