July 22, 2010
Traffic Fines Put to Good Use: Richmond Public Safety

RICHMOND – Richmond will enjoy a boost to public safety and important municipal services thanks to $892,549 in provincial funding, part of a $38.6 million instalment from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

“Improving public safety is a priority for all levels of government,” says Richmond East MLA Linda Reid. “This investment will allow the City of Richmond to put dollars where they’re most needed.”

“Statistics Canada reported B.C. leads the country in reducing crime, demonstrating our commitment to public safety,” says Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap. “This investment is another step towards ensuring that continues.”

“One hundred per cent of traffic fine revenue is making its way back to strengthen our community,” says Richmond Centre MLA Rob Howard. “It’s innovative ideas like the Strategic Community Investment Fund which are helping make Richmond, and B.C., one the best places to live and work.”

This year’s funding will be used for new police equipment such as imaging cameras, identification equipment and police vehicles, and a variety of community safety and crime prevention initiatives.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund is a restructuring of provincial grants, consisting of the Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing program and Small Community and Regional District Grants. This payment of $38.6 million to B.C.’s communities is the third instalment of a total $227 million provided to local governments since 2009; a first instalment of $133 million was paid to communities in March 2009 and a second instalment of $55.5 million was paid in September 2009.

Since 2001, the Province has given communities $413 million in traffic fine revenues and $363 million in Small Community and Regional District Grants.

For more information on the work of Richmond MLAs, visit their websites at www.lindareidmla.bc.ca, www.johnyapmla.bc.ca, and www.robhowardmla.bc.ca. 

-30-