Tensions are escalating in the District of Argyle, Nova Scotia, as residents challenge municipal officials over controversial aquaculture expansion plans. Local community members have uncovered potential conflicts of interest and allegations of bid rigging in the site selection process for Aquaculture Development Areas (ADA).
Evidence obtained through Freedom of Information requests suggests local oyster farmers and municipal staff manipulated desired aquaculture locations in residential areas. The Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (DFA) reportedly based its application and approval process on these potentially compromised location selections.
At a March 20, 2025 council session, frustrated constituents demanded an investigation into multiple conflicts of interest and called for comprehensive public consultations. However, the council refused to allow residents to present their concerns before tabling a motion, instead introducing a supportive letter from Minister Kent Smith and inviting a DFA representative to rebut public concerns.
Warden Albright notably refused to recuse herself from discussions despite potential family conflicts, declaring no conflict of interest existed. Subsequently, the municipality began imposing substantial fees to discourage Freedom of Information requests and leveraged recent legislation allowing them to dismiss requests as trivial or vexatious.
Local residents like Chris Thibedeau argue that email evidence demonstrates direct conflicts and unethical behavior. The Association for Responsible Aquaculture, representing over 300 residents, seeks a balanced approach to aquaculture expansion that considers community interests and promotes local economic development.
The ongoing controversy highlights significant governance challenges, raising critical questions about transparency, ethical decision-making, and municipal accountability in resource development projects.
