Requests for funding from the town’s Community Investment Operational Grant program will have to wait until a revised policy, framework and application process are finalized.
Most recently, the Route 22 Artist Collective Gallery joined the growing list of nonprofit organizations seeking funding through the program. The nonprofit is requesting $75,000 over three years—the same amount requested by Helping Hands. Sport 4 Life is seeking $100,000.
Parks and Active Living Director Michelle Delorme says the revisions aren't expected to be reviewed by council until late May, and grant distribution likely won't occur until the fall.
Councillor Susan Flowers expressed concern that the delay could be too late for organizations urgently needing the funds. She suggested providing a small upfront allocation to hold them over.
However, the rest of the town councillors present disagreed, believing it made more sense to finalize the framework before awarding any funds. Mayor Jeff Genung and Councillor Tara McFadden were absent from the meeting.
There are additional considerations as well. While these three organizations have made presentations to council, town administration notes there are others interested in applying for operational support who may be uncomfortable with the delegation process and could struggle to advocate for themselves in a public forum.
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When the stand-alone Cochrane & Area Victim Services was replaced with a regional model, it left the town with an $80,000 windfall that hasn't been allocated through its community grant program.