News release

Government Proclaims New Halifax Charter

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

Halifax Regional Municipality now has more flexibility to respond to its unique challenges and opportunities as the largest municipality in the province and capital of Nova Scotia.

Government proclaimed the HRM Charter Act today, Jan. 13. It includes the basic provisions of the Municipal Government Act with more powers to address the specific needs of HRM. The HRM By Design Act was also proclaimed. It provides the municipality with more tools to guide development efforts for the downtown Halifax area.

"This is significant development not only for HRM but for the whole province," said Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, acting Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "As the economic hub of Nova Scotia, HRM has the potential for attracting more interest to the whole province in terms of investments, business, infrastructure, and other developments."

The creation of a new charter is in keeping with how other major cities in Canada, such as Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver, have responded to the ever-changing challenges and opportunities of regional centres of business and fast-paced population growth areas.

"We've been working toward this Charter for a long time and look forward to working together with the province under this new governance structure," said Mayor Peter Kelly. "Given our growth, HRM by Design will bring clarity and predictability in the development approval process making HRM more livable, vibrant and attractive."