A new policy to grant organizations looking for donations was approved in council last week.
The previous policy meant denying requests for financial contributions as most taxpayers will have been approached individually for donations. Council asked the Community Services Committee to review this policy to consider approving dollars to organizations supporting programs that are recreational or cultural in nature and a budget of $10,000 was set aside in the 2012 budget.
“I think it's good to have a policy in place with a budget,” said Coun. Mark Kemball, who sits on the community committee as well.
The policy allows council to give up to 25 per cent of the total funds needed for a sport, recreation, parks, arts and culture or environment program.
After approving the policy, council went on to approve three upcoming community events.
Council gave $500 towards the Junior AAA Western Canadian Baseball Championship Tournament to be hosted by the Innisfail Merchants Aug. 8-12. The Innisfail Health Care Centre Auxiliary was given $1,280 for dinner, decorations and invitations for its upcoming 40th anniversary this fall. The Downtown Business Association was approved $500 towards sponsorship of the Innisfail Weekend of Wheels.
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