County fueled by $20 million in gas tax

Wellington County has received nearly $20 million in federal gas tax revenues since transfers to municipalities began a decade ago.

A report from treasurer Ken DeHart at the April 30 county council meeting indicates the county has received $19,668,608 since the transfers were initiated under the New Deal for Cities and Communities program in 2005.

“The purpose of these funds is to invest in environmentally sustainable municipal infrastructure,” DeHart stated.

“In 2014 the county entered into a new agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the transfer of federal gas tax funds.

“The new agreement expands on the eligible categories and requires municipalities to clearly demonstrate that projects funded with gas tax dollars are prioritized based on an asset management framework.”

So far, the county has invested $17,122,779 in local infrastructure, solid waste services, capacity building and community energy systems.

Of the funds, 91 per cent was invested through the roads department, 5% through solid waste and 4% in property.

The report indicates an additional $14.4 million investment in roads, bridges and culverts is forecast over the next five years.