Civil Municipal - May 2024

“The extension of Highway 417 beyond Shield Drive is crucial for us, and it’s a project we’re watching closely,”he says.He expresses concern about potential funding shifts due to other large-scale projects in Ontario, which might impact the resources allocated to Renfrew County. “We’re eagerly awaiting a firm commitment from the province as this expansion is vital for our local and regional connectivity,” he adds. On healthcare, Emon highlights a unique virtual initiative responding to a critical shortage of family doctors. “Our Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre is a significant step towards addressing healthcare accessibility,” he explains. This innovative service provides residents without a family doctor access to medical consultations and prescriptions, a vital service in rural areas. Emon also highlights the need for adequate infrastructure to support an increasingly home-based workforce. “If we’re encouraging people to work from home, we need to ensure our infrastructure can support this shift,” he notes. This includes PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Magellan Aerospace www.magellanaerospace.com Premier manufacturer of aluminum and magnesium sand castings serving the aerospace industry worldwide. Located at Haley Station site in Renfrew County for over 70 years with a history of supporting our community through our team members and corporate contributions. 634 Magnesium Road, Haley, Ontario, Canada A Division of Magellan Aerospace Corporation n KI Canada Inc. www.ki.com/products/category KI Canada does more than manufacturing furniture. We’ve been listening. Learning. Helping our customers create unique and inspiring spaces. Not simply because that’s our business. But because that’s how we can make a difference in the lives our customers, our own valued people, and the community we all call home. n Greenwood Paving www.greenwoodpaving.ca Photo Credit: Ottawa Valley Tourist Association considerations for zoning changes to accommodate home offices and community facilities like childcare. Lastly, he reflects on the broader challenges of ensuring equitable funding for rural areas compared to urban centers. “We need to ensure that funding formulas and infrastructure investments are fair and consider the unique needs of regions like ours,” he asserts. The disparity in funding allocation, especially evident in responses to grant applications, underscores the necessity for ongoing advocacy and engagement with higher levels of government. As Renfrew County circumnavigates these complex issues, the focus remains on strategic planning and proactive management to foster a resilient and thriving community. The leadership’s commitment to addressing both immediate needs and long- term goals positions the county to manage current challenges and capitalize on future opportunities. 158 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 05