THUNDER BAY – The Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge and the Township of Conmee are considering getting hitched.
In a release issued on Thursday by the two communities say they’ve been working closely together on many issues for years and, as a cost-saving measure, believe a merger might be the best answer.
"Oliver Paipoonge administrative staff have recently been assisting Conmee with administrative functions, and it has become increasingly clear that there are many similarities in terms of our operations,” Conmee Mayor, Kevin Holland, said.
“Both councils have therefore agreed to work together to explore the potential benefits of having our two communities unite as one.”
The idea also got a thumbs up from Oliver Paipoonge Mayor Lucy Kloosterhuis.
“A merger would be a huge step for both municipalities,” she said.
“There are benefits and drawbacks to review and consider for both Oliver Paipoonge and Conmee residents. Service delivery, administrative functions, financial matters, economic benefits and greater political influence are just some of the items we will be scrutinizing.”
The two communities said they’ll keep residents informed through their municipal websites and community newsletters.
Residents will also have the chance to provide feedback through a consultative process that will involve public meetings.
Feed back is welcomed, but councils in the two communities are asking constituents to take a look at the information with an objective eye with the best possible future outcome for residents and taxpayers in mind.
