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
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.
James Fuller
James Fuller currently serves as the Warden of the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s, a position he has held since 2020. While completing his first term as a councillor, he brings a wealth of experience in governmental service, having contributed to various boards and commissions over the years. In addition, he has had the honour of serving as one of the Regional Representatives for the Cape Breton-Strait Region of Nova Scotia.
In this role, James has personally engaged with several councils across the Cape Breton-Strait region, working to understand the unique challenges each municipality faces. A recurring concern expressed by these councils has been the complexities of relationships between municipal, provincial, and federal governments.
Professionally, James has been seconded by the government as an expert in governmental, political, and security sector reform in several post-Soviet nations. This experience has provided him with a broad knowledge base of best practices in governance and a deep understanding of the foundational elements of effective leadership.
James’s motivation to serve on the NSFM Board stems from his observation that the needs of local governments are often downplayed or undervalued by provincial and federal agencies. As a representative of a rural municipality, he recognizes the distinct challenges rural communities face compared to their urban counterparts. He is committed to advocating for local control over local needs and addressing the widespread concern that a “one size fits all” approach to governance does not serve municipalities equitably. Additionally, he is focused on addressing the disparities in cost-sharing agreements that impact municipalities and their citizens.
With a strong commitment to municipal advocacy, James Fuller is dedicated to being a tireless advocate for all municipal units across Nova Scotia.
John Dunbar
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
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
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
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
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
Samantha Hamilton is a dedicated community leader with over 25 years of experience as an Advanced Care Paramedic. She is widely respected for her advocacy, ethical integrity, and unwavering commitment to social justice. As the former President of IUOE 727, Samantha championed the rights of her colleagues, advanced collaborative solutions, and drove meaningful change. Her leadership is characterized by transparency, accountability, and a steadfast dedication to creating safe and equitable environments in healthcare and the community.
Currently pursuing a degree in Emergency Health Services Management at Dalhousie University, Samantha combines academic expertise with real-world experience to implement evidence-based, forward-thinking policies. Her studies in research methods, human resources, and professional education, along with her Human Resources Certificate, highlight her commitment to data-driven leadership and sustainable community development.
Samantha’s governance experience is extensive, having 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 passion for mental health advocacy and her ability to foster trust and collaboration have established her as a transformative leader. She consistently builds partnerships and listens to diverse perspectives to enhance the impact of the organizations and communities she serves.
Deeply rooted in Kentville, Samantha and her husband, Scott Hamilton—Kentville’s Fire Chief—have raised three adult children with a strong sense of community and service. Together, they have actively contributed to the town’s fabric, engaging in sports, local initiatives, and community events.
As a councillor, Samantha Hamilton brings a results-oriented approach grounded in integrity, collaboration, and a shared vision for Kentville’s future. She is committed to fostering an inclusive, vibrant community where every voice matters, and forward-thinking solutions address today’s challenges while building a brighter tomorrow for all residents.
