The lack of any substantial snowfall this past Winter, coupled with a rather dry Spring thus far, fire conditions have become quite risky. There has been a rash of grass and brush fires already experienced throughout HRM. The Province and Municipality has imposed limitations on the availability of Burning Permits until there is some more significant rainfall. If not, then the Province may impose an outright ban on any open burning. Both NS & HRM Fire Permits are still available at the local fire stations but “rainy day” restrictions may apply. The NS Forest Weather Index (FWI) provides a daily update on current fire risks conditions. Go to: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/protection/wildfire/fwi/default.htm and check out the related links to help keep yourself safe from any fire risks : www.firewise.org/fw_youcanuse/vrhome/index.htm

www.gov.ns.ca/natr/protection/wildfire/firesmart.htm

www.gov.ns.ca/natr/protection/wildfire/safedebris.html

Careless debris burning has been the cause of many fires thus far this year in our area. If you choose to burn any grass and/or brush debris, then do so safely. Please use extreme caution when burning. Make sure there is little or no wind that can blow sparks, embers or hot ash towards other nearby combustible structures or dry vegetation. While doing any open-air burning, you should keep close on hand fire fighting tools; such as a charged garden hose, shovel, rake, and bucket. Even a fire extinguisher ! If you do any open-air burning without a permit, or fail to comply with the regulations, then it will be at your own peril. Illegal burning should not be tolerated at any time.

PROPERTY TAX REBATE REVAMPED

HRM has amended and revamped its residential property tax relief & rebate programs to assist lower income homeowners with their property tax burden. First of all the income eligibility threshold has been raised to $28,000. Secondly, applicants can now take advantage of applying for both the partial exemption (rebate) and deferral programs. Therefore, one can now get a rebate to lower one’s bill, then defer the balance until one has the means to pay the balance. The eligibility criteria for these programs is restricted to the ‘registered’ titleholder(s) of the property as documented through the NS Registry of Deeds. Also a trustee, guardian or executor of a property will also be recognized. To review Council’s Report on this subject go to: www.halixa/ca/council/agendasc/documents/070417ca1017.pdf or to get an application form and apply by December. 28th, 2007: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/documents/ResPropTaxExForm07-08.pdfHousehold

HRM Metro Transit staff are currently reviewing a proposal of mine that will see significant changes to our current Community Transit Service (CTS). I have submitted a plan that could see a slight fare increase and a minor adjustment to our local transit area tax rate that could incorporate a “Transfer” feature onto other urban Metro Transit routes. It is hoped that these changes could start by this July 2007. Also included in the proposed CTS adjustments is the reinstatement of the Summer Saturday Service. If approved, more details will follow in my next newsletter. So please stay tuned!

At this time I wish to congratulate all the High School, Community College, and University Students on their achievement of Graduating. Be very proud of your accomplishments. Be sure to get your diplomas, certificates and degrees properly mounted and framed for all to see. May you have the best of luck and success with your life’s endeavours. Just remember that education never stops. The future is yours !
 

Happy Fathers Day!