Town council adopts new charitable donation policy

By Ron Giofu

A new charitable donation policy has been adopted by town council.

According to a report from policy and committee co-ordinator Karly Kennedy, “donations to the town have the potential to greatly enhance programs and facilities, as well as its abilities to meet residents’ needs. Donations also provide citizens with the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of their community and support services they value. The Town has a long history of accepting such donations that benefit the community and would benefit from a formal policy to set directives for accepting and managing incoming donations for general and project specific ventures. The recommended Charitable Donations Policy reflects, and is consistent with, the Town’s established decision-making process. It provides clear parameters and delegated authorities to ensure that all aspects of the cash donation offer are carried out within the parameters approved by Council and legal requirements and limitations imposed by the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA).”

Kennedy’s report added: “As the policy sets out clear and comprehensive guidance for staff in the acceptance, record requirements and eligibility for donations receipts, the policy also defines the criteria for formal agreements should the Town decide to enter into a joint venture with another fundraising entity. To foster transparency in the application of our donation program, the policy also specifies how unused funds from the community will be allocated and retained for consistent use. Where appropriate, the inclusion of sunset provisions will be specified for major projects or fundraising campaigns in the event funding targets are not achieved. Unsolicited donations not already assigned by Council to specific projects are contributions to general revenue and will be carried over to the following budget year, upon approval by Council and the following year’s budget. The implementation of the Charitable Donations Policy will ensure clear and transparent application of charitable cash donations accepted by the Town.”

Councillor Peter Courtney had interest in such a policy, noting his efforts in working with a group trying to raise money for a new track at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. Courtney relayed a question that if funding targets are not met, could the money stay specific for other improvements to that park.

“That could certainly be part of the agreement,” said CAO Valerie Critchley. Critchley said when someone wants to use the policy, the aim would be to enter into an agreement with them and issues like the one presented by Courtney could enter into a specific agreement with them.