CASTLEGAR – New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says that a historic investment of over $20 million for Kootenay West will enable the community to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.
“The needs of people in Kootenay West are diverse, and we must ensure our region can keep up with current and future challenges,” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “This funding will give a boost to local governments so they can invest in our communities and ensure people can thrive.”
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.
In Kootenay West, the following communities are receiving funding:
- Central Kootenay Regional District- $4,025,000
- Castlegar- $3,094,000
- Trail- $2,979,000
- Rossland- $2,154,000
- Kootenay Boundary Regional district- $1,774,000
- Fruitvale- $1,278,000
- Warfield- $1,193,000
- Nakusp- $1,161,000
- Montrose- $903,000
- New Denver- $704,000
- Slocan- $624,000
- Silverton- $585,000
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/28303