NDP MLA Roly Russell says extensive funding will support great projects for people in Boundary-Similkameen

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OLIVER – New Democrat MLA Roly Russell says that a historic investment of over $18 million for Boundary-Similkameen will enable communities to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.

“Local governments know what their communities need, and the need for flexible funding that they can use to help support people through projects unique to each community is clear,” said Roly Russell, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen. “It’s exciting to be able to provide so much support to the local leaders to help deliver on these community priorities.  And recognizing that smaller communities struggle with capacity, it’s great news that there is extra support for these smaller communities!”

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 Boundary-Similkameen, local governments are receiving the following:

  • Oliver- $2,769,000
  • Osoyoos- $2,556,000
  • Grand Forks- $1,981,000
  • Princeton- $1,936,000
  • Keremeos- $1,446,000
  • Greenwood- $767,000
  • Midway- $763,000
  • Kootenay-Boundary Regional District- $1,774,000
  • Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen- $4,483,000

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