Prince George, B.C. – Some big news from the Union of BC Municipalities convention in Whistler.

Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, Coralee Oakes, made several announcements, including advising delegates  the  federal Gas Tax agreement has been  renewed, meaning there will be $2.76 billion dollars available for community  infrastructure projects in B.C. She announced the development of a Small Communities fund, which will invest more than $327 million over the next decade for  communities in B.C. with populations under 100 thousand. The fund will be available for projects such as drinking water, wastewater and green infrastructure.  The first intake will be open for applications by the end of October.

She also announced the government will seek approval to set up a Special Committee this fall that will examine municipal election expense limits. The Committee won’t be able to complete its work or make recommendations in time for this year’s municipal ballot, but recommended changes could be in place for 2018.

Oakes announced the Government is establishing a $1.5 million dollar asset management fund. Local governments can apply for funding to support cost-effective planning for their public infrastructure, including water systems and local roads. The fund will be administered by the UBCM.

On the fun side of things, Oakes announced Terrace, Fort St. John and Quesnel will host the 2015 Canada Winter Games Regional Community Torch Celebrations.