Heads up Prince George: there could be more local infrastructure work coming, thanks to provincial funding.
The provincial government announced on Nov. 15 that 53 communities will benefit from almost $16 million paid by B.C. to local governments in lieu of property taxes.
"Local governments throughout B.C. play a critical role in ensuring communities throughout the province are healthy, safe and prosperous," says Jinny Sims, Minister of Citizens' Services, in a press release. "Grants-in-lieu help municipalities and regional districts provide important local services that British Columbians depend on."
The City of Prince George has received one of the largest grant amounts this year: $1,836,673.
The program is not new. The province has given grants in lieu of property taxes each November. The funds provided reimburse municipalities as well as regional districts for services they provide including sewers, roads, parks and fire protection. The amount of a grant is determined by the Municipal Aid Act.
Local governments can use the funding for the services described above.
School and hospitals are exempt from paying property taxes by law and are not part of the program.
