Resources available for struggling community halls

To the Editor:

Community halls across Hants West face a number of challenges, including adhering to national building code and fire safety regulations. The Progressive Conservative government recognizes that these community gathering spots are an essential component of rural life in Nova Scotia.

As Hants West MLA, I am proud of the many volunteers who commit time and energy to maintain and operate our community halls. Since being elected to the Legislature in June 2006, I have spoken and mailed information to all community halls on the various sources of provincial government funding. A number of organizations have taken advantage of this funding in recent years, such as:

• Poplar Grove Community Hall - $ 1,130

• Falmouth Community Hall - $ 5,000

• Summerville Fire Department Hall - $ 15,000

• Hants County War Memorial Community Centre - $ 8,000

• Ardoise Community Hall - $ 5,596

• Ellershouse Community Hall - $ 8,571

• St. Croix Community Club - $ 10,000

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This provincial government funding has been used for upgrades and renovations to support building code requirements, accessibility issues, washroom facilities, electrical work, expansions and many other needed initiatives.

I encourage all community organizations to contact me if they are interested in accessing government funding. Some government programs include:

• Recreation Facility Development Program

• Community Recreation Capital Grant Assistance

• Community Accessibility Program

The Municipality of West Hants also has a capital, equipment and recreation grant funding program to help community halls.

At a recent Municipal Council meeting, the possibility of increasing funding thresholds for community facilities was discussed. Given that the application deadline for these programs was Feb. 8, 2008, I would urge the Municipality to extend their deadline to allow our community halls to submit their application for increased funding in 2008.

Finally, the enforcement of the National Building Code is the responsibility of the Municipality and I would encourage them to work cooperatively with all community organizations to ensure that our halls continue the tradition of being central gathering points throughout Hants West.

Yours truly

Chuck Porter

MLA – Hants West