The potential merger of the town and county in Antigonish is taking stage at the legislature.

Dozens of residents travelled to Halifax and lined up to speak for and against consolidating the municipal units.

Lifelong resident Terry Penny says she wants to make sure her voice is heard.

“This should not and cannot be a decision of council alone,” she told MLA’s. “I am asking the province to defer the bill until the court makes a decision.”

The group “Let Antigonish Decide” has been fighting the merger and wants to have a plebiscite on the matter during upcoming municipal elections.

They’ve also launched a court challenge and deem the decision unconstitutional.

The town and county recently voted to move ahead with the consolidation for a second time, and the matter dates back to 2022.

Town of Antigonish Mayor Laurie Boucher believes change is inevitable and strongly feels the move is in the best interests of everyone involved.

“I understand the change is difficult…but I wholeheartedly believe that this is the right move for our community.”

The Nova Scotia government has introduced legislation to formally allow the town and county to join forces.

If it passes, the move would take place in the fall.