The Town of Truro (the Town) wishes to acknowledge the decision made by the Municipality of the County of Colchester (the County) to terminate the Operating Agreement with the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society (CNSCCS) for the operation and management of the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC), effective Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
The CNSCCS operates and manages the RECC through the Operating Agreement between the CNSCCS and the Town and County. Under the terms of the Operating Agreement, either the Town or the County—as co-owners of the facility—may terminate the Operating Agreement on 90 days’ notice. The County has exercised this right, and the Town fully recognizes its authority to do so. After this 90-day transition period, the CNSCCS will no longer operate and manage the RECC.
While both municipalities share significant concerns regarding the operations of the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC) and the contracts the CNSCCS has entered into for the management of the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition (NSPE) site, Truro Town Council was not prepared to vote in favour of terminating the Operating Agreement. However, the Town respects that the County was within its authority in making its decision.
In May 2025, the Town and the County jointly appointed a new interim Board of Directors to the CNSCCS. This decision reflected a shared commitment to strengthening governance and addressing concerns surrounding expanded operations and initiatives undertaken outside the scope of the RECC. The new interim Board was tasked with a renewed focus on governance, including a comprehensive review of the CNSCCS’s contractual obligations and an in-depth financial analysis to assess the long-term sustainability of its activities.
“While we respect the County’s authority and the process undertaken under Section 7.04 of the Operating Agreement, Town Council came to a different conclusion in making its decision,” said Mayor Cathy Hinton. “While we share the County’s concerns and objectives, we differ in our assessment of the path forward. Our intent was to continue supporting the interim Board in strengthening governance before deciding on this step.”
In making its decision, Truro Town Council continued to believe in the importance of allowing the interim Board the opportunity to complete its mandate. Town Council’s position reflects a belief that supporting the Board’s efforts to improve oversight, transparency, and financial accountability was the most constructive path forward.
Both municipalities will move forward following this decision. The Town remains committed to working collaboratively with the County to ensure a smooth transition to a new management structure and the continued operation of the RECC. This decision should not impact the day-to-day operations at the RECC, its staff, and the programs it offers. The Town values the dedication and professionalism of the existing RECC staff and recognizes their vital role in maintaining high-quality recreation and community programming moving forward.
The Town also believes the interim Board’s work remains valuable in providing governance and oversight as the municipalities navigate a new path forward. Maintaining continuity in this leadership is key to preserving institutional knowledge and supporting stability during this transition period.
Truro Town Council further acknowledges the importance of the Nova Scotia Stampede and other signature events held at the NSPE grounds. These events contribute significantly to the local economy, tourism, and community spirit. The Town will continue to work with the Province of Nova Scotia, the County, and community partners to ensure these cornerstone events remain supported and successful in the years ahead.
This statement is in response to, "More Governance Transition for the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society": https://www.colchester.ca/news/media-releases/
