The Manitoba government announced on February 12, 2020 that it is offering support to municipalities to enhance spring flooding preparations and protections.
“We want to help municipalities take steps to prevent the kind of significant damage flooding can cause to their communities,” said Municipal Relations Minister Rochelle Squires. “Municipalities know best what will work for them and this program is designed to help them ensure protection put in place this year will benefit their communities for many years to come.”
Under the program, municipalities can be reimbursed for up to 100 per cent of approved flood preparedness or resiliency projects and equipment costs. The maximum funding available for each municipality will be based on the total value of all approved proposals, but up to $150,000 may be available for each municipal proposal. Consideration will be given for funding of up to $500,000 for the City of Winnipeg should flood risk warrant additional investment.
“The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) welcomes the provincial government’s investment to enhance municipal capacity when responding to flood threats,” said Ralph Groening, president of AMM. “This funding support saves money in avoided flood damages, helps municipalities better prepare, and also builds resiliency for future floods.”
“It’s great to see programs like this offer incentives for preparedness,” said Colleen Sklar, executive director of Winnipeg Metropolitan Region (WMR). “This kind of co-ordinated effort, with the inclusion of groups such as AMM and WMR, is critical to flood prevention and protection for years to come.”
Proposals will be reviewed by a panel made up of representatives from the AMM, WMR and the province. Evaluation of proposals will consider factors including flood risk, ability of the proposal to enhance emergency preparedness or resiliency for future flood events, and potential regional benefits.
Proposals must be submitted by February 28, 2020.
To review further information and access the application form, click here.
Featured image by Martin Katerberg.
