Infrastructure Deficit

WHEREAS the economic downturn has had a profound effect on rural communities in BC but has not diminished the need to maintain and expand infrastructure for the future; AND WHEREAS the Community Works Fund puts needed dollars in the hands of local governments while ensuring accountability by requiring reports on how local governments expended the funds: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCM lobby provincial and federal governments to develop funding envelopes similar to the Community Works Fund that put needed money in the hands of local government to utilize within defined parameters: - Without the need for lengthy, cumbersome application processes; and - Without forcing local governments to compete with each other for the funds necessary to maintain and enhance infrastructure vital to their short-term sustainability and long-term success.