Province to Transfer Ownership of Former Youth Facility

A future land sale of a provincial asset is expected to generate benefits for people living in Southwest Nova Scotia.

Justice Minister Michael Baker announced today, May 3, that ownership of the former Shelburne youth correctional facility will be transferred to the Southwest Shore Regional Development Authority (RDA) along with funds to maintain the facility, under the direction of Team Shelburne. The development authority will then sell the property. The proceeds of the sale, combined with any unused portion of the maintenance fund, will be combined in a fund to be used for economic development initiatives in Shelburne County.

"We are turning provincial land into an asset for the people of Shelburne County," said Mr. Baker. "I want to thank all of the municipal leaders for their determination and vision in making this initiative happen."

"This is a wonderful opportunity for future development in each of the municipalities in the county," said Team Shelburne chair, and municipal warden, Paulette Scott. "Once the facility is sold, the resulting funds will allow each municipality the flexibility to access funds to develop their own projects."

"I want to thank the members of Team Shelburne, particularly MLA Cecil O'Donnell, for their assistance, encouragement and support for this initiative and economic development in the region," said Frank Anderson, executive director of the regional development authority. "I am so very pleased that the sale of the facility will be handled locally. Working with Team Shelburne, I am confident the RDA will effectively handle the sale, and ensure the best future use of the facility."

The details of the land transfer are being finalized. Mr. Baker said the province will provide a $600,000 fund, enough to maintain the site for a two-year period.