The County of St. Paul has approved an increase to the transportation grant provided to the St. Paul Centennial Senior Citizen’s Opportunity Club.

Council voted to provide the club with a $2,000 transportation grant for 2026, up from the $1,200 annual funding provided between 2023 and 2025.

The grant helps support travel expenses for excursions organized by the seniors club, which promote social connection and community engagement among its members.

Administration explained to council that the grant has been provided to the group for several years.

“This is an annual grant that’s been paid to the group going back several years,” administration told council. “In previous years it had been $1,000. From 2023 to 2025 it was $1,200. This year they are asking for an increase to $2,000 due to increases in costs.”

Council members discussed the request and noted that travel expenses have continued to rise.

“I don’t think it’s getting any cheaper,” one councillor said during the discussion. “You know, the fuel prices, everything else.”

Councillors also emphasized the importance of supporting programs that benefit seniors in the community.

“You know what? We always said we want to try and help our seniors out a little bit or give a little bit,” a councillor said.

Following discussion, Councillor Shane Smith made the motion to approve the increase.

“Shane makes a motion to approve $2,000,” the motion was stated during the meeting.

Council voted in favour of the motion and the funding increase was approved.

The transportation grant will help the St. Paul Centennial Senior Citizen’s Opportunity Club continue organizing trips and activities that allow seniors to remain active and connected in the community.