Whereas many improvement districts are wrestling with increased costs for replacing and improving water infrastructure, and in finding adequate sources of funding; And whereas the residents of improvement districts contribute tax monies to the provincial and federal governments: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM work with the Province and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to change the Improvement District Governance Policy to allow citizens residing in improvement districts equal access to provincial and federal infrastructure grant monies.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing As improvement districts are encouraged to voluntarily transfer their services to regional districts or municipalities, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is focused on supporting the role of regional districts as the primary local government for rural areas. Improvement districts are currently eligible for the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program IPGP if sponsored by the regional district or municipality when undertaking planning activities that result in outcomes that inform a potential conversion to a local government service. The IPGP does not contain a requirement to convert. Improvement districts are currently eligible for capital funding where the improvement district is undergoing conversion to a regional district service area or municipal service. The infrastructure funding is used to defray the capital cost required to bring the service up to current standards. This policy is based on voluntary conversions. Thus, improvement districts that have the resources to operate and meet regulations can continue to function as is.