OLDS — A new provincial law that came into effect April 1 will create more red tape and could result in delays for Town of Olds officials as they try to access federal funds for projects, the town's corporate services director says.
The Provincial Priorities Act requires municipalities to obtain provincial approval before entering into, amending, extending, or renewing agreements with the federal government.
Agreements valued under $100,000 are exempt from requiring approval but must still be submitted to Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIvor to obtain that exemption. Agreements exceeding $5 million will require cabinet approval.
“This new approval process could introduce additional administrative steps for the Town of Olds when receiving federal funding, potentially leading to delays in securing such funds,” Sheena Linderman wrote in an email to the Albertan in response to questions.
“Municipal associations have expressed concerns that this legislation may reduce municipal autonomy, increase red tape, and hinder timely access to federal funding.
“Given that the Town of Olds has already been impacted by provincial downloading of costs, the additional requirements imposed by the Provincial Priorities Act may further strain the town's financial and administrative resources,” she added.
