What’s happening
Colchester and Truro taxpayers are now exposed to $1.6M+ in CRA liability following a series of decisions involving the RECC and NSPE. This is in addition to a series of decisions that have negatively affected jobs, cost unknown legal and administrative fees, created potential new liabilities, impacted local community groups, and potentially negatively impacted economic development in the region.

At the same time, it is understood that some elected officials and senior administrators may have
been under active investigation when key decisions were made, and these individuals therefore may have had influence over these decisions.

That raises serious questions about the decision making and oversight processes.

Why this matters
1. The independent Community members of the RECC/Society Board were removed and replaced with a new structure comprised solely of elected officials resulting in less oversight and expert opinions
2. Major decisions were made despite public and expert opposition
3. Economic activity and jobs have already been impacted
4. Full details have not been publicly disclosed
5. Public requests for information have not been answered

Key concerns
1. Conflict of Interest
Under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act:
Officials must not participate in decisions where they have a conflict.
Question: Were decisions made by individuals who should have stepped aside?

2. Duty to Inform Council
Under the Municipal Government Act:
CAOs must advise Council on matters affecting the municipality.
Question: Was Council fully informed before voting?

3. Fair Process
Public decisions must be made with full and fair disclosure.
Question: Were key facts withheld before major votes?

We are calling for:
a) Independent third-party investigations by both the Auditor General of Nova Scotia and the Department of Municipal Affairs

b) Full public disclosure of timelines and findings

c) A legal review of key decisions

d) Accountability where required

Why sign?
This is about one thing: Transparency and Accountability when public money and trust are at stake.

If you are a taxpayer within Colchester County/Town of Truro and if you believe decisions like this should be:

- Transparent
- Accountable
- Fully informed

Then sign this petition.

This petition will be sent to:
Nova Scotia Auditor General
Department of Municipal Affairs
Copied. Nova Scotia Ombudsman
Copied: Information and Privacy Commissioner
Copied: Local Mayors, Councils, CAO’s and MLAs
Copied: Local and national media