Amalgamation of Communities in Eastern PEI
April 4, 2024
Yes , I can confirm that there have been discussions between the mayors and I can advise that each of you will receive a flyer delivered by mail in the near future, inviting you to a meeting on April 9th in Souris on the issue.
There is important background to this amalgamation discussion which precedes my time as Mayor, but I think gives important context to the process.
Approximately 7 years ago, the Province created the Municipal Government Act, which replaced the older model of Community Councils. With the MGA, each municipality, no matter how small, now had some financial implications in terms of staffing etc.
At that time, there were suggestions that cost efficiencies could be found if municipal services were shared by amalgamation.
The government gave some money to support discussions, to help identify the pros and cons, and perhaps proposed models of how communities could maintain their unique structures while enjoying cost efficiencies (which would be reflected in tax dollars).
Before any discussion could move forward, the process was halted due to the pandemic.
Recently, the issue was raised among the eastern mayors as to whether we should at least see if this was feasible as we owe it to you to streamline spending and look for efficiencies. And we agreed to begin discussions with a public meeting to gauge interest, and to understand what is important to you.
This process is not secretive, in fact, we need your opinion on what you want your community to do.
What are your goals for your community?
I think it is prudent to be part of the discussion and that’s why I will be at the meeting on April 9th.
Mayor Fitzpatrick