Learn to Fish (L2F) Program

Volunteers from South Shore Bassmasters and the Hants West Wildlife Association who will be helping students across the province learn how to sportfish. The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture's Inland Fisheries Division has helped teach volunteers from the groups how to deliver the Learn to Fish (L2F) program to reach more classrooms. More than 30 groups across the province received training this year, which means another 13-hundred youth will know about beginner sportfishing.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau says sportfishing is a great way to enjoy our lakes and rivers in a safe and serene family setting.

Employees Buy Time

The Town of Bridgewater has approved a policy that allows its employees more flexibility in their work schedule. Staff will be allowed to purchase additional time off and pay for it in equal increments over the course of a year. The plan is one option that can help employees balance multiple commitments while making sure their work gets done. The policy must fall within the constraints of operational requirements and is only available to permanent, full-time ,non-union staff. The policy is modelled on one that is currently in place in Halifax Regional Municipality.

Bicycle Lanes for Bridgewater

Bridgewater will soon have a number of bicycle lanes and signage installed along Glen Allen from Aberdeen Road to LaHave Street. Mayor Carroll Publicover says they have a specific plan for infrastructure to be put in place as part of the Town's Active Transportation improvements. The cost is being matched by the province through the Green Mobility Capital Grants Program. Council approved an unbudgeted 66 hundred dollars for the installation of 46 sets of shared bicycle lanes as well as 11 share the road signs. The Town's contribution is Gas Tax eligible. Publicover says he's looking forward to the day when more people are walking and biking. He says it won't happen unless the Town shows some leadership and takes some initiative..

Special Purpose Tax

Bridgewater residents will see a new line item in their tax bills next year. A special purpose tax which could total 80 dollars a year, is being implemented in 2011/12 to help pay the capital costs of the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre. Mayor Carroll Publicover says property owners will be able to see how much the Lifestyle Centre will be costing on their property tax bills for the next 20 years. Council is seeking public input on three proposed options. The commercial and residential rate the same , the commercial rate half of the residential rate and the commercial rate three quarters of the residential rate. Residents have until June 28th to voice their concerns when Council will make a decision on which option to implement .