The Record Ep. 54

Affordable Housing, Deer Populations, Public Safety, and More: A Comprehensive Update from Richmond and Beyond

A new not-for-profit organization called the AtHome Housing Association has been established through a partnership between the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Port Hawkesbury, and the Municipality of the County of Richmond. Unveiled at a recent housing forum in Louisdale, the association aims to tackle the region’s growing affordable housing crisis.

Richmond District 4 Councillor Amanda Mombourquette, a founding member, spoke with civic journalist Jake Boudrot about the association’s goals. “We’re leveraging housing funds from both the federal and provincial governments,” Mombourquette explained, noting the group will function like a society to address specific housing needs in the region. The association filed for incorporation with Nova Scotia’s Registry of Joint Stock Companies on May 14.

Deer Population Sparks Concern

Richmond County is also seeing a sharp rise in its deer population, raising safety, environmental, and agricultural concerns. Andrew Boyne, Director of Wildlife at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), addressed the issue during a recent interview. Residents and officials alike have noted more frequent sightings and a higher risk of vehicle collisions.

“There’s been a significant increase, especially in the doe population,” said Richmond Warden Lois Landry. Boudrot echoed the sentiment, citing the near-absence of bucks or spikehorns in local sightings. Boyne acknowledged the reports and emphasized the need for data collection to verify the trend.

Agriculture is also feeling the effects. A farmer in Isle Madame is considering halting planting for the first time in 31 years after last season’s crops were devastated by deer. Backyard growers are reporting similar damage. Boyne was asked what can be done to protect produce and prevent further losses.

The rise in deer has also led to more road incidents. Some insurance companies, Boudrot reported, are warning they may stop covering deer-related claims in Isle Madame. Boyne urged residents not to feed deer and to exercise caution when driving near wooded areas.

While more deer might suggest a rise in predators like coyotes, Boyne said there’s no direct correlation. Similarly, despite deer being carriers of ticks that can transmit Lyme disease, an increase in deer doesn't necessarily mean a spike in tick-related illnesses.

Federal Election and Policing Reform

Interim Nova Scotia Liberal Party Leader and Sydney-Membertou MLA Derek Mombourquette weighed in on recent political developments. Following the federal election, the Liberal Party secured all but one seat in Nova Scotia and 57.2% of the provincial vote. Nationally, they won 170 seats—just shy of a majority.

Mombourquette expressed optimism about working with the incoming federal government but questioned whether Nova Scotia’s Progressive Conservative government could maintain a productive relationship. “Our experience with the previous government gives us reason for skepticism,” he said.

A recent Liberal press release from Justice Critic Iain Rankin called for an update on the province-wide policing review recommended by the Mass Casualty Commission. Rankin said the current dual policing model is fragmented and fails to meet public expectations. Mombourquette echoed this concern, noting there has been no clear timeline or commitment from the government to act on the report’s recommendations.

Cuts to Workforce Programs Criticized

The Liberal Party has also condemned cuts to the long-running Work Activity Program, which supports Nova Scotians on income assistance in gaining job-readiness skills. “This cut was made quietly, without consultation, and at a time when we’re facing serious labour shortages,” Mombourquette said.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence

On May 13, Rankin tabled a motion calling for a provincial roundtable to address gender-based violence. Since October 2024, eight femicides have occurred in Nova Scotia. The proposed roundtable would bring together survivors, law enforcement, non-profits, government departments, and elected officials. “This is about getting everyone on the same page,” said Mombourquette.

Welcoming Health Care Workers

Local organizations are receiving grants from the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment to help new medical staff settle into Nova Scotia communities. The Dr. Kingston Memorial Community Health Centre was awarded $89,169 to create a recruitment campaign and host recognition events. The Municipality of Inverness County received $98,200 to provide housing assistance, mentorship, and cultural awareness training.

“We’re thrilled to continue our efforts,” said Lynn Carter, Inverness County’s health care navigator. “Reducing social and cultural barriers is key to attracting professionals.”

Seafood Licence Moratorium Ends

Nova Scotians will be able to apply for seafood buyer and processor licences starting August 1, marking the end of a moratorium that began in 2018. A second stage of licence availability—covering lobster and snow crab—begins January 2, 2026.

Kris Vascotto, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance, said the timing is right. “The moratorium made sense then, but it’s time to move forward.” He added that although application numbers are uncertain, the regulatory groundwork has been laid through years of consultation.

Ian McIsaac, President of the Seafood Producers Association, said collaboration with government will be key as the sector aims to stay competitive globally. While the federal government regulates catch quotas, Vascotto emphasized that the province handles land-based operations like buying and processing.

Provincial Parks and Lung Screening Expansion

Several provincial parks opened over the Victoria Day weekend, with the rest to open by June 6. The Department of Natural Resources noted a 10% increase in camper nights from 2023. “Our parks are among the most beautiful in Canada,” said Minister Tory Rushton, who promised continued investment.

Dr. Daria Manos, Medical Director for the Lung Screening Program, announced that the program will expand to eastern mainland Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. Targeting those aged 50 to 74 who have smoked for 20+ years, the program offers risk assessments and low-dose CT scans. “Early detection saves lives,” said Dr. Manos, who emphasized the program’s potential to ease pressure on the healthcare system.

While lung cancer remains Nova Scotia’s deadliest cancer, Manos noted that stigma prevents many from seeking help. “You don’t have to quit smoking to be eligible,” she said. “What’s important is taking the first step.”