The Federation of PEI Municipalities is welcoming the announcements in last week’s provincial budget about increasing funding for municipalities, investing more in public safety, and supporting community infrastructure.
The budget announcements include two years of bridge funding for municipalities while the Municipal Government Act is reviewed. The Federation says that over the two years, municipalities will receive an additional $5.5 million in funding — which translates into an estimated $9.5 million in additional funding when assessment growth is included. However, the Federation of PEI Municipalities says it recognizes that more funding is needed to strengthen municipal services, keep pace with the costs of policing, and support volunteer firefighters who provide emergency first response in communities across PEI. Federation President Bruce MacDougall says they look forward to continue negotiating a long-term municipal financial framework.