The historic log building in Advocate Harbour, Nova Scotia, is not just an ordinary structure; it's a unique and special part of our community. For many of us, it holds memories of gatherings, events, and significant milestones. Its rustic charm and rich history contribute significantly to the character of Advocate Harbour, offering a glimpse into a bygone era that must not be lost to future generations. We need to try to preserve this important piece of infrastructure!

However, the building's fate now hangs in the balance, with looming decisions that have led to its proposed demolition. Despite its importance, the ADDA (Advocate District Development Association) has not yet opened up the decision-making process to include the voices of all local residents, who are the rightful stewards of our shared heritage. Instead, there were behind the scenes conversations, and then a quick vote that only members who already decided what they wanted attended. There have also been a lot of mixed messages from the engineer's initial assessment to a more recent one when suddenly things had changed. When the Log Building  was assessed by a restoration specialist, they were in awe of this remarkable building and encouraged the group to repair it. This resulted in a huge fundraising effort and plans were underway to start repairs.  After all of this, there is clearly a lot of confusion as to what has happened and why the group is now so keen to tear it down. That's why:

We are asking for your support to help explore the possibility of saving the Log Building by urging the ADDA to:

• Bring in an additional engineer for a second opinion and a thorough assessment of the building.
• Provide a detailed outline of all available options based on the assessments, along with the financial implications of each.
• Hold an open community consultation to discuss these options and allow for a re-vote on how the community would like to proceed.

A decision of this magnitude, which could forever alter the landscape of our beloved community, requires transparency, inclusivity, and public participation. An open and democratic community vote is the most effective way to ensure that every opinion is heard and every stake considered.

Statistics from similar communities have shown that when residents are engaged in decisions affecting historical preservation, satisfaction and community cohesion grow significantly. Preservation not only maintains the aesthetic and historical value of a village but can also boost tourism and local pride.

Residents of Advocate Harbour and surrounding area, deserve a say in whether this cherished structure is preserved or repurposed. By listening to all community voices, the ADDA would be promoting a fair, representative, and collective decision-making process.

Let's urge the ADDA to prioritize transparency and community involvement in deciding the fate of this landmark building. Sign this petition to show that you would like to see the Log Building preserved as a piece of our shared history!