Sioux Lookout, ON – In September, the Municipality of Sioux Lookout launched the Community Choice Project Fund, a new participatory budgeting pilot that allows residents to help decide how $20,000 of municipal funds will be spent on local projects in 2025. Funded through the Municipal portion of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), the initiative promotes trust, transparency, and resident involvement by letting the community choose the projects that matter most.
The idea collection phase ran from September 29th through October 31st, with staff reviewing submissions and assessing their eligibility through early November.
At the end of the idea collection and proposal development phases, two projects met all eligibility criteria:
Project #1: Waterfront Programming and Supervision
This proposal introduces aquatic programming and supervised swimming at Town Beach throughout summer. It would support learn-to-swim lessons, swim-to-survive, aquafit, open-water lane swimming, and supervised recreational swimming. Families currently travel to Dryden for these opportunities, and this project would enhance safety, recreation, and youth employment while supporting healthy, active living.
Budget: $20,000.00
Project #2: Community Art
This project proposes a 10 ft by 32 ft mural on the Recreation Centre, created by Lac Seul artist Storm Angeconeb. The artwork—eight vinyl panels on aluminum composite material—would celebrate Indigenous art, create a more welcoming entrance, and support future community art initiatives. Materials are durable and low-maintenance, and the installation will be illuminated.
Budget: $14,032.34
Phase three of the process is now underway – community voting! During the three-week period of November 17th to December 5th, Sioux Lookout residents can vote on which project should be presented to Council in January for approval and implementation. To cast your vote, please visit the survey.
According to the 2025 Resident Satisfaction Survey, 83% of Sioux Lookout residents want their input to influence community decision-making, yet fewer than 40% feel they have enough opportunities to provide input. This project responds directly to that feedback, building trust and creating new ways for residents—including youth and underrepresented groups—to engage with local government.
For more information, please contact:
Jen Esposito, Manager of Strategic Initiatives
807-737-2700 ext. 9005 or [email protected]