The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs:

Speaker, on Friday I had the pleasure of joining our partners Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador and the Professional Municipal Administrators at the Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador Spring Symposium to proclaim May 8 – 12 as Municipal Awareness Week. The week is an opportunity to acknowledge the many people in the municipal sector, and the contribution of local governments to the province.

At the heart of every municipality are elected officials, administrators, professional planners, staff, and volunteers. Municipal governments are responsible for many services that enhance the quality of life for residents.

Budget 2023 recognizes the essential role municipalities play in the well-being, safety, and security of residents. Beginning this year, municipal operating grants are increasing by $3 million, bringing the total budget to $25 million. This allocation will rise again by another $3 million next year for a total annual budget of $28 million.

All communities currently receiving a grant will see an increase of approximately 13.6 per cent this year, and we will review how funds are allocated in the following year.

Speaker, collaboration, partnership and citizen involvement are essential for active, sustainable and vibrant communities. To help communities build capacity and provide the services residents need, we will be working with community leaders and stakeholder groups to identify opportunities for regional community collaboration, supported through initial funding of $500,000.

Municipalities will be holding special events throughout this week. I encourage everyone to drop by your town hall and see the great work that is happening at the local level.

Thank you.