Budget highlights include Mariners Centre expansion, more major infrastructure work, further investment in Fire Services
Friday, March 17, 2023 - Yarmouth, N.S. – At last Thursday’s regular council meeting, the capital budget for 2023-24 was on the agenda. Two key items in this year’s budget include a significant investment in the planned expansion at Mariners Centre and a major infrastructure project planned for this summer at the intersection of Main Street and Vancouver Street. Other highlights include sidewalk construction on Herrington Avenue and further investments in crucial equipment and training facilities at the Yarmouth Fire Department. A motion to approve the $4.6 million dollar budget was passed unanimously by council.
“The infrastructure work completed this past budget year surpasses what’s been previously done and we are rightly proud of the accomplishments of the past year.” Said Mayor Pam Mood. “The ability to get so much done is based on financial management and budgets, so the biggest thanks goes out to our staff who put the budget together and kept us on track. Thanks also go to every director for stretching dollars, seeking grants, and getting the actual work done. We are beyond fortunate to have each of you.
This year’s capital budget is focused on moving forward with projects already on the works to provide a better community for all!”
2023-24 Capital Budget Highlights
Mariners Centre Expansion
On October 21st of 2022, more than $29 million in joint funding was announced for an expansion at Mariners Centre. The expansion centres around a new, contemporary aquatics centre, a new fitness centre, a new multi-purpose space, and more. The federal government is investing more than $15.9 million in this project, the province is contributing $4 million, and the Town of Yarmouth, the Municipality of the District of Yarmouth, and the Municipality of the District of Argyle are providing a total of $10 million. Last year’s budget allowed for $250,000 toward Mariners on Main and the expansion project. This year will see a continuation of the town’s contribution of just over 3 million, to be budgeted in full over the next few years. Investment for 2023-24: $650,000
You can learn more about the planned expansion at Mariners Centre by visiting Mariners Centre Expansion.
Main Street and Vancouver Street Intersection: Water & Wastewater Upgrades
In recent years, the town has made it a priority to replace aging water and wastewater infrastructure. In 2020, a major project saw the replacement of water and sewer lines on a section of Main Street, and the entirety of Glebe Street. In 2021, Parade Street was excavated between First Street and Pleasant Street to replace water lines and install separate waste and storm sewer lines. The next major project of this nature will happen this summer, as water and sewer lines will be replaced at the intersection of Main Street and Vancouver Street. Work will also include a road rebuild, an upgrade to audible pedestrian controllers, and a traffic lights upgrade. Investment for 2023-24: $2,399,000
You can learn more about this project by visiting Major Infrastructure Upgrades: Main & Vancouver Street.
Investments in Fire Service
To once again further improve the department’s high level of service and grow its volunteer base, funds will be allocated for the purchase of new equipment. A new SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) will be purchased for staff and volunteers. More money will also be provided to continue improvements to training structures located at the fire hall on Pleasant Street. These investments help the department to obtain its goal of becoming a regional training centre. The department will also replace a generator and make repairs to the rear parking lot. Total new investments for 2023-24: $360,000
Active Trails and Sidewalks
Last year saw a total of $1.4 million invested, with $400,000 coming from the town and the remainder from grants awarded the previous summer. This investment allowed for the completion of a very important piece of trail/sidewalk between Forest Street and Argyle Street on Haley Road. An extension will soon be added on Parade Street, from Haley Road to Jody Shelley Drive as part of last year’s budget. This year’s capital budget will set aside funds for work on a sidewalk for Herrington Avenue, which will begin in the near future. Total investments for 2023-24: $300,000
Street Paving
This year’s investment in paving comes in at $350,000. Projects to be completed will be announced later in the summer.
Projects Continued from 2022/23
It should be noted that a number of projects from last year’s budget are yet to be completed, and will receive attention in 2023/24. These include significant upgrades to wastewater facilities, new equipment for Public Works, and renovations at Town Hall. These projects are listed in the budget summary under “Prior Budget”.
To view more details on the capital budget, please see the “Reports” section (item #9) of the minutes from last Thursday’s council meeting.