News and Notices
Media Release - Statement by County Warden Ostrander in response to proposed US & Canada tariffs
Cobourg, ON – February 5, 2025 – While the United States federal government has announced a 30-day hold on the tariffs on Canadian goods that were proposed February 1, 2025, Northumberland County remains deeply concerned about the far-reaching impacts of the U.S. decision to target a long-standing, trusted ally. Despite this pause, the threat of 25% tariffs on most Canadian goods and a 10% tariff on energy continues to jeopardize economic stability. It also puts at risk the historic trade relationship between Canada and the United States, which has made our nations the world’s largest trading partners.
While border security was the rationale given for these tariffs, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol data shows that less than 1% of all fentanyl seizures and only 1.5% of illegal border crossing arrests involve the Canada-U.S. border. Still, even this is too much. It was therefore encouraging to see the $1.3 billion investment announced by the Federal Government in December 2024 to enhance border security and strengthen the immigration system.
Northumberland County also supports our federal and provincial partners’ response to the tariffs, including reciprocal tariffs on U.S. products. These measures are unfortunate but necessary to protect Canadian businesses, jobs, and the interests of our residents.
We remain committed to advocating for a swift resolution to this trade dispute, and stand with all levels of government in Canada—federal, provincial, regional, and municipal—in reinforcing our commitment to strengthening the Canada-U.S. alliance. This partnership is critical to the long-term economic resilience and future growth of our region. To this end, I am reaching out to U.S. border communities, seeking collaboration with elected officials on both sides to ensure our local economic concerns are heard and addressed. We must work together to support a swift and sustainable resolution that protects the interests of all border communities.
The County is actively assessing the potential impact of these tariffs on our economy and operations to better inform future decision-making. I will also be meeting with elected officials and Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) from across Eastern Ontario to better understand the potential broader economic effects. The strength of our communities lies in our ability to respond to challenges together, and we are committed to collaborating to safeguard our local economies.
I continue to be inspired by the resilience of our community. I encourage residents to support one another and our local businesses in any way possible. Whether it is by buying locally, participating in staycations, or other steps to keep money circulating within our region, we can each help strengthen our economy.
As we navigate these uncertain times, Northumberland County will continue to advocate for a Canada-U.S. partnership that remains a cornerstone of mutual prosperity and collaboration.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberlandcounty.ca
Web: www.northumberlandcounty.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - 310 Division Street shelter marks two months of positive change
Cobourg, ON – February 3, 2025 – Since the transition of shelter services to 310 Division Street, Cobourg just over one month ago – and the opening of the ground floor Warming Room two months ago – the facility has already begun to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness.
Over 160 unique clients have accessed Warming Room and shelter services since doors opened. Approximately 25% of clients have indicated they were living rough prior to accessing shelter services. And 4 couples and 3 people with pets have been among those accessing shelter spaces - groups that were previously unable to be accommodated.
“We are encouraged by the positive impact we’ve already seen at 310 Division Street,” states Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander. “This is a critical step in the journey towards long-term solutions for homelessness in our community. The progress made in such a short period speaks to the power of collaboration and the community’s commitment to creating lasting change. As we continue to work together, we are focused on building on this momentum to ensure that those facing homelessness have the support and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives and integrate back into the community.”
Other highlights have also marked the early days of this service.
· Transition House has established partnerships with Hope and Light Outreach Services, who is serving lunch onsite twice a week, and with the Salvation Army, serving dinner one night a week. Including those coordinated by staff, over 456 meals have been served to clients during this period. These meals offer not just nourishment, but a sense of care and community to clients during a difficult time.
· 6 other community organizations have begun offering onsite services, improving access to these critical services for clients and increasing opportunities for life-stabilization. This includes:
Northumberland County Community & Social Services
Northumberland Paramedics Community Paramedicine Program
Northumberland Hills Hospital Community Mental Health Services
The Help Centre
The Legal Centre
Four Counties Addiction Services Team (Fourcast)
· And, through collaborative efforts with system partners, 7 individuals have transitioned to permanent housing, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward stability and independence.
All of these developments underscore a central tenant of Transition House’s mandate – to help individuals rebuild their lives and re-enter the community in a positive and sustainable way.
“We are gratified to see the impact this new facility is already having on our clients’ lives,” says Ike Nwibe, Executive Director of Transition House Coalition. “This is more than just a place to stay – it’s a space where individuals can find safety, access support services, and begin to build a better future. We are grateful to community members and partner agencies for joining us in this work to provide critical services and supports to people living unhoused in Northumberland. This support will continue to be vital to helping us meet the diverse needs of the people being served, and to ensure successful integration of the shelter within the community.”
Community engagement
Northumberland County has been working closely with Transition House and community members to ensure ongoing collaboration. This includes the launch, in December, of the 310 Division Community Liaison Committee (CLC) – fulfilling a key recommendation from public consultations held in early 2024. Two productive meetings have taken place, to date, with a focus on developing a communications protocol and creating recommendations to improve community safety and well-being.
· To view CLC meeting agendas and minutes, visit Northumberland.ca/ShelterModernization.
· To contact the CLC, email ShelterCLC@northumberland.ca.
How to help
· One significant way community members can support successful shelter services is to share accurate information with their networks. Northumberland County and Transition House Coalition regularly share information and updates with the community through channels such as social media (Facebook) and websites (Northumberland.ca/ShelterModernization and THShelter.ca). Please consider re-sharing this information – expanding its reach and helping to get this information into the hands of more community members.
· Transition House plans to engage volunteers in different aspects of shelter services, in the future. Interested persons can express their interest by emailing info@thshelter.ca. Transition House will reach out as they become ready to start engaging volunteers.
· Donations are always appreciated and helpful:
* Financial: to Transition House (www.canadahelps.org/en/ dn/79494) or to other agencies in Northumberland delivering services to vulnerable members of the community.
* Food/clothing/materials: Transition House faces different needs at different times. Currently, Transition House is collecting donations of new or gently used adult winter clothing, including jackets, boots, and socks, as well as specific food items such as coffee and sugar. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter during regular business hours. Members of the community interested in making this type of donation in the future are encouraged to contact the shelter about specific areas of need.
Contact Information
· More information about the 310 Division Street shelter is available at Northumberland.ca/ShelterModernization.
· For non-emergency security inquiries, along with waste inquiries, related to Northumberland County’s Emergency Care Establishment License (ECE03CN-2024) under the Town of Cobourg by-law, please call 1-877-770-2564.
· For questions about shelter operations, please contact the Transition House team at 905-376-9562.
· For information about Town of Cobourg bylaws, please visit Cobourg.ca/en/our-government/Bylaws.aspx or call Municipal Clerk/ Legislative Services Department 905-372-4301.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Media Release - Students can make money launching their own business this summer
Cobourg, ON – January 28, 2025 – High school and post-secondary students who are looking to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey are invited to apply for the Business and Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN) Summer Company Program. This annual program provides students, ages 15 to 29, with free professional business coaching, skill-building resources, training opportunities, networking and selling opportunities, and a grant of up to $3,000 to help them launch a business during their summer break.
Participants in the program will gain valuable, hands-on experience to put on their resume and scholarship applications, including building a small business from initial concept development to successful operation. The program offers the unique opportunity for students to explore their creative passions, transforming their skills and interests into a money-making venture with support and ongoing guidance. Participants will leave the program with lifelong entrepreneurial skills that can help them independently manage their future goals, projects, and business ventures.
“The BECN Summer Company Program helped me turn my passion for drone videography into a business,” states Mathew, Owner of Astraview – Aerial Videography. “Their guidance gave me the skills to develop a website, create a portfolio, and make professional sales. Thanks to their support, I’ve been able to secure clients and grow my business, and I’m excited to continue it.”
Since 2001, the Summer Company Program has assisted over 150 students, with approximately $474,000 in micro grants. To apply, applicants must work with BECN staff to develop and submit a business plan that includes details on their business concept, marketing strategy, operational needs, start-up costs, and a risk analysis.
The Summer Company Program is a program of the Province of Ontario and is one of many free business supports offered by the BECN. In addition to this program for high school and post-secondary students, the BECN offers a similar youth entrepreneurship program for kids ages 8 to 14, which will launch applications in the spring. They also offer many programs, workshops and services for local small business owners looking to launch or grow their business in Northumberland.
Students interested in participating in the Summer Company Program are encouraged to contact the BECN as soon as possible to start developing their business plan—which is due by May 23, 2025—in order to complete their application. For more details, visit Northumberland.ca/ SummerCompany.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director of Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: Northumberland.ca
About BECN
The Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (BECN) is the leading source for business information, strategy, resources, and education for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Northumberland. A service delivered by Northumberland County in partnership with the Province of Ontario, the BECN offers micro grants, free consultations, training, information and resources, and workshops and seminars for community members thinking of starting or expanding a small business in Northumberland.
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Advocates for Regional Priorities at ROMA 2025 Conference
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2025, Eastern Ontario – The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) made significant strides in advancing regional priorities during the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 2025 Conference, held in the City of Toronto from January 19 to 21, 2025.
From across Ontario, the EOWC joined over 2,000 municipal colleagues at the conference to participate in meetings with provincial Ministers, Members of Provincial Parliament, and the Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) and Liberal opposition parties to continue advocating for the region’s needs.
“The EOWC believes that strong partnerships between government are needed to tackle infrastructure, housing, health, and economic challenges across the region. The ROMA Conference was a success in building upon our relationships to better serve our 103 communities across Eastern Ontario. Additionally, we remain committed to strengthening the Canada-U.S. alliance, recognizing its vital role in ensuring our region’s economic resilience and future growth.” – EOWC Chair, Bonnie Clark
“The EOWC coordinates strategically and we have the shared political commitment. We came prepared with data and clear recommendations at the ROMA Conference. Our small rural municipalities play a critical role in shaping Ontario’s future, and it is vital that our voices are heard when important decisions are made. – EOWC Vice-Chair, Steve Ferguson
Throughout the conference, the EOWC met with the Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones; Minister of Infrastructure, Kinga Surma; Minister of Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson; Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care, Tyler Allsopp; and the Ontario NDP and Liberal parties.
Regional Priorities
The EOWC and its 103 municipalities remain ‘Ready to Work and Ready to Grow’ for 2025. Our region is poised for growth. The region has the land and is building its workforce. The EOWC remains dedicated to working alongside the Ontario Government to address key social, economic, and political challenges moving forward. The following priorities were discussed during the conference:
Enhancing Eastern Ontario’s growing economy
Strengthening Canada – United States relations
Supporting municipal infrastructure and Municipal Asset Management Plans
Expanding all types of housing
Continuing funding for community paramedicine programs
For the ‘Ready to Work, Ready to Grow’ path forward for 2025, visit www.eowc.org.
EOWC Support for Canada-United States Alliance
The EOWC stands with Premier Doug Ford’s efforts to strengthen the alliance between Canada and the United States. In today’s interconnected world, our municipal leaders are committed to strengthening American and Canadian economic resilience and security across Eastern Ontario.
In light of the potential impact of the 25% tariffs on Eastern Ontario exports, the EOWC is actively gathering data on how this would affect local communities, businesses, and jobs.
To strengthen partnerships across the border, the EOWC has sent letters to the New York Association of Counties and the Great Lakes and the St-Lawrence Cities Initiative to extend our allyship and reinforce commitment to collaborate towards the betterment of people in both Canada and the United States. Together with federal and provincial partners, the EOWC aims to ensure that the Canada-U.S. alliance remains a source of stability, security, and long-term prosperity.
About the EOWC
The EOWC is a non-profit organization advocating for 103 small-urban and rural municipalities across Eastern Ontario. The EOWC covers an area of 50,000 square kilometres, serving 800,000 residents. For more than 20 years, the EOWC has gained support and momentum by speaking with a united voice to champion regional municipal priorities and work with the government, businesses, non-profit organizations, Indigenous leaders, the media, and the public.
Media Contacts
Elected officials:
Bonnie Clark, Chair, EOWC (Warden of Peterborough County)
705-927-4207
info@eowc.org
Steve Ferguson, Vice-Chair (Mayor of Prince Edward County)
613-827-7174
Staff:
Meredith Staveley-Watson, Manager of Government Relations and Policy, EOWC
647-545-8324
meredith.staveley-watson@eowc.org
Media Release - Food 4 All warehouse receives generous donation from Canadian Tire Cobourg to help tackle hunger in Northumberland
Cobourg, ON – January 23, 2025 – In the spirit of holiday giving, Canadian Tire Cobourg donated $6,000 to Northumberland County’s Food 4 All Warehouse last month to help distribute nutritious meals and daily essentials to families in our community. This donation builds on Canadian Tire Cobourg’s long history of supporting food security in Northumberland. Over the past nine years, they have generously donated approximately $30,000 to support Food 4 All’s efforts to combat hunger in Northumberland.
“Canadian Tire Cobourg feels it is important to support our local community,” states Canadian Tire Cobourg Associate Dealer Peter Puglia. “We know that Food 4 All does great work in Northumberland County and we are happy to support them.”
The Food 4 All Warehouse supplies food and essential items to local foodbanks, not-for-profit agencies, and school nutrition programs throughout Northumberland County. In 2024, the warehouse distributed over 1.27 million pounds of product, reaching over 5,600 individuals and making significant strides in alleviating hunger.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support we have received from Canadian Tire Cobourg over the years,” states County Facilities and Food Security Services Manager Rob O’Neil. “Food security is vital to ensure a thriving community – hunger can impact health, education, and over all well-being of community members. Every meal or household product we distribute makes a tangible difference in the lives of community members who are struggling to make ends meet, and donations like these ensure we can continue to meet the growing needs of our community. With the help of compassionate partners like Canadian Tire Cobourg, we are better equipped to fight hunger and work toward building a stronger, more resilient Northumberland.”
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Photo attached (left to right): Canadian Tire Cobourg General Manager Stephanie Miletic and Office Manager Sheila Pethick with Northumberland County Food 4 All Supervisor Jim Davis.
For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Community fundraiser helps Northumberland Paramedics deliver 50 holiday meals to people in need
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – January 20, 2025 – Thanks to community response to the 2025 Paramedic Therapy Dog Calendar fundraiser, Northumberland Paramedics raised over $1,000 to deliver over 50 holiday meals to seniors and community members in need this winter. Paramedics worked closely with Ketch’s Korner restaurant in Cobourg to deliver 25 meals to Community Paramedicine clients during the Christmas holidays, and are planning to deliver another 27 during the week of Family Day in February.
“We are so grateful for the incredible support we received from the community during the first year of this fundraising initiative,” states Northumberland Paramedic Chief Susan Brown. “Thanks to the community’s kindness, we were able to partner with the very generous Ketch’s Korner to provide holiday meals and a friendly visit from our Community Paramedicine team to seniors and vulnerable community members over the holidays.
“Ivy Joules – our Community Paramedicine therapy dog and the star of our 2025 fundraising calendar – often visits our clients and provides support to our paramedic team. She is truly a source of joy for us, and we’re thrilled that, through this program, she has spread her ‘paw-sitive’ impact even further in our community, one smile at a time.”
Each year, Ketch’s Korner donates approximately 250 meals to people in need as well as to first responders working over holiday periods. Northumberland Paramedics wanted to amplify this generous and impactful initiative by raising funds to expand the number of meals that could be distributed. The Northumberland Paramedics Therapy Dog calendar was launched in the fall of 2024 ahead of the holiday season to help support these efforts.
“We started giving out meals to seniors 10 years ago,” states Ketch’s Korner Owner Melissa Dale. “It all started with a lady who was going to be alone for Christmas, as her son was going to be out of town for the holidays. So, my daughter and I dropped off a turkey dinner for her – she was going to have a peanut butter sandwich. That’s what started the whole thing.”
Within only one month of pre-sales last fall, Northumberland Paramedics sold 135 copies of their heartwarming calendars, featuring photographs of Ivy exploring Northumberland and interacting with residents, Community Paramedicine clients, Northumberland Paramedics and staff delivering other County services. All profits from sales were used to purchase meals for seniors and people in need.
The Northumberland Paramedics Community Paramedicine program offers non-emergency in-home care to seniors and vulnerable community members in Northumberland. The program aims to provide preventative and patient-centered care while helping to manage the high demand on hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and emergency services. Learn more at Northumberland.ca/CP.
To see Ivy Joules at work, and to follow her adventures throughout Northumberland, follow @we.need.ivy.stat on Instagram.
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Photo attached (Left to right)
Back: Northumberland Paramedic Joe Glass; Ketch’s Korner Owner Melissa Dale; Northumberland Paramedic Chief Susan Brown
Front: Paramedic Therapy Dog Ivy Joules; Northumberland Paramedic Superintendent of Quality Improvement Education Giselle Lech
For more information
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications & IT
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Advisory - Special Meeting of County Council called for Thursday, January 30th
Cobourg, ON – January 20, 2025– In addition to the regularly scheduled County Council Meeting taking place this Wednesday, January 22nd, a Special Council Meeting will take place on January 30th at 9:30 a.m. to continue discussion about potential efficiencies and cost savings, begun during 2025 budget deliberations in December.
The Special Meeting of County Council will be held in open session, however some portions may move into closed session, if required by the Municipal Act.
January County Council Meetings
· Regular County Council Meeting:
Wednesday, January 22nd at 9:30 AM
Attend in person: Council Chambers, 555 Courthouse Road, Cobourg
Watch the livestream: at Northumberland.ca/Council
Join on Zoom by visiting zoom.us/join or call 1-855-703-8985 (toll-free)
Meeting ID: 893 3871 8158
Passcode: 549319
· Special County Council Meeting: Thursday, January 30th at 9:30 AM Attend in person: Council Chambers, 555 Courthouse Road, Cobourg Watch the livestream: at Northumberland.ca/Council Join on Zoom* by visiting zoom.us/join or call 1-855-703-8985 (toll-free) *Zoom meeting details to be provided in the agenda posted on January 24th.
Agendas for County Council meetings, including full meeting details and discussion items, are available on our Council webpage. The agenda for the Regular Council Meeting is available now and the agenda for the Special Council Meeting will be published on January 24th.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Northumberland County advocates for important community priorities at 2025 ROMA Conference
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – January 17, 2025 – County Warden Brian Ostrander and Northumberland County staff will join more than 1,600 participants from across the province at the 2025 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference. The conference is being held in downtown Toronto, from January 19 to 21, 2025.
Key presenters include Ontario Premier Doug Ford, opposition leaders, and provincial ministers. Keynote speakers at this year’s event include political columnist Chantal Hébert who is passionate about Canadian politics, public policy, and matters of national interest, and Jordan Simmons, Co-founder and CEO of Nominee, discussing democracy and Canada’s path forward after the 2024 US election.
ROMA Chair Christa Lowry and Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) President Robin Jones will also speak.
Concurrent sessions will focus on topics that are top-of-mind in rural communities, like fostering healthy local democracy, cyber security, community benefit agreements for energy and broadband projects, and managing municipal waste.
During the conference, County staff will deliver delegations to the Province of Ontario to advocate for:
· Northumberland Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub pilot program: This delegation from Community & Social Services and Northumberland Paramedics will encourage the province to support a Northumberland HART Hub pilot program, which would work closely with the Pathways to Recovery & Resilience program to address the critical needs of Northumberland County’s most vulnerable residents. These initiatives will enhance mental health, addiction recovery, and homelessness supports in Northumberland.
· Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) Program delivery changes for paramedics: Supporting a resolution brought by the Eastern Ontario Paramedic Chiefs, this delegation from Northumberland Paramedics will advocate for changes to the delivery of the WSIB mandate to better ensure paramedics are supported in recovery from mental health injuries.
· Ontario Works rate and structure adjustments: This delegation from Community & Social Services will advocate for adjustments to the Ontario Works program to better support residents. With no legislated formula for determining Ontario Works rates increases, this delegation will advocate for adjusting rates to reflect inflation over the past five years, implementing a yearly increase for inflation moving forward, and streamlining the requirements to provide residents with clearer eligibility requirements.
For more information about ROMA and their 2025 conference, visit roma.on.ca.
About ROMA: ROMA takes pride in promoting, supporting and enhancing strong and effective rural governments. About 270 of Ontario’s 444 municipalities have populations of less than 10,000, while scores more are rural in character. The rural arm of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, ROMA advocates for policies and programs that will help build thriving rural Ontario communities.
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For more information about ROMA or the 2025 Conference:
Brian Lambie
ROMA Media Contact
Phone: 416-729-5425
Email: lambie@redbrick.ca
For more information about Northumberland County’s attendance at ROMA:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications & IT
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - New child care spaces in Northumberland expand access for families
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – January 16, 2025 – 50 children will move from waiting lists to new child care spaces by January 20th, with an additional 82 children set to be placed, following the successful renovation and licensing of three facilities for child care services at the end of 2024. Northumberland County is pleased to announce this significant milestone in the effort to address the growing demand for child care in the community.
New spaces to be filled by January 20th include:
· 30 spaces with Ganaraska Child Care at the former Ruth Clarke Activity Centre in Port Hope, located at 81 Mill Street South.
· 15 spaces with YMCA Northumberland at 161 Old Hastings Road in Warkworth.
· 5 spaces with YMCA Northumberland at Northumberland Centre for Individual Studies, located at 780 D’Arcy Street in Cobourg.
Child care providers are working diligently to meet increased demand. A hiring process is underway for over 10 new staff members across these facilities to help ensure the remaining 82 spaces open as soon as possible.
“This progress would not have been possible without the strong collaboration of our partners,” states County Early Years Services Manager Lesley Patterson. “We thank our two child care providers for their dedication and support in managing services at these new facilities. The Municipality of Port Hope has also prioritized this initiative, playing an essential role by making municipal facility space available to expedite this expansion. Additionally, we would like to recognize our construction partners, for completing the renovations required to make these spaces available to the community.”
These spaces are part of a broader expansion initiative by the County, in partnership with the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, local municipalities and community organizations. Through this expansion, the County plans to provide a total of 404 new high-quality, affordable, and accessible early learning and child care services to families in Northumberland by the end of 2026.
“This expansion is not just about meeting current needs,” states Ms. Patterson. “It is also about ensuring that future generations of children have access to the best start in life through high-quality, inclusive early childhood education.”
These child care expansion efforts have been made possible thanks to nearly $1.7 million in funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario. This funding has been allocated for construction, equipment, and supplies necessary for the facility upgrades and retrofits.
"The investment from our provincial and federal partners has been instrumental in helping us meet the growing demand for child care in our community," says Warden Brian Ostrander. "We are grateful for their continued support, which will ensure that more families in our community have access to affordable and high-quality early learning and child care services."
Northumberland County is committed to supporting families and ensuring that children have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Families in need of child care are strongly encouraged to get their names on waitlists for any of the child care facilities in their area, as this will increase the chances of securing a placement.
Interested in a career in the Early Years sector? Learn more about the benefits of working in Early Years, and view a list of local job opportunities at Northumberland.ca/ECE.
Track the County’s performance in delivering on child care expansion efforts by visiting our online performance dashboard at Northumberland.ca/Dashboard. Updates for the fourth quarter of 2024 will be available by early February.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications & IT
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Announces Chair, Vice-Chair and Path Forward for 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KINGSTON, ON – January 14, 2025 – The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) has announced the acclamation of the 2025 EOWC Chair, Bonnie Clark (Warden of Peterborough County) and election of Vice-Chair, Steve Ferguson (Mayor of Prince Edward County). The election was held during the EOWC’s annual inaugural meeting on January 9 and 10, in the City of Kingston.
“It is an honour to lead as Chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) for 2025,” states Bonnie Clark. “It is a critical time for our country, province and region to step up, and the EOWC remains ready to work and ready to grow. I look forward to working with my caucus colleagues in the year ahead to advance priorities of infrastructure, housing and health care on behalf of our 103 municipalities and residents across Eastern Ontario.”
“I am honoured to be elected as Vice-Chair,” states Steve Ferguson. “Alongside Chair Clark, I look forward to advancing the important advocacy work our caucus has prioritized for 2025, and continue to support partnerships that respond to the needs of our small-urban and rural communities.”
"Eastern Ontario and its rural communities are vital to the growth and success of our province. Whether it’s building long-term care homes or breaking down barriers to create new opportunities, this region continues to lead by example. Our government will continue to provide the support our municipal partners need to strengthen our economy, expand opportunities, and ensure Ontario remains a great place to live, work, and invest," said Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
"I was pleased to attend the recent EOWC meeting that saw Bonnie Clark and Steve Ferguson step into Chair and Vice-Chair roles, respectively. The EOWC will benefit from their thoughtful leadership that will focus on priorities that will ultimately position Eastern Ontario as an important region that is ready to work and ready to grow! I look forward to working with them to enable opportunities for their local municipalities," said Lisa Thompson, Ontario Minister of Rural Affairs.
As part of the 2025 inaugural meeting, the EOWC welcomed the Minister of Municipal Affairs, Paul Calandra, and Minister of Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, as well as a number of the region’s Members of Parliament (Cheryl Gallant, Michelle Ferreri, Shelby Kramp-Neuman), Members of Provincial Parliament (John Jordan, Ric Bresee, Tyler Allsopp, Ted Hsu). The meeting also emphasized EOWC partnerships with other organizations, with Representatives from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Rural Ontario Municipal Association, the Eastern Ontario Mayors’ Caucus, the Eastern Ontario Regional Network, and the Eastern Ontario Leadership Council participating.
EOWC Priorities
The EOWC’s 2024-2027 strategic plan outlines a comprehensive roadmap, guiding its collective efforts to enhance the following priorities that are crucial for our member municipalities to thrive: infrastructure, housing and health care.
The EOWC remains Ready to Work and Ready to Grow. The EOWC is heading to Toronto for the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference between January 19 to 21. We look forward to discussions around how we can partner with the Ontario Government given the social, economic and political challenges facing us ahead.
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About the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC)
The EOWC is a non-profit organization advocating for 103 small urban and rural municipalities across Eastern Ontario. The EOWC covers an area of 50,000 square kilometres, serving 800,000 residents. For more than 20 years, the EOWC has gained support and momentum by speaking with a united voice to champion regional municipal priorities and work with the government, businesses, non-profit organizations, Indigenous leaders, the media, and the public.
The EOWC’s 2025 Board of Directors includes the following contact list.
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Media Contact
Elected officials:
Bonnie Clark, 2025 Chair, EOWC (Warden of Peterborough County)
705-927-4207
info@eowc.org
Steve Ferguson, 2025 Vice-Chair, EOWC (Mayor of Prince Edward County)
613-827-7174
info@eowc.org
Staff:
Meredith Staveley-Watson, Director of Government Relations and Policy, EOWC
647-545-8324
meredith.staveley-watson@eowc.org
*Past News and Notices have been archived.