Brock invests in local infrastructure with Canada Community Building Fund support

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: The Township continues to benefit from ongoing infrastructure investments, through the Canada Community Building Fund (CCBF), formerly known as the Federal Gas Tax Fund.

At a recent council meeting, Director of Finance and Treasurer, Trena DeBruijn presented an annual update on how the Township used its 2024 CCBF allocation. The report provided a detailed breakdown of completed and ongoing infrastructure projects, funded by the program, as well as the year-end balance.

In 2024, Brock received slightly more than $400,000 through the CCBF, including a base allocation of $395,108 and a surplus payment of $5,752.10. When combined with bank interest and a healthy opening balance from previous years, the Township had nearly $1.9 million in available funding, to allocate toward critical projects.

“This funding is vital in helping us meet our infrastructure goals,” explained Ms. DeBruijn. “The CCBF gives us the flexibility to prioritize projects which have tangible benefits to residents, while aligning with our asset management and capital planning strategies.”

Among the projects, supported by the CCBF in 2024, were: design work for culverts; accessibility improvements at community halls, in Beaverton and Sunderland; playground replacements; new bay heaters, at the Cannington Fire Station; and double surface treatment for road rehabilitation. In total, the Township utilized over $730,000 for infrastructure needs last year.

Looking ahead, more than $500,000 remains uncommitted in the reserve, with additional funds earmarked for projects already underway, such as: bridge and culvert design, asset management strategy updates, a backup power generator at the Beaverton Arena, and the future construction of pickleball courts and pedestrian bridges.

Regional Councillor and Acting Mayor Mike Jubb praised the long-term value of the fund. “The Canada Community Building Fund is an essential piece of our financial planning. It helps us tackle both current infrastructure needs and prepare for future challenges,” he said. “This predictable funding stream allows us to move forward with confidence and continue delivering improvements which matter to our residents.”

The updated 2024 agreement continues to provide municipalities with stable, flexible, and long-term funding. The Township of Brock, like others across Ontario, receives its CCBF allocation, through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), with amounts based on Statistics Canada census data.

“The Township remains committed to ensuring every dollar of CCBF is used responsibly and transparently,” added Ms. DeBruijn. “These investments help us sustain service levels and support the growth and vitality of our communities.”

Council received the report for information purposes, and staff will continue to evaluate infrastructure priorities each year, to guide future allocations of the CCBF.