Three Yarmouth County units have consolidation discussion

The three municipal units in Yarmouth County have participated in their first discussion about municipal government and possible consolidation.

The session took place on Feb. 4 and involved the town of Yarmouth and the municipalities of Yarmouth and Argyle.

“As municipal leaders, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of our multiple municipal shared service agreements,” reads a media release issued jointly be the three units. “The three municipal units agree that change is required in the interest of our residents.”

The municipalities were well represented and participated in a session supported by Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing, along with elected and appointed officials from Windsor and West Hants. Windsor-West Hants will be consolidated effective April 1.

“There were many questions raised at this session, some of which cannot be answered at this time,” the release reads.

“All three municipalities agree that we are in the early stages of work related to structural change. This joint conversation is expected to continue in the near future.”

The municipal units have stated that participating in discussions does not commit them to anything.

Many residents have questions about what this all could move if things do move forward.

“We hear through your comments that there is concern regarding the recent announcement that we would participate in a discussion to further understand consolidation. We cannot confirm at this point whether there would be a vote, or even a requirement for a vote at this time, as it is far too early,” the Municipality of Argyle posted on its Facebook page in response to comments and questions residents were leaving on its page following this session.

“The council represents you ... They have been clear that no major decisions will be made without engaging the public thoroughly. Council

and staff will continue to inform the public as best we can,” the post reads. “Council has decided that it is best to be informed — and to inform residents — about the current form of our government and why regional government may (or may not) be an opportunity to serve you better, and to grow the region.”

The initial discussion session was facilitated by Allister Surette, president of the Université Sainte Anne and former facilitator for the dissolution of the Town of Bridgetown.