The Region of Queens is undertaking a $2 million upgrade for the A/C system at the Liverpool Business Development Centre, however, to fund the project the Region is borrowing $1 million which will result in a tax increase.
Mayor Darlene Norman says they intend to borrow the $1 million on a ten-year term. She says Council knew when approving the funding model they chose it would have an impact on tax rates, “It approximately works out to one and quarter cents on a tax rate,” Norman said.
Despite the resulting tax increase, Norman believes this is a solid investment for the Region, “The building has three tenants now and we know Nova Scotia intends to keep growing so knowing that this upgrade will last around 50 years, and the building has already paid for itself we view this as a solid investment.”.
The building is also outfitted with a full-size generator, which Norman says increases its value to the community, “The building is large and in emergency situations, it can be used as an emergency shelter, obviously, we hope that’s never needed but it gives us a sense of peace of mind.”.
Council was presented with options to sell or demolish the building but ultimately the decision to renovate it was approved.
The timetable for when the work will be completed is still unknown due to concerns over potential supply chain issues.
