Three Lunenburg County Councils exploring Joint Services

It's still very early but a trio of Lunenburg County councils have taken the preliminary step to become one. The representatives of Mahone Bay, Bridgewater and the District of Lunenburg have agreed to receive a joint services report so residents can have their say. The three councils won't accept the report until members debate them at council meetings and public consultations are complete. Still, District of Lunenburg Mayor Don Downe says its a big step forward.

"We want to take a look at what we need to do in a cooperative way to provide better services at a less cost to residents of Lunenburg County. Whether it's less cost today or less cost later on, the issue is what's the best formula that we need to put together to provide a good, accountable government to the residents of our Municipality."

Brian Smith with Marathon Human Resources Consulting Group suggested the three councils form a regional services board for three years before deciding to amalgamate. The report recommends the regional service board include members of each of the three councils and provide joint services in solid waste management before expanding to recreation and economic development. Between 15-20 members of the public took-in Monday night's meeting at the Mahone Bay Fire Hall. Bridgewater Mayor Carroll Publicover says he isn't discouraged by a lack of public presence.

"Things could really change. The composition of how their town is governed, how their services are delivered. I think they will become more part of it, more engaged and more interested."

Public information sessions are scheduled to begin next week: Monday January 23- Mahone Bay Fire Hall,

Tuesday January 24 at Pinehurst Community Hall, Wednesday January 25 at Riverport Community Centre
Thursday January 26 at Bridgewater High School and Monday January 30 at Petite Riviere Fire Hall. All meetings start at 7pm.