Nanaimo – New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Doug Routley say that a historic investment of over $24 million for Nanaimo and the Nanaimo Regional District will enable the community to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.
“Investing in people, services and infrastructure is good for everyone,” says Shelia Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “That is why our government is funding Nanaimo as it grows and supporting our city’s local priorities.”
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.
The following local governments are receiving funding:
- Nanaimo, $16,088,000
- Regional District of Nanaimo, $7,929,000
“People in our region count on the services that local governments provide,” says Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “That is why we are committed to working with communities and helping improve infrastructure and amenities for people.”
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