As we celebrate Municipal Awareness Week here in Nova Scotia, it is good to reflect on certain aspects of the interactions between citizens and their municipal governments. Together with the other orders of government in Canada: provincial and federal, municipalities work in a caring and compassionate way to improve the lives of citizens. Residents of Annapolis County turn to us for services, information, and assurances. We do our best to provide each in a meaningful and productive manner. As members of County Council and staff are well aware, we are depended on by citizens to advise them on provincial and federal matters and we do so to the best of our ability. We accept those responsibilities willingly.

In August of 1759, the provincial authorities divided our land into five counties: Annapolis, King’s, Cumberland, Lunenburg, and Halifax. Since that time, part of Annapolis County was separated and became Digby County. The earliest history of our county was written in 1897 and many others have followed.

Our main areas of operation, just to name a few, are climate change, libraries, fire services, waste management, and recreation. We also concern ourselves, quite rightly, with housing medical, and immigration matters. It can thus be seen that municipalities are busy places. All of here in Annapolis County’s government produce to the best of abilities – but we need the aid and the suggestions of our citizens. We practice cooperative government in attaining our goals. Soon we will have a new strategic plan and will follow it in the most practical way.

As your Warden, I urge you to continue and to enhance your interest in municipal activities. Talk to your District Councillor, give your views, make suggestions and follow Council meetings on the web. Our web page contains much useful information that will guide you in your thoughts. Come to our Committee of the Whole, and Council meetings and other County gatherings. Make a promise to yourself to be more involved!

I wish you well and hope to have a chance soon to chat with you.

Warden Alex Morrison