West Grey Mayor Christine Robinson and several members of council attended the Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) conference on August 17, 18 and 19.

This annual event gives municipalities the opportunity to speak with provincial ministries, attend workshops and network.

“This year’s conference was very successful for West Grey,” said Mayor Robinson. “We had clear goals heading into the conference and we are pleased to come away knowing those goals were achieved. West Grey was well represented and built valuable relationships.”

A highlight of the conference included Mayor Robinson’s successful bid for a seat on the AMO Board of Directors, rural caucus. The association is made up elected municipal officials from across the province. The AMO board shapes the vision and advocates for the interests of all Ontario municipalities. Grey County Warden Paul McQueen is also on the AMO board, giving Grey County excellent representation at the provincial table.

“It is such an honour to be elected by municipal peers to the rural caucus,” said Mayor Robinson. “AMO is an important organization that advocates for Ontario’s municipalities. I am looking forward to working with the board and advocating for attainable solutions to the challenges facing rural municipalities.”

During the conference—which was held online this year—West Grey presented and spoke with several ministers and ministry officials to highlight some of the initiatives here at home.

The West Grey delegation met with:

» the Ministry of Infrastructure to discuss maintenance funding and innovative solutions for rural infrastructure projects.

» the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries to discuss ways to improve library funding and to develop program(s) for libraries to provide Internet solutions and support school system.

» Hydro One and the Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines to discuss ways to provide energy solutions in order to make properties shovel-ready for investment opportunities.

» the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to gain insight into how rural municipalities can divert organics from landfill sites.

» and the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility for options and guidance on making historical documents accessible on the municipal website.

source: media release, West Grey