Committee approves grants for non-profit rural community projects

The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee today approved funding for applications to the Rural Community-Building Grants Program. The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee today approved funding for applications to the Rural Community-Building Grants Program, which supports rural-based community improvement projects undertaken by non-profit organizations. The projects approved today would receive a total of more than $30,000.   That amount includes $17,500 to help the Marlborough Community Recreation purchase picnic tables, chairs, tables and a barbeque for events and to use at a rest area for cyclists, walkers and other community members. The Metcalfe Community Association would also receive about $1,650 to add wayfinding signs along three bike and pedestrian routes in the area.  The Osgoode Village Community Association would receive more than $4,700 to purchase chairs, tables, sound and lighting equipment, eliminating the need to rent equipment for their community events. The Galetta Community Association would receive $6,500 to purchase materials to build a deck at the community centre for outdoor events and performances.   The City will continue to accept applications until the annual budget is fully allocated. Please consult the grant program guidelines for information on how to apply.  The Committee approved a zoning amendment to facilitate development of a truck transport terminal and warehouse roughly southeast of Highway 417 at Boundary Road. The location is well suited for moving goods and materials throughout Ottawa and greater Eastern Ontario.   The facility concept includes 141 parking spaces, 55 tractor spaces and 134 trailer spaces, and an expansion of the main building is anticipated as part of a future phase of development. The amendment would change the parent zoning from a mix of Rural Countryside and Rural Heavy Industrial to Rural General Industrial, to permit using the site for a truck transport terminal and warehouse.  Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, May 15.