County of Renfrew champions regional priorities at 2026 AMO Conference

County of Renfrew champions regional priorities at 2026 AMO Conference

OTTAWA, ON – The County of Renfrew advanced key regional priorities during the 2026 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference, meeting directly with provincial ministers and government officials to advocate for investments that support infrastructure, housing, economic growth, healthcare, childcare, transportation, and forestry across the region.

Held in Ottawa from August 16 to 19, the annual AMO Conference is Ontario's premier municipal gathering, bringing together elected officials, municipal staff, provincial leaders, and sector partners from across the province to address shared challenges and opportunities facing communities.

Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy emphasized that the conference provides an important opportunity to ensure local and rural priorities are represented 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 participated in seven delegation meetings with provincial ministries to discuss issues that directly affect service delivery, economic development, and quality of life throughout Renfrew County.

Key advocacy priorities included:

Ministry of Finance – Advocated for tax policy reforms that would enable municipalities to reinvest HST savings into housing-supportive infrastructure and sought funding for a study to examine municipal modernization initiatives that could improve service delivery, increase efficiencies, and help maintain long-term affordability for taxpayers.

Ministry of Health – Discussed innovative seniors' housing solutions, as well as seeking input on sustainable funding for Mesa, a proven community-based model that connects vulnerable residents with mental health, addictions, housing, and healthcare supports while reducing pressures on emergency services.

Ministry of Energy and Mines – Called for upgrades to electrical grid infrastructure to unlock investment opportunities, support agriculture and forestry, strengthen energy security, and remove barriers to growth across the region.

Ministry of Transportation – Advocated for strategic investments in Highway 17 to improve public safety, strengthen transportation and trade corridors, and support national defence, nuclear innovation, and economic development.

Ministry of Natural Resources – Promoted enhanced support for Ontario's forestry sector through biomass development, low-grade fibre utilization initiatives, public education efforts, and regulatory improvements that sustain rural jobs and responsible forest management.

Ministry of Education – Urged the renewal of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement to protect affordable childcare, expand access to services, and support working families.

Ministry of Infrastructure – Advocated for a new Strategic Growth Communities Fund to help municipalities address infrastructure needs associated with housing development, labour force growth, economic expansion, especially for those communities experiencing growth due to the federal nation building projects (Nuclear and Defence).

In addition to these meetings, County representatives supported local municipal partners in advancing their own priorities through AMO delegations and networking opportunities 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 thanked Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault for his ongoing support and engagement on issues important to Renfrew County residents.

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipalities. Through advocacy, policy development, and education, AMO supports strong local government and promotes the importance of municipalities in Ontario's social and economic success.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Craig Kelley                Chief Administrative Officer/Deputy Clerk            613-735-7288

Tina Peplinskie           Media Relations Coordinator                                613-735-7288