Lobbying for Key Projects at ROMA Conference

Russell Township's Mayor and administration attended the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference last week to advocate for key projects and initiatives. Through discussions with four provincial delegations, the Township reinforced its commitment to advancing local priorities and addressing community needs. We are also grateful for the ongoing support of our provincial MPP, Stéphane Sarrazin, who works tirelessly to ensure our voice is heard at Queen’s Park.

Ministry of Infrastructure

Russell Township, alongside United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR), met with Parliamentary Assistant Amarjot Sandhu to advocate for grant support under the Housing Enabling Core Services (HECS) and the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF) programs. This delegation along with lobbying efforts of the past year, helped us in getting over $6 Million in funding for this project. Read the full press release here.

These programs represent vital funding opportunities for critical infrastructure upgrades to Route 300 and Notre-Dame Street. These county roads are essential for accommodating local growth, and UCPR representation ensured a comprehensive discussion of regional needs.

 

Ministry of Sport

Discussions with the Ministry of Sport centered on the Township’s new recreation complex project and its importance in fostering community well-being and growth in the region. Updates on the project’s status were shared, emphasizing its potential to enhance local quality of life.

 

Ministry of Energy – Solar Panel Project

The Township met with Parliamentary Assistant John Yakabuski to discuss a proposed solar panel project on former landfill and sandpit sites.

The objective was to request a directive to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to make land designated as agricultural but unsuitable for farming eligible for LT2 funding, with proper supporting documentation. 25 acres (previously a sandpit) are currently designated as agricultural land, rendering them ineligible for funding under current rules. The Township is seeking an exemption to allow this project to proceed.

Ministry of Energy – Joint Delegation with The Nation Municipality

The focus of this joint meeting was electricity capacity and its potential impact on development in the region. As growth drives increased demand, understanding current capacity and future plans for improvements is critical to preventing limitations on residential, commercial, and industrial growth.

 

The ROMA conference provided an invaluable opportunity to advocate for Russell Township’s priorities directly with provincial ministries. These discussions are another step in ensuring the Township’s growth and development align with the needs of its residents.