As Dave Merz, Chair, pointed out "we are busy with both our administration and grant programs, and we really feel that momentum is building."
Following a change-up in the fall, when Janine Elo and Vina Starr resigned due to other commitments, 2 new faces have joined the Board. Representing different parts of the Society’s investment area are Bob Murray, District Manager of the Burns Lake Forest District, and Arnie Smith, Executive Director of Kitamaat Village Council. Seven of the ten volunteer Board members have terms running until May 31, 2001, with three terms running until May 2002.
Interest in the Society’s two grant programs has been steadily increasing since the programs were announced in October 1999. According to Society Manager, Fiona Glass, " there have been regular calls on our toll free line and I know there are a number of people in our investment area working on proposals right now."
At their January 19, 2000 Board meeting, two new proposals were approved, one from each grant program.
For the residents of South Side an approval of $9000 from the Community Grant program will result in the construction of a well at Wistaria Hall. Up to another $9000 has been approved from the Economic Development Capacity Grant program for a regional tourism conference and trade show planned for Vanderhoof in early March, and encompassing the Lakes District and the Stuart-Nechako Region. "We are glad to see a diversity of proposals coming in", said Glass. "They reflect the diversity of our region."
Community Grants are available for projects which improve the basic facilities, equipment, services or installations needed for growth, jobs, community stability and quality of life. Contributing funds are required.
Economic Development Capacity Grants must be used to develop community and regional capacity to generate economic development. Eligible activities include workshops, seminars and other activities (e.g. feasibility studies) in communities to develop business management skills, enterprise facilitation or economic development skills, where economic or social benefits to the Nechako Region or Kitamaat Village can be demonstrated.
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Contact: Fiona Glass, Manager
1 877 478 FUND (3863)
To the Board Members of the Nechako Kitamaat Development Fund Society, On behalf of the Burns Lake Mountain Biking Association (BLMBA) it is an honour to have this opportunity to try to articulate adequately what...