Business e-News February 2025

News for Businesses

U.S Tariff Support
The US Tariffs are an evolving situation. Over the next few weeks our Economic and Business Development team is focused on providing support to our local businesses through these changes.

• For local businesses looking for information or support in navigating these challenges, or looking to make new supply chain connections, please contact us .
• For businesses looking for local or regional supply chain options or if you are looking to shop locally, check out shopeasthants.ca, or sign up on the website and create a listing so others can find your business.

Wage Funding Programs for Employers Workshop Event
On Tuesday, February 11, join East Hants Economic and Business Development, in partnership with Nova Scotia Works, for an in-person workshop and presentation on the various wage funding programs available for employers. Registration is required for this free event. Visit Wage Funding Programs for Employers for more information.

New Local Business Support for East Hants Businesses
Galen MacLeod has joined the Economic and Business Development Division for East Hants in a new position focused on working one-on-one with local businesses.  This position will provide local business with business planning support, help with identifying and resolving business issues, navigating government regulations, and supporting businesses with opportunities to grow or expanded. Businesses can learn more or access this service through the East Hants Business Help Desk or by calling 902-883-4355.

CRA outlines top changes that will affect Business Taxes in 2025 In 2024, there were several announcements about changes to business taxes that will take effect in 2025. The CRA has gathered the key updates here, along with some helpful resources to make it easier to manage these changes and your taxes in the new year.

Business Benefits Finder
The Innovation Canada Benefits Finder is an online tool to help find programs and services for businesses in Canada.

Recently at Municipal Council

Here are some of the items from the past few months regular meetings of Municipal Council. The full agendas and minutes and a recording of the YouTube livestreams are also available on our website.

New East Hants Municipal Council Sworn In

At the October 30, 2024 Special Meeting of Council, Councillors Elect from all 11 Districts were sworn in to serve the next four-year term on Municipal Council. Council members selected Eleanor Roulston to serve as Warden for the four-year term, and Carl MacPhee to serve as Deputy Warden for a one-year term.

Council approves Unsubstantial Development Agreement Amendment in Elmsdale

In November, Council approved the application by Andrew Kim for an unsubstantial development agreement amendment to amend the external design of the building and amend the parking lot layout at 251 Highway 214, Elmsdale; and enter into the amendment within one year of Council’s approval.

Council approves Development Agreement in Belnan

Council give final consideration and approved entering into a development agreement for an automobile dealer and automobile vehicle repair and maintenance use located on property identified as PID 45431129, Highway 214, Belnan; within one year of Council’s approval.

Council receives Draft Public Transit Business Plan
In December 2024, Council received the Draft Public Transit Business Plan that proposes a pilot public transit service from Lantz, Elmsdale, and Enfield, to the Halifax Airport, with the opportunity for future routes servicing additional areas and communities. Council directed Municipal Staff to move forward with next steps for the project which includes preparing a financial analysis report and public engagement to gather feedback from the community. Council has not yet made a decision on proceeding with implementing Public Transit in East Hants. 

In addition, in January 2025, Council gave authorization to staff to apply to the Canada Rural Transit Solutions Fund, due to funding program deadlines, to support the capital costs associated with the proposed pilot public transit service in East Hants.