A huge jump in community grant applications saw those approved receive 68 per cent of the qualifying requested funds and sent town council in camera to review the applications, May 27.

In the end, town council followed the recommendations of administration and will be disbursing $44,766.10 for 30 unique community projects/events to work within the town's $45,000 budget. That's up from 13 applications last year that collectively provided under $30,000.

Mayor Jeff Genung sought feedback from council on the idea of limiting the number of applications from groups to just one so those with a single application would receive more funds. Council, however, believed those making application followed the rules and it wouldn't be fair to digress from them. 

Councillor Susan Flowers was concerned the Cochrane Historical Archival Preservation Society (CHAPS) wouldn't receive their full request of $2,500 in light of their spring flood. The town, however, is expecting to hear from CHAPS should they face any funding shortages in covering the repair costs.

This is likely the last time community grants will be awarded using the current guidelines. The perimeters of the funding program are currently under review and council is expected to receive recommendations from administration in the fall.

Last October, Councillor Patrick Wilson received support from council to have the criteria of the grant program examined. He believes it's out-of-date and wants to see more emphasis on supporting groups who are also pursuing other sources of funding for projects and are working in collaboration with other organizations. He also wanted to see the size of the grants limited to a maximum of 50 per cent of the total cost of a project. 

Receiving funds for various programs and events last night were: Big Hill Haven Women's Shelter, $1,700; Big Hill Creek Preservation Society, $629; Bike Cochrane Society, $1,700; Bow Meadows Community Assoc., $515; Cochrane and Area Events Society, a total of $2,176 for two applications; Cochrane and Area Humane Society, $1,700; Cochrane and District Agricultural Society, a total of $3,400 for two applications; Cochrane Activettes, $850; Cochrane Classic Car Club, $1,700; Cochrane Comets Swim Club, $1,700; CHAPS, $1,700; Cochrane Hospice Society, $1,700; Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee, $1,700; Cochrane Public Library, $1,700; Cochrane Skating Club, $1,700; Elevate, $1,700; Frank Wills Memorial Society, $680; Helping Hands, $1,700; Heritage Hills Community Assoc., $1,496; Junior Achievement, $1,700; Kiwanis Club, $1,700; Cochrane Lions Club, five events totalling $7,820; Seniors on the Bow, $1,700; and Teatro dell'Eco, $1,700.

The purpose of the community grant program is to provide financial assistance towards projects and events that will enhance and enrich the community.