THE RANKIN REPORT

Free Heritage Day Community Skate

Dear Timberlea-Prospect Residents,

I hope this email finds you well and in good spirits.

February is African Heritage month in Nova Scotia. There are 52 historic African Nova Scotian communities, and I am proud to represent the community of Beechville included in that historic list.

As we recognize and celebrate African Heritage Month, I hope you will take the time to reflect on the journey, challenges, and obstacles African Nova Scotians have faced and overcome to build vibrant, joyous communities.

This year's provincial theme is "Our Smiles, Our Joy, Our Resilience as African Nova Scotians.” The theme is a reminder of the positive impact African Nova Scotians bring to our community. As we celebrate their achievements and contributions, we must continue the ongoing work to embrace diversity and inclusion and eliminate systemic racism.

February is also the return to the Nova Scotia legislature on 27th of this month. In this session, the Minister of Finance tables the Estimates and then the budget is introduced into the House of Assembly. My colleagues and I will be watching the budget closely to seek information and call on the government to justify the choices it makes to serve all Nova Scotians.

Our team will be working to ensure Nova Scotians are receiving the programs and services they need to maneuver through the affordability crisis impacting so many families at this time.

Please reach out to my office if there are any issues you would like me to bring forward this session.

Finally, I would like to this opportunity wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day. I hope this day will be a celebration of being connected to the special people in your life.

Warmest regards,

Iain Rankin

Overcrowded Classrooms

As the number of proposed developments continues to soar in the Beechville, Lakeside, Timberlea area I am becoming increasingly concerned about the overcrowded schools.

As a member of the community and as your representative, I will continue to work hard for your children and mine to ensure that progress throughout the BLT area includes the educational infrastructure needed to support our growing communities.

I have requested a meeting with the Minister of Education to address this issue and develop a plan to add BLT to the Capital Plan list. 

Please reach out to my office if there is anything you would like to share with me on this growing concern within our communities.

Learn More

Community Engagement

🗣️ One of the greatest privileges for me as an MLA, is to recognize residents who positively impact our community or achieve a milestone, by publicly recognizing them with a Members Statement in the House of Assembly. Please contact my office if you wish to nominate someoneLearn more...

🚗 Our communities are growing, and we need a regional transportation system that’s safe, efficient, equitable, and resilient to support this growth. The JRTA is developing a regional plan. Get an update on the plan progress and share your concerns by attending their virtual information session. Learn more...

Accessing Grants and Rebates

🏠 The Salvation Army's HEAT Fund is accepting applications. The Home Energy Assistance Top-up (HEAT) Fund supports Nova Scotians in need with home heating cost during the winter months. Learn more...

💲 If your household has not yet applied for the Heating Assistance Rebate, you have until March 31st to apply. Qualifying households will receive $600 to help with heating their home this winter. Learn more...

WHAT'S HAPPENING

Community Spotlight

Retiring as a Halifax Firefighter

Celebrating the retirement of my friend and colleague Ali Duale was an honour last month. Ali's remarkable journey began in 1997 when he arrived in Nova Scotia as a refugee, escaping the civil war in Somalia. Over the past 20 years, he served the Halifax Fire Department with unwavering commitment and courage. 

Ali's impact extends beyond firefighting; he also serves as the MLA for Halifax Armdale, showcasing his dedication to public service. 

As Ali hangs up his helmet, Halifax Firefighters bid farewell to a remarkable leader. We express our deepest gratitude to Ali for his selfless service and wish him a fulfilling retirement, knowing that his impact will resonate throughout the community for years to come.

What's on in Timberlea-Prospect?

⛸️ Join me for the annual Free Skate on February 19th from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at the St. Margaret’s Centre. Learn more...

💁🏼‍♂️ If you are or someone you know provides care to a loved one, Caregivers Nova Scotia offers FREE programs and services such as support groups, educational workshops, and confidential one-on-one support. Learn more...

📝 Visit the Central library for Job Search Club, where professionals from Job Junction will guide you in areas such as resume building, interview skills, and networking. Learn more...

Local seniors wishing to meet other seniors and socialize are invited to join volunteers at St. Luke's for the monthly social on the last Thursday of each month. Learn more...