The Kitimat Economic Development Association, a non-profit society that helps to promote economic development in the Kitimat area, received a $2,500 operating grant from the District of Kitimat after sending a request letter to council.
The organization is volunteer run and will at times collaborate with the District of Kitimat’s Economic Development Office.
KEDA does not compete or duplicate work of the municipal department though.
“They do meet with us regularly,” said Economic Development Officer Rose Klukas, to avoid any duplications.
Councillors’ only minor concern was to ensure that the money granted to KEDA would not eventually wind up paying for advertising that may support projects the District of Kitimat does not support, namely the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines proposal.
Council ensured that scenario by adding a friendly amendment that the money would not be used for such.