Spreading the wealth

Times Contributor     

 

‘More need than money’ was the summary Marcy Field, from the Community Enhancement Committee, gave Wheatland County council on March 15, as she announced the recommendations of awards the committee had designated for 2014 funding.

“There could be more money,” said Field. “We had to decide how to stretch what we had, to meet community needs. It can sometimes be difficult.”

Field said there were 41 applications, and 36 of those applications were awarded funding. The total funding given out was $441,698.97, and most communities in the county will see a project funded by the grants. 

For information the successful applicants, check out the Wheatland County website www.wheatlandcounty.ca. Under council ‘agendas and minutes’ find the April 15 agenda and scan down to page 38-40, for a complete listing of names, amounts and project descriptions awarded.

Field said that the committee has been doing some work with applicants, in helping them to understand how to make a more effective application. Some were having difficulties with the paperwork. Field said the committee will continue to work on the application process.

Council commended the committee for the work and their decision making.

“I have had feedback from the community,” said Councillor Berniece Bland. “They appreciate what the committee has been doing.”

Field said the committee had a good group of people that worked well together and they really put out good arguments for accepting each project.

Any funds received must be used by December 31, 2014. Unused funding must be returned to Wheatland County before January 31, 2015. Those receiving funding must submit a final report to Wheatland County by January 31, 2015, including copies of all receipts and accounting of the grant money used. A template for the final report is available for use. Any applicants that don’t hand in reports do not qualify for new funding. 

Those projects asking for capital funding must provide a before/after picture of the project, as well as a final project summary, and provide a representative for inclusion in a public announcement picture recognizing Wheatland County, the Community Enhancement Regional Board and the applicant.