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KDSB passes social services budget

By Staff Mar 3, 2023 | 4:10 PM

The Kenora District Service Board says its budget this year will be just over $84 million.

That’s an increase of 2.86 percent from last year.

Henry Wall is the Chief Administrative Officer and says that includes funding to complete a couple of seniors housing projects in Kenora and Dryden.

“We’re looking at adding about 96 units this year and into next with the two new builds that are happening,” states Wall.

“So a very exciting time to be able to add that many, these are independent living senior housing units, in both Dryden and Kenora.”

Overall, the City of Kenora will contribute almost $2 million to the budget, or 24 percent, while Dryden contributes the next largest share at 700 thousand, or 8.48 percent.

The Unincorporated Territories pick up 45 percent of the budget. or $3.668 million.

Wall adds they are looking at more money for land ambulance service, including continuing a new program.

“The continuation and strengthening of the community paramedicine program.  That was started just over a year ago and it’s growing very well.  Now I think we have just over 600 seniors that are getting on-going support through the community medicine program across the district.  So very effective.”

Overall,  Land Ambulance Service accounts for over a quarter of the overall budget at $23 million, or a $1.4 million increase over last year.