The prospect of provincial funding to help with costs of cleaning up ice storm damage here appear to be as predictable as the weather.
Based based on cumulative impacts of storms in December and April exceeding $300,000 Minto staff “spent considerable time submitting background invoices and documentation” in support of a claim to the Ontario Disaster Relief Program prior to January 28,” said CAO Bill White at the June 4 council meeting.
A previous claim for about $120,000 based only on the April 12 storm had been denied as the expense claimed was about three per cent of the town’s tax-supported budget, which the municipal affairs ministry felt was manageable by the town.
However the province indicated cumulative impact of multiple weather events could be considered in a new program.
In February, the province announced a $190 million in one-time ice storm assistance subject to an agreement with the federal government on provincial reimbursement for the program.
However, by March 26, White reported, a new minister of municipal affairs was in place followed by a new Ice Storm Assistance Program on April 10.
“Detailed guidelines were to be available this May, and although the guidelines are not in place, an expression of interest is required by June 16,” explained White.
The new program, White said, “is a one-time special program designed to help municipalities and conservation authorities with damage as a result of the December 2013 ice storm,” casting some doubt as to whether cumulative financial impact of the two storms experienced in Minto would be eligible.
Although information from the province indicates if a council has already passed a resolution for ODRAP assistance for the December 2013 ice storm, it is not necessary to pass a second resolution, White suggested council do so anyway, “just in case.”
He also recommended delegating authority to submit the application to the treasurer in case council is relegated to “lame duck” status by the coming municipal election.
White pointed out the provincial election underway at the time could also influence the process.
Council passed a resolution requesting provincial assistance under the Ice Storm Relief Program and is delegating the authority to submit claims to council treasurer Gordon Duff.
