SSRSB Hires Deloitte Inc. To Develop Assessments

A familiar name will help the local school board in its school review process. Deloitte Inc., the consulting group that completed an audit which led to the previous board being fired, has been hired to help develop impact assessment reports for the 10 schools up for review. Board member Judith Sullivan-Corney says they hired the consulting firm to help make sure it was a smooth process.

"We heard from focus groups that the study committees needed to have some help and that there was a distrust about the information that had come from the school board, so, therefore what I was trying to do was to open up the process so the school advisory committees received their impact assessment information as early as possible."

The group was selected out of two applicants through a call for proposals on the provincial government website. Deloitte is in the early stages of meeting with respective principals as well as the chair of each advisory committee. Deloitte is considered one of Canada's leading professional services firms that provides audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services. The group will wrap up its analysis and make its recommendations to the new school board next February.

Home Building Centre Wins Top Prize

A local hardware store in Bridgewater has been given national recognition. Buck's Home Building Centre is one of twenty stores across Canada to win the company's "Proud Of My Home Award". The award looks at over a thousand Home Hardware stores and gives the prize to those with the high standards in retailing, performance and other areas. Store owners Janice and Brian Buck were awarded at a ceremony in St. Jacobs, Ontario. Brian says they're very proud of the staff they have.

"We keep keep hiring staff with the right attitude, that enjoy working with consumers, and then having a training program in place that we can continue to ensure that they're gaining knowledge on product and emphasize customer service"

The Bucks have owned the store and it's thirty four employees for over 11 years. This is the second time they've won the award.

Tense Moments In Shag Harbour

Lobster fishermen in Shelburne County who continue to catch -- despite a strike -- were met with hostility in Shag Harbour today. A group of striking lobster fishermen were at the wharf trying to stop their colleagues from going out on the water for a second day. At least four boats were out in the water early yesterday morning. Last week the Professional Lobster Fishermen's Association called for a strike to force buyers to pay at least $5.50 a pound for their catch. They say a price less than that would make it difficult for them to make a profit. However some fisherman are content with getting $5 a pound. This morning dozens of fishermen who support the strike arrived at the Shelburne County wharf to argue for an expanded strike.

Former Tory MLA Not Seeking Nomination Bid

Carolyn Bolivar-Getson

The Progressive Conservative party will have a new face campaigning in Lunenburg West during the next provincial election. Carolyn Bolivar-Getson has decided not to put her name into the nomination ring. She says her health isn't where it needs to be.

"I know that if I'm going to run for MLA that I need to be 150% and I don't feel that my health is 100% right now."

Bolivar-Getson suffered what she believes was a stroke last November and is still recovering. She says health is her number one priority.

"Toughest decision I think I've ever made because I really enjoy representing the people and I don't want to do something that I cannot commit what I need to commit to do."

Bolivar-Getson previously held the riding between 2003 and 2009. She was defeated by NDP member Gary Ramey in the last provincial election. Bridgewater councillor David Mitchell has announced his intention to seek the nomination.

Former Lieutenant Governor Kinley Passes Away

A former lieutenant-governor of Nova Scotia who served as a merchant marine during the Second World War has died. John James Kinley passed away Tuesday at the age of 86. Premier Darrell Dexter says Kinley will be remembered as a respected community member, accomplished businessman and loving family man. Kinley served as president of the family foundry and engineering company in Lunenburg for more than 50 years. He was appointed to the Order of Nova Scotia in 2002 and was also awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal. Kinley was the province's 29th lieutenant governor from 1994 until 2000.

Projected Surplus, Capital Overage Highlight First Bridgewater Budget Meeting

Budget deliberations are underway in the town of Bridgewater. During a public meeting, Director of Finance, Dawn Keizer, projected a $650,000 surplus for the fiscal year ending 2011-12. The surplus is from an unexpected increase in deed transfer tax, reduced spending in snow removal and other areas that came in under budget. Keizer also revealed a $200,000 overage in capital spending from a sewer and sanitation project on Dominion Street. Mayor Carroll Publicover says tapping into the town's reserve funds would help pay off that project.

"It was a long time, over five years from the beginning of that project until now and cost increases over that time have really hurt us but this should be the end of it."

The next public meeting will be held May 7.

Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient Passes Away

Lunenburg County has lost one of its World War II veterans. A memorial service for Douglas Maxwell Cox of Conquerall Mills will be held Saturday after he passed away recently at Fisherman's Memorial in Lunenburg. He was 92. Cox served as navigator in Ferry Command and in Bomber Command based in the United Kingdom. He was also a prisoner of war after his plane was shot down. Cox received the Distinguished Flying Cross, given to an individual for an act or acts of valour and courage or devotion to duty performed while flying in active operations against the enemy. A memorial service and reception will be held at 2pm Saturday at Bridgewater United Church. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com .

Lunenburg: Intersection May Have Been Rushed

The mayor in Lunenburg admits construction on the Green Street/Tannery Road intersection may have been rushed. As a result, the intersection was not built wide enough to properly handle any big rigs, buses or large vehicles. Laurence Mawhinney believes the project was hurried in an effort to get the intersection completed before Bluenose Academy opened. Mawhinney says he'd like to see the issue resolved as soon as possible.

"If there is any work that needs to been done, we can do it maybe as soon as school is out...any work that needs to be done could happen in July and August when the area is not so busy with students and buses. It would be the logical time, in my opinion, if your going to make some changes to do it then,"

The town has already held meetings with MLA Pam Birdsall in hopes the province will help fund some of the costs to widen the road. However, the province has yet to commit any new funding.

Two Queens Councillors Announce Mayoral Intentions

Mervin Hartlen

Two Queens councillors have announced their intentions to replace mayor John Leefe. Mervin Hartlen started on council in 1980 until 1987. He then returned in 2000 after spending time on the school board. Hartlen says he's the right fit for mayor based on his experience.

"I've lived and worked in Queens County for the last 63 years and I think I know the people from my old profession on Nova Scotia Land Surveyor and I know what they want and I know the problems we're going through right now with seniors housing and Bowater and numerous other things and I think I can help solve some of those problems."

Hartlen says he decided to run for mayor once Leefe announced his intention to step down. Owen Hamlin is the other councillor seeking the mayor's seat. Municipal elections will be held October 20.

No Injuries After Dufferin Street Car Fire

No injuries after a car caught fire Monday night in Bridgewater. Fire officials responded to the call at 8:20pm of a car ablaze around 197 Dufferin Street. Chief Wayne Thorburne says it wasn't your typical fire.

"Well, I was talking to the owner and they had just left the parking lot and noticed smoke underneath the driver's seat, so it actually started inside the car and spread very quickly."

Thorburne says roughly 25 firefighters were on scene and had the blaze under control in a matter of minutes. He says there were two or three people in the car when it caught fire.

Bridgewater Exploring Residential And Commercial Tax Decrease

The town of Bridgewater is considering lowering its residential and commercial tax rates. Council discussed the option Monday night during the first of three budget meetings. The option would decrease the residential rate from almost $1.67 per 100 of assessment to $1.65. It would also drop the commercial rate from $4.05 to $3.99. Councillor Bill McInnis proposed the idea. He says it would be a step in the right direction.

"Will this be the cure for bringing business to the town of Bridgewater? Probably not. But at least we'll be able to say we're moving in the right direction and I'd like to see it move a lot further. Our town has seen significant growth over the last five, six and seven years and I think it's time we pay back a little dividend to the business sector, as well as the residents in our town."

The public will have another chance to have their say on the proposed budget May 7.

Aquaculture Headquarters Moving To Shelburne County

The province is re-locating its aquaculture division to Shelburne County. Fisheries Minister Sterling Belliveau made the announcement today. The move will see 12 positions move to Shelburne County by the end of the year. CAO Kirk Cox says they're pleased to receive the aquaculture headquarters.

"We have been trying to develop that industry over the last few years and we're working with the private sector and other levels of government to do that. So, the fact that it's the Aquaculture Department that is coming to Shelburne, hopefully that signals a real commitment to the industry as well, by the government of Nova Scotia."

Cox says the municipality approached the province when they announced their intentions to move civil service jobs out of Halifax in March. The Nova Scotia government also announced 25 Justice Department jobs would be moved to New Waterford and 22 from the Fisheries Department to the Digby-Clementsport area.

Five Charged After Incident In Bridgewater

Bridgewater Police have charged four youths and an adult after an incident on Dufferin Street. Police say an 18 year-old was chased by a group of people and threatened with a knife. It's not known what caused the confrontation which initially began on King Street. According to police, the victim's vehicle was eventually surrounded and the window smashed out. Various charges have been laid ranging from breach of probation to possession of a dangerous weapon and uttering threats. An 18 year-old male is in police custody and is due in court this week for a show cause hearing.

Chester: Green Light For Streetscape Plan

Chester Council has given a streetscape plan for North Street unanimous approval. The plan is designed to set standards that will shape how the highway 3 corridor will look for commercial and residential properties. However, members of the Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce aren't happy with some areas of the document pertaining to density. Chamber President Ben Wiper believes the document needs to be tweaked to avoid contradictions in the streetscape plan.

"It's impossible to build an economically viable dwelling unit - say an apartment - with twelve units unless you can go at least three floors high with an apartment. The numbers just don't work. You are losing money, the bank will never lend you money to build something like that because it just doesn't work on paper,"

Warden Allen Webber recognizes there are some issues with the plan.

"It's not only the developer that has an issue with density, the municipality itself is sensitive to the density issue because when you are constructing water, sewer, sidewalks...all those things...the greater the density the more economical it can be done. It's an issue that needs to be addressed. Whether or not they (Chamber of Commerce) are correct it impedes development because of economics the jury is still out on that but we will hear their arguments,"

He says the organization will be given the opportunity to voice their concerns with the municipality's planning advisory committee. The 'PAC' would be able to bring amendments to the plan forward if they determine changes to the plan are valid.

MODL Preparing To Start Road Work

The Municipality of Lunenburg is gearing up to improve their roads. A tender is being finalized this week for groups to bid on maintenance work. The road work is in communities like Auberndale, Conquerall Bank, Hebbville, Italy Cross, Oak Hill, Garden Lots and Pine Grove. The work includes brush cutting, ditching, the supply and placement of concrete aggregates, grading and compaction as well as dust control. The estimated cost is $125,000 a year. The work would start June 1 and last until May 31, 2015.

McGee: Can't Keep Paying For Lunenburg Academy

The deputy mayor in Lunenburg believes the town is presenting a good budget for its residents. However, John McGee has some concerns over how the town will manage the costs associated with maintaining Lunenburg Academy. The town needs to cut about $218,000 from its operating budget in order to pay for the academy. McGee says the building is the fly in the ointment.

"I was concerned that they were picking up on some of the things that they had benefit of being in there and they weren't really valid cuts is the way I was looking at it...and that they were maybe forced cuts or I kept using the word heroic and I'm suggesting that may not be the best thing to do...to cut ourselves to the bone to fund the academy may not be what we want to do here,"

The town is faced with a $177,000 price tag to maintain the academy after it took possession of the historic building at the end of March. Council has yet to approve the budget and will hold public meetings in May. The first meeting will be held on Tuesday at 5:15PM at the town office in Lunenburg.

URB Hearing Postponed For Local School Board

A meeting to review the size of the South Shore Regional School Board has been delayed. It was announced late last week, a meeting scheduled with the province's Utility and Review Board Wednesday has been postponed. It's believed because of a recent amendment to the Education Act. Earlier this month, the province decided to amend the Act to allow the opportunity for smaller school boards. The amendment will require school boards to have at least five members, along with two at-large members representing African Nova Scotian and Mi'kmaq communities. The current minimum is eight. No alternate date has been set yet for a meeting on the South Shore.

LaHave Manor Gets Keys For Evergreen Road Home

In the end, the LaHave Manor Corporation got the home they wanted. The group received keys Thursday to the house on Evergreen Road in Bridgewater, after coming to terms with the town earlier this month. The house sold for $287,000. Chair of the corporation, Elmer Garber, says the home just fits what they are looking for.

"We want our clients to be in a residential setting because, well, they have the same rights as the rest of us to live in peace and quiet. It's a home that is appropriately sized for the number of people that we want to put there and it's a very well-built home, its a high quality home."

The group has some renovations to make inside the home, like installing a residential sprinkler system and converting one bedroom into two. Garber anticipates three residents will be able to move into the home in the next few months.

Tories Demand Resignation from Peterson-Rafuse

Denise Peterson-Rafuse

The minister of Community Services is brushing off a call for her resignation by the Tories. Denise Peterson-Rafuse says the PC's are playing politics over a confidential report on the Talbot House in Cape Breton. The PC's claim Peterson-Rafuse broke the Freedom of Information Act by putting the report on a government website for anyone to read. Peterson-Rafuse says the resignation call is unwarranted.

"They're absolutely ridiculous. They are, what you call, politicizing because they're into the election mode, so they are trying to smear my reputation and there is no basis for it, whatsoever."

The Tories are crying foul because it contains unsubstantiated information and allegations. PC House Leader Chris d'Entremont says action needs to be taken.

"It's time ministers are held accountable to the information that they release. This minister has made a number of glaring mistakes. There has been precedence across Canada that has actually drawn resignation for things less glaring than what the minister has done to this point. So, we'll continue to stand for Nova Scotians and ask for her resignation."

The Chester-St.Margaret's MLA says Premier Darrell Dexter fully supports her.

Businesses Look To Queens County: Mayor

Its proof .. larger businesses are gaining confidence in the consumer market in Queens County.  Thats how District Mayor John Leefe sums it all up.  He says as Kent Building Supplies will soon build a large outlet in Liverpool, more big-name companies may follow.  He says the federal shipbuilding contract will help too.

"We're centrally situation between Yarmouth and Halifax and we're an hour-and-a half from each of those centres and from just about everywhere in the Annapolis Valley. So, yes, we think we're making progress in that area."

Leefe also says the decision by J.D. Irving to set up a big-box Kent supply store resulted from months of negotiations involving the municipality.  It will be located on a six acre parcel of land adjacent to Best Western and the new Queens-Emera Centre.  The facility is expected to open later this year.

Plug Pulled On Homeless Shelter

Yarmouth SHYFT

A much-publicized homeless shelter for youth in Yarmouth has been forced to close.  Organizers, staff and clients of "Supportive Housing Youth Focus Team", or SHYFT, campaigned earlier this month against the Dexter government's decision not to cover a monthly operating bill.  Yarmouth Liberal MLA Zach Churchill says the government has also re-negged on a promise to provide an outreach worker for the shelter.  He says that decision jeopardized federal funding in the works.  So now, the shelter has ceased operations.
Churchill says:

"People in the community tributed more than $50,000. to make sure that facility could run and provide a very much needed 24-7 supportive housing model for homeless and at-risk youth. There were thirty-one clients who through there in one winter season and according to the shelter, the success rate has been quite significant."

The "SHYFT" shelter offered clients a permanent address, which is required if they wanted to return to school, as well as assistance applying for a social insurance number or even serving a house arrest sentence.
Zach Churchill says its a real loss for the community.

Gasoline Prices Tumble

If you drive a car or truck, you will receive a nice surprise when you pull into a South Shore gas station today.   After soaring to more than $1.43 two weeks ago, the price of gasoline has dropped by more than 6 cents a litre, literally overnight.  A litre of regular self serve is selling at South Shore pumps now for $1.34.8.  Thats the lowest price for gas around here in close to a month.  The latest fall in prices reflects the lower world price of crude oil.

Shelburne: Fish Farm Ordered to Destroy Salmon

A Shelburne Harbour fish farm has been ordered to kill all of its salmon because a virus previously found there has spread. Fisheries Minister Sterling Belliveau says the Canadian Food Inspection Agency gave the order to Cooke Aquaculture's fish farm in Shelburne. In February, the federal agency ordered the company to kill fish in two pens and quarantine its site after an outbreak of infectious salmon anemia was detected during routine testing. Belliveau says the latest order will result in the deaths of thousands of fish in up to 24 pens. However, Belliveau doesn't believe the virus has spread beyond the site, adding that it hasn't shaken his confidence in the farmed salmon industry.

Chester: Old Stone Bridge is Heritage Property

The Old Stone Bridge in Chester has been designated as a provincial heritage property site. The little bridge has a rich history and is located within the village. Councillor Brad Armstrong says the bridge holds a lot of memories for many people who grew up in the seaside village.

"We always hung out there in early June to watch the gaspereau go up the brook - which they still do. So we would meet there with the boys and watch the fish go up and we would catch 'em for lobster bait mainly. I remember selling them, I think I got a penny a piece for the gaspereau,"

The Old Stone Bridge was officially recognized as a heritage site earlier this month.

VIDEO: School Board Approves 2012-13 Balanced Budget

The South Shore Regional School board has balanced its budget for 2012-13. Board member Judith Sullivan-Corney approved the $72.6-million budget during Wednesday night's meeting. The board will have a revenue reduction of $1.4-million, but will also absorb cost of living increases estimated at $1-million. Sullivan-Corney says balancing the budget was difficult after funding cuts for the second straight year.

"The senior staff have worked very closely with each and every school, and so, we looked at each school and their particular needs and then recommendations were made to the board. So, I think we have been able to really make some good decisions around the budget reductions that we have had to take."

The board balanced their budget a number of ways including:

• Reduced 20 FTE school based teaching positions 
• Reduced governance costs 
• Reduced stipends
• Reduced travel expenditure
• Reduced telecommunications expenditure
• Reduced staff professional development funds 
• Reduced building maintenance expenditure 
• Reduced Alternate and Adult Education program expenditure 
• Revenue generated by the NS International Student Program 
• Cost savings from changes to two defined benefit pension plans 
• Cost savings from school closures 
• Cost savings from transportation route reviews - bus route changes 
• Cost savings from electricity efficiency projects 
• Cost savings from staffing cuts made in 2011-12 budget - August 2011 to July 2012 savings.

The board is already preparing for further reductions to its budget in 2013-14.

MODL to Meet with Education Minister Over School Takeover

The Municipality of Lunenburg is getting their day with the Education Minister. Mayor Don Downe confirms a meeting has been scheduled with Ramona Jennex over the Centre Consolidated takeover. Downe sent a letter to the province in March, trying to find a better solution than the municipality taking over the closed school. He says they have already inherited the Blockhouse School and Riverport Community School and can't afford to take over the facility. Downe says the province needs to step up.

"There's an obligation they have in regards to saying they have used our facility, they've had them for 20 years and done nothing more than give them back in a worse condition than we received, plus they never dealt with some of these other issues we've dealt with all along, so its a huge liability."

Downe says he plans to tell the minister the downloading of schools is causing huge financial pressure on council and its residents. The meeting will be held May 22.

Resolute Confirms Downtime at Bowater Mersey

Poor market conditions have forced the parent company of the Bowater Mersey paper mill to schedule two more shutdowns. Resolute Forest Products announced today their paper machines will shutdown from May 6th to 21st and between June 17th to July 2nd. Spokesman Pierre Choquette says the global demand for paper remains weak and is the reason behind the decision. He says the paper market has been struggling for years and it's difficult to predict when it may turn around.

"You know, we've faced, since the past few years sort of a decrease on average of ten percent per year, so we can't predict that this will likely continue although it's hard to say until when and by how much."

It will be the third and fourth time the company has called for downtime since December because of poor market conditions.

More Downtime Expected at Bowater Mersey

Poor market conditions have forced officials at Bowater Mersey to schedule two more temporary shutdowns. The first will take place from May 6th to the 21st while another shutdown is planned between June 17th to July 2nd. It's the fourth time since December the company has called for downtime because global paper markets are saturated. The most recent shutdown was held over a two week stretch in March due to similar market conditions.

NDP Leader Mulcair Coming to South Shore

Federal NDP Leader Tom Mulcair

The federal leader of the NDP will be on the South Shore this June. Tom Mulcair is the keynote speaker at the Nova Scotia NDP convention at Oak Island in Western Shore. Provincial and federal members are expected to attend the event. Nova Scotia NDP Party President David Walbridge says Mulcair should receive a rousing applause by members.

"I think that they have been, for the most part, quite impressed with his performance since he was elected leader. I think they really see him as a real strong opposition to Stephen Harper as prime minister, and also, as carrying on a lot of the work that Jack Layton did around the environment and the economy."

The conference will allow members to approve a new party constitution, elect a new provincial executive and participate in a pre-election strategy session. The convention will be held June 8-10.

Leashed Dogs Only at Miller Point: Committee Chair

The chair of the Miller Point Peace Park committee is reminding residents the park is not a spot to let your dogs roam off-leash. Carmen Fraser says the committee has created new signage encouraging owners to have their dogs under control while walking in the park. One resident was allegedly bitten by a dog off-leash recently. Fraser says he doesn't want people to be afraid to go to the park.

"We don't want to intimidate and make the users of the park fearful of going to the park, whether they are with their children or adults and with dogs off leash, that is the case."

The new bright yellow sign is expected to be displayed where people won't miss it. If a person is found to have a dog off-leash in the park, they could be charged under the municipality's dog by-law and face up to a $1,000 fine, if convicted.

Lunenburg: Town Projects Hold The Line Budget

The town of Lunenburg is projecting a hold the line budget with no tax increases for residents or commercial tax payers. Council has proposed to cut just over $218-thousand from its operating budget in order to balance the books. The reductions are necessary in order to maintain the tax rate because the town has taken possession of Lunenburg Academy. Mayor Laurence Mawhinney says it took some creative work on behalf on staff to make it work.

"The academy is projected to cost $177,000 during this fiscal year - between now and the end of next March - and that equates to around seven cents on the tax rate. Even with that additional responsibility, the projected budget would still bring us in with tax rates comparable to last year,"

The town seen considerable savings of $42,000 from its snow removal budget which provided a significant boost to their bottom line. Council will hold three public meetings on the budget next month and still need to approve.

Public budget meetings will be held May 1st at 5:15PM, May 8th at Noon and May 15th at 7:00PM

Politics Driving Premier's Ferry Study: Mayor John Leefe

District of Queens Mayor John Leefe

Determining how to make a ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine work financially is perhaps a good idea, according to the Mayor of the District of Queens.  However, John Leefe agrees with many others who say the setting up of a Blue Ribbon panel ... now ...by the premier smacks of politics.

"There may be an election as early as this fall. So, if this is the case, then it would seem there is a political dimension to this quite apart from the financial dimension that we are all interested in."

Mayor Leefe says Queens County is like most areas in this region.  It has taken a big hit financially since the ferry service ended more than two years ago.  He feels putting political motives for studying the ferry issue ahead of the immediate needs of business and tourism in the area is not a good move!

Lunenburg: Interest Rate Hike on Overdue Tax Bills

A stern message for those who live in Lunenburg and are behind on their tax bill. Town council has approved a motion to increase the annual interest rate on overdue accounts to 24 percent. The rate had been set at 18 percent. Councillor Peter Zwicker says the town is trying to crack down on chronic cases of tardy payment.

"You know, I think there are some taxpayers out there that have the thought that they pay the interest rate and that's OK. Well, we're not a bank, we don't run big profits so if you're not paying your taxes...we have to find that money somewhere else,"

The motion passed by a 4-3 margin. The new interest rate will be applied beginning October 1st.

MODL Acquires Fire Brook Falls in Lower Branch

Councillor Arthur Young describes it as a "jewel in the crown of the municipality's recreational properties." The District of Lunenburg has purchased 38 acres of land known as Fire Brook Falls in Lower Branch. Mayor Don Downe says its a beautiful piece of land.

"It has natural walking trails through it. It is a bit of a hike because it leaves the road and goes up fairly high, it's a good walk, it's a beautiful walk, the falls themselves run about 500 feet long that are absolutely beautiful certainly in the spring and different seasons of the year."

Downe says the municipality purchased the land from the Mailman family for $69,000. He says they have plans to develop a passive, natural park that could be walked and hiked by residents and visitors to the area.

Holy Trinity Church in Dire Need of Repairs

A Bridgewater heritage property is in desperate need of repairs. Town council heard Monday night the Holy Trinity Anglican Church could be in need of more than $250,000 to fix interior and exterior problems with the building. Some of the repairs needed include visible rot in the siding, a rotting beam in the bell tower, a deteriorating foundation wall and many electrical issues. The church has a $3600 grant request into council. Mayor Carroll Publicover says the condition of the heritage property is surprising to learn.

"It goes to show you that you cannot go by the surface veneer when you look at a building, it can look solid, it's a great looking building, who would have ever guessed it had that kind of trouble. I feel badly for them, I do."

Council will take the church's request under consideration during its budget process.

Public Transit Group Exploring Pilot Project for Bus Service

A group advocating for a bus service through Lunenburg County is proposing a three-year pilot project with local municipalities. Barbara Carthew and Jack Schoon with the Citizens for Public Transit presented the option to Bridgewater council Monday night. They spoke about setting up a bus service that would travel through Bridgewater, Municipality of Lunenburg, the town of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. Carthew says having buses available would be a positive for people in Lunenburg County including seniors.

"That would be a great boon to them because often they have to cancel hospital appointments, etc, etc. Some of the people would be people who are now wanting to go to the community college for upgrading their skills, so they can join the job market. Some of the people are people who are on social assistance or have court appointments and have no means of transportation."

The group is looking at running two 26-passenger buses, with a third as a spare, running fixed routes and schedules around the county. They are hoping to receive 50% funding from the province while the other 50% would be divided between the four municipalities. Bridgewater council referred the matter to senior management staff.

Ferry Issue Studied To Death - Time for Action: MLA Churchill



Former Yarmouth Ferry: The Cat

 There's lots of reaction to Premier Darrell Dexter's plan to study the need for a revised ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine.  The premier has announced a panel of tourism, ferry and business experts will examine whats needed to make the service economically viable.  Yarmouth Liberal MLA Zach Churchill says the issue's been studied to death already.  He says a restored, ferry service is badly needed for the region and the province.  He says: "A ferry is not only viable ... its needed for the economy of southwestern Nova Scotia and the tourism sector across the province. What I would hope is the premier would take immediate action and provide the necessary resources in the economic, rural development and tourism (department) to start restoring the service instead of pushing this off for more people to look at."  Churchill says the Dexter government is simply trying to make itself look good after dropping the ball more than two years ago when it cancelled a subsidy to keep the service operating without first determining the potential impact.

VIDEO: Streetscape Plan Has Support in Chester

Residents of Chester were able to have their say during a public hearing Monday night on a streetscape plan for the Highway 3 corridor. Approximately 30 people attended the meeting to hear details on the plan which encompasses a stretch from Robinson's Corner to Stevens Road. Some of the main concerns centred around density, roof pitches and the exclusion of mobile and mini homes from the central village core area.  Warden Allen Webber thought the meeting went well and says council is much closer to approving the strategy. "Actually, I think we are closer to making a decision on how to move forward then I may have anticipated. I think the four or five meetings our planning staff conducted has really helped make people understand where we are at with this plan. It probably saved us quite a bit of time here this evening," The visionary document has been in the development stage for the past two years and is designed to encourage development but maintain the unique landscape in Chester. Council is expected to get some clarity on a few items before voting on the streetscape plan later this week.

(From left to right: Councillors Cheryl Scott, Brad Armstrong, Sharon Church-Cornelius and Warden Allen Webber)

Bridgewater Councillors Discuss 2012-13 Proposed Budget

It could be a sign of things to come in Bridgewater. Town councillors went over the proposed 2012-13 budget during their meeting Monday night. The figures indicate an operating budget of almost $19.3-million, an increase of over $850,000 from 2011-12. The capital budget would be $2.6-million with the tax rate holding steady at 1.669 per hundred of assessment. Mayor Carroll Publicover says he is pleased with how it looks so far.

"I think its a responsible budget. It doesn't call for a tax increase in either commercial or residential. Fortunately, we did receive some increased revenue from our increased assessment and we will use that wisely and in mostly areas for capital."

Council will hold three more budget meetings with the next one scheduled for April 30 at 6pm. Other meetings will be held May 7 at 6pm and the final debate is scheduled for May 14 at 7pm.

Bird Construction Preparing to Start LCLC Build

Proponents of the LCLC could soon see the fruits of their labour. Workers with Bird Construction have started bringing supplies onto the Wentzell Drive site, gearing up to start building the highly anticipated project. Chair Paul Belliveau says Dexter and Brewster workers are finishing up site preparation. He says work is almost ready to begin.

"It feels pretty good because basically this is what we have been working to get to, you know, we still have some things to iron out; we have to get some slate off the site but the day we see some cement poured and some steel going up is going to be a great day because its, you know, we've finally have gotten there."

Plans for the facility include an NHL-size ice surface, a six lane 25 metre pool and library. Belliveau remains optimistic the LCLC will be built before the end of next April.

NS Gov't Wants Yarmouth Ferry Service Restored

The Nova Scotia government is reopening the Yarmouth ferry debate more than two years after it stopped subsidizing the money-losing crossing to Maine. Premier Darrell Dexter says it has appointed a panel of tourism, ferry and business experts to determine what is needed for an economically viable service. A high-speed ferry link between Yarmouth and Maine was discontinued in December 2009 after the NDP said it would no longer subsidize the Bay Ferries Limited operation. The government says the arms-length, independent panel will review existing studies on the crossing and give advice. It says that will help the government make a ``definitive recommendation'' on a ferry service. Dexter says the government wants to see a ferry service return to southwestern Nova Scotia.

Annual Bad Roads Campaign On the Final Few Miles

Its your chance to make a point about that bumpy, pot-filled road in your area that's been driving you crazy for months.  The Canadian Automobile Association's annual Worst Roads campaign for the Atlantic region is underway and you can vote for the nasty road in your area on-line.  Here on the South Shore, the Woodstock Road in Mahone Bay is among the leaders in voting so far.  Gary Howard of CAA says governments tend to watch and listen to whats being said by the campaign.  "Our research keeps telling us the safety of roads, condition of roads, is a top priority of Canadians year after year. So, this allows us to really get the government to listen and they have responded quite well I must say. Most levels of government have very attentive to this."  Voting ends tomorrow. You can cast yours for your favourite or least favorite bad road at www.atlantic.caa.ca/worstroads.

Provincial Money For Tri-Star

A Yarmouth-based company that designs and builds ambulances, mobile clinics and specialty vehicles will receive additional government funding.  Nova Scotia premier Darrell Dexter is expected to announce a provincial funding to Tri-Star Industries during a tour of the facility this afternoon.  Last week, the federal government provided a 195-thousand dollar repayable loan to the company.  Its geared for marketing and promotional development as Tri-Star expands its international markets.  The province is expected to provide a similar amount today.  The money will assist in preparing promotional materials, website development, prototype marketing, trade shows and product demonstrations.

South Shore Teachers Receive Education Week Awards

Warren Dobson

Two local teachers are being recognized for their work in the classroom. Warren Dobson of South Queens Junior High and Greg Millman of Chester Area Middle School were both nominated for awards to celebrate Education Week in Nova Scotia. Dobson says he's flattered by the award, but doesn't know why he was chosen.

"I thought at first they made a mistake, maybe they had it mixed up with somebody else. I'm not an exceptional teacher in my view, I just show up everyday and try and do the best I can like 99% of the rest of the teachers in our school board."

Nominations show people believe both teachers spend countless hours helping students. The two teachers are expected to receive their awards during a ceremony Monday in Halifax.

CUPE Hosts Annual Convention in Yarmouth

CUPE Nova Scotia will host its 49th annual convention beginning today in Yarmouth. The two day convention kicks off this morning with a speech from Premier Darrell Dexter. Among the issues being discussed include pension reform and the latest federal and provincial budgets. Other speakers include CUPE National President Paul Moist and Rick Clarke of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour.

VIDEO: South Shore Residents Protest Education Cuts

Members of the general public were out Friday afternoon to protest education cuts on the South Shore and across the province. NSTU President Alexis Allen urged parents, teachers and students to protest in front of NDP constituency offices to try and evoke change. These people began their protest on King Street in Bridgewater towards NDP member Gary Ramey's office.

Sold Out: Mooseheads Kick Off Semi Final Series

A sold out Metro Centre will greet the Halifax Mooseheads tonight against Rimouski. Over 10,000 moose maniacs are anticipated for game one of the 'Q' semi-final series. Halifax won the season series two games to one while outscoring the Oceanic 10-8. Puck drops at 7pm.

UPDATE: Hebbville Armed Robbery

A 50 year-old Hebbville man is facing numerous charges after an armed robbery a few months ago at a gas station. The alleged incident took place in February at an Irving gas station in Hebbville when a masked man, armed with a gun, walked into the store and demanded money. Michael Maxwell Drennan was arrested earlier this week after Mounties carried out a search warrant at a home in the area. Police say Drennan is accused of stealing approximately $1,000 from the store.  He appeared in Bridgewater court yesterday and will remain in custody until his next court date on Wednesday. Two women were also arrested in connection with the alleged crime but they were released the same day and are not facing charges.

Barrington Man Accused of Injuring Infant

Several charges have been laid against a 24 year old Barrington man. They're in relation to injuries suffered by an infant 5 months ago. Last November, Shelburne RCMP were called to Roseway Hospital to investigate a case of serious injuries to a 23-day-old baby boy. Yesterday, a suspect was arrested without incident at a home in Barrington. Adam Harold Hogg has been charged with Aggravated Assault, Failing to Provide the Necessities of Life, and Criminal Negligence Causing Bodily Harm. He will appear in Shelburne Provincial Court on May 9th.

Inflation and South Shore Gasoline Prices Drop

Canada's annual rate of inflation fell to 1.9 per cent in March, from 2.6 per cent the previous month. Statistics Canada credits large declines in gasoline and food prices compared to the same time last year. However, unless we have long memories, we won't much notice the difference. In fact, it feels like the cost of these and other items are continuing to rise. That's because we paid 0.4 per cent more for most items in March than in February. On a year-over-year basis, however, which is how the inflation rate is measured, Statistics Canada says the growth rate in prices is slowing. Evidence of the decline in gasoline prices is evident today on the South Shore. The price of a litre of regular self service dropped two cents overnight at area pumps. Its selling today for $1.40.9. Thats a 2-cent drop from yesterday.