The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) advocated for critical regional priorities at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 2025 Conference, held in Toronto from January 19 to 21.
The EOWC, representing 103 municipalities across Eastern Ontario, met with provincial ministers, Members of Provincial Parliament, and opposition leaders to push for support on housing, health care, and infrastructure. “Strong partnerships between governments are essential to addressing our region’s challenges,” said EOWC Chair Bonnie Clark.
Vice-Chair Steve Ferguson emphasised the caucus’s readiness to shape Ontario’s future. “Our small rural municipalities play a critical role. We came prepared with data and clear recommendations to ensure our voices are heard,” he said.
Key discussions included expanding housing, supporting municipal infrastructure, and funding community paramedicine programs. The EOWC also addressed the importance of strengthening Canada-U.S. economic ties, voicing concerns about potential 25 per cent tariffs on regional exports.
To bolster cross-border partnerships, the EOWC extended invitations to U.S. counterparts, including the New York Association of Counties. “The Canada-U.S. alliance is vital for economic resilience and long-term prosperity,” said Clark.
For more on the EOWC’s 2025 priorities and its “Ready to Work, Ready to Grow” vision, visit eowc.org.
The EOWC represents over 800,000 residents and has been a unified voice for Eastern Ontario’s municipalities for over 20 years.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
