Eat Local Grey Bruce managed to meet its public fundraising goal of $115,000 to help recover from insolvency, but it won’t be getting funding from Grey County.
At its meeting on Thursday, Grey County council approved a staff recommendation against funding to support Eat Local Grey Bruce.
Director of Economic Development, Tourism and Culture Savanna Myers explained the non-profit group which connects local producers to ‘eaters’ is still a commercial business.
“The ask of Grey County to provide $20,000 in grant funding and ongoing financial support to cover monthly lease costs of $4,200 is just not something that staff can recommend that council support,” Myers told council. “Eat local is a commercial business and section 106 of the Municipal Act prohibits giving a single business financial support of the type requested.”
The organization claimed it is facing insolvency party because Grey County sold its former location for housing, and they had to relocate to a more expensive home in Meaford.
“This is a difficult situation no doubt, whereby staff and community truly support the vision and mission of Eat Local Grey Bruce and we really want to see them succeed,” added Myers. “At the same time, there’s a shared understanding amongst all communities that the business model requires a complete restructure alongside significant debt repayment.”
She explained to council the non-profit organization was funded through the investment readiness program back in 2020.
She recommended Eat Local Grey Bruce and member producers be provided with support and training at no cost through the Business Enterprise Centre. Staff also directed the organization to possible granting programs it could consider.
