wants growth, and we need it to increase our tax base and stay viable.” UNITING BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY The water issue doesn’t just affect residents; it’s also a concern for major local employers.That’s why North Dundas is taking a collaborative approach, building public–private partnerships that amplify its advocacy efforts. In January, Mayor Fraser, the CAO, and leaders from Lactalis Canada, one of the country’s largest cheese manufacturers, travelled to Toronto for the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference.Together, they met with provincial ministers to discuss water infrastructure needs. “We were talking about innovative ways to manage water issues,” Mayor Fraser explains.“Having Lactalis there showed the province how critical this is. Their operations, the hospital, the new long-term care facility, all depend on a reliable water supply.” The partnership highlights a bigger point: North Dundas’s industries are part of a provincial and even global supply chain. “Most people in the province have products from this village in their fridge,” Mayor Fraser says. “This is about supporting agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and housing all at once.” HOUSING FOR ALL STAGES OF LIFE While new subdivisions wait for water expansion, one major housing success story is already unfolding: the Wellings of Winchester, a 500-unit 55-plus rental community. The development offers maintenancefree living, a clubhouse with fitness and games rooms, and plenty of opportunities for social connection. “People are coming from as far as New Brunswick and BC,” Mayor Fraser notes. “They find community here quickly. One man told me he’d lived in Toronto for years without knowing his neighbours. In North Dundas, he’d made friends in just a few months.” This is part of a larger continuum of care in North Dundas. Seniors can move from independent living 5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 NORTH DUNDAS, ON
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