Highlighted below are a few recent decisions by Regional Council that reflect steps being taken by the municipality to make a difference in the Halifax region. For more details regarding all matters deliberated by Council and the direction given to municipal staff, please see the action summaries which are posted to the online meeting agendas within one business day as well as the meeting minutes which are posted online once approved by Regional Council.
Highlights from Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Regional Council approves funding for community events across Halifax
Regional Council has approved funding for 13 community events across the Halifax Regional Municipality, along with additional funding to support North Preston Days. The approved events include:
- Back to School Fun Day
- Community Picnic
- Concert in the Park – Acadia Hall Grand Stage
- East Dartmouth Community BBQ
- Musquodoboit Harbour Lobster Trap Tree Lighting and Parade
- Night Celebrating 2026 Dartmouth Book Awards
- North By Night Market
- School Farm Day
- Spring Into Summer Community Block Party
- Spryfield Pumpkin Palooza
- Sunset Market
- Mocean Dance 25th Anniversary
- VANS at 50: Celebrating Artists Helping Artists
The funding is part of the municipality’s Regional Special Events Grants program. This program supports events that bring people together, celebrate culture and build stronger communities. All approved events met criteria related to community engagement, cultural value and local impact.
These events offer free or low-cost activities for residents of all ages. They create opportunities for people to connect, support local artists and businesses and enjoy shared experiences across the region.
For more information, read the staff report.
Regional Council approves new plan to improve recreation programs for seniors
Regional Council has approved the Seniors Recreation Services Plan 2026-2030, a new plan to guide recreation programs and services for residents aged 60 and older over the next five years. The plan will support Parks and Recreation staff in improving and expanding services across the municipality.
The plan responds to a growing and changing senior population in the Halifax region. It was led by The Seniors Recreation Advisory Group to ensure the plan was created by seniors for seniors. Input was gathered from more than 2,200 seniors and many community groups. Feedback highlighted key challenges, including limited program options, social isolation, accessibility barriers, transportation and affordability.
The plan focuses on five key areas: strengthening social connections, offering more inclusive and flexible programs, improving affordability, building internal capacity and improving communication. Together, these actions aim to help seniors stay active, connected and engaged in their communities, while improving access to recreation opportunities across both urban and rural areas.
For more information, read the staff report.
Previous meeting highlights
Regional Council approves funding to support tourism events across the Halifax region
Regional Council has approved funding through the Marketing Levy Special Event Reserve to support major events in the 2026/27 fiscal year. The reserve is funded by a levy on overnight accommodations such as hotels and short-term rentals.
This includes $100,000 to support the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival in August 2026 and support for the 2026 Lacrosse Canada Minor Box Nationals, which will see, for the first time in the event’s history, a First Nations team competing in each of the six national championships.
Funding decisions are based on recommendations from the Special Events Advisory Committee and are aligned with the municipality’s objectives to support tourism and economic development.
For more information, read the staff report.
Note: this motion will be finalized when the meeting minutes are approved by Regional Council.