District of Lunenburg and Bridgewater launch Energize Together

Residents of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg can now access Energize Together, a home energy navigation service that helps homeowners connect with energy efficiency programs, financing options, incentives, and other energy-related supports.

Energize Together is the next evolution of Energize Bridgewater, a program previously available only to Town of Bridgewater residents. Now operated by the District of Lunenburg, the regional service supports homeowners in both communities.

The councils of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg and the Town of Bridgewater have approved agreements with EfficiencyOne and Clean Foundation to establish Energize Together, a regional service that helps residents of both municipalities understand their options and access available home energy upgrade supports.

“Many residents want to make their homes more energy efficient but aren't sure where to start or what financial help is available,” said Elspeth McLean-Wile, Mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. “Energize Together gives residents a local point of contact to help them understand their options and navigate the process, making it easier to access the support available to them.”

“Energize Bridgewater was an incredibly impactful project for our community, and we are pleased to support the continuation of a navigation service that builds on its success,” said David Mitchell, Mayor of Bridgewater. "We're proud that this money—secured through the Town of Bridgewater’s Smart Cities Challenge win—will now be used to help the people of both our municipalities access the resources and support they need."

Building on the navigation model developed through the Town's Energize Bridgewater Home Upgrades program, Energize Together provides residents of both municipalities with a dedicated Energy Navigator.

The Energy Navigator can help residents better understand available home energy programs, financing options, incentives and related supports. The Navigator can also provide information about eligibility requirements, home energy assessments and next steps for pursuing home energy upgrades. Residents do not need to know which program they may qualify for before contacting the Navigator.

The initiative is supported by $535,000 in Smart Cities Challenge grant funding from the Town of Bridgewater. The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg will administer the regional navigation service and coordinate with project partners, while the Clean Foundation will be administering the funding for supplemental home energy upgrades for eligible residents of both municipalities.

In some cases, additional funding may be available to help address needs not fully covered by existing energy-efficiency programs. This may include an additional heat pump or work required to enable an approved energy-efficiency upgrade. Funding is limited, subject to program criteria, and available to eligible residents of both municipalities on a first-come, first-served basis.

The navigation service is expected to operate under the current agreement until March 31, 2028.

Learn more online at Enegrgize Together or contact the Energy Navigator:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: 902-530-3621

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Mike Wilson honoured at Provincial Volunteer Awards

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is proud to recognize Mike Wilson, who was honoured as the Municipality's Volunteer of the Year at the 52nd Annual Provincial Volunteer Awards Ceremony held in Halifax on September 28.

The Provincial Volunteer Awards celebrate volunteers from communities across Nova Scotia who make a lasting difference through their dedication, generosity and service. Each municipality and Mi'kmaw community selects one volunteer to be recognized for their outstanding contributions.

For the past nine years, Mike has been the driving force behind the New Germany and Area IWK Toy Drive. Through countless hours of planning, organizing donations and coordinating community support, he has helped ensure families facing difficult circumstances receive comfort and joy during the holiday season.

Mike's dedication to the cause is deeply personal. Born with cerebral palsy, he spent much of his childhood receiving care at the IWK. Years later, when his third daughter required an extended stay at the hospital as a newborn, Mike and his family once again experienced the exceptional care provided by the IWK team. Today, his daughter is a healthy and energetic eight-year-old, and Mike has transformed his gratitude into meaningful action that benefits other families navigating similar challenges.

Under Mike's leadership, the toy drive has grown into a community-wide effort supported by local businesses, service organizations, schools and individual donors. His ability to bring people together has created a strong spirit of collaboration and generosity throughout the region.

A teacher by profession, Mike is known for his kindness, reliability and quiet leadership. While his volunteer work with the toy drive has touched countless lives, he also contributes to the community through his support of the local legion and his care for Commonwealth soldiers' grave sites.

Despite the significant impact he has made, Mike remains humble and quick to recognize the contributions of others. His commitment to service, community and helping those in need makes him a deserving recipient of this year's Volunteer of the Year recognition.

The Municipality congratulates Mike on this well-deserved honour and thanks him for his ongoing contributions to strengthening communities throughout the District.

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Council supports expansion of public transit options

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg Council has approved funding of up to $600,000 to support the purchase of three accessible transit vehicles and related equipment for a new Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) service to be operated by Lunenburg County Wheels Express.

The new service is intended to enhance existing public transportation options by providing flexible, on-demand trips within a designated service area. The initiative will complement, not replace, the transportation services currently offered by Lunenburg County Wheels.

Under the proposed partnership, the Municipality will provide capital and annual operating funding, while Lunenburg County Wheels Express will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the service, including dispatching, scheduling, customer service, staffing, vehicle maintenance, and fleet operations.

Council's contribution will support the purchase of three accessible transit vans and associated equipment needed to launch the service, including security systems, bike racks, winter tires, tablets, and other operational equipment. Two vehicles are expected to operate daily, with a third vehicle available to provide service continuity during maintenance or periods of higher demand.

“This initiative is about expanding transportation choices for residents,” said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “By investing in Lunenburg County Wheels, we can build on services already available and help more people access employment, healthcare, shopping, recreation, and community services.”

The demand responsive transit service is being designed to improve mobility for residents who may not have access to a private vehicle, including seniors, persons with disabilities, youth, and lower-income residents. Vehicles will be fully accessible, and trips will be bookable online, through an app, or by telephone.

The initial phase of the service will focus on key destinations and travel corridors within a defined service area. While the service will not cover all of Lunenburg County at launch, this phased approach will allow the Municipality and its partners to evaluate demand, monitor usage patterns, and identify opportunities for future expansion.

The initiative supports Council’s priorities related to quality of life, affordability, accessibility, social inclusion, climate action, and regional economic development. Improved transportation connections can help residents access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services while reducing transportation barriers in rural communities.

Additional details, including service areas, operating hours, booking information, and launch timelines, will be shared as implementation progresses.

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Posted October 1, 2026

Council Approves New Affordable Housing Grant Program

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg Council has approved a new Affordable Housing Pre-Construction Grant Program designed to help non-profit organizations advance affordable housing projects in the Municipality and throughout Lunenburg County. The program provides financial assistance to support the planning and technical work required before construction can begin.

The program offers grants of up to $50,000 to eligible organizations for pre-construction activities such as feasibility studies, engineering, architectural design, environmental assessments, site planning, and financial analysis. By helping organizations address these early-stage costs, the Municipality aims to remove barriers that often prevent affordable housing projects from moving forward.

“Affordable housing remains a priority for Council and our community,” said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “This program is designed to help community organizations take the important first steps needed to bring more affordable housing options to our region.”

Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, charitable organizations, housing co-operatives, and community interest corporations. Projects must create a minimum of four new affordable housing units and maintain long-term affordability commitments.

While the program prioritizes projects within the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, Council approved an amendment allowing eligible projects elsewhere in Lunenburg County. Projects located outside municipal boundaries may be eligible for up to $25,000 in funding and must demonstrate support from the host municipality.

Council has allocated $100,000 in the current budget to support the program. The initiative aligns with actions identified in the Municipality’s Housing Strategy and supports Council priorities related to affordability, quality of life, social inclusion, and regional economic development.

Funding will be available on a rolling basis until annual program funds have been allocated. Applicants must meet with municipal staff prior to submitting an application and demonstrate their capacity to deliver and manage affordable housing projects.

Application information and program details are available on the Municipality’s website.

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Posted October 1, 2026

Public Notice: Proposed Private Road Standards and Subdivision By-law Amendments

Please take notice that a public information meeting will be held regarding proposed changes to private road design and construction standards and amendments to the Subdivision By-law to implement the policies of the Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS):

Public Information Session

Date: October 8, 2026

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville

At this meeting, planning staff will provide an overview of the proposed changes to the Municipality’s private road design and construction standards and the Subdivision By-law. For more information, visit engage.modl.ca/private-road-design-and-construction-standards or contact Jeff Merrill at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (902) 541-1325.

Area affected: The proposed amendments apply to the entire municipality.

Synopsis: Changes to the private road design and construction standards to balance public safety and infrastructure expectations with the cost of development and project feasibility. General amendments to the subdivision by-law to bring policies from the MPS into effect that protect water supplies and agriculturally zoned properties.  

Date posted: September 25, 2026

Public Notice: Cluster development at 475 Upper Branch Road

Please take notice:

On September 22, 2026, Municipal Council gave notice of their intention to enter into a Development Agreement with Ramey/3322429 Nova Scotia Limited for the development of a cluster development at 475 Upper Branch Road (PID 60303724 and PID 60303781).

A PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION regarding the proposed Development Agreement will be held on:

Date: October 6, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS

A PUBLIC HEARING regarding the proposed Development Agreement will be held on:

Date: October 14, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS

The public can make a formal written or oral submission to Council through the Public Hearing process. Written submissions will be received until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 12, 2026, and may be submitted to April Whynot-Lohnes, Municipal Clerk, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS B4V 9E4 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Oral submissions will be received at the time and place of the Hearing. 

More information can be found at https://engage.modl.ca/wileville-cluster

Date posted: September 25, 2026

New Councillor elected for District 9

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is pleased to announce that Ben Floyd has been elected by acclamation as Councillor for District 9.

Nominations for the District 9 by-election officially closed today, September 22, 2026. As only one candidate was nominated, a by-election will not be required and no voting will take place.

Mr. Floyd will officially assume the role of District 9 Councillor upon taking the Oath of Office and will begin serving the residents of District 9.

The Municipality extends its appreciation to Mr. Floyd and everyone who expressed interest in the by-election process and to residents for their continued engagement in local government.

A swearing-in ceremony has been scheduled for October 13, 2026.

Learn more at Engage.MODL.ca

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Proclamation: Right to Know Week

September 28 to October 4, 2026 has been proclaimed as Right to Know Week in the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.  Click  pdf Right to Know Week(301 KB) to view the Proclamation.

Public Notice: Osprey Village Information Session and Public Hearing

Please take notice:

On September 8, 2026, Council conducted First Reading of proposed amendments to the Osprey Village Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law affecting municipally owned land identified as PID 60631009. The proposed amendments would redesignate and rezone portions of the property from the High-Density Residential zone to General Commercial and Open Space zones. The amendments would also permit development using on-site services.

A Public Information Session will be held to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the proposed changes.

Date: October 1, 2026

Time: 6-7 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville

A Public Hearing will also be held regarding the proposed amendments.

Date: October 13, 2026

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville

The public can make formal written or oral submissions to Council through the public hearing process. Written submissions will be received until 5:00 p.m. on Friday October 9, 2026, and may be submitted to April Whynot-Lohnes, Municipal Clerk, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, NS B4V 9E4 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Oral submissions will be received at the time and place of the Hearing. Council can make a decision regarding the proposed amendments to the Osprey Village Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law affecting PID 60631009 following the Public Hearing.

For project information, including the proposed amendments, please visit: https://engage.modl.ca/osprey-village-60631009-rezoning

Please contact Rosemary Young at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (902) 521-9327 with any questions or concerns.

Posted September 18, 2026.

Public Notice: Odours at wastewater treatment plant

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is aware of odours being noticed near the Cookville Wastewater Treatment Plant and understands the concerns this may cause for those travelling through or spending time in the area.

The wastewater treatment plant is fully operational and continues to treat wastewater as designed. The facility remains under construction, however, with components of the odour control system still being installed. The contractor has been made aware of the concerns and is investigating the odour control equipment while work continues to complete the system.

Resolution of the odour concerns is anticipated within the next two weeks as the remaining work is completed. In the meantime, people in the vicinity may continue to notice occasional odours.

We appreciate the public's patience as the project team works to complete construction and address the issue.

Questions? Please call (902) 543-8181

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Nominations are open for District 9 Special Election

Residents interested in representing District 9 on the Council for the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg can now submit their nomination to become a candidate in the District 9 Special Election.

The Municipality encourages eligible residents who are interested in local government and community leadership to consider serving on Council.

Candidate information packages, eligibility requirements, and nomination deadlines are available through Engage MODL or contact the Returning Officer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.(External link)

The successful candidate will represent District 9 residents on Council following the October 17 Special Election.

For more information, visit: Engage.MODL.ca

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Public hearing set for proposed Osprey Village planning amendments

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is inviting residents to a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to the Osprey Village Secondary Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law affecting municipally owned land identified as PID 60631009.

At its September 8 meeting, Council approved moving the proposed amendments forward and set a public hearing for October 13, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

The proposed amendments would redesignate and rezone portions of the property from High-Density Residential to General Commercial and Open Space zones. The amendments would also permit development using on-site services.

The property was originally intended for high-density residential development supported by future municipal water and wastewater services. As municipal servicing is no longer planned for the site, Council is considering amendments that would provide a different land-use framework while retaining areas as open space.

Residents will have an opportunity to provide input before Council considers whether to approve the proposed amendments.

More information, including maps and background reports, is available on Engage.MODL.ca.

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