Bonfield getting disaster relief help as well

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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Ontario is helping the Township of Bonfield repair damage caused by severe flooding earlier this year.

Bonfield will receive up to $1.356 million through the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program, which will supplement local fundraising efforts to assist residents.

Following a severe rainstorm on August 5, 2008, the Townships of East Ferris and Bonfield were declared disaster areas, making them eligible for financial assistance through the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program. The funding will be used to repair roads and culverts that were damaged in the storm.

QUOTES

“This provincial support will be a big boost to the Township of Bonfield and help them in their recovery efforts,” said Nipissing MPP Monique Smith. “Having visited a number of sites in Bonfield devastated by the storm I am pleased that our government could provide this much needed support”.

“The people of the Township of Bonfield are relieved and happy,” said Mayor Narry McCarthy. “We are thrilled that Monique Smith and the McGuinty government have come through for us.”

“We will help the municipalities get through this difficult time,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Jim Watson.

QUICK FACTS

• On August 5, 2008, a severe rainstorm caused localized flooding in the Townships of East Ferris, Bonfield and Machar. Many roads were significantly damaged, as well as a number of homes and small businesses.

• Municipalities that experience unusual financial difficulties due to a natural disaster may request financial assistance through the Ontario Disaster Relief Assistance Program to cover extraordinary, incremental public damages costs up to 100 per cent.

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