The Regional District of East Kootenay Board of Directors has approved funding for 110 projects around the region over the coming year. The funding comes from Columbia Basin Trust’s Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs, which are administered by the RDEK.

“The approved 2020/2021 projects represent $1,139,094.69 in funding for everything from youth mental health and education initiatives to recreation programs, equipment purchases and facility upgrades,” says RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay. “When you look at the range of projects and sectors across the region that benefit, it really highlights what a profound difference the Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs make in our communities. We remain deeply grateful to the Trust for its ongoing support.”

Rob Gay

Because the community involvement meetings were cancelled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, an online engagement platform was created for the public to comment on submitted proposals. The engagement site provided an opportunity for the public to review the proposals and provide comments to specific areas. Over 1100 people visited the project page and 486 comments were received. All comments were forwarded to the areas to assist with their adjudication of the proposals.

After considering public input and recommendations from the municipalities and Electoral Area Directors, the Board approved the funding at its June Board Meeting. A complete list of the approved projects is available to view or download here: 2020-2021_Approved_Projects_Report

Columbia Basin Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations. To learn more about the Trust visit www.ourtrust.org.