Chatham-Kent is refining its strategy to secure increased funding from upper levels of government.
The municipality has adopted a new advocacy and government relations strategy that aims to better position council and staff to secure funding for local priorities such as infrastructure and economic development, as well as housing and homelessness.
With stronger, more consistent relationships with upper-level government decision-makers, administration said the municipality can better support ongoing council advocacy and communicate its needs, respond quickly to funding opportunities, and ensure local projects are understood and supported at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill.
A key focus of the new strategy is preparing “shovel-ready” projects that are ready to move forward as soon as funding becomes available. Council recently approved spending up to $50,000 to bring in specialized grant-writing support that will increase the likelihood of securing funding.
The plan also includes regular reporting to council and better tracking of results to ensure transparency.
