Baddeck, Victoria County disagree over responsibility for sidewalk snow clearing
Debate Over Sidewalk Plowing in Baddeck Continues
As winter approaches, the residents of Baddeck, N.S. are facing uncertainty over who will foot the bill for sidewalk plowing in the village. While sidewalks have historically been cleared by the Village of Baddeck, a recent decision to stop providing the service has left taxpayers questioning the responsibility.
For years, the Village of Baddeck has covered the cost of sidewalk clearing, with a $8,000 contribution from the Municipality of Victoria County. However, with the total cost now amounting to $24,000, village commissioners have expressed concerns over the financial burden.
Village Commission chair Jennifer MacDonald stated that they believe sidewalks should be the responsibility of the county, not the village. She emphasized that the village should only be responsible for assets directly related to the village, such as the waterfront wharf and boardwalk or sewer and water treatment plants.
Equitable Distribution of Tax Dollars
MacDonald pointed out that the county fully covers sidewalk clearing costs in other communities, such as Ingonish, and it is unfair to expect Baddeck residents to bear the financial burden for sidewalks in multiple areas. She highlighted that residents of the Village of Baddeck already contribute significantly to municipal tax revenue and should not have to subsidize services that should be covered by municipal tax dollars.
Despite efforts to reach a compromise, a recent meeting between the two parties did not result in a resolution. MacDonald expressed disappointment but assured residents that the village would find a solution to ensure public safety.
Seeking Fair Cost-Sharing Agreement
Victoria County Warden Jackie Organ declined to provide further details in an interview request, indicating that county councillors require more information before reaching a decision. However, Organ mentioned that the county is open to negotiation and aims to establish a fair cost-sharing agreement in the coming year.
