The Town of Ladysmith will be receiving $3,406,000 from the province’s growing communities fund.
The one-time grant is intended to allow the town greater flexibility in spending to address the “unique demands of our infrastructure and amenities,” according to a press release.
The $1-billion growing communities fund was announced last month, and the amounts for each community were then announced Friday, March 3.
“We are very thankful for this allocation of funding that will help us deliver on our key infrastructure priorities in the face of rapid inflation and increasing demands due to growth and climate change,” said Mayor Aaron Stone in the release. “We are prepared to meet the challenges ahead, and this funding will help us deliver on what’s most important for Ladysmith residents of today and for future generations.”
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Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan, said in a separate release that the investment will enable the community to fund key projects as the population continues to grow.
“People in our region count on the services that local governments provide,” he said. “That is why we are committed to working with communities and helping improve infrastructure and amenities for people.”
The growing communities fund’s $1 billion is being shared by all 188 B.C. municipalities and regional districts. Premier David Eby, in a B.C. government press release, said it’s the largest single investment in communities in the history of the province.
“Our communities are growing and this puts more pressure on community centres, parks and swimming pools that families rely on…” said Eby. “The fund will help local communities get building. Growing communities need our support and this funding will make a big difference for everyone.”
The town said the allocation of funds will align with Ladysmith council’s 2022-26 strategic plan priorities, which will be presented at a future council meeting.
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