Tough talk about town's finances.

In 2013, Hantsport faced a financial challenge with a projected deficit. At that time Service Nova Scotia municipal advisor Mark Peck advised Hantsport town council and the council made its own decisions. The year concluded with a balanced budget.

On November 19, 2013, Mark again spoke to council at its Committee of the Whole meeting. In 2014, the town faces a loss of $215,000 -approximately 10% of its budget - and another deficit.

"What legacy do you want to leave at the end of your term?" Peck asked council. "You are elected to be leaders. Listen and communicate with your community.  Don't leave the tough decisions to the next council." Trenton made tough decisions, eliminated its police force, and saved $400,000.

Sustainability is the key word, according to Mayor Zwicker. A rise of 1 cent in the tax rate = $5700 for town revenue.

Councillor Paul Morton asked if the town must stay in Hants County. It is up to the Nova Scotia Municipal Review Board, Peck stated, but the board has never changed county boundaries.

To apply for village status, a municipality applies for dissolution under section 398 of the municipal act.
Currently the province has 21 incorporated villages. New Minas and Bible Hill are the largest. The residents continue to provide services and a budget. Budgets ranged from $15,000 to $2.1 million. The roads - the major concern of every town-  revert to the province. The citizens have no control over planning. Canso did it on its own terms and it took 20 years.

"Whatever you do, do it with unanimity. Majority rules,"  Peck concluded.