CSRD allocates COVID-19 relief funds

The Columbia Shuswap Regional District’s (CSRD) 2021 budget received a little relief from the COVID-19 Safe Restart Grant from the provincial and federal governments.

The CSRD is receiving $645,000 from the program, which is designed to address the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and restart plans of local governments. All municipalities and regional districts in BC received funding through this program.

Thursday CSRD Directors approved spending $387,907, while holding back on the remaining $257,093 to determine any additional impacts on finances. The funds do not have to be allocated until December 31, 2021.

One of the top priorities was firefighter protection and the funding will allow the purchase of self-contained breathing masks for every firefighter.

Previously, these masks were shared and cleaned between each use. But the need for increased cleaning and disinfection of these masks was proving problematic.

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The board will spend $130,000 to equip every firefighter with their own mask.

Another $93,000 was allocated to cover the unexpected costs of COVID-19 safety measures including: hand sanitizer, masks, gloves, Plexiglass barriers, enhanced cleaning and signage.

New software and computer technology was purchased to support the CSRD’s remote work option for employees, and also to provide the public with electronic access to board meetings.

Shuswap’s tourism economy, has suffered significant pandemic losses, and Shuswap Tourism will receive $80,000 over two years to support restart efforts.

Other uses for the remaining funds will be explored as part of the 2021 budget planning process.