Municipal Affairs Minister John Lohr says the amendments he introduced to the Antigonish Consolidation Act Monday reflects concerns government heard from the local community.
Municipal Affairs Minister John Lohr (Communications Nova Scotia photo)
As the Legislature’s Committee of the Whole House reviewed the bill, Lohr proposed a number of revisions. Lohr says one of the more significant changes is asking the Utility and Review Board to conduct an analysis of whether consolidation is in the best interests financially for residents of the Municipality of the County of Antigonish and the Town of Antigonish.
Lohr says government is asking the UARB to have its analysis completed by August 1st. Lohr says if the board concludes it is not in the best interests financially of the residents of Town and County, consolidation would not proceed.
Lohr says there was also concern from residents that members of the Transition Team would be running in the next municipal election. As a result, the Transition Team will now become a committee of one, former Richmond MLA Michel Samson, who will be appointed the Board Liaison and Coordinator.