Burns Lake has recently received $465,552 from the provincial government as part of the annual small community protection grant.
According to Sheryl Worthing, Chief Administrative Officer for the Village of Burns Lake, this annual funding has helped keep property taxes down in Burns Lake.
The village receives approximately $460,000 each year and the grant is used for general operating purposes to support general services.
"Without it, we would have to increase tax rates significantly or reduce services," explained Worthing.
Local governments throughout B.C. are sharing almost $108 million in this provincial funding to support policing and safety measures, as well as community services and projects.
Houston will be receiving $471,554 and Granisle will receive $446,604.
Granisle Mayor Linda McGuire explained that while some communities may opt to specifically apply their grant to policing and safety measures, that's not the case in Granisle.
"In the case of Granisle, we budget to spread the allocated grant dollars for delivery of services over our various departments," she said. "It is extremely crucial for communities to receive this annual funding where no, or little industry exists to cover the basic services and maintain affordability to their citizens."