Sudbury's controversial ward funds no longer controlled by councillors

After years of debate, Sudbury city council has handed over control of HCI funds to city staff.

Healthy Community Initiative funds gave each councillor $50,000 each year to spend on community projects in their wards.

The funds became a major election issue when concerns were raised that councillors could use the funds to buy votes.

Earlier this week, councillors voted to let the city's leisure services department give out the money.

Councillor Fern Cormier said — short of getting rid of the HCI funds altogether — giving control to city staff is the best option.

"We've kicked the can down the road long enough on this. I think this is the next logical step," he said.

"It removes the HCI from council control or approval or any semblance thereof.  Fundamentally I think that's what the public wanted."

'Lightning rod'

HCI funds have been discussed exhaustively, said councillor Robert Kirwan.

"Those are the three letters that I wish I never would have ever heard in my life," he said.

"It has become a lightning rod for anyone that wants to complain about council. And I just say, 'let's get on with it. Let's let our community groups apply. Let's give them whatever support we can'."

Council will still have to approve any grant that's more than $1,000 and any building project more than $10,000. All recipients will also be required to submit a report to leisure services.

Three quarters of the money available is allocated to not-for-profit capital projects. The rest can be awarded as community grants.