Welcome to the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities 2025 Board of Directors By-Election page.
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CANDIDATES FOR CAPE BRETON STRAIT REGION
Fraser Patterson, Councillor Victoria County
Fraser Patterson serves as a councillor in Victoria County, Cape Breton. First elected in 2003, he has been re-elected in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024—demonstrating a strong record of electoral success. With 21 years of dedicated public service, Fraser brings extensive knowledge and experience that position him as an effective candidate for the NSFM Board of Directors.
When Fraser was first elected, outmigration was a significant challenge in Nova Scotia, particularly in rural areas. Today, with a growing population, municipalities face new challenges, such as ageing infrastructure and the need for collaboration with provincial and federal governments. Over the past five years, Fraser has served on committees and the Board of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), gaining firsthand experience in working with other levels of government to benefit communities.
Throughout his tenure, Fraser has contributed to several key accomplishments in Victoria County. He chaired the committee responsible for a successful branding initiative for the region, played a crucial role in establishing a solid waste management system that resulted in cost predictability, and supported efforts that positioned Victoria County as a leader in providing high-speed Internet access. Additionally, he was instrumental in the establishment of Victoria County Transit and the introduction of a Senior Safety Officer role. As Chair of the Board of Alderwood long-term care facility, Fraser and his colleagues oversaw the planning and construction of a state-of-the-art facility to serve the community's needs.
Fraser’s involvement with NSFM includes serving as a past Board member, actively participating in AGMs and Spring Workshops, contributing as a member of the Nominating Committee, and currently serving as Chair of the Public Safety Committee.
With a wealth of experience, a proven track record of leadership, and a deep commitment to municipal governance, Fraser is eager to bring his skills and insights to the NSFM Board of Directors and continue working in the best interests of municipalities across the province.
John Dunbar, Deputy Warden County of Antigonish
John Dunbar is a Municipal Councillor in the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, currently serving his third term. As of November 12, 2024, he also holds the position of Deputy Warden. John is seeking election as the Regional Representative for Cape Breton Strait on the NSFM Board of Directors.
His nomination for this position was put forward by Councillor Gary Mattie from the County of Antigonish and seconded by Councillor Pat McKenna from the Town of Antigonish. With over eight years of experience as a Municipal Councillor, John believes he is well-qualified for the role. He is recognized for his ability to actively listen to diverse perspectives and make informed decisions after thorough consideration.
John is committed to ensuring that all voices from the Cape Breton Strait region are heard and that the activities, decisions, and direction of NSFM are effectively communicated to the Municipal Councils within the region.
CANDIDATES FOR VALLEY REGION
Adele (Addie) MacDonald, Councillor Annapolis Royal
Annapolis Royal, once the capital city of Nova Scotia, is the oldest permanent European settlement in Canada. It is also the smallest municipality in the province by both population and geography. Despite its size, Annapolis Royal carries the same municipal responsibilities as every other municipality in Nova Scotia. One key difference is that, due to its small size, the role of councillor is a part-time position. This allows Councillor Adele (Addie) MacDonald additional time to dedicate to volunteer service, including serving as one of NSFM’s Regional Representatives for the Annapolis Valley.
Adele’s professional background brings valuable skills to NSFM. Since 2016, she has served as the Chief Operating Officer of AIRO (Annapolis Investments in Rural Opportunity), focusing on rural community and economic development in Annapolis Royal and Annapolis County. Her previous experience as the owner of an Internet marketing and communications firm for 14 years has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by foundational businesses that contribute to thriving communities. Prior to that, she worked as a project manager at web development companies and held various healthcare administration roles.
Adele has a long history of volunteerism with community events and organizations. Her contributions during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic were recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. She has also served on numerous non-profit and corporate boards, giving her extensive experience in board governance.
In all her roles, Adele is driven by a strong sense of purpose—sharing her optimism and wisdom to support the growth of people, helping them to build vibrant and creative lives, businesses, and communities. She brings that same dedication and passion to her service with NSFM.
Christina Sappington, Councillor County of Kings
Christina Sappington is a legacy broadcaster with strong communication skills and a proven ability to build bridges between people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and political perspectives. She has a track record of bringing individuals together to find common ground and achieve tangible results. Christina is an active member of 15 boards and committees.
Christina brings a wealth of lived experience as a half-Korean woman and daughter of a retired military serviceman. Having lived in Korea, Japan, multiple parts of the U.S., and two Canadian provinces, she understands the challenges of being a newcomer and proudly earning Canadian citizenship. She is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and for amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities.
With a degree in English and Mass Communications, Christina spent nearly two decades as a radio DJ, honing her ability to engage with people from all walks of life and foster meaningful dialogue. She takes pride in her ability to connect with others and find common ground.
If elected to the NSFM Board of Directors, Christina is committed to applying her extensive learned and lived experience to the role. She has the time, energy, and focus necessary to make meaningful contributions and views this opportunity as a natural extension of her community work. Through NSFM, she aims to help municipalities collaborate, share ideas and best practices, and engage with other levels of government to benefit all Nova Scotians. It would be an honour for her to contribute to this important work.
John Andrew, Councillor Town of Kentville
John Andrew is honored to stand as a Valley nominee for the NSFM Board of Directors. Currently serving his second term as a Municipal Councillor, he brings extensive experience from his involvement on numerous boards and committees. As a leader in the non-profit sector, John has demonstrated strong communication and networking skills, with a particular focus on issues that are highly relevant to municipalities today. He is a self-motivated individual who is eager to continue learning and growing.
With deep roots in the region and a diverse range of life and professional experiences, John offers a perspective that is both informed and heartfelt. Over the past twenty-six years, he has worked as a social advocate and non-profit leader, founding several programs to support marginalized and at-risk individuals throughout the Annapolis Valley. His efforts have contributed to the launch of similar initiatives across Nova Scotia, and his expertise has been sought in the development of a national rural housing strategy and in raising awareness of homelessness, housing, and poverty.
A past recipient of the Provincial Volunteer of the Year Award, John currently serves as Chairperson of Valley Connect Outreach Association, a registered charity dedicated to supporting individuals in need throughout the Annapolis Valley. He is also the President of The Purple Peacock Thrift Store, a social enterprise that raises funds for charitable initiatives while providing employment opportunities for individuals facing barriers to the workforce.
John’s work in both the business and non-profit sectors has equipped him with a deep understanding of fiscal responsibility and the value of hard work. Through his collaboration with hundreds of community volunteers, he recognizes the exceptional resiliency of the community and its capacity to develop solutions without over-reliance on government funding.
John is committed to bringing his experience, dedication, and passion to the NSFM Board, working to support and strengthen municipalities across Nova Scotia.
Kayla Leary-Pinch, Councillor West Hants
Kayla Leary-Pinch is seeking a director's position on the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities (NSFM) Board. She currently serves as the councillor for District 7 in the West Hants Regional Municipality, where she is in her first term. Her extensive volunteer experience is rooted in the not-for-profit sector, where she has held various leadership roles, including director, treasurer, and president/chair, at both the provincial and national levels.
Through these roles, Kayla has gained significant experience in advocacy and education—key pillars of most not-for-profit efforts. She has had the privilege of engaging with the public in meaningful ways, working closely with individuals before, during, and after challenging situations. This experience has provided her with invaluable insights into the diverse needs of the community, deepening her understanding of its history, culture, values, and aspirations. She takes great pride in representing these communities and serving as their voice.
In addition to her municipal work, Kayla serves as the Chair of the Regulator for her profession. This position has provided her with valuable experience in policy governance, collaboration, public protection, and education—skills that are directly applicable to the work of the NSFM Board. She is eager to contribute these insights to support and strengthen municipal governance across the province.
Having grown up in West Hants and the Valley, and having built her life in the region, Kayla is deeply connected to the local culture and values. Her background, combined with her passion for public service and community engagement, positions her to bring a unique perspective to the NSFM Board.
Kayla is honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the important work of the NSFM and to support municipalities in achieving their goals.
Samantha Hamilton, Councillor Town of Kentville
Samantha Hamilton is a first-term municipal councillor for the Town of Kentville, bringing over 25 years of experience as an Advanced Care Paramedic. Known for her unwavering commitment to social justice, ethical integrity, and advocacy, Samantha has built a reputation for leadership that champions the rights of others and drives positive change. As the former President of IUOE 727, she advanced collaborative solutions, built strong partnerships, and created safe, equitable environments in healthcare and the community. Her leadership style is grounded in transparency, accountability, and a commitment to fostering communities where everyone can thrive.
Samantha is pursuing a Bachelor of Emergency Health Services Management and a Certificate in Health Administration at Dalhousie University. Her academic pursuits and real-world experience allow her to apply evidence-based strategies to drive sustainable, community-centred policies.
With extensive governance experience, Samantha has served as Chair of the IUOE Executive Board, a member of the Town of Kentville Police Commission, and a former board member of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Her dedication to mental health advocacy, collaboration, and listening to diverse perspectives has consistently enhanced the organizations and communities she’s served, positioning her as a transformative leader.
Rooted in Kentville, Samantha and her husband, Scott Hamilton, the town’s Fire Chief, have raised three adult children with a strong sense of service and community involvement. The Hamilton family has actively contributed to Kentville’s fabric, participating in sports, local initiatives, and community events.
Samantha seeks election to the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities to bring a unique blend of municipal political engagement, union leadership, and a passion for social justice. Eager to collaborate with and learn from experienced board members, she is focused on advancing initiatives that benefit municipalities across Nova Scotia. Samantha is committed to ensuring that the decisions made reflect the priorities of local communities, amplifying the voices of municipal leaders across the province.
With well-established, impactful results, a vision for a more inclusive and equitable future, and a passion for community advocacy, Samantha is ready to continue driving positive change for municipalities throughout Nova Scotia.