Crime, housing, and infrastructure were key topics of discussion for the City of Thunder Bay’s delegation at the annual Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference. The conference, held in Ottawa from August 16 to 19, saw city officials engage with seven provincial representatives, including ministers.
Notable meetings were held with Infrastructure Minister Todd McCarthy, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones, and Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. A significant outcome was the joint announcement by the provincial and federal governments of a $1 billion infrastructure funding initiative for municipalities that do not impose development charges.
Councilor Trevor Giertuga, chair of the city’s intergovernmental affairs committee, emphasized the impact this funding could have, stating Thunder Bay’s unique position as the only municipality over 100,000 people without development charges. Councilor Kasey Etreni, also part of the intergovernmental affairs committee, highlighted the uncertainty around the amount of funding Thunder Bay might receive from this initiative.
Giertuga shared positive news about the province’s commitment to enhancing the Trans-Canada Highway section in Thunder Bay, which includes replacing multiple traffic lights with interchanges. He mentioned that the Ministry of Transportation is progressing with a $450 million project, starting with a design-build contract for a 13-kilometer expressway section.
Furthermore, discussions at the conference covered the future of the former Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital property on Algoma Street North. While the property remains classified as “under review” on Ontario’s surplus property site, the city was assured by the province of the first right of refusal in case of a decision to dispose of the property. Giertuga mentioned plans for collaborative proposals involving the City, First Nations, and the provincial government for the area.
Overall, the AMO conference provided a platform for fruitful discussions and potential collaborations on crucial issues impacting Thunder Bay’s development and infrastructure.
