County of Renfrew champions regional priorities at 2026 AMO Conference
OTTAWA, ON – The County of Renfrew pushed for important regional needs during the 2026 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference, engaging with provincial ministers and government officials to advocate for funding that supports infrastructure, housing, economic development, healthcare, childcare, transportation, and forestry throughout the area.
Taking place in Ottawa from August 16 to 19, the annual AMO Conference is Ontario’s top municipal event. It gathers elected officials, municipal staff, provincial leaders, and sector partners from all over the province to discuss shared challenges and opportunities facing communities.
Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy highlighted that the conference serves as a key platform to ensure local and rural issues are heard at the provincial level.
“The AMO Conference is an invaluable opportunity for Renfrew County councillors and senior staff to connect directly with provincial decision-makers, share the unique opportunities and challenges facing our communities, and advocate for the investments and support our residents need,” said Warden Murphy. “By attending this conference, we strengthen relationships, gain insight into emerging issues, and ensure Renfrew County has a strong and informed voice at the provincial level.”
County councillors and senior staff took part in seven delegation meetings with provincial ministries to address issues that impact service delivery, economic growth, and quality of life across Renfrew County.
Key advocacy focuses included:
Ministry of Finance – Advocated for tax policy changes that would allow municipalities to reinvest HST savings into housing-related infrastructure. They also sought funding for a study on municipal modernization initiatives aimed at improving service delivery while maintaining affordability for taxpayers.
Ministry of Health – Discussed innovative solutions for seniors’ housing while seeking sustainable funding for Mesa. This community-based model connects vulnerable residents with mental health services, addictions support, housing options, and healthcare resources while easing pressures on emergency services.
Ministry of Energy and Mines – Called for upgrades to electrical grid infrastructure to open up investment possibilities. These improvements aim to support agriculture and forestry while boosting energy security across the region.
Ministry of Transportation – Advocated for targeted investments in Highway 17 to enhance public safety as well as strengthen transportation routes vital for trade. This includes support for national defence initiatives along with nuclear innovation.
Ministry of Natural Resources – Promoted better assistance for Ontario’s forestry sector through biomass projects. They emphasized low-grade fibre utilization efforts along with public education campaigns designed to sustain rural jobs while ensuring responsible forest management practices.
Ministry of Education – Urged renewal of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement aimed at securing affordable childcare options. They want expanded access to services that can benefit working families.
Ministry of Infrastructure – Advocated creation of a new Strategic Growth Communities Fund intended to help municipalities deal with infrastructure demands tied to housing development. This is especially crucial for communities growing due to federal nation-building projects like Nuclear power or Defence initiatives.
Alongside these meetings, County representatives assisted local municipal partners in promoting their own priorities during AMO delegations while networking with provincial officials.
“The issues facing Renfrew County require strong partnerships across all levels of government,” said Warden Murphy. “These meetings allow us to highlight local needs, identify solutions, and work collaboratively with provincial partners to secure investments that will benefit our communities for years to come.”
Warden Murphy also expressed gratitude towards Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault for his ongoing support regarding matters significant to residents in Renfrew County.
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is a non-profit organization representing almost all Ontario’s 444 municipalities. Through advocacy efforts along with policy development and educational programs; AMO fosters robust local governance emphasizing municipalities’ roles in supporting Ontario’s social-economic success.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Craig Kelley Chief Administrative Officer/Deputy Clerk 613-735-7288
Tina Peplinskie Media Relations Coordinator 613-735-7288
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