Government has reached an agreement with the Town of Parrsboro and the Municipality of the County of Cumberland to support a new governance structure.

The agreement provides $5.3 million over five years to help with costs if the town dissolves and merges with the county.

“Looking at new governance structures is one way that Nova Scotia municipalities can ensure strong, sustainable communities for their citizens,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Zach Churchill. “This funding will help ensure Parrsboro residents continue to receive important services and enjoy their vibrant community.”

If amalgamation goes ahead effective Nov. 1, more than $3.4 million will support infrastructure, operating and capital investments for roads and transitional costs associated with dissolution. Parrsboro’s equalization funding will be frozen for five years at its current level, totalling more than $1.8 million.

The details are in a letter of intent that will be presented as evidence at the March 30 hearing with the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.

“We’ve worked collaboratively with Cumberland to come to this agreement which will make our community and the county stronger,” said Parrsboro Mayor Lois Smith. “It means we will continue to build Parrsboro as a healthy, vibrant and sustainable community for many years to come.”

“This agreement puts us in a strong position to welcome Parrsboro into the county,” said Keith Hunter, warden of the Municipality of the County of Cumberland. “It will allow us to provide important services and infrastructure for Parrsboro, including a new waste water treatment plant.”

The town applied to the Utility and Review Board for dissolution in August. More information is available at www.town.parrsboro.ns.ca and www.cumberlandcounty.ns.ca

Source: Release