BY SARA KEDDY

Kings County Register



There was nothing wrong with the old building, built to house Kings Mutual in 1931.

But, staff needed more space. They needed a room just for technology. Smaller offices were cramped. Wiring and plumbing worked, but was old.

Kings Mutual decided to invest in what it knows best - itself - and Dec. 5 opened a hal-million-dollar renovation to its Berwick head office.

“We didn’t consider another building,�? said manager Wally Jarvis. “We liked the old building - it’s solid, there’s fine construction and a bit of history here.�?

No question.

Formed in 1904 by six local farmers, the insurance co-operative has now carried policies for over 100,000 Nova Scotians. In 2005, the company reported net earnings of $625,835 and paid out $818,000 in policyholder rebates. Assets were worth $28 million.

Kings Mutual staff moved out of the Commercial Street building in April to temporary offices at the old Avon Foods plant, and moved back in in October.

“It was as smooth as it could be,�? said Jarvis. “I really recognize the Berwick office staff - I managed to be away for the move out and, believe it or not, for the move back in. Staff did a terrific job.�?

Jarvis recognized the workmanship of contractors with Morse Construction of New Minas and interior designer Debbie Maddock. The finished result is over 1,500 square feet of new space built as a second story at the rear of the building, more open areas, nicer staff work and break spaces for the 13 in-office workers and a classic feel, with wide wood moulding carried through the new space.

“We’re very pleased and very proud of our new expanded and renovated headquarters,�? Jarvis said. “It’s an investment, and we sure hope to be here for another few hundred years.�?

Berwick Mayor John Prall said Kings Mutual is a tremendous asset to the town - “one of the oldest in town, and what else can we ask them to do but choose to stay?�?

He also pointed to the company’s centennial gift of $1 million to the Apple Dome recreation centre, now known as the Kings Mutual Century Centre, and expected to begin construction in 2007.

“That’s just great.�?

Kings Mutual board chairman Barry Maxner recognized the attendance at the Dec. 5 event of a number of representatives from other mutuals, even from as far as New Brunswick and Alberta.

“One hundred years ago, I’m sure, when our organization started, they wouldn’t have dreamed of a facility this nice, and now we’re in a position to move the company forward.�?