NORTH COAST – New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says that an historic investment of over $6.7 million to the North Coast will enable the community to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.

“North Coast covers a vast area of the province with many unique communities,” said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast. “Each of these communities has their own needs and priorities, and this funding will make a big impact to better serve people in these areas.”

As communities continue to grow, local governments are having to meet increased strain on infrastructure and amenities including roads, transit, water and electrical systems, as well as community centers, parks and social services. The Growing Communities Fund is a landmark investment that will see the BCNDP government distribute $1 billion across B.C.’s 188 municipalities and regional districts to support their unique needs. 

Local governments are receiving the following:

• The City of Prince Rupert is receiving 4,068,000
• The North Coast Regional District is receiving 1,162,000
• The Central Coast Regional District is receiving 830,000
• The District of Port Edward is receiving 669,000

This one-time fund supports the Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) 2022 Resolution EB58, Improving Provincial Grant Process, and recommendation five of their 2021 report, Ensuring Local Government Financial Resiliency. The grants are intended to complement, rather than displace, existing infrastructure funding (like sewer, water, roads).

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/28220