Representatives from the County of Renfrew attended the 2025 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference in Toronto from January 19-21, to discuss key issues impacting rural municipalities in Ontario. The conference, themed “Rural Routes,” provided opportunities for municipal leaders to engage with provincial ministers, attend educational panels, and advocate for changes to benefit their communities.
During the event, County officials met with several provincial ministries to address crucial issues, including funding reductions to Family and Children’s Services, the need for additional child-care spaces, and concerns over cuts to the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF). The County also pushed for continued support for major infrastructure projects, such as the expansion of Highway 17 and additional segments of the Algonquin Trail to connect with northern Ontario.
Renfrew County also highlighted its innovative “Campus of Care” concept, which aims to create an integrated seniors’ campus with child-care spaces, and sought long-term funding for community paramedic programs. Discussions also included the need for increased support for mental health services and emergency medical services in rural areas, particularly paramedics and mental health counselors to address growing community needs.
Warden Peter Emon emphasized the importance of these meetings for fostering connections with provincial leaders. “These interactions are vital in ensuring our voices are heard and that we can work together to address the challenges and opportunities facing our County,” Emon said.
Renfrew County officials also supported other municipalities’ initiatives, including discussions with the City of Pembroke on the Homelessness Prevention Program and with the Township of Whitewater Region regarding business expansion in Cobden. Michael Nolan, Director of Emergency Services for Renfrew County, presented the Mesa initiative, which focuses on rural responses to mental health and addiction issues.
The ROMA Conference is an essential platform for rural municipalities to advocate for vital resources and build partnerships with provincial leaders, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.
(Written by: Emma Butler)