People First gets new number, looking for municipal support

Posted Feb 2, 2012 By Tara Gesner

EMC News - People First of Lanark County (PFoLC) has a new phone number.

"Everyone can now reach us at 613-257-7111," said president Kory Earle.

PFoLC's new phone number took effect on Jan. 23.

Finances

With just over $1,000 in its bank account and a 2012 budget of just under $15,000, PFoLC continues to look to area municipalities for financial support.

Earle and Seguin appeared as a delegation during Beckwith Township's Finance and Administration Committee meeting Jan. 17, to ask council to consider a $2,000 grant.

"It was our first time coming to Beckwith," said Earle. "I am pleased with how things went. They (councillors) seemed very supportive."

He noted Deputy Reeve Sharon Mousseau, who is also Lanark County's Warden, commented on PFoLC's progress - locally and at the provincial level.

Many municipalities in the county are still involved in the 2012 budget process. As a result, Beckwith agreed to send PFoLC's request to future budget talks.

In an earlier interview, Earle said an appeal for funds had gone out to Carleton Place, Drummond/North Elmsley, Lanark Highlands, Montague, Perth, Smiths Falls, Tay Valley and the County of Lanark.

The County's Director of Clerk's Services/Clerk, Cathie Ritchie, in an email to Earle on Jan. 13, stated: "Council has passed the 2012 budget and, consistent with the previous years, has not provided for additional community grants."

She continued, "you are always welcome to attend our meetings and I would be pleased to put you on next week's agenda."

PFoLC politely declined the invitation to appear.

In a letter on Jan. 5 to PFoLC, Director of Community Services, Shellee Evans of Perth said: "The Town currently offers funding under Community Grants Program. Unfortunately your organization does not meet the eligibility requirement of residency."

Like the county, Earle was welcomed to address council.

This December, PFoLC will hold its Christmas dinner in Perth.

Earle said Mayor John Fenik attended the organization's 2011 dinner in Montague and was "thrilled" to hear Perth would be the location in 2012.