FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2025
New-Wes-Valley, NL – Today, Premier John Hogan, KC, leader of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, joined by Liberal Candidate for Fogo Island – Cape Freels, Dale Lewis, announced new measures to support municipalities and local service districts.
Our Government invests significantly in our communities. This year, that included over $187 million for funding and grants, including Municipal Operating Grants, Special Assistance Grants, the Community Enhancement Employment Program, and the Canada Community Building Fund.
The Special Assistance Grant Program provides financial aid to support communities and related organizations in response to emergencies related to health and/or a life safety nature, as well as assistance to communities experiencing financial difficulties, and special initiatives involving municipalities, local service district committees or other entities.
Our Liberal Government will increase this fund by $3 million, aimed at assisting municipalities in emerging priority areas. This includes identifying and securing emergency shelter capacity within municipal facilities and community spaces during climate-related emergencies, such as wildfires, floods, and hurricanes.
We will also formalize a prioritization stream for Special Assistance Grants for communities facing immediate water issues, and increase the amounts allowable for this purpose. We understand communities face challenges addressing urgent system issues, and need funds quickly to ensure water supply.
Our Liberal Government will also call on the federal government to work with the province and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador to improve water and wastewater infrastructure. Further, we will consult with municipalities to develop a long-term municipal infrastructure strategy so communities can sustainably plan for their future.
Many municipalities and local service districts in Newfoundland and Labrador are working closely with industry to attract and retain business. They are striving to ensure communities have the services and infrastructure to ensure jobs and the required workforce are available. Our government will work closely with communities striving for economic development to ensure that we cut red tape, fast-track crown lands applications, help advocate for federal funding, and facilitate meaningful engagement with industry.
These measures are in addition to the Budget 2025 investments contributing to the well-being of communities, which include:
- $187.5 million for funding programs and grants, $3.8 million for volunteer fire department equipment.
- $225,000 for volunteer firefighter training.
- $508,000 for drinking water improvement initiatives.
- $350,000 for initiatives to support the 2025 General Municipal Election.
- $100,000 for wastewater monitoring.
With real momentum, energy and leadership, the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador is embracing our province’s tremendous opportunities to deliver a stronger future for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
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Media Contact:
Ben Murphy
Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador
E-mail: [email protected]