News Release Archive
NEWS RELEASE (CNS711) -->> HOUSING/MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS--MINISTER TOURS MUNICIPALITIES HOUSING/MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS--MINISTER TOURS MUNICIPALITIES ----------------------------------------------------------------- The province's municipal officials will have the opportunity to discuss local issues face to face with Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Jim Smith over the next few weeks. Dr. Smith is currently meeting individually with elected councils of all 55 municipal units. "It's an opportunity for me to better familiarize myself with the issues and challenges facing local government in Nova Scotia," said the minister. "I made the commitment to do this at the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities Conference earlier this month. Now I'm following through on it. I hope these discussions will be frank, candid and as far-ranging as some of our talks so far." Last week the minister met with the towns of Kentville, Berwick, Wolfville and Hantsport and the Municipality of Kings. This week he is meeting with the towns of Windsor, Truro, and Stewiacke and the municipalities of Colchester, West Hants and East Hants. Issues discussed included: the draft Municipal Government Act, the national infrastructure program, reassessment, sales tax harmonization and funding formulas. Municipalities are also bringing forward issues specific to their units. "Remember we both share the same goal: strong, viable communities," said the minister. "We want to work with the units. For municipalities, the Department of Housing and Municipal Affairs is a window into the provincial government. We bring forward their interests when we meet with other government departments." -30- Contact: Michelle Whelan 902-424-6336 trp Oct. 25, 1996 - 9:15 a.m.