The township is planning to make a joint application with Minto and Wellington North for funding to help plan for an aging population.
The province recently announced an ‘age-friendly’ community planning grant to help local governments and community organizations undertake strategic planning with a focus on seniors.
Applications are being accepted until Jan. 30, with a project completion date of March 31, 2017.
Grants are available for amounts up to:
– $25,000 for small communities (populations under 20,000 residents);
– $35,000 for medium-sized communities (between 20,000 and 99,999 residents); and
– $50,000 for larger communities (more than 100,000 residents).
In a report to council at its Jan. 13 meeting, CAO Patty Sinnamon explained by working with the two other municipalities on a project also supported by the Mount Forest Family Health Team and the Mapleton Seniors’ Centre for Excellence, the township is able to apply for the $35,000 grant level.
Councillor Michael Martin asked for an explanation of the rationale for the joint submission, given each municipality could receive “up to 25,000 if we went solo.”
“I think it’s because in terms of the resources to implement … it would make more sense to do it corroboratively and the province certainly likes those collaborative applications,” Sinnamon explained.
“The three municipalities would work together on this. It’s not as if we’re getting a third (of the funding) and they’re each getting a third. It’s one project.”
She added, “I think it’s an excellent opportunity for us to work collaboratively with the other municipalities and it also supports our aging-at-home initiative.”
The report states the application will outline steps to hire a coordinator/consultant to complete a needs assessment and a gap analysis. It also notes a plan will be developed to address gaps, improve access to services and improve the quality of life of seniors in the three municipalities.
The report lists examples of policies to help seniors “age actively,” including:
– keeping sidewalks well lit and kept in good repair;
– automatic door openers and elevators in buildings; and
– facilitating community activities for seniors such as visiting museums and libraries, taking courses or volunteering for charities or civic duties.
“Funding to assist our communities in becoming ‘age-friendly’ has numerous benefits from both a social and economic viewpoint,” the report states. “The demographic reality is that younger generations no longer represent the biggest growth market. Baby boomers are quickly controlling the bulk of wealth and spending.”
Minto town council also supported the joint application at its Jan. 20 meeting after hearing a report from business and economic manager Belinda Wick-Graham.
“In the north here we like to partner with our neighbours,” said Wick-Graham.
She also pointed out letters of support for the applications have been received from a number of community groups.
Wellington North council approved the township’s participation on Jan. 26.
