DEPUTY MAYOR FOR 2009

My one year term as HRM Deputy Mayor is now over. It was a honour to serve you all in this capacity. Whenever the Mayor was not available for certain functions, I stepped in to fulfil the mayoral duties; as a result, 2009 was a challenging year yet with many memorable events for me to cherish. Thank you for the opportunity and best of luck to Councillor Brad Johns of District 19 ( Middle / Upper  Sackville and Lucasville ) as he embarks on his term as Deputy Mayor in 2010.

SNOW REMOVAL AID FOR SENIORS

There is a snow removal referral program available to seniors (65 years of age or older) and persons with disabilities in HRM. The program is NOT available to landlords. You must reside in a single dwelling home that you own or rent.

Its mandate is to provide a resource to clients for the removal of snow for safe access. This could include: Front and back steps, walkways, driveways, access to fuel tanks, and abutting sidewalks. These contractors are selected and offer reliability and integrity. Clients will be referred to a contractor that services your area. It is then up to you to contact the contractor.  At this time, you should inform the contractor of any special needs you may have (i.e pre-scheduled medical appointments, home care, etc.) The program does not pay for this contractor service. You must pay the contractor directly.

The program does offer some financial assistance to help offset the cost of snow removal. To qualify for this subsidy, your total annual household income must not exceed $29,000. If you meet this criteria and wish to register for this referral service and apply for this subsidy,  please call: 1-902-558-1049 (toll free) or 864 -2165.  Registration deadline is early December but it may close earlier than that if demand exceeds its funding capacity. 

SENIORS’ PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

Seniors should check out the NS Property Tax Rebate Program for some possible property tax relief. That Provincial program will provide each qualifying recipient with a 50% rebate of the property taxes paid to a maximum of $400.

For more information; please go to your nearest Access-Nova Scotia Service Centre ( Portland Street Superstore Shopping Mall ) or call toll - free  1-800-670-4357 or 424-5200 or go on-line for an application form: www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/rebates/programs/seniors.asp

Application deadline is December 31st. Please complete an application form and return it to:

NS Property Tax Rebate for Seniors Program
Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations
Business Registration
P.O. Box 283
Halifax CRO, NS, B3J 2N7.

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS FUND

HRM supports events that build community, foster good relations, develop local economy and tourism industry, and enrich the quality of life of all residents and visitors.

Pre-screen applications are now available for community-based events within HRM to apply for a 2010 Festival & Event Grant. Preference will be given to events that are free to the public, organized by not-for-profit organizations, and have a broad public appeal.

Application deadline is January 29th. An application form can be mailed or get it on-line at the HRM Web-site:  www.halifax.ca/events/grants.html.

For more details, contact:

HRM Community Development
Attention: Civic Event Grant Process
Alderney Gate, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 1749
Halifax, N.S. B3J 3A5

Phone: 490-2700 or Fax: 490-5950 or E-mail: civiceventsgrants@halifax.ca

It is strongly recommended to complete and submit your pre-screen application as soon as possible. This way HRM can process it and confirm whether or not you may qualify for funding.

NSHCC 78TH ANNUAL BROADCAST

The NS Home for Coloured Children (NSHCC) will be conducting its 78th Annual Broadcast for Funds on Sunday, December 13th from 3-6 PM on Eastlink TV- Channel 10.  The show will be hosted at the NS Community College waterfront campus auditorium in Woodside. The general public are encouraged to come and watch the show live. Admission is “free” but a Free Will Gift / Love Offering will be graciously accepted.

PEACE & GOODWILL TO ALL

I want to wish everyone the very best this Holiday Season. During this joyful time of year there are many types of spiritual and cultural celebrations: Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Season's Greetings, Happy Hanukkah, Al Hijra, Kwanza, Peace On Earth, and Goodwill to all. Have yourself a blessed time with your families, friends, and neighbours.

May we all strive for peace, tranquillity and harmony in your lives.  Remember those that may be less fortunate who are experiencing hardship and despair. Please give to your local food bank or donate blood - the gift of life. My wife Susan and I wish you all good health, happiness and prosperity throughout the New Year 2010 ahead.

Sincerely,

Councillor  David  Hendsbee  
H.R.M. DISTRICT 3 COUNCILLOR
PRESTON/LAWRENCETOWN/CHEZZETCOOK

1 Chamberlain Drive, Westphal, NS, B2Z 1B1
829-2465 ( Home Office ) 483-0705 ( Cell )
490-4050 ( Hfx. City Hall ) 829-3620 ( Fax )
david@hendsbee.ns.ca & hendsbd@halifax.ca