For the first time in a long time, there is a new water infrastructure grant available, and Bancroft could be eligible for it.
At this year’s first council meeting, held on Wednesday January 10th, Bancroft General Manager Andra Kauffeldt discussed the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund, announced in November 2023.
The new fund aims to create more housing opportunities through funding water infrastructure.
Mayor Paul Jenkins and GM Kauffeldt both felt Bancroft was well positioned to apply for the fund, having several application materials already in order, such as smoke testing and information about the water tower.
They both expressed their excitement about the initiative.
“It really is intended to revitalize and expand water and wastewater systems to provide opportunities for new housing” explained Kauffeldt. “This has been the first time there has been a water infrastructure grant like this in a very, very long time”
The grant application will open in January and close at the beginning of April.
In a press release last November, Minister of Infrastructure Kinga Surma, discussed the initiative:
“We have heard time and time again that municipalities need more options for funding to meet the growing demand for infrastructure in their communities,” said Surma, “We are listening and taking action by launching a new Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund to build stronger, more prosperous communities.”
The Ontario government is investing $200 million over three years to help municipalities with critical water infrastructure. It aims to bring the province one step closer to the government’s goal of building at least 1.5 million homes by 2031.
