Photograph of a white municipal building with stone base, large windows, and a central entrance, set on a grassy lawn with shrubs and flowers. A stone monument stands on the left and trees frame the scene under a clear blue sky. A green banner near the top reads “Council Meeting.” A curved dark blue section at the bottom contains white text: “Everyone is welcome,” “Regular Council Meeting,” “10:00 a.m. Livestream,” and “Council Chambers, Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck.”

Coming Up Next Week: Regular Council Meeting

Victoria County Council will meet on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for its next Regular Council Meeting. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers at the Municipal Administration Building located at 495 Chebucto Street in Baddeck. The meeting will be live streamed so that residents can tune in at a time that is convenient for them. Everyone is welcome to attend council meetings!

The meeting agenda and other related documents will be posted on the Committee and Council Meeting Records web page as they become available.

Related Links

Promotional graphic showing two wooden podiums with microphones on a stage in front of blue curtains, with a blue panel below displaying the text: “District 3 By‑Election” and “Get to Know the Candidates.”

District 3 By-Election: Get to Know the Candidates  

As part of the upcoming District 3 by-election, the two candidates have been invited to share information about themselves to help electors make informed decisions before voting. 

Candidate Name: Gary Crowder 

In October 2024, I ran for District 3 Councillor in the Victoria County Municipal election and finished second, with very strong voter support. Today, in this 2026 by-election, I am just as committed to representing the residents and businesses in District 3 as I was then, and even more prepared. 

I joined the Village of Baddeck Commission back in June 2022, at a time when positions remained vacant following an unsuccessful attempt at dissolution, and the Village was in governance crisis and financial turmoil. Since that time, I have worked diligently alongside other Commissioners, staff and volunteers, on behalf of our community, and have contributed directly to achieving Ministerial Compliance, hiring a strong Village Manager, budgeting, strategic planning, and establishing Policies & Procedures for Village operations. My active committee participation has included Audit, Accessibility, Baddeck Area Advisory, VCMH Community Working Group, and Waterfront Baddeck. In my almost four years as a Commissioner, the Village has made huge progress, organizationally, financially and operationally.  With the Village now in a stronger position, I want to represent District 3 on the Municipal Council and work with the other seven Councillors to address the needs and concerns in District 3, and all of Victoria County.  

Since the last Municipal Election, I have stayed up to date on current issues and continued to attend Council meetings, as well as review the Victoria County Budget and Strategic Plan in detail. I understand the unique dynamic here in District 3 and know how important it is for all 8 Districts to work together to support healthy growth, secure funding for essential infrastructure and manage every taxpayer dollar carefully. If elected as Councillor, I’m prepared to do my homework, listen, ask important questions, and advocate on your behalf.  During my previous campaign, I shared details about my background, education, professional experience, values and beliefs. I will happily provide any of that information, but I hope that the work I’ve done since coming to Baddeck and Victoria County demonstrates my willingness and ability to do the job. 

My wife, Sara, and I love living in Baddeck, and we have made our home here. I would love to work on behalf of everyone here to help make District 3 and all of Victoria County an even better place to work, raise a family, build a business, and just enjoy life, now and in the future. 

Candidate Name: Ian Nicholson

Ian Nicholson is a lifelong resident of Baddeck Area with a long-standing record of community involvement and public service. A retired NSLC manager, Ian is currently employed as a construction inspector with public works.  

Over the years he has dedicated significant time to volunteer and community organizations, six years serving the Victoria Highland Civic Centre board, ten years Bell Bay Golf Society, four years on the Baddeck Village Commission and four years Brad’s d’or Yacht Club Board. Ian currently serves as an Executive member of the Royal Canadian Legion.  

His lifelong commitment to the Baddeck community reflects his strong sense of service, leadership and dedication to local organizations and residents alike. 

The by-election for District 3 (Baddeck area) will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026. 

Electors may vote between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, NS. 

Voting will take place by paper ballot. 

Advanced Polls 

The advance polls will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, and on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, between the hours of 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. at the Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, NS. 

Returning Officer 

For more information or to request the polling division description contact: 

Steff MacLeod 
Telephone: 902-295-3659  
Fax: 902-295-3331  
E-mail: steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca  

Related Links 

District 3 By-Election Notice of Polls

District 3 By-Election: Notice of Polls

The by-election for District 3 (Baddeck area) will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Electors may vote between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, NS.

Voting will take place by paper ballot.

Candidates

The following candidates are running for the office of district 3 councillor:

OFFICECANDIDATES
Councillor, District 3 (Baddeck area)Gary Crowder 
Ian Nicholson

Advanced Polls

The advance polls will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, and on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, between the hours of 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. at the Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck, NS.

Returning Officer

For more information or to request the polling division description contact:

Steff MacLeod
Telephone: 902-295-3659 
Fax: 902-295-3331 
E-mail: steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca 

Related Links

Candidates for the District 3 By-election
District 3 By-Election: Confirm you are on the electors list

Promotional graphic showing a close-up of a ballot with checkboxes beside candidate names, overlaid with a blue banner reading “District 3 By‑Election” and “Nomination Day.”

Today is Nomination Day!

To run for council in the District 3 by-election (Baddeck area) you must submit your paperwork between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. in person to the Returning Officer at the Municipal Building (495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck).

Here’s your checklist:

  • Meet all eligibility requirements to become a candidate
  • Complete the nomination forms
  • Collect a minimum of 5 signatures from eligible voters in the district (more is recommended)
  • Submit a $200 deposit (cash, money order, or certified cheque)

Nominations close May 5 at 5:00 p.m. sharp, and late or incomplete submissions may not be accepted so submitting early is strongly recommended.

Questions? Contact Steff MacLeod, Returning Officer at steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca or 902-295-3659.

A close-up of a podium microphone against a softly blurred background, overlaid with a blue graphic panel displaying the text “District 3 By‑Election” and “Official Candidates.”

Candidates for the District 3 By-election

Candidates for the District 3 By-election (Baddeck area) on May 30, 2026 are:

  • Gary Crowder 
  • Ian Nicholson

(this list will be updated when candidates are confirmed by the Returning Officer)  

Nominations will be accepted by appointment until May 4 or on Tuesday, May 5 (Nomination Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Municipal Administration Building.  

For complete details on how to become a candidate visit: https://victoriacounty.com/election/ or contact Steff MacLeod, Returning Officer by email at steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca or by phone at 902-295-3659.  

Graphic showing a daylight photo of a historic municipal building with overlaid text reading “In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) Council Meeting Recap April 2026,” indicating a recap of a council meeting.

ICYMI: Council Meeting Recap for April 2026 

Victoria County Council met on Monday, April 20, 2026. 

This recap highlights key discussions and decisions from the meeting. It is not a complete record. Official meeting minutes will be posted on the Committee and Council Meeting Records page once approved at the next Council session.  

Presentations to Council 

Fires Services Update presented by Lyle Donovan  

Victoria County is currently served by 11 fire departments, with substations in place to provide coverage across larger geographic areas. There are also three dispatch services operating in the County:  

  • Cape Breton Regional Dispatch 
  • Canso Dispatch 
  • Shubenacadie Radio Communication Center (SRCC) 

The goal is to move toward one centralized dispatch system for Victoria County. 

In 2025, fire departments responded to 451 calls and of those 21% were medical related, highlighting the growing demand on volunteer fire services. The North Shore and District Volunteer Fire Department had 101 calls and of those 51 were medical related and the Ross Ferry Volunteer Fire Department responded to 28 calls and of those 22 were medical related. 

Changes are coming to fire services in Nova Scotia. The province has introduced new legislation and is working to modernize how fire departments are supported, trained and coordinated. These changes will guide how departments operate and work together across the province.  

We will continue to monitor developments and work with local departments to understand how these changes will impact the municipality’s role in supporting local fire departments and volunteers and ensuring residents continue to receive reliable emergency response services.  

Residents can learn more about the province’s three-year implementation plan on their website: https://novascotia.ca/modernized-firefighter-training/ 

The municipality received $25,210 from the province to support Level 1 Firefighting Training. This funding will be used to train local volunteer firefighters.  

Council had previously approved funding ($10,000 in both 2026 and 2027) for dry fire hydrants. Dry hydrants allow firefighters to use a reliable source of water like a lake, pond, or stream when they do not have access to a traditional fire hydrant. The hardware for four dry hydrants was purchased and the remaining funding will be used to install dry hydrants at two local stations.  

Cape Breton-Victoria Regional Centre for Education (CBVRCE) Update presented by Lewis MacDonald, Director of Operations with Susan Kelley  

The long-range forecast of Baddeck Academy was presented to Council. The forecast included year over year enrolment numbers, years of construction and capacity levels. Baddeck Academy’s current capacity is 75 per cent and it is not anticipated to increase based on forecasted enrolment numbers. Capacity at the class level can vary and is managed with flexible spaces without the need for adding modular or portable buildings.

RCMP Update presented by Brian Bonnell 

The RCMP are making changes to their uniforms and vehicles. 

  • Uniforms will change from grey shirts to blue  
  • Vehicles will be black and white with updated graphics  

These changes will roll out nationally and will be communicated through official RCMP communications channels.  

Municipal Matters 

  • This quarter 256 tonnes of trash, recyclables and compost were collected. 
  • Public Works had a 49% increase in fuel cost, $20,000 just in March.  
  • A survey for residents about solid waste is being planned to get feedback from the community and get insights into what works well and where improvements can be made.  
  • Earth Day (April 22) is the unofficial start of community clean ups. Victoria County will have clean up supplies available and our Solid Waste Educator will be creating community clean up kits for local libraries. As a reminder, black bags are not accepted in Victoria County.  
  • The second annual health fair at the Bay St Lawrence Fire Department is on April 29 from 1 – 4 p.m. Find more details here: https://www.facebook.com/bslcommunitycentre  
  • Cabot Trail 100 Engagement Sessions are ongoing. To find an event near you, visit: https://destinationcapebreton.com/cabot-trail-100-commemoration/ 
  • May is designated as Gaelic Nova Scotia Month. A proclamation will be declared during a flag raising event at the Municipal Administration Building in Baddeck on Monday, May 4.  
  • Volunteer of the Year Award Nominations are being accepted until April 27, 2026. Nominate a youth, individual or group today! https://victoriacounty.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Volunteer-Nomination-Form.pdf 
  • Ingonish Wastewater Treatment System Update was posted on April 15: https://www.engage.victoriacounty.com/ingonish-wastewater-treatment-system 
  • District 8 Councillor Wanda Hennick wished everyone a Happy Setting Day – Lobster fishing season starts early on May 8.  
  • Warden Organ noted that the fishing season is underway and wished all fishers a safe season, calm seas and bountiful catches. 

Upcoming Meetings  

The next public meetings of Victoria County Council in 2026 are scheduled for:  

All meetings are posted on the Municipal Calendar

Graphic announcing a Regular Council Meeting. The top half shows a photograph of a large two‑storey municipal building with white siding, stone foundation, and a well‑kept lawn with shrubs. A green label at the top reads ‘Council Meeting.’ The bottom half is a blue section with white text stating: ‘Regular Council Meeting – Monday at 10 a.m. – Livestream.’ Additional text at the bottom reads: ‘Council Chambers, Municipal Administration Building, 495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck.’ An icon representing livestreaming appears next to the text.

Coming Up Next Week: Regular Council Meeting

Victoria County Council will meet on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 10 a.m. for its next Regular Council Meeting. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers at the Municipal Administration Building located at 495 Chebucto Street in Baddeck. The meeting will be live streamed so that residents can tune in at a time that is convenient for them. Everyone is welcome to attend council meetings!

The meeting agenda and other related documents will be posted on the Committee and Council Meeting Records web page as they become available.

Related Links

A person places a blank ballot into a ballot box at a polling station. Overlaid text reads, “District 3 By‑Election” and “Confirm you are on the electors list,” on a blue background.

District 3 By-Election: Confirm you are on the electors list  

If you live in District 3, now is the time to make sure you’re on the electors list for the upcoming by-election. 

You can find out if you are on the list of electors by contacting the Returning Officer, Steff MacLeod between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. before May 15, 2026.  

Telephone: 902-295-3659 Fax: 902-295-3331 E-mail: steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca 

You will be asked for your name, your address and your date of birth. 

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, take the time now to confirm. Participating in the election is an important way to have your say in your community. 

Voting Eligibility  

To vote in the District 3 by-election, you must: 

  • Be 18 years of age or older and a Canadian citizen on the first day of advance polling  
  • Have been an ordinarily resident of Nova Scotia for at least six months before the first advance polling day  
  • Be an ordinarily resident of District 3 immediately before the first advance poll  

Being an “ordinarily resident” in a Nova Scotia municipality means it is the place where you usually live, sleep and intend to return to when away, regardless of where you take meals or are employed. 

Who Can’t Vote? 

You are not eligible to vote if you are: 

  • The Returning Officer  
  • An inmate in a correctional or reform facility  
  • A person convicted of bribery under the Municipal Elections Act within the past six years  

NOTE: Nova Scotia does not allow non-resident voting in municipal elections meaning you must live in the municipality to vote there. For example, if you live in Sydney but own a cottage in Ingonish, you are not eligible to vote in Victoria County, you must vote where you ordinarily reside. 

Voting Dates 

  • May 21, 2026 – First Advance Poll  
  • May 26, 2026 – Second Advance Poll  
  • May 30, 2026 – By-Election Day  

 Related Links

Bronze statues of Mabel and Alexander Graham Bell seated on a waterfront bench overlooking Baddeck Bay harbour with boats; a blue banner at the bottom reads ‘District 3 By‑Election — Nomination Process.

Become a Candidate: District 3 By-Election Nomination Process 

The nomination process is now available for the upcoming District 3 by-election, and residents interested in running for Council are encouraged to start preparing. 

Serving on Council is an opportunity to represent your community, help shape local decisions, and work with others to support the future of Victoria County. 

Nomination Dates 

  • By appointment: April 24 – May 4, 2026  
  • Nomination Day: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)  

Nomination papers must be submitted in person to the Returning Officer at the Municipal Administration Building (495 Chebucto Street, Baddeck). 

What You Need to Apply 

To become a candidate, you must: 

  • Be at least 18 years old and a Canadian citizen  
  • You must be an ordinarily resident of the Municipality (since November 30, 2025) and will continue to be one into the future 
  • Have all municipal taxes and bills paid  
  • Not be disqualified under the Municipal Elections Act  

Candidates must also: 

  • Complete the nomination forms (now available on the website or through the Returning Officer)  
  • Collect a minimum of 5 signatures from eligible voters in the district (more is recommended)  
  • Submit a $200 deposit (cash, money order, or certified cheque)  

Plan Ahead 

Candidates can begin campaigning as soon as they decide to run and are encouraged to review the Handbook for Candidates for important rules and guidance. 

Nominations close May 5 at 5:00 p.m. sharp, and late or incomplete submissions may not be accepted so submitting early is strongly recommended. 

If you’re thinking about running, now is the time to get started. For more information or to book an appointment, contact Steff MacLeod, Returning Officer at steff.macleod@victoriacounty.ca or 902-295-3659. 

Visit the Municipal Elections page for more information and to access the forms. 

Related Links