Downtown Halifax Business Commission (DHBC) represents the collective voice for its members to government, the media, and other stakeholders as we all have a vested interest in the economic prosperity of Downtown Halifax. We aim to be experts on what makes a Downtown vibrant and continuously put the work in to achieve this. 

DHBC 2022-2023 Advocacy Highlights 

FEDERAL 

• We represented Downtown Halifax at the Business Improvement Summit, in Vancouver, in September 2022.
• We sit on the International Downtowns Association (IDA) Canada’s Leadership group, and together developed a priority paper on federal priorities for Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) nationally.
• Active participants in the Canadian Urban Institute’s “Bring Back Main Street”, “Restore the Core”, “City Talk”, and “CUI x Local” initiatives.
• We meet regularly with MP Andy Fillmore, as well as other members of Parliament and Cabinet Ministers, to advocate for federal support.

PROVINCIAL

• We have communicated with Premier Houston’s office, and Provincial Government Ministers on various Downtown issues, including expressing disappointment in the delay of the new Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.
• We have met with MLA Lisa Lachance to discuss Downtown issues.

 MUNICIPAL

• We meet with Mayor Savage, Downtown Councillor Waye Mason, and other HRM Councillors and staff, on a regular basis.
• Continue to work with Halifax Regional Police on Downtown public safety issues.
• Continue to advocate for continuation of pandemic support programs, including, waiving patio fees, extended Grand Oasis concert series, free ferry/bus days, and marketing funding to get more people Downtown.
• HRM Council passed a policy that differentiates commercial tax rates, ultimately benefiting Downtown.
• Successfully advocated for delaying the institution of on-street paid parking on Saturdays.
• Successful inclusion of Downtown and Main Streets recommendations in Halifax Partnership’s 2022-2027 Economic Growth Plan.
• Consultation with HRM on heritage conservation district, amendments to sandwich board bylaw, e-scooter regulations, Cogswell District, Brunswick Street and Lower Water Street bike lanes.

DHBC is a proud member of:

Downtowns Atlantic Canada (DAC)

International Downtowns Association (IDA)