The Record Episode 20

In episode 20 of The Record, Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot sat down with Richmond County Councillor Shawn Samson, who is seeking re-election in District 1.

“I’ve been very fortunate; I’ve lived here all my life, never had to cross the Causeway to go to work,” Samson shared. “I wish the same for my kids and every young adult that wants to stay here on Isle Madame and Richmond County.”

Samson’s statement highlights the deep connection he has with the area, reflecting his desire to foster opportunities for younger generations. The interview with Samson underscored his commitment to keeping employment local and ensuring a bright future for his district.

As of the Sept. 10 nomination deadline, candidates for Mayor of Port Hawkesbury include incumbent Brenda Chisholm-Beaton, Port Hawkesbury Town Councillor Jason Aucoin, who first took office in 2020, and Archie MacLachlan, who is making another bid after an unsuccessful run that same year.

The Port Hawkesbury Town Council race sees a crowded field of candidates: incumbents Mark MacIver and Blaine MacQuarrie are joined by Todd Barrett, Paula Hart, Donald MacDonald, Mike Currie, Iain Langley, and Terence Matthews.

Voters will have several opportunities to cast their ballots. Key dates for Port Hawkesbury include a mobile electronic poll on Friday, Oct. 10 at Sunset Manor (12 p.m. - 2 p.m.), and advance polls at the Civic Centre on Saturday, Oct. 12, and Tuesday, Oct. 15 (both from 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.). Election Day is Saturday, Oct. 19, with voting at Shannon Studio in the Civic Centre from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

In Richmond County, after the nomination window closed, the candidates for the five districts were confirmed. In District 1, covering Little Anse, Alderney Point, Boudreauville, Petit de Grat, and part of Arichat, incumbent Shawn Samson faces former Richmond Warden and long-time councillor James Goyetche.

In District 2, covering the remainder of Arichat, West Arichat, and surrounding communities, incumbent Michael Diggdon is up against retired educator Lois Landry.

District 3 saw former Warden and Councillor Brian Marchand acclaimed, while District 4 had an exciting race between incumbent Warden Amanda Mombourquette and former Councillor Gilbert Boucher. District 5’s Brent Sampson was also acclaimed.

Advance polls for Richmond County are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12, and Tuesday, Oct. 15, with voting locations at the Our Lady of Assumption Parish Hall in Arichat and the Bonnie Brae Seniors Club in St. Peter’s.

On Election Day (Saturday, Oct. 19), District 1 voters can cast their ballots at the Little Anse Social Action Hall, Petit de Grat Parish Hall, or the New Horizons Seniors Club Hall. District 2 will see polls at several locations, including the St. Anne Community and Nursing Care Centre (for residents only) and Janvrin Island Community Hall. District 4 voters can head to the Tara Lynne Centre or the St. Peter’s Lions Hall, among other venues.

In legal news, Frank Eckhardt of Grand River pleaded guilty to three firearms charges during his appearance in Port Hawkesbury Supreme Court on Sept. 6. Eckhardt received a conditional discharge, eight months probation, and a firearms prohibition. The charges stemmed from improper storage and handling of firearms, with the case involving multiple prior investigations and significant sums of cash discovered at Eckhardt’s residence.

Elsewhere in the region, Eastern Counties Regional Library (ECRL) is continuing to promote food security. Earlier this year, ECRL received $59,900 from the Province of Nova Scotia to support this initiative. The library has established seed libraries at all locations and is expanding collections related to food security. A food security survey was launched on Aug. 23 and will be available until Sept. 30, with 10 $100 grocery gift cards being awarded to participants.

Finally, the Cape Breton Partnership is hosting a series of “Supporting Newcomers, Employers and Community Information Sessions” this month across the island. These sessions aim to provide critical resources to communities and employers looking to attract and retain newcomers. The next session will take place on Sept. 26 in Cleveland.