The district has awarded seven organizations $28,200 in provincial culture grants designated for Mission's 120th anniversary.
Of the 18 applicants vying for a share, the Lifetime Learning Centre Society, Mission Youth Unlimited, Mission District Historical Society, Mission Soapbox Derby, and Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce all received roughly $5,000 each, while the Mission Arts Council snagged $3,000, and the Mission Library got $750.
To qualify, groups had to be non-profit based, not exceed 80 per cent of the project's total cost, the amount not go to administrative costs, provide a tangible benefit to the community, be started by Sept. 29 and completed by year's end, and submit a financial report to the district.
The grant panel, appointed by Mayor Ted Adlem, was comprised of former councillor Danny Plecas, local business owner Debbie Trenholm, and director of parks, recreation and culture Maureen Sinclair.
Coun. Jenny Stevens said she would place "blind faith" in the panel's recommendations though she criticized the report for not explaining why some organizations were chosen.
"I've no way of making an informed vote," she said.
Of the $75,000 awarded to the district by the province's culture ministry, $35,000 was allocated toward upgrades to the Clarke Theatre, $10,000 to the 120th anniversary celebration Sept. 29, and the remainder to arts and culture grants.