Shelburne gets funding to upgrade community centre
The Town of Shelburne has received $151,178 towards upgrades to the Shelburne Community Centre through ACOA’S Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
Bernadette Jordan, minister of Rural Economic Development and MP for South Shore-st. Margaret’s, was in town on Aug. 15 to make the announcement.
“The government of Canada is making historic investments in infrastructure to grow our country’s economy, strengthen the middle class and improve Canadians’ quality of life,” said Jordan. “Enhancements to the Shelburne Community Centre will improve the facility’s capacity to collaborate with employers, economic and social service providers and aspiring entrepreneurs, expanding trade opportunities and contributing to a skilled workforce.”
Built in 1994, the Shelburne Community Centre has hosted large trade shows and entrepreneurship activities over the years such as the Shelburne County Marine Trade
Show and Forum, the Shelburne County Agricultural Forum, as well as weddings, graduations and craft shows. It is also used for employee, corporate and employment readiness training by local employers, Employment Nova Scotia, and social enterprises such as the Shelburne Association Supporting Inclusion, the Nova Scotia Community College, and the Shelburne Community Business Development Corporation, among others.
“The Town of Shelburne is pleased to receive federal funding through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency to assist with upgrades to important regional infrastructure,” said Shelburne Mayor Karen Mattatall “The town is committed to the provision of facility improvements and enhancements as a means of maintaining and expanding conference hosting capabilities for all of Shelburne County and beyond to utilize.”
Infrastructure improvements, including roof upgrades, painting, signage, furniture and electronic equipment for meetings, will ensure the facility can be used for more purposes and will provide capacity to grow, create more middle-class jobs and build economic opportunities.
The total cost of the project is $188,973. ACOA is funding 80 per cent and the town 20 percent ($37,795).
Approximately one-third of the 23,000 square-foot Shelburne Community Centre is used by the fire department and other emergency management personnel. The remaining area features a large conference/trade show space, a stage and a catering area.