Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons says an investment of more than $14 million in the riding will enable the communities to fund key projects, ensuring people have services they can rely on as populations grow.
"The Sunshine Coast is a beautiful place to call home, and with our unique beauty comes our own specific needs," stated Nicholas Simons, in a March 3 media release. "Fortunately, our local governments don't have to do it alone. This provincial investment will help ensure that our local services and infrastructure meet our communities' needs."
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 centres, parks and social services. The Growing Communities Fund is a landmark investment that will see the provincial government distribute $1 billion across 188 municipalities and regional districts to support their unique needs, the release stated.
In the Powell-River Sunshine Coast area, local governments are receiving the following:
- City of Powell River- $4,218,000
- qathet Regional District- $1,367,000
- Sechelt- $3,759,000
- Gibsons- $2,314,000
- Sunshine Coast Regional District- $2,221,000
- shíshálh Nation Government District- $783,000
This one-time fund supports the Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) 2022 Resolution EB58, Improving Provincial Grant Process, and recommendation five of its 2021 report, Ensuring Local Government Financial Resiliency.
The grants are intended to complement, rather than displace, existing infrastructure funding (such as sewer, water, roads), according to the release.
