UARB: Amalgamating several rural communities could save millions
Posted May 2, 2016 05:57:49 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
NEW GLASGOW, N.S. – The Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board says amalgamating several rural communities could save millions and be in the best interest of residents.
The board says joining Pictou, New Glasgow, Stellarton and the Municipality of Pictou County would result in savings of at least $500,000 annually.
That doesn’t include an agreement the province signed with the municipalities in February that pledges more than $27 million over five years if amalgamation proceeds.
The agreement consists of $15.2 million in operational, capital and transitional funding, along with $11.9 million to maintain equalization funding at current levels for the next five years.
The board says amalgamation could also bring about a more regional approach to decision-making.
It will issue a final decision after a plebiscite on May 28.
