Rocky View County council unanimously rejected a $9,500 Business Centre and Commercial Corridor Enhancement (BCCCE) grant application from the Springbank Park For All Seasons (SPFAS), Oct. 11.
The move was made after much discussion about the request, which was to pay for small projects including fence and gates, outdoor benches and tables, landscaping, a bike rack, a garbage receptacle and solar lighting.
“This erodes the focus of the grant (program),” said Councillor Paul McLean. “If this goes through, there will be a whole host of others that (apply).”
The BCCCE grant program was founded in 2006 to provide money for business districts in the County. Before the program existed, businesses had no access to County money, unlike the funding available to not-for-profit societies, recreation groups and associations.
“We came up with this grant because these businesses couldn’t apply for any grants,” said Councillor Lois Habberfield, adding that while she considers the project worthwhile, it would be more appropriate to see the money come from another source, such as the area recreation board.
Councillors discussed whether the application was eligible because of the businesses operating out of the SPFAS, such as a pro-shop, gym, lounge, farmer’s market and concession.
“It is a busy, busy corner,” said Councillor Margaret Bahcheli. “I know this verges on being a questionable application... but it does create a draw and the businesses will benefit.”
David Kalinchuk, Rocky View’s economic development manager, said he brought the matter to council because he considers the SPFAS to be the end of a business corridor. He added that there was enough in the grant’s $75,000 annual budget to cover the costs.
“In my books, this fits because it is part of the commercial corridor in Springbank,” said Kalinchuk.
Council disagreed.
“If there are overages, we should carry it over or spend the money on other priorities of council,” said Habberfield.
Kalinchuk encourages eligible business groups to come forward with applications for the grant program. The deadline for the program was June, but Kalinchuk said interested groups can call anytime at 403-230-1401.
