Town of Port Hawkesbury - Richmond County and the Town of Port Hawkesbury have reached a 10-year deal for Fire Protection in Point Tupper.

Richmond County and the Town of Port Hawkesbury have reached a 10-year deal for Fire Protection in Point Tupper.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 19, 2021

Richmond County and the Town of Port Hawkesbury have reached a 10-year deal for Fire Protection in Point Tupper. This is an historic moment for the region that recognizes the mutually beneficial relationship between the two municipalities, and the people and industries located in Point Tupper.

Both councils investigated a wide variety of options, consulted with industry partners, and consulted with other municipalities across the province to learn from potential best practices. This was invaluable research to the process, but the reality is that the situation in Point Tupper is unique given the existing highway connections, the geographical locations of departments in both Port Hawkesbury and Richmond, and the mix of industrial, commercial, and residential customers. 

The deal includes a $60,000 per year fee that includes an incremental yearly escalation over the 10 years of the agreement. “I believe both Richmond County Council and Port Hawkesbury Town Council worked diligently to determine a fair and easily auditable service agreement for the benefit of all stakeholders and citizens in both of our municipalities,” said Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton. “Successful negotiations were both the result of open and positive communications with our Councils and Senior staff; and additionally, this positive outcome could not have been possible without the support of the Port Hawkesbury Volunteer Fire Department to provide this essential fire protection service to Point Tupper Industries, businesses and citizens,” she explained. 

Warden Amanda Mombourquette noted, “The goal for both parties was to find a fair solution that prioritizes the safety of businesses and residents in Point Tupper, that promotes business growth and development, and that will be financially sustainable now and in the future. The Louisdale Volunteer Fire Department stepped up to provide fire protection to Point Tupper in the past, and we’re deeply grateful for their service. Going forward, we’re very pleased to have been able to find a solution that works for all parties beginning on April 1st and continuing for the next decade.”

Point Tupper industries have a positive impact on the entire quad-county region, and the province as a whole; all parties felt a responsibility to protect and promote those assets. The Point Tupper Heavy Industrial Park is a high value location for new business development and for the expansion and diversification of existing businesses.

Both councils also recognize that the relationship between the Town and Richmond is an important one. This new deal reaffirms their commitment to continue to collaborate on additional initiatives such as Cape Breton South Recruiting for Health to attract healthcare professionals to the region, Strait of Canso development, the Strait-Richmond Housing Coalition, and a variety of other activities that are focused on improving our economy and quality of life. 

Media Contacts:
Warden Amanda Mombourquette
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 902-631-0690 

Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 902-302-9371

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