Clinton and Ashcroft are among six communities in the Fraser-Nicola riding receiving funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.
The announcement was made by Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart, who said that more than $1.5 million in unconditional funding will be shared by Clinton ($196,932), Ashcroft ($268,439), Merritt ($393,955), Lillooet ($273,135), Princeton ($289,527), and Squamish-Lillooet ($132,358). It is part of almost $74 million going to communities across the province to meet local needs, including new equipment, infrastructure, more policing, and increased community safety initiatives.
“The government recognizes how important it is to support small, rural communities,” said Tegart. “This is a significant source of revenue for local governments.” Recipients of SCIF monies can direct the funds toward whatever projects they consider top priorities in their community.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund includes the Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing Program (which is intended to assist with investments in community safety), the Small Community Grant, and Regional District Grant Programs. Small Community Grants apply to communities with a population of less than 20,000, and are used for infrastructure, to ensure stable administration, and for service delivery priorities.
The program supports local government efforts to stimulate local economies, and provides increased financial security for small communities. Payment to each of the recipients will be made in five instalments.
Barbara Roden