New Building

Word there's an arrangement that's been worked out to allow construction to proceed on a building for a new post office in Bridgewater. Acadia Broadcasting Vice President Jim MacMullin says they will start work soon on the North Street lot where a Canada Post facility will be located on the main floor. And he says the building will also be the home for both a new south shore country music station and CKBW. MacMullin says they expect the project to be complete with both stations operating out of the new location in early 2010. The project was held up when Bridgewater staff turned down an appeal of a variance to allow the new building to go up too close to neighbouring properties. Kevin Harris with the developer says there's a confidentiality agreement with a neighbouring property owner so he can't discuss what lead to the breakthrough. CKBW has attempted to contact Bob Richards to find out. And Planning Department staff in Bridgewater's town office say there's still no development application from the company. They say the owners can clear the lot on North street but can't start any construction until they have the necessary permits.

Unsightly Property

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in the case of some properties deemed unsightly, it's the definition that needs to be clarified. Council for the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is putting forth a resolution asking for a review of that section of the Municipal Government Act. Mayor Don Downe says they're seeking a revised definition of dangerous and unsightly premises that does not restrict normal and/or usual rural activities such as piles of wood shavings or sawdust. The Municipality is sponsoring the resolution at the fall conference of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities.

F-O-I-P-O-P Fees

The province is making it easier and more affordable for Nova Scotians to access information about their government. Effective August 14th, the application fee under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act is being reduced from twenty-five dollars to five dollars. Attorney General and Justice Minister Ross Landry says the government is committed to being open and accountable and access to information needs to be affordable. The act is designed to strike a balance between the public's right to know and the individual's right to privacy.