The newly formed economic development corporation now known as the Penatangore Regional EDC is looking for 100 thousand dollars in start-up costs from Kincardine council.
Although most councillors support the concept of an EDC, some were a little leery about putting out that kind of cash to a group they feel doesn’t have all of its ducks in a row.
As a result council agreed in principle with the concept with further discussion to be had on the money.
The chair of the PREDC Jim Prenger says they’re going to have to get an agreement in writing worked out as to what council expects from the group in return for the money that they would provide.
Councillor Randy Roppel voted against the 100 thousand dollars — saying the group was asked to bring such a figure to council several meetings ago.
He says it’s a lot of money and considering they just approved a budget with a 12.5 per cent increase, he’s not sure where this new money would be coming from.
It was brought to his attention that there is a reserve fund from the sale of industrial lands that could be used.
Meanwhile, Councillor Candy Hewitt says when an educated group comes to council, she has an expectation to have the appropriate data available so she can make an informed decision on such a large amount of money.
The group will be before council in June sometime for what many hope will be a positive vote on the finances.
The PREDC is expected to work along side council but independent of them in attracting new industrial development to the area.
One of their projects is helping to bring natural gas service to Kincardine.
Otherwise any future projects are not being discussed at this time.
