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The path to Tantramar
The creation of Tantramar as a unified municipality resulted from a broader effort by the Province of New Brunswick to modernize local governance structures. This ambitious reform began with the release of a white paper on local governance in November 2021, which set the stage for the amalgamation of several communities: Sackville, Dorchester, and multiple Local Service Districts (LSDs). The goal was to create a more efficient and cohesive local government while maintaining the community connections that define the region.
A transition in motion
On January 1, 2023, the new entity of Tantramar officially came into effect, marking a historic moment for the region. In the lead-up to this change, Tantramar’s first municipal election took place in late 2022, with Andrew Black elected as the first mayor. This election was crucial in establishing the governance structure for the newly amalgamated municipality. The transition involved significant planning, including determining council composition, defining ward boundaries, and deciding on the municipality’s legal name.
A collaborative effort
Throughout the process, the Elected Officials Advisory Committee played a pivotal role in guiding decisions related to the transition. This committee worked alongside provincial officials, local stakeholders, and community members to ensure that the views and needs of all areas were considered. The new name for the municipality, Tantramar, was chosen after thorough consultation, reflecting both the historical and geographic significance of the region.
The road ahead
As the transition unfolded, council and municipal staff focused on implementing the strategic changes necessary to support the new governance structure. This included planning for new services, updating by-laws, and ensuring that the unique needs of the various communities within Tantramar were met. While the process of amalgamation has required careful attention to detail, it’s a step towards building a unified, thriving Tantramar for generations to come.