Renfrew County is getting ready to attend the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference in Toronto later this month. From January 19 to 21, municipal leaders from across Ontario will gather to discuss important issues affecting rural communities. This year’s conference theme, Rural Routes, focuses on the everyday challenges faced by municipal leaders in rural areas, offering a variety of educational sessions, expert panels, and networking opportunities.
For Renfrew County, the ROMA Conference is a key event to address local issues directly with provincial decision-makers. Elected officials and senior staff will meet with representatives from several ministries to discuss vital topics impacting the county. These meetings are a chance to advocate for Renfrew County’s needs and to strengthen relationships with provincial leaders.
Renfrew County has secured several important delegation meetings, including:
1. Ministry of Infrastructure – Addressing Funding Cuts to OCIF
Renfrew County plans to discuss cuts to the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF). These reductions affect the county’s ability to maintain and improve local infrastructure, which is crucial for resident safety and economic activity. The meeting will explore how to manage these cuts and secure future funding for infrastructure projects.
2. Ministry of Transportation – Expanding Highway 17
Renfrew County is pushing for continued progress on expanding Highway 17. This project is expected to improve transportation, reduce congestion, and boost the region’s economy. The delegation will discuss the timeline, funding, and impact of the expansion, as well as potential construction challenges.
3. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Supporting Seniors Housing
Renfrew County advocates for expanding senior housing options through the “Campus of Care” model. This cost-effective solution allows seniors to age in place, providing more affordable options for seniors who currently have few choices. The county will seek targeted funding to grow this essential housing model.
4. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (Joint Meeting with Pembroke) – Addressing Homelessness and Housing Needs
Affordable housing is in high demand in Renfrew County, and the need for more units is critical. The delegation will discuss increasing funding for the Homelessness Prevention Program and other housing initiatives to support those experiencing homelessness and to ease the pressure on the local rental market.
5. Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions – Funding for Mental Health Support
The county is also seeking support for its Mesa program, which provides services for mental health and addiction issues. This initiative connects community paramedics and counselors to those in need, offering a coordinated approach to support vulnerable populations. Additional funding is necessary to expand these services.
6. Ministry of Colleges and Universities – Expanding Learn and Stay Eligibility for Paramedics
Renfrew County faces a shortage of paramedics, which could strain the local emergency services system. The county will push for expanding the Learn and Stay program to include paramedics, offering incentives to attract emergency medical professionals to rural areas.
Peter Emon, Renfrew County Warden, emphasized the importance of these meetings, saying, “The ROMA conference is a crucial opportunity to collaborate and address the specific needs of our rural communities. It’s a chance to make sure Renfrew County’s priorities are heard and to build strong partnerships for a better future.”
Warden Emon will be joined at the conference by several committee chairs and members of Renfrew County’s senior leadership team to engage in these discussions.
The ROMA Conference is an important event for Renfrew County to ensure its voice is heard and to advocate for essential changes that will benefit the region’s residents.
(Written by: Emma Butler)