Whereas the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to rising global inflation, labour shortages and supply-chain issues, which in turn have led to higher costs for consumers; And whereas provincial grants provided to local governments for projects will likely not cover the increased costs associated with supplies and construction, therefore leaving jurisdictions unable to complete projects aimed to benefit their communities and citizens: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Government of BC top up those grants given to local governments since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that projects can be completed.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs The province appreciates the importance of infrastructure projects that benefit communities, and that recent construction and material cost changes have been challenging. Programs administered by the province, or as bilateral programs with federal partners, provide fixed funding amounts at the time of decision, are fully allocated and do not have funds for cost increases. This is outlined at the point of application and in the project contribution agreements, with cost increases on a project remaining the responsibility of the proponent. The Growing Communities Fund GCF distributed conditional grants to local governments at the end of March 2023 to help build community infrastructure and amenities to meet the demands of unprecedented population growth. The Fund provided a one-time allocation of 1 billion to all 188 municipalities and regional districts for core public infrastructure. Funding from the Growing Communities Fund can be utilized for cost overruns on approved projects.