The Town of Amherst is inviting residents to weigh in on proposed changes to its planning rules that would for the first time define “consumption sites” and “overnight or emergency shelters” and specify where such facilities are permitted. A public participation opportunity is set for Monday, October 5, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. in Town Hall Council Chambers at 98 East Victoria Street, Amherst, NS.
Under the current Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw, adopted in 2005, these types of facilities are not defined. The proposed amendments aim to establish clear rules going forward. Written submissions may be provided in advance to the Municipal Clerk at Town Hall or by email no later than Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
The Town has emphasized that this public participation opportunity and any proposed amendments are not about moving the existing shelter at 10 Prince Arthur Street. As an existing use, amendments to the planning documents do not impact the current shelter’s operation. The shelter is operated by the Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association (CHHSA) and opened as a permanent 10-bed emergency shelter with six supportive housing units in March 2024.
The Province of Nova Scotia provided over $910,000 in annual operating costs to CHHSA for staffing, wraparound services, and programming, plus more than $560,000 from the Affordable Housing Development program for the shelter facility. CHHSA was established in 2018 and prior to the permanent shelter opening operated temporary shelters at church locations including Holy Family Catholic Church.
Community tensions around the shelter have been ongoing. On April 13, 2026, a 41-year-old man named Christopher Leggett was fatally shot on Prince Arthur Street near the shelter location. Police stated the incident involved individuals known to each other and did not believe there was additional risk to the public. A nearby business owner, Donna Gogan of the Portlander Jamaican Restaurant, has said her business has seen vandalism, theft, and intimidation of customers since the shelter opened next door. CHHSA Executive Director Ashley Legere stated the shelter seeks to be a good neighbour, noting the organization has helped 37 people access addiction treatment and over 50 find market-based supportive housing.
Residents can attend the meeting in person or submit written comments in advance. For more information, visit the Town of Amherst notice.
