Several Kootenay communities are receiving provincial funding for emergency preparations.
Nelson, Castlegar, New Denver and Creston are among the over 100 local governments and First Nations communities included in a $4.2 million package from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General announced Friday.
The money, which comes from the $69.5 Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, is for support services as well as an investment in local emergency operation centres.
“When it comes to emergencies in B.C., it’s not a matter of if one will happen, but when,” said Jennifer Rice, parliamentary secretary for emergency preparedness, in a statement.
“This funding is another step we’re taking as a government to help communities be ready for when disaster strikes.”
Here’s a list of the local governments receiving funding:
• Castlegar: $9,410 for IT equipment, and $25,000 for furniture upgrades.
• Creston: $18,750 for supplies and equipment.
• Nelson: $18,265 for operations centre enhancement.
• New Denver: $15,625 for modernization of emergency support services.
• Regional District of Central Kootenay: $25,000 for a reception centre support project.