The Municipality of Colchester has announced plans to provide more details regarding the recent management changes at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre in Truro, N.S., in response to increasing inquiries. The recreational facility, which is co-owned by the county and the Town of Truro, saw the termination of an operating agreement with the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Society by the Colchester council in October.
Mayor Christine Blair stated that a comprehensive overview of the events at the civic centre and the future course of action could be disclosed as early as next week to address the prevalent misinformation and unfounded allegations circulating. Sources revealed that society CEO Matt Moore lodged a harassment complaint against Blair, leading to the dismissal of the society’s board in May amid an ongoing investigation, followed by the launch of a new inquiry by an interim board.
Minister John A. MacDonald confirmed that concerns have been raised by members of the community to the Department of Municipal Affairs, prompting a review of the complaints. Stu Rath, the namesake of the facility, along with his son Duane Rath, communicated with the department and local MLAs about the situation, expressing their discontent and anticipation for the outcome of their correspondence with the province. The Raths had contributed $1 million towards the establishment, which features amenities such as an NHL-sized rink, a swimming pool, a rock-climbing wall, and a fitness center.
During the annual general meeting in October, it was highlighted that the 12-year-old facility requires a new heating and cooling system, as well as roof repairs to combat persistent leaks. Additionally, the board was compiling a list of necessary repairs, including upgrades to change room showers, exercise equipment, and the pool score clock. Mayor Blair emphasized that the operational functions of the RECC will continue unaffected during the governance transition, with efforts underway to evaluate the facility’s condition and engage an engineer to assess the situation.
Both Colchester and Truro councils are yet to vote on a new governance model for the community center, with the current operating agreement set to expire in late January. The focus remains on maintaining the facility as a valuable community asset and collaboratively working towards its enhancement.