MP Brown Announces Federal Gas Tax Funding to Double for the City of Barrie

April 09, 2009

 

Barrie  – “Residents of Barrie should soon see  improvements to roads, city transit and other local infrastructure thanks to the Conservative Government’s doubling of Gas Tax transfers to municipalities,” said MP Patrick Brown.

“Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our government is doubling the annual funding that Barrie receives as part of the Gas Tax Fund and making up to $1 billion available to municipalities across Canada almost three months early,” said Brown. “This increased investment will total over $6.7 million in 2009 and will help to create jobs, boost sales for local businesses and improve the quality of life for the families of Barrie during this challenging economic time”.

This latest announcement builds on the Conservative Government’s previous action of providing permanent Gas Tax Fund transfers to municipalities. Doubling transfers will further help municipalities ensure that their infrastructure is able to meet the future needs of local families, workers and businesses.

Having been a member of Barrie City Council for five years, MP Brown fully appreciates the fiscal challenges of municipalities and is quick to point out this funding is equivalent to 4.65% of annual property taxes.

The federal Gas Tax transfer is provided to municipalities to invest in projects like new roads, water treatment plants, improved buses and transit systems, as well as sewers and bridges.

Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Conservative Government is building on the existing federal investment of $33 billion in infrastructure with almost $12 billion in new infrastructure stimulus funding over the next two years. “Our government is proud to be working with provinces and municipalities to deliver stable, predictable funding for infrastructure that Canadians use and depend on every day,” said Brown.

"This is certainly welcome news.   Building stronger, safer and sustainable communities is a priority for all levels of government and working together allows us to accomplish this. Projects supported by the Federal Gas Tax Fund are investments made today for generations to come,” said acting Mayor Councillor Andrew Prince.