A new grant from Wheatland County aims to bolster the recreational life of its residents. Applications are being encouraged for the new Community Enhancement Grant.
Development of the grant began last year.
“It started in the 2011 budget. Council allocated part of our mill levy towards recreation,” said Wheatland County CAO, Jennifer Deak. “We recognized our residents utilize many recreational facilities and we wanted to help.”
The grant aims to provide financial support for venues and activities and “is intended to enhance promote and support creative groups and organizations that bring a broad range of enjoyment, benefit, and participation to the residents of the County.”
The grant is limited to non-profit organizations, but many projects could receive funding under the grant, according to Deak.
“It’s new water for them [the Community Enhancement Grant Board] and it’s the first time around. It’ll evolve with time,” said Deak. “They’re leaving it as broad as possible to encourage as many projects as possible. They’re not just limiting it to recreation. They don’t want to set limitations.”
The board was formed after Wheatland Council consulted ratepayers to determine how the mill levy should be dispersed. The 14 member board represents the divisions within Wheatland County, with two members from each division.
Applications are due September 30 and will be reviewed by the board and recipients announced later in the fall. The intention is to have multiple recipients of the grant.
Some of the $393,000 for the grant has already been allotted this year. The Servern Dam Park had some renovations done during the summer, with the grant providing some of the funds.
Anyone wishing to apply can find applications at the Wheatland County office or online at www.wheatlandcounty.ca. Applications are due by September 30.
“We encourage residents to go on our website and fill out an application,” said Deak.
Work to improve the Severn Dam Park was recently completed, thanks in part to funds received from the Community Enhancement Grant. The grant is a new initiative by Wheatland County to improve the recreational and cultural offerings of the area. Applications are being accepted until September 30. The application form can be found at the Wheatland County office or at www.wheatlandcounty.ca.