A number of midwestern Ontario municipalities will receive a share of $2.1 million the province has earmarked over three years for asset management planning.
The money will help 250 small municipalities prepare their plans, by the 2024 deadline.
Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson announced the funding will help Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh, Howick Township, and South Huron map out their future.
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker says Northern Bruce Peninsula and Southgate will also be able to take advantage of the funding. The local municipalities will benefit from expert, in-person assistance in developing its asset management plan.
The program is being delivered by the Municipal Finance Officers’ Association of Ontario in partnership with the Province.
In parts of Ontario, infrastructure is deteriorating a rate faster than it can be repaired or replaced.
Municipalities are now required to develop asset management plans, which will help guide decisions on infrastructure spending.
“This assistance will help and other rural and northern communities map out the future,” said Walker. “We know that infrastructure spending benefits families and businesses. We have to ensure funds are spent in the right place, at the right time and on the right project.”
“Our Government for the People has heard from small municipalities,” said Thompson. “Help is needed to improve asset management planning. We’re responding by sending specialized assistance.”