Municipal Affairs
May 3, 2013

Provincial Government Enhances Community Relocation Policy

The Provincial Government recognizes that housing prices have risen dramatically in recent years, and populations in some remote areas of the province have declined rapidly. As announced in Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future enhancements have been made to the Community Relocation Policy which reflect the changing demographics in Newfoundland and Labrador. Further information is being made available through a web page which includes frequently asked questions as well as dedicated contact information for those interested in the policy.
 
“We conducted a review of the policy to ensure consistency with current housing prices and that it can offer a real option for communities which are considering relocation,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “As a result of this review we have increased the maximum payout per household from the previous $100,000 to the new rate of $270,000. At this level, we feel that individuals considering relocation are being offered funding which better reflects today’s housing prices and will be able to choose to move should their community vote to do so.”
 
The Provincial Government does not initiate discussions with communities regarding relocation, but responds to community-initiated requests if received. This request could come in the form of an inquiry or more formal petition from a spokesperson for the community. Officials with the Department of Municipal Affairs are also available to conduct presentations and provide information to communities so they fully understand their options under the policy.
 
“We encourage any community to ensure that they take time for their residents to fully discuss the options available to them before making a decision to request relocation,” said Minister O’Brien. “We are pleased to now offer a web page which outlines some of the frequently asked questions we have received, and includes new contact information for use by residents who need further information.”
 
The new page can be accessed at www.gov.nl.ca/ma/faq/faq_relocation.html.
 
For more information please contact 709-729-5288 or email relocation@gov.nl.ca.
 

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Media contact:
Hugh Donnan
Director of Communications
Department of Municipal Affairs
709-729-1983, 725-6511
hughdonnan@gov.nl.ca
 
2013 05 03                                        11:05 a.m.