The Amherst Town Council approved its 2026/27 spending plan on March 9, 2026, which includes major investments in local jobs and recreation for the town in Nova Scotia.
A key part of the budget is a $2.5 million project to open 40 acres of land for a new business park. This money will be used to build new streets, water systems, and sewers to make the area ready for new industrial and commercial businesses.
The town is also spending nearly $1.3 million to build a new accessible playground at Beacon Street Park. This project is meant to ensure that children of all physical abilities have a safe and modern place to play.
The largest project in the plan is a new soccer field and track complex at Dickey Park, which will cost $8.1 million in total. The town has set aside $3.1 million for the facility, but work will not begin until the remaining $5 million is found through grants and fundraising efforts.
Mayor Rob Small and Finance Director Sarah Wilson presented the budget as a way to create lasting change in the community. The plan aims to balance new growth for businesses with better public spaces for residents to enjoy.
