Councillor Sam Austin is a longtime resident of Downtown Dartmouth. He is passionate about investing in a safe and mobile community, fostering smart growth, protecting Dartmouth’s natural assets and recreation opportunities and supporting arts and culture.
He has a master’s degree in Urban Planning from Dalhousie University and a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Calgary.
Before being elected in the 2016 municipal election, Councillor Austin had a successful career in Planning at Public Works and Government Services Canada and was a leader in the community, founding the Tulips on Tulip Street initiative and organizing Jane’s Walk Halifax. He has also served as a board member with the Planning and Design Centre and The Dartmouth Heritage Museum Society.
Councillor Austin is grateful and humbled to have been re-elected for a second term on Council in the October 2020 municipal election.
He and his wife Michelle are proud parents to two young daughters Jana and Marilla.
Councillor Austin is a member of the following HRM boards and committees:
- Community Planning and Economic Development Standing Committee
- Environment & Sustainability Standing Committee
- Executive Standing Committee
- Harbour East Marine Drive Community Council
- Regional Centre Community Council (Chair)
- Alderney Landing Board of Directors
- Shubenacadie Canal Commission
- Zatzman Sportsplex
Councillor Austin also is an ex-officio (non-voting member) of the following community boards:
- North Woodside Community Centre
- Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission
- Penhorn Lake Area Trails Association