Ontario is investing up to $8.1 million to support projects that will help 115 small and rural municipalities find savings and improve services.
Projects range from broad reviews that will look at a number of municipal services, to more targeted opportunities for savings such as energy audits and fleet services reviews.
The Municipal Modernization Program funding will be used to conduct service delivery reviews.
For example, the Municipality of Brockton will examine its municipal facilities, including energy and water use and space requirements, to identify ways to better meet community needs while saving money.
Some municipalities plan to conduct line-by-line reviews of their entire operating budgets, while others will look for ways to lower costs and improve services in specific areas, such as road maintenance or information technology services.
"By making these investments we are helping small and rural municipalities find better ways to deliver important municipal services like roads, waste management and fire services," said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. "There is only one taxpayer. That's why we are helping to ensure every dollar is invested wisely and we are getting good value for money."
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker was pleased to see that the County of Bruce will receive funding for its project: Modernization and Streamlining of Development Applications and Transportation Solutions.
“We will continue supporting local efforts to find more efficient ways to operate so that municipalities can focus on spending on vital programs and services,” said MPP Bill Walker. “I’m happy to see Bruce County receiving funding for this project. Our government is working in partnership with municipalities to create a more competitive business climate and deliver smarter government services.”
Up to $125 million is available until 2022-2023 through the Municipal Modernization Program.
The government remains committed to working with our municipal partners to create a more competitive business climate and deliver smarter government services for people and businesses across the province.
