TRURO - Substantial finances from the town's coffers are being sought from three local groups.
Truro town council heard three funding and loan requests on Monday afternoon. The largest need came from the Truro Tennis Club, which is seeking a $50,000 loan that would be repaid over three years. The club has also approached Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) for $70,000.
"If they don't get that ACOA funding," Truro CEO Jim Langille confirmed with the Truro Daily News that loan or grant request would also come before the town.
The money is needed for upgrades to the club's courts, interior work to the clubhouse and signage.
The Colchester Historical Society has also approached the town for funding. The museum's curator, Aidan Norton, sent a letter to town council asking for assistance of $3,000 for the upcoming two-day spring heritage home tours in Truro.
Norton said the event showcases the pride of historical homes and businesses in this area and that "25 per cent of attendees are from outside of Colchester County," said the curator in the letter to council.
The third request was from Paul Barrett, who was asking for financial help with this summer's 50-year reunion of the Truro and Area Band Program. No specific amount was indicated.
The reunion runs from Aug. 16 to 23 of next year and the group has applied to the federal government for $100,000. Local support for the event that has a budget of $150,000 is required to gain potential federal funding.
In the letter, Barrett indicated there will be live performances, outdoor concerts and a parade on Prince Street during the week-long festivities.
Truro Mayor Bill Mills said there is a financial benefit that the event is not until next year.
"I'm in favour. We could pay it over two years," Mills suggested.
All the requests will be discussed during budget deliberations, which are beginning today.
mchiasson@trurodaily.com
