B.C. Premier Christy Clark has announced a review of the province's community gaming grants led by former Kwantlen Polytechnic University president Skip Triplett.
The review will cover grant eligibility, the application process, current legislation governing gaming grants and the province's funding formula.
Charities, community members, industry representatives and local governments will be providing input, Clark said. A final report is due by Oct. 31, 2011.
The BC Liberals reduced gaming grant funding from $156 million to $120 million in the 2009-2010 budget.
Clark increased funding by $15 million in March, though critics blasted the premier for restoring less than half the amount cut under her predecessor, Gordon Campbell.
The grants, which are controlled by the ministry of community, sport and cultural development, support youth sports, youth arts, parent advisory councils, fairs, festivals, museums and other services in the province.
Triplett, who has formerly held positions at Xerox of Canada and Telus, issued a statement saying he was honoured to head the review.
"I understand that broad-reaching impact of gaming grant decisions," Tiplett said. "I am committed to ensuring this review process is open, transparent, and reflective of the needs of B.C. taxpayers."
Members of the community who would like to offer their perspective to the review can visit the gaming grant review website.
Details about community forums will be announced at a later date.
