A delegation from the Municipality of West Nipissing, including Mayor Thorne Rochon, along with Councillors Rivard, Gagné, Pharand and Restoule, attended the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s 2024 conference in Ottawa from August 18 to 21.
The annual AMO conference facilitates direct interactions between municipal Council members and provincial officials. It also offers extensive educational programming regarding current municipal issues and potential solutions. “This conference gives Council an opportunity to build relationships with the provincial government, to help Ministers and MPPs learn about the challenges we face and the support we need. It’ s a chance to advocate for funding that will have a positive impact on our community and economy,” said Mayor Thorne Rochon.
The Council of West Nipissing, along with French River Mayor, Gisèle Pageau, were granted a meeting with Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products. Members of Council explained the impacts of the recent mill closures on the local economy, employment, and overall sustainability of the forestry sector in the region. (Closures include the Domtar Pulp mill in Espanola and Rayonier Advanced Materials plant in Temiskaming.) They asked that the Minister consider the West Nipissing and French River area as a viable location for wood waste processing.
Moreover, Council advocated for assistance from the Minister of Forestry to help modernize the forestry sector by endorsing projects such as a combined biochar, heat, and power generation facility. Through discussions with local operators, the mayors were also able to confirm interest from the farming sector in using sustainable soil amendments derived from biochar. Long-term solutions such as a multi-functional facility can increase sustainable practices in Northeastern Ontario and foster industry resilience.
For details and contact information of the Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, visit the Hon. Kevin Holland page. To learn more about the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, please visit amo.on.ca.