News Release
HRM Named a “Five Bloom” Community
(Wednesday, October 11, 2006) Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) received the highest rating possible – five blooms – at the 2006 Communities in Bloom Awards Ceremony held recently in Brandon, Manitoba. HRM competed in the International Challenge receiving a score of 87.3 percent, its best ranking yet. The Municipality has participated annually since the program’s inception 12 years ago.
“HRM residents, staff and Council should be very proud to have earned this recognition, as it is truly a community achievement,” said Mayor Peter Kelly. “Through hard work, determination, and professionalism in community development, HRM has excelled on the international stage.”
In the national competition, HRM received the “Tree Canada Urban Forest Award” for its ongoing efforts to address the effects of 2003's Hurricane Juan. HRM was recognized as a municipality of “numerous and high quality trees” and for exhibiting fine management practices, planting and heritage tree programs, maintenance practices, and well-trained staff.
Internationally, the Municipality was specifically honoured for Exemplary Sports Fields, with judges commending HRM’s futuristic policies and ability to attract high profile sports fixtures to the region.
“HRM’s beauty and abundance of trees have always been admired and enjoyed by residents and visitors, so it’s very fitting that we’ve earned recognition in these areas,” noted Mayor Kelly. “HRM has also boasted a longstanding tradition of excellence in our sporting venues. This excellence was a key factor in our municipality being selected to put forth Canada’s bid to host 2014 Commonwealth Games. ”
Communities In Bloom is a national beautification program that fosters civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community participation and the challenge of national competition. “Bloom Ratings” are awarded for achievements in such areas as landscaped areas; floral displays; tree/urban forest management; community involvement; environmental awareness; and natural and cultural heritage conservation. This year’s Awards honoured municipalities from across Canada, as well as from the United States and the United Kingdom. Kamloops, B.C., won the overall International Challenge.
HRM is now preparing to participate in the Winterlights award program, which highlights winter tourism, seasonal events and good-will programs throughout the holiday season.
- 30 -
Contact:
Rick DeVan
Tel:(902) 490-4872
Kim Borgal, Corporate Communications
Tel: (902) 490-1539
