WHEREAS reporting requirements for provincial and federal funding programs are excessive; AND WHEREAS small communities do not have the financial means or staffing capacity to adequately meet reporting requirements: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial and federal governments streamline their reporting requirements and provide assistance in completing reports for smaller communities.
Ministry of Community, Sport Cultural Development It is recognized by the Ministry that smaller communities often suffer from a shortage of resources and capacity in dealing with infrastructure grant reporting requirements. However, both the federal and provincial governments are mandated to deliver these programs in a manner that meets identified goals and objectives as well as fulfilling audit requirements. There are mandatory information and data requirements that ensure that the overall integrity of the programs is maintained. It is understood that a balance must be achieved. The Small Community Grant, Regional District Grant and the Towns for Tomorrow grant programs and their reporting requirements were specifically developed to address the needs of smaller local governments. The Ministry will consider the financial and staffing capacity of small local governments when discussing a future federalprovincial long-term infrastructure plan with the federal government and the ongoing structure and delivery options of the permanent Gas Tax fund. Ministry staff maintains expert knowledge of infrastructure programs that the Ministry manages and can provide support, guidance and advice on completing reporting requirements. Communities experiencing challenges with requirements are welcome to contact program area staff.