More business owners across Timmins will soon be able to apply for a safety improvement grant of up to $7,500 to add safety features like security cameras and fencing to their property.
It comes after council’s approval to amend the Downtown Community Improvement Plan on Tuesday, designating the entire city as an improvement project area, and increasing the maximum grant allowance.
Officials say approved amendments also streamline the application process, eliminating the need for a second quote for proposed work and the “one time only” requirement.
A 20-day public appeal will soon be published, with the changes coming into play after that process.
“The recommendations approved for the City’s Downtown Community Improvement Plan – Safety Improvement Grant, are designed to give more business owners the opportunity to add security features like cameras, lighting, and fencing to their business properties,” said Mayor Michelle Boileau. “Council understands that immediate social concerns have required that businesses increase security measures. There is a tangible cost to business owners arising from issues around homelessness and mental health and addictions. If we can provide assistance, through a simplified safety improvement grant process, and increase the amount of funding available, we can help mitigate some of this cost.”
In addition, tenants leasing business space on a multi-tenant property will be able to apply for the Safety Improvement Grant, removing the limit of one application per property.
All other available grants under the Downtown Community Improvement Plan are subject to the Downtown Community Project Areas for Timmins, Schumacher, and South Porcupine.
