News

The Nova Scotia Heating Assistance Rebate Program

The Nova Scotia Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) provides a $400 rebate to eligible residents to help with home heating costs. Eligibility is based on 2024 net household income, with a cap of $45,000 for families and $30,000 for single-person households. Applicants must pay for their own heat, whether they rent or own. The application period for the 2025-2026 season runs from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

Eligibility requirements

Income:

Families with a combined 2024 net income of

$45,000$ 45 comma 000

or less.

Single-person households with a 2024 net income of

$30,000$ 30 comma 000

or less.

      Household:
      Includes families with children, dependents, or other adults.
       Single-parent households must receive the Canada Child Benefit to be considered.

       

      Dependence on heat:

      You must pay for your own heat.

       
        Assistance recipients:
        Those receiving Income Assistance from the Department of Community Services are also eligible.
         
         
         

        How to apply

          Online: The fastest way to apply is online at The Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP)

          Check status: You can check the status of your application using the online status checker tool at novascotia.ca/heatinghelp.

           
           

          Application period

            Open: October 1, 2025.

              Close: March 31, 2026.

              Municipal Planning Strategy & Land Use Bylaw

              The Town of Berwick's Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw are in effect as of today, Thursday, October 23, 2025.

              After two years of drafting and public consultation, Municipal Council approved the proposed Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw on July 8, 2025. The documents were then submitted to the Nova Scotia Department of Municipal Affairs for ministerial review.

              The Minister has approved both documents with amendments. These documents replace the 2012 Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw.

              Access the documents

              The 2025 Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law, including the Ministerial Amendments, can be inspected at the Town Hall during regular business hours. Here are links to documents online:

              Committees of Council Vacancies

              The Town of Berwick is seeking enthusiastic citizens willing to volunteer their time to serve on a Committee of Council. When you volunteer on a Committee, you learn more about your community, have a voice on issues that matter, and make a difference in your Town. 

              September 2025:
              The following committees have vacancies and are actively recruiting new members!

              Audit Committee (1 vacancy)
              Berwick Electric Commission (1 vacancy)
              Police Services Advisory Committee (1 vacancy)

              Deadline for applications is Tuesday, September 30, 2025


              Learn More:

              Audit Committee:
              The Audit Committee carries out a detailed review of the financial statements with the auditor, as well as provides advice to Town Council on matters relating to audit and finances of the Municipality. 

              The Audit Committee meets a minimum of twice yearly. 

              Application form: Audit Committee Application Form
              Return to: Krista at  


              Berwick Electric Commission
              The Berwick Electric Commission provides governance to the Utility to ensure that the electric utility provides reliable, safe, and affordable service to its customers, remains financially viable, and adapts to emerging challenges like sustainability and technological advancements.

              The Berwick Electric Commission meets bi-monthly (daytime).

              Application form: Berwick Electric Commission Application Form 
              Return to: Krista at 


              Police Services Advisory Committee:
              The Police Services Advisory Committee provides advice to Town Council in relation to the enforcement of law, the maintenance of law and order, and the prevention of crime in the municipality. The Town of Berwick Police Services Advisory Committee is made up of council, staff and citizen representatives. Applicants must have a willingness to learn and an interest in the Police Services in Berwick.

              The Police Services Advisory Committee meets bi-monthly (evenings).

              Application form: Police Services Advisory Application Form
              Return to: Krista at  


              Applications may also be picked up and dropped off at Town Hall

              Town of Berwick
              Committee Application
              236 Commercial Street
              Berwick, NS B0P 1E0

              Make the switch to e-billing!

              Click here to learn how you can make a difference. 

              Signing up for e-billing is as easy as clicking here!

              Switch to E-Bills and Win with the Town of Berwick!

              We're excited to announce that the Town of Berwick is transitioning from paper invoices for electric and tax bills to convenient e-bills! This change is part of our commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and providing you with an easier way to manage your payments. By making the switch, you'll enjoy several benefits:

              • Eco-Friendly: Reduce your environmental footprint by eliminating paper waste.
              • Instant Access: Receive your bills immediately via email, so you never miss a payment.
              • Less Clutter: Say goodbye to piles of paperwork—your bills are stored electronically for easy access anytime.
              • Monthly Draw: Sign up for e-billing and you'll be entered into our monthly draw to win a gift card from a local merchant! It's our way of saying thanks for making the switch.
              • Double the Chance: Were you referred by a friend? Not only will you be entered to win, but your friend will also be entered into the draw when you sign up!

              Switching is simple, secure, and beneficial. Join your neighbors in going green and enjoy the perks of e-billing with the Town of Berwick today!