CR: Cutting Costs and Working with Partners for External Funding

City staff have been directed to cut costs by $500,000 this year. With less tax revenue, Campbell River is focused on prudent economic management and diversification. This has led to more community partnerships such as that with Greenways Land Trust. These types of projects and partnerships optimize outside funding while incorporating community support and interaction.

Projects include the following, as compiled by the Courier:

- Hosting the 2010 B.C. Seniors Games, anticipated to boost the local economy through sports tourism

- Continuing with the construction of the Greenways Loop in partnership with the Greenways Land Trust, which employs local resource workers, with no impact on local taxation thanks to senior government funding

- Undertaking the Highway 19A upgrade project from Hilchey Road to just south of Rockland Road, with two-thirds funding from federal and provincial governments plus existing dedicated City reserve funds

- Undertaking the Campbell River Airport runway extension project with two-thirds funding from federal and provincial governments and grant funding worth almost one-third from the Island Coastal Economic Trust

- Improving communications internally and externally by engaging our community

- Building a new community vision by renewing the Official Community Plan

- Exploring environmental sustainability initiatives and alternative energy production (ie. tidal power study)

- Enhancing parks throughout the city, plus assisting local sport groups building a new lacrosse box and upgrading tennis courts

- Supporting downtown revitalization with improved street lighting, public amenities, marketing, arts and culture activities and Spirit Square event coordination

- Expanding the City's National Communities in Bloom participation

The City is trying to find a new balance amidst difficult financial times. The full financial plan is available here.

For more see the Courier article here.