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Newsletter: December 2022

Working together to make every day, a better day, in Simcoe-Grey


Health Minister Sylvia Jones Announcement in Collingwood

The Ontario government is improving people’s access to diagnostic imaging services and reducing wait times by investing over $20 million in operating funding to support the addition of 27 new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines in hospitals across Ontario.

“Our government is ensuring hospitals across the province have the funds they need to operate their new MRI machines and increase access to diagnostic imaging for people in their communities,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

“For some communities, this funding means they will have their first-ever MRI machine and residents will have more convenient access to care closer to home.”

Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson said today’s announcement represents huge recognition of the role that the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital plays in the South Georgian Bay Region.

“Health Minister Sylvia Jones who is also the Deputy Premier was here this morning to announce the G&M Hospital is getting the funding for the operation of an MRI. This would be the first MRI in our community. It is a big step forward.”

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Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund

The Ontario government is providing $17,403,799.00 to help renew and rehabilitate local infrastructure in Simcoe-Grey. The funding is being delivered through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) and is part of the government’s overall investment of $400 million in 2023.

OCIF supports local infrastructure projects by providing stable and predictable funding for rural and northern communities, as well as for communities with populations under 100,000. Funding allocations are based on a formula that recognizes the different needs and economic conditions of communities.

“Ontario’s small, rural and northern communities are essential to the growth and prosperity of the province,” said Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government is continuing to provide stable funding to meet local infrastructure needs and provide support in response to pressures from inflation. By supporting key community infrastructure projects, we are helping to grow and build safer, more resilient communities for generations to come.”

“The OCIF funding will greatly assist communities throughout Simcoe-Grey in addressing critical infrastructure needs including road, bridge, water and wastewater projects,” said Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.

Simcoe-Grey 2023 OCIF funding allocations: 

  • Adjala-Tosorontio:  $371,911
  • Clearview:  $887,821
  • Collingwood:  $1,618,496
  • Essa: 969,687
  • Grey County:  3,042,024
  • New Tecumseth:  2,465,011
  • The Blue Mountains:  1,710,658
  • Wasaga Beach:  1,747,473
  • Simcoe County:  4,590,718 

MPP Andrew Dowie Visit to MEDATech in Collingwood

Left-to-right: Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Windsor–Tecumseh MPP and PA to the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Andrew Dowie, MEDAtech Collingwood Presidenet Robert Rennie, at the MEDAtech Collingwood facility

It was my pleasure to welcome MPP Andrew Dowie, representing the riding of Windsor–Tecumseh and PA to the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Vic Fedeli, to Collingwood on Friday December 2, 2022. The purpose of MPP Dowie’s visit was to have him tour the MEDAtech facility with company President Robert Rennie and to learn about potential growth plans of the Collingwood based operation.

On this visit, MPP Dowie learned about ALTDRIVE, which is an engineered battery-electric powered system that is capable of powering heavy equipment including commercial trucks, tractors, excavators, buses, haul trucks, light rail, and mining machines.  The technology is designed to replace internal combustion engines without surrendering performance. Not only did MPP Dowie learn a great deal about the technology developed by the Collingwood operation, but he also got to drive the truck.

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MPP Saunderson Bill 36 Discussion at Queen’s Park

VIDEO: Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson recently spoke in the Ontario Legislature in support of Bill 36.

“I’m happy to rise today in support of our government’s plan to build Ontario’s economy, address the provinces labour shortage and keep costs down for families and businesses,” said Saunderson.

MPP Saunderson said various factors continue to present unpredictability for the economy, people, workers and businesses in Ontario.

“Our government recognizes we are facing a difficult road ahead. This government is working hard to ensure the province is in a strong position to manage risks in a challenging global economy while investing long term to build a strong Ontario.”


Alliston Automotive Sector Roundtable

Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson hosted an Automotive Sector Roundtable discussion with automotive industry stakeholders from across Simcoe County. Parliamentary Assistant – Ministry of Economic Development Job Creation and Trade, Andrew Dowie, attended the Friday morning event in Alliston.

Joining MPP Saunderson and Windsor–Tecumseh MPP and PA to the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Andrew Dowie at the Nottawasaga Inn in Alliston were Attorney-General Doug Downey and Barrie-Innisfil MPP Andrea Khanjin.


Discussing Infrastructure Investment in Ontario

VIDEO: Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson asked Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Finance Rick Byers for clarification as to how the province plans to invest in infrastructure priorities that matter to the people of Ontario.


Accessibility Announcement for Collingwood’s Sunset Point

Left-to-right: Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Collingwood Councillor Kathy Jeffery

Sunset Point in Collingwood will see its accessibility to the water greatly enhanced by a new installation in the new year.  

Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson said Collingwood has received an Accessibility Inclusive Communities Grant from the province of Ontario in the amount of $30,600 to be used to purchase a “Mobi-mat” outdoor beach access mat to make the beachfront wheelchair accessible and to aid those with other mobility issues.

“This will go nicely with Collingwood’s accessible boat launch ramp at Harbourview Park helping to make Collingwood a true leader in providing accessible installations along its waterfront attractions.”

Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin welcomed the announcement of the important new addition to the eastern sandy beach area at Sunset Point.

“We’re going to have quite a state-of-the-art accessible waterfront here in Collingwood, we are so excited.”

Collingwood Councillor Kathy Jeffery was on hand for the funding announcement.


Visiting the new St. Cecilia Catholic School in Alliston

I would like to thank St. Cecilia Catholic School Principal May Boucher for inviting me on a tour of the impressive new Alliston facility. A grand opening ceremony took place on Tuesday November 29th at the school. Students, parents and friends attended the much-anticipated event. Bishop John A. Boissonneau performed the blessing.

The new school welcomed approximately 450 students to classes when it opened its doors in September. While the opening of the new St. Cecilia School addressed the immediate needs of students, teachers and staff, additional new schools are in the planning stage as the board continues to react to the explosive growth anticipated to take place in Alliston/New Tecumseth in the next decade.


Recognizing Tec-We-Gwill Women’s Institute

MPP Saunderson welcomed the Past President & Advocacy convenor for the Tec-We-Gwill Women’s Institute, Donna Jebb, and congratulated her group on their 75th Anniversary.
https://facebook.com/tecwegwill


MPP Saunderson in Question Period
Investing in new technology to assist police investigations

VIDEO: In Question Period in the Ontario Legislature this week, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson asked the province’s Solicitor General, the Hon. Michael S. Kerzner, to comment on how the provincial government’s substantial investment of 61 million dollars in new technology will help police fight and solve auto theft cases across Ontario.


Good Shepherd Food Bank in Alliston Open House

The Good Shepherd Food Bank in Alliston held an Open House on Saturday December 3rd to raise awareness of the ongoing need for donations of non-perishable food items, cash or cheques, especially at this time of year. The event was also attended by members of New Tecumseth Council.

The Good Shepherd Food Bank’s service to the community dates back to 1994, when local citizen Guy Belanger began to collect fruit and vegetables from his own and his neighbors’ gardens to be delivered from the back of his truck to local families in need. The organization continues to grow to meet today’s demands, but as always, relies on community assistance.

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Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson
Elimination of Violence against Women

At Queen’s Park, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson talked about the United Nations International Day for the elimination of violence against women, and thanked Simcoe-Grey organizations for their ongoing work with this effort.


Stayner Santa Claus Parade

It was Santa Claus Parade Day on Saturday December 3rd in Stayner. The rain stopped and the people of Stayner came out in big numbers to enjoy the annual event. The parade began at the Stayner’s beautifully decorated Station Park/Tourism Office at 11 a.m. and travelled down main street, finishing at the Stayner Arena/Library. Clearview fire fighters were handing out candy and Stayner & District Kinsmen Club members walked along the parade route to collect food bank donations, cash or gift cards from the members of the community.

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Creemore Santa Claus Parade

Santa Claus had another busy day in Simcoe-Grey on Saturday December 3rd. He visited Stayner earlier in the day and then took part in the annual Creemore Santa Claus Parade in the afternoon. The parade was a big one this year, starting at the Creemore arena, and making its way to the downtown district. The crowds lined the Creemore streets to enjoy the many floats that had been decorated to celebrate the Christmas Season. The Collingwood Collegiate Institute marching band took part in this year’s parade.

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Beeton Agricultural Society Santa Claus Parade

What a difference a week made! The previous Saturday saw events moved indoors because of the rain and high winds, but on this day we were greeted with a bright blue sky for the annual Beeton Agricultural Society Santa Claus Parade!  Congratulations to organizers for putting on such an outstanding parade.

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Tottenham Festival of Lights

This year, visitors to Christmas in the Village and the Festival of Lights in Tottenham enjoyed time outside in the fresh air on a bright, sunny, late November day. With the weather cooperating so nicely spending time outdoors was most enjoyable, and there was a lot of activity to take in including live music, special draws with prizes, strolling carollers, and of course, Holiday Shopping. And of course, Santa was on hand to visit with children of all ages.

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Beeton Festival of Lights

Saturday’s stormy weather event on December 3rd played havoc with many outdoor festivities throughout Simcoe-Grey, including the Beeton Christmas in the Village – Festival of Lights. However, the rain, high winds and dropping temperatures couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of participants and guests as everyone simply moved inside to the DA Jones Library where it was nice and warm. Holiday Season celebrations continued with the Beeton Santa Claus Parade on Saturday December 10th.


Alliston Lions Club Stuff A Bus

The generosity of the community was once again on full display at the annual Alliston Lions Club Stuff-a-Bus Christmas Hamper Program on Saturday December 3rd. Club members were assisted by volunteers from Landmark Bus Lines, OPP and New Tecumseth Fire Rescue. The Stuff-a-Bus drop off points were at Walmart, Zehrs and Giant Tiger locations, gathering food and toys for those in need this Holiday Season.


Alliston Lions Club Stuff a Cruiser Campaign

Here is proof that if you can stuff a bus you can certainly stuff a cruiser!  The annual Alliston Lions Club annual Christmas Hamper Program – Stuff a Cruiser Campaign – was held on Saturday November 26th. Club members and OPP officers were busily collecting unwrapped toys for children up to 12 years of age and accepting cash donations to purchase gift certificates for older children.

I had the pleasure of touring the new Toronto courthouse along with MPP for Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte and Attorney General of Ontario @DouglasDowney, Member of Provincial Parliament for Etobicoke Centre and Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure @KingaSurma and others on Monday December 5th, 2022.

The first of its kind, 17 storey high-rise 63 courtroom structure, is the most technically advanced and modernized courthouse in Ontario.

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Meeting

Thank you members of @cme_mec for sitting down and talking to me about our government’s great work attracting workers, lowering costs of business and supporting investments in the manufacturing industry. Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters is Canada’s largest trade and industry association.

Chicken Day 2022

Thank you to the representatives from @OntarioChicken for meeting to celebrate Virtual Chicken Day 2022 and discussing the importance of broadband access in rural communities. Chicken Farmers of Ontario (CFO) provides responsible, accountable supply management leadership to the growing Ontario chicken industry.

Did you know that over 58,000 chicken meals have been donated since 2018 in Simcoe-Grey. Congratulations to everyone at Chicken Farmers of Ontario for their outstanding dedication to helping others in our riding.

I enjoyed meeting with Roman Neubacher from @Film_Ontario.  We discussed the television industry and the great work our government is doing to attract domestic & foreign film & television production right here in Ontario.

I had the pleasure of meeting with 32-year OPP veteran and former Deputy Commissioner, Rick Barnum, at Queen’s Park in Toronto.

As part of the National Coalition Against Contraband Tobacco, Mr. Barnum and I talked about the situation and ways to combat the contraband issue here in Ontario and across Canada.

I had a great discussion with Andrew Walasek from @GoSnowmobiling about the initiatives our government has developed to support new infrastructure projects maintaining over 33,000 km of trails across Ontario.

I met with local school board leaders from the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association @OPSBA to discuss the great work they do and current issues facing public schools in Ontario. Thank you Jodi Lloyd & Rosemary Pochopsky for meeting with me at Queen’s Park.

I met with representatives from @SpiritsCanada and enjoyed a great discussion on supporting the distilled spirits industry in Ontario, especially in Simcoe-Grey where many distillery operations are located.

www.spiritscanada.ca

I was pleased to meet with representatives from @IntactInsurance at Queen’s Park. We discussed auto insurance in Ontario and explored opportunities to create a more innovative & sustainable auto insurance system.


Working with the Mayors of Simcoe-Grey

Always great to hang out with the Mayors of Simcoe-Grey! Above, Left-to-Right, Clearview Mayor Doug Measures, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Blue Mountains’ Mayor Andrea Matrosovs, G&M Hospital President and CEO Michael Lacroix and Wasaga Beach Mayor Brian Smith. Below, Collingwood Mayor Yvonne Hamlin.

Above: Town of New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross with Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.

Thank you to Clearview Mayor Doug Measures for dropping by my Stayner office to present us with a new CLEARVIEW flag!


Working together to make every day, a better day, in Simcoe-Grey


VIEW PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS from MPP Brian Saunderson:

September 2022 Newsletter
October 2022 Newsletter
November 2022 Newsletter
December 2022 Newsletter