New policy approved for Nanaimo's neighbourhood associations

Policy provides support and grant funding

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed April 27, 2022 11:00 AM

Summary

At their April 25, 2022 meeting, Council adopted a Neighbourhood Association Supports Policy along with a $10,000 annual Neighbourhood Grant Program, which will begin in 2023.

An initial review of neighbourhood associations began in February 2020 where Council was interested in the organizational status of neighbourhood associations and the City's relationship with these groups. The discussions led to gathering input from existing associations, reviewing other municipality's engagement models and collecting feedback through a community survey. After thorough analysis and consultation, a policy was created establishing organizational criteria and identifying ways to support the associations, including funding opportunities.

The policy states the City of Nanaimo will support neighbourhood associations that meet and maintain the following organizational criteria:

Have an elected executive that meets on a regular basis;
Have a membership structure;
Hold an annual general meeting, and provide a copy of the minutes to the City;
Keep minutes for executive and general membership meetings;
Engage with its membership for input prior to responding to City development referrals; and
Provide periodic updates to members related to the activities of the group.

More information on active neighbourhood associations in your area, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/neighbourhoodassociations

Link to Strategic Plan: Proactively planning for Nanaimo’s growth and focusing on community infrastructure to support an inclusive, healthy, safe and desirable place to live.

Key Points

Council adopted the Neighbourhood Association Policy and approved the creation of a $10,000 annual Neighbourhood Grant for 2023 at the April 25, 2022 Council meeting.
The City of Nanaimo is committed to providing communication, administrative, educational and funding support to associations who meet and maintain the organizational criteria in the policy.
The path to this policy began in February 2020 and after two years of engagement, research and planning, the policy was adopted.

Quotes

"We appreciate all the efforts from staff and the community throughout this two year review process. Council looks forward to continuing to support these associations and all the good work they do in the community. We encourage you to reach out and get involved with the association in your area."

Leonard Krog

Mayor

City of Nanaimo

Contact:

For media enquiries, please contact

Communications

City of Nanaimo

250-754-4251

Media.Requests@nanaimo.ca

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