Residents for Bedford Council
The intent of the Bedford Community Council Association is to petition the Province of Nova Scotia for changes to the Municipal Government Act which would provide communities with a more effective governance model.
The governance structure of HRM is a regressive model in that issues that directly affect community interests are discussed by a large and unwieldy Council representing diverse and competing interests, which thwarts progress, promotes inaction and community discord, and creates a forum where overriding competing interests dominate. Nova Scotia cannot continue along the path where its major municipality is unable to progress effectively. It was for this very reason that HRM was created - to allow for effective governance of the area. In our view, the intention was, and still is, correct; however, the model implemented fell far short of its goal. There is mounting evidence now that HRM is stalled and criticism and discontent within the business and residential communities is increasing rapidly both from a regional and community perspective.
It was believed at the time of creation of HRM that the Community Council model would address many of the issues facing communities. This model has failed to live up to its potential as too much authority and financial control remains vested in Regional Council. The Community Councils have little control over fundamental issues affecting the quality of life and services to the community and must compete with other communities for allocation of financial resources creating a shift and dispersion of wealth. In addition, as seen in Bedford's participation in Northwest Community Council, communities of dissimilar interests are co-joined resulting in discord and competition for resources. This exact issue exists in most areas in HRM.
Although our proposed structure was initially modeled to fit the needs of the community of Bedford, the recommended changes to the MGA are intended to have global application to HRM as a whole. Under these recommendations, Bedford is simply an example of how this model change will benefit all of HRM. Locally and regionally, the revised model creates responsible governance in all communities within HRM, while preserving regional considerations within the present Regional Council structure.
DID YOU KNOW?
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The Bedford Community Council Association has issued numerous Press Releases and Letters to the Editor. However, very little press is given to this issue, although it is one of extreme concern to thousands of Halifax Regional Municipality Residents! Why?
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HRM has experienced dramatic increases in crime…can this be attributable to loss of community identity? If you are in a cohesive neighbourhood or community, where the residents are engaged and active, will crime rates decrease given the criminal element are more closely watched and ‘opportunity’ is removed?
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Prior to amalgamation Bedford had one of the finest Fire Departments in Nova Scotia, with equipment bought and paid for through the efforts of a vibrant volunteer group and contributions of Bedford taxpayers and donors. After amalgamation, HRM removed some of the equipment from Bedford and disbursed it throughout the Municipality. As well, we have less firefighters stationed in Bedford but our population has more than doubled!
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There are numerous organizations within HRM that have originated from concerns about the way the Municipality is functioning (Bedford Community Council Association, Citizens for Halifax, Build-it-Right, etc.), yet the Province doesn't perceive the concerns being expressed by the Bedford Community Council Association as being widespread or more than a Bedford issue!
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Q - How can I help or get involved?
A - You can sign the petition and pay your $5.00 membership if you have not done so already. We are also always looking for help in obtaining signatures/memberships, getting the word out, etc. Please contact us if you would like to help out, have suggestions/comments, or questions you would like answered.
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Q - If I signed the old electronic or paper petition do I need to sign again?
A - If you signed the paper petition you do not need to sign again. Unfortunately, however, if you signed the earlier electronic petition you will need to sign again as additional information is required for an on-line petition to be accepted.
