$1.5M for struggling towns

The province announced special funding to help two North shore communities address the financial pressures they face.

Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle announced $1.5-million Friday that will be split between Marathon and Terrace Bay. Both communities have been facing significant tax revenue losses due to the closure of Marathon Pulp and shutdown of Terrace Bay Pulp.

Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas said the $742,000 his community received in one-time funding will help offset the $1.4-million in lost tax revenue from the mill closure. Dumas added that the town has had to make some tough budget decisions to deal with the shortfall.

The community ski hill was not opened this past winter and hours at the local arena and pool were reduced.

Terrace Bay received nearly $744,000 from the province.

Mayor Mike King said the township has a two-year plan to address the loss of assessment at Terrace Bay Pulp, which may still re-open later this year.