CAMPBELL RIVER– New Democrat MLA Michele Babchuk says that a historic investment of almost $20 million for the North Island will enable the community to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.
“All communities in the North Island have unqiue needs,” said Michele Babchuk, MLA for North Island. “The money provided through the Growing Community fund will allow these communities to invest in their priorities, to make sure that their infrastructure, recreation, and services can meet the needs of people and their families”
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 the North Island, the following municipalities are receiving the following:
- Campbell River- $8,587,000
- Strathcona Regional District- $2,638,000
- Port Hardy- $1,971,000
- Port McNeil- $1,370,000
- Mount Waddington Regional District- $1,029,000
- Gold River- $969,000
- Port Alice- $783,000
- Alert Bay- $658,000
- Tahsis- $650,000
- Sayward- $622,000
- Zeballos- $553,000
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