As we settle into 2025, Warden Diane LeBlanc looks back at 2024 with gratitude, as she revisits Council’s journey throughout the year and embraces her new role as Warden.

“It was an eventful year with challenges, accomplishments, and new beginnings,” said Warden LeBlanc. “We (Council and staff) are aware that we have a busy year ahead and look forward to seeing what 2025 will bring.”

A look back at 2024:

New Council- October saw a municipal election, with seven new councillors coming to the table. The new Council was sworn-in on Oct 30^th, at Beaver Creek Vineyard in Lawrencetown. It was a memorable ceremony with family, friends, and County residents who generously took their time to recognize this special occasion.

Newly Appointed Warden and Deputy Warden – I was honoured to be appointed as Annapolis County’s Warden during the swearing-in ceremony in October, with Councillor Dustin Enslow appointed as Deputy Warden. Together, we lead an amazing group of individuals who make up an extraordinary Council that encompasses a diverse range of newly elected and seasoned councillors who bring with them decades of knowledge. I feel privileged to be part of this team of individuals who demonstrate such enthusiasm.

Annapolis REMO – Annapolis REMO launched Alertable, a multi-purpose communication service that will be used to send alerts to residents, businesses, and visitors during critical events, as well as for relevant day-to-day communications. Congratulations to the two winners of the Alertable sign-up contest: Bud & Beth Fairn (Portable Generator) and John MacDonald (72-Hour Preparedness Kit). Visit annapolisremo.ca to sign-up!

Municipal Satellite Office Opens in Middleton - To serve our east-end residents more conveniently, the County of Annapolis opened a satellite office in the Town of Middleton at 291 Marshall St., Unit 4, offering account inquiries, payments, deposits, and permit applications. The office is open two days a week – Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. To reach this office, call (902) 955-3707.

Community Grants Program – Former Warden Alex Morrison, councillors, and staff member Nadine McCormick, Communications Coordinator, made their way around the County visiting community groups throughout the summer/fall recognizing their community grant funding and personally thanking them for all they do for Annapolis County. Check out our website and Facebook page for details about our grant program.

Annapolis County Community Events Guide – It is always exciting to receive our popular Annapolis County Community Events Guide in mailboxes, and this year was no exception. The 2024 guide clearly demonstrated the perseverance our community members embody as they work together to help one another and bring joy to those around them. Keep your eye out for the 2025 edition, which is currently under production.

Bear River Water System Project (July) - Former Warden Alex Morrison, municipal councillors, and community partners gathered in Bear River to celebrate the “groundbreaking” of a long-awaited event - the commencement of the Bear River water extension project. The partnership between the Municipality of the County of Annapolis and the Province of Nova Scotia made this $3.4 million extension possible.

New Parks and Trails:

Moon Mist All Ability Accessible Trail – We were ecstatic to launch our first fully accessible trail in June, a new addition to the Upper Clements Trails system. This trail broadened the appeal to seniors and persons with disabilities, improving conditions around mobility, seeing, hearing, autistic, and mental health. Upper Clements Trails is sure to be one of the top destination trails in Nova Scotia. Keep your eye on this one as it continues to grow and take the time to experience this unique walk in nature.

Nictaux Park and Playground – We celebrated the expansion of the original Nictaux playground as it developed into the County’s first accessible playground thanks to community partners - Let’s Get A Playground in Nictaux Society, community members Marilyn Coleman and Chris Aldred, and the Province of Nova Scotia through the Nova Scotia ACCESS- Ability Fund. The playground accommodates the needs for sensory, mobility, cognitive, and developmental disabilities. There are shaded areas, quiet areas with buddy benches, and accessible picnic tables.

Celebrations:

Accessibility Awareness Day (June) – We celebrated the important contributions made by individuals with disabilities and put a spotlight on the leadership of those who work tirelessly to make our communities more accessible, and inclusive.

Dugua de Mons Day (June) - The County of Annapolis hosted an art exhibit reflecting the Mi’kmaq, the French, and the Habitation, as part of the Dugas de Mons Day celebrations.

Acadian Celebrations (August) - The Acadian World Congress was held in the province of NS in 2024, in particular many of the French communities throughout Southwest Nova Scotia. The County of Annapolis proudly hosted two plaque unveilings in partnership with Fédération Acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse - Commemoration of Joseph Broussard dit Beausoleil (1702-1765) and Village des Gaudet.

Pony Express 175^th Anniversary (October) – The County of Annapolis marked the 175^th anniversary of the Pony Express with a Pony Express Ceremonial ride, which had horses and riders visiting communities, schools, and a special stop at a Municipal Council session. It was a memorable event.

Annapolis County Volunteer Expo (September) – It was an enjoyable experience to host our 2nd annual Volunteer Expo. It was held in September with over 40 community groups participating in the event sharing information and recruiting volunteers. This was followed by a Volunteer Recognition Ceremony in honour of our 2024 Annapolis County Volunteers. This well-attended event, including family, friends, and delegates, demonstrated how much these incredible individuals are valued.