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Regional briefs: Considers social program participation; Defers economic development funding

Considers social program participation Powell River Regional District is slowly moving forward with its discussions on a partnership with Tla’amin Nation and City of Powell River on a social-planning program for the area.

Considers social program participation
Powell River Regional District is slowly moving forward with its discussions on a partnership with Tla’amin Nation and City of Powell River on a social-planning program for the area. At a meeting on January 11, committee of the whole district directors approved joining a social action and development committee consisting of Vancouver Coastal Health, School District 47 and the three regional governments. Referred to as C3, the three governments first agreed to considering a select committee in April 2015. Planning for the program began in May 2017 when City of Powell River contracted a consultant to draft a social plan, which was completed in November 2017. The committee asked for staff to report back on regional cost and involvement so it can make an informed decision.

Defers economic development funding
At its meeting on January 11, committee of the whole tabled a motion to give $5,000 toward a joint application with Powell River Educational Services Society, Vancouver Island University and City of Powell River for a $50,000 matching grant from Island Coastal Economic Trust to develop a strategy to drive economic growth in the region’s creative economy sector. The committee decided the request was too vague and will await for an opportunity to question the educational services society for more information on the project.

Funds summer students
The regional board is expected to approve committee of the whole’s recommendation made at its meeting on January 11 to provide Tourism Powell River with $15,000 in funding. The money pays for employment of summer students who staff the mobile visitor centre. Plans for Tourism Powell River in 2018 include onsite staffing on Texada Island and an information kiosk on Savary Island.