Wellington North gives out $11,400 in community grants

Wellington North council has approved $11,400 in community improvement grants for six projects in urban areas.

A Community Improvement Plan (CIP) report from economic development officer Dale Small was presented to council on May 23.

Under the façade improvement grant program, four businesses received a one-time grant:

- Mount Forest Museum and Archives received $2,500;

- Walsh’s Health and Lifestyle Centre received $1,901;

- 88.7FM The River received $750; and

- I’m Sooooooo Bad received $1,250.

Under the public arts grant program, the Arthur Chamber of Commerce received $2,500 for village entry signs and $2,500 for metal banners on George Street.

Council had approved $15,000 in funding for the CIP in 2017.

The CIP has been in place since 2012 and has had 38 applicants receiving over $77,000 in grants.

The total dollar value of the overall improvements made to the Main Streets in Arthur and Mount Forest is estimated at about $350,000, stated Small in his report.

The township is also undergoing a CIP review with Stempski Kelly and Associates to enhance the program. The revisions could include an expansion of the CIP areas, expansion of programs and review of the application process.

The draft is expected to return to council for review.