$1.462 million is being put toward providing financial relief to areas around North Grenville and the United Counties of Leeds-Grenville.
The Ontario government is allocating $695 million for financial relief to municipalities and to help ensure they don’t carry operating deficits heading into 2021.
This is part of the first phase of the federal-provincial Safe Restart Agreement and will help municipalities deliver critical services during COVID-19.
Here is a breakdown of the local funding:
- County of Leeds-Grenville – $43,000
- Merrickville – $20,000
- North Grenville – $987,000
- North Dundas – $59,000
- Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry County – $353,000
The funding will also be used to protect homeless shelter staff and residents, renovate and purchase shelter facilities, create longer-term housing solutions and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks and/or emergencies.
MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, Steve Clark says the Ontario government is responding to the ongoing needs created by COVID-19.
“By ensuring our municipal partners are in a sound financial position to begin the new year, they can focus on keeping their capital projects on track while continuing to provide the critical services their residents rely on,” Clark said.
Of the $695 million, $299 million is being allocated across all Ontario municipalities to help provide more financial relief, as 2021 operating budgets are finalized.
An additional $396 million is also being allocated to 48 municipalities that have been hardest hit by COVID-19 and have demonstrated a need for additional assistance in covering their 2020 operating deficits.
This is in addition to funding being provided to municipalities to help with local transit pressures.
Today’s announcement will help municipalities develop 2021 budgets that reflect the reality of COVID-19 in their communities
It will also give them confidence they need to proceed with capital projects that will help drive economic growth.