The Columbia Basin Trust delivered $80.8 million in direct benefits to basin communities in the past year on revenues of nearly $96 million.
$53.1 million was distributed through 64 programs and initiatives. Trust contributions included $6.2 million in capital investments in broadband infrastructure and economic programs, $13 million in new business loans and $8.5 million in new real estate investment.
It’s all outlined in the recently released 2023/24 Annual Service Plan Report
“This past year has been challenging for a number of reasons,” said Johnny Strilaeff, Columbia Basin Trust President and Chief Executive Officer. “However, working closely with the incredible people of the Basin, we have continued to see amazing achievements across our region. On behalf of the Trust Board and staff, I want to express sincere gratitude for your dedication and hard work, and we look forward to the years ahead.”
In 2023/24, the Trust partnered with First Nations, local governments, non-profits, businesses and others to support over 2,800 projects addressing key priorities identified in the 2020-2023 Columbia Basin Management Plan (CBMP), including housing, high-speed connectivity, ecosystem enhancement, local food production, climate resilience, business renewal, and collaboration with Indigenous Peoples.
This year also marked the completion of the Trust’s extensive Our Trust, Our Future CBMP renewal process. Through virtual meetings, 23 in-person community open houses and three symposia, Basin residents helped shape the new CBMP 2024-2034, which launched in February.
Residents are invited to attend the Trust’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and meet with Trust leadership. Board Chair Jocelyn Carver and President and CEO Johnny Strilaeff will lead the session, reviewing highlights and discussing future plans.
The AGM will take place online and in person in Ɂaq̓am at St. Eugene Resort on September 26, 2024, from 3 to 4 p.m. PT / 4 to 5 p.m. MT.
The 2023/24 Annual Service Plan Report is available at ourtrust.org/annualreport.
