The Village of Casselman, Ont., located about 50 kilometres east of Ottawa, received a $70,738 grant under the Ontario Potable Water Program (OPWP) on Monday. The OPWP, announced in February 2008, provides up to $50 million in financial support to promote local economic development in municipalities that have experienced increased costs for their Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program (COIP) water projects to comply with changes to Ontario drinking water regulations.
“Our Government is delivering on its commitment to foster a growing economy, a cleaner environment and stronger, more prosperous communities in Ontario and across the country,” MP Pierre Lemieux said in a press release. “We have recognized the economic challenges that some municipalities have faced in complying with changes to Ontario drinking water regulations and our government is pleased to be part of the solution.”
Municipalities may be considered for financial support under the program upon completion of their COIP drinking water projects. As projects are completed, Industry Canada officials will contact these municipalities directly to confirm their eligibility and interest in applying for the OPWP. Once applications are assessed, municipalities will be informed and grants will be announced. Financial support under the OPWP must be delivered to municipalities by March 31, 2011.
For more information on the OPWP, visit www.ic.gc.ca.
