Dear Neighbour,
It is an honour to serve as your Member of Provincial Parliament for Simcoe-Grey.
As September begins, many of us are returning to familiar routines. Students are back in classrooms, families are settling into the rhythm of Fall, and our communities are moving forward with renewed energy after a busy summer.
Over the past few months, I had the privilege of traveling throughout our riding, meeting with residents, business owners, and community leaders. I am grateful to all who took the time to share their experiences, ideas, and concerns with me. These conversations remain invaluable in guiding my work at Queen’s Park and here at home.
Looking ahead, September will be a busy and meaningful month, with opportunities to celebrate local milestones, recognize funding recipients, and connect with many more constituents. In August alone, more than $35.3 million in grants and funding were announced for Simcoe-Grey. These investments will strengthen our communities, create new opportunities, and support our local economy.
As always, if you need help accessing provincial government services, my team and I are here to support you. Since being elected as your MPP in June 2022, we have proudly completed more than 3,950 cases on behalf of Simcoe-Grey residents, and helped individuals and families navigate programs, access services, and find solutions. This number continues to grow each month. Should you have questions, concerns, or feedback, please reach out to my office at: brian.saunderson@pc.ola.org
Together, we continue to build a stronger and more vibrant Simcoe-Grey. Thank you for your ongoing engagement and support.
Yours Truly,
Brian Saunderson
Member of Provincial Parliament
Simcoe-Grey
Ontario Invests $35 Million to Support Housing in Adjala-Tosorontio
It was a historic day for Adjala-Tosorontio! I was proud to announce $35 million in local water infrastructure to enable the construction of up to 1,966 new homes.
This investment will support the new Everett Wastewater Treatment Plant and expanded water systems, unlocking more housing opportunities, keeping workers on the job, and supporting sustainable growth in our region. Congratulations to Mayor Scott Anderson, Council, and Township staff on securing this important funding. By working together with our municipal partners, we are laying the foundation for the homes and infrastructure that Simcoe-Grey families and Ontario families need.
Honouring National Peacekeepers Day
Since its establishment in 2008, August 9th has been recognized across Canada as National Peacekeepers’ Day.
I was honoured to welcome the Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, the Hon. Graham McGregor, to Peacekeepers Park in Angus. Also joining us were: Essa Mayor Sandie Macdonald and Essa CAO Michael Mikhail, as well as Veterans in UN Peacekeeping – President: Fern Taillefer and Chapter Vice President: Bob George. Across decades and countries, Canadian Peacekeepers have served with courage and compassion in some of the world’s most challenging regions. National Peacekeepers Day reminds us to honour those who have worn the blue beret in the cause of peace, remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to recognize the dedication of all who continue this proud tradition of service.
Minister Stan Cho visits Simcoe-Grey
I was pleased to welcome the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, the Hon. Stan Cho, to The Blue Mountains. While he was here, we enjoyed meeting with Patti Kendall, President of the Blue Mountain Village Association and Deputy Mayor Peter Bordignon. I appreciated the time that Patti spent touring us through the bustling Village at Blue. We were able to see first-hand how Blue Mountain has become a true four-season destination. Tourism is a cornerstone of our local economy, and it was a pleasure to highlight some of the people, businesses, and attractions that help drive growth and create memorable experiences for visitors from across the province and beyond.
Collingwood Paddling Club Secures Seniors Community Grant
Congratulations to the Collingwood Paddling Club on receiving a $21,465 Seniors Community Grant from the Ontario Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility. This investment helped to support the Seniors on the Water program, offered in partnership with local Probus clubs, which gave over 60 seniors the chance to stay active and socially connected through coach-led paddling in dragon boats, war canoes, canoes, and kayaks.
I had the pleasure of visiting the program and bringing greetings on behalf of the Minister of Seniors and Accessibility, the Hon. Raymond Cho. This initiative is a wonderful example of how community organizations can create opportunities that encourage both physical wellness and meaningful connections. My congratulations to the Collingwood Paddling Club for their leadership and dedication to strengthening community life, both on and off the water.
Wasaga Beach Mobile Tourist Information Centre
Congratulations to Mayor Brian Smith, Council, and the entire Town of Wasaga Beach team on the launch of an exciting new initiative to promote tourism and showcase everything the community has to offer.
Wasaga Beach has unveiled its first-ever beach-themed Mobile Tourist Information and Welcome Centre, a creative, 1970s-inspired, interactive unit now stationed at Beach 1 and ready to travel to events across Simcoe–Grey and beyond.
With its retro marquee sign, swag shop, and information racks for maps and visitor guides, the mobile centre brings the spirit of Wasaga Beach directly to people, while highlighting their vibrant business community, and encouraging people to visit and experience all that they have to offer.
As the Town noted, this initiative is a game-changer for their tourism strategy. It also reflects the strong partnership between Wasaga Beach and the Province of Ontario. This new mobile centre is more than a welcome station, it is an invitation to discover Wasaga’s history, community, and future.
51st Annual Alliston Potato Festival
The 51st Annual Alliston Potato Festival was a fantastic success. I had the pleasure of attending and joining the community to celebrate this much-loved summer tradition. The Festival Parade was a highlight, with hundreds of families and friends lining the route to enjoy the lively floats and music.
Throughout the weekend, the festival once again showcased Alliston’s proud agricultural roots while offering something for everyone, from live entertainment and delicious food to activities for all ages. It was wonderful to see the streets filled with so much energy, community spirit, and pride in our local heritage. Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and participants who made this year’s festival such an enjoyable and memorable event.
Showcasing Agri-Tourism in Simcoe-Grey
It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister of Rural Affairs, the Hon. Lisa Thompson, to Simcoe-Grey.
Our day began in The Blue Mountains, where we met with Town staff to learn about their successful 2024 Open Fields event, supported through the Ministry’s Rural Economic Development Program. The event gave the public an opportunity to visit five local producers, learn about modern farming practices, meet the individuals dedicated to agriculture, and explore the process of bringing food from farm to table. The Minister extended congratulations directly to the Town staff and, through Councillor Gail Ardiel, to the municipality as a whole. We then did a site visit at Georgian Hills Vineyard in Clarksburg, where business partners Robert Ketchin and John Ardiel led us on an educational tour of the vineyard and spoke about cider operations. Minister Thompson engaged in thoughtful and open conversations, asking questions about what is working well and where improvements could be made, not only in farming and beverage production, but also in the vital agri-tourism sector.
In the afternoon, we travelled to Clearview Township to visit Kimberly Schneider, who along with her husband Tim, owns and operates Duntroon Cyder House. Joined by Mayor Doug Measures and Deputy Mayor Paul Van Staveren, we toured the site and heard directly from Kimberly about the successes and challenges of operating a cider business and welcoming visitors through agri-tourism. Her feedback and insights were invaluable. These visits highlighted the innovation, resilience, and leadership of local businesses in Simcoe–Grey. From agriculture to cider and wine, to unique tourism experiences, our region continues to set an example for the Province. My thanks go out to all who welcomed us and shared their time, expertise, and perspectives with Minister Thompson and myself. We look forward to continuing these important conversations.
Ontario Senior of the Year!
Congratulations to Carla Lea Beckett, recipient of an Ontario Senior of the Year Award, proudly nominated by the Town of New Tecumseth.
Many in our community will know Carla from her dedicated volunteer work at Stevenson Memorial Hospital, where her kindness and commitment have touched countless lives.
Presented through the office of the Hon. Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors & Accessibility, this award honours Ontarians aged 65 and older who have made remarkable social, cultural, and civic contributions. Nominations come exclusively from municipalities, making this recognition especially meaningful. Well done, Carla and thank you for the difference you continue to make in our community!
Committee Hearings on the Municipal Accountability Act, 2025
As a member of the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy, this summer I travelled across the Province to hear public input on Bill 9, the Municipal Accountability Act, 2025.
If passed, this legislation would strengthen municipal governance and reinforce public trust by:
- Introducing a standardized municipal code of conduct
- Requiring formal training for council members and certain local boards
- Giving the Ontario Integrity Commissioner an oversight role
- Establishing a clear process to remove members from office for the most serious violations
These measures are designed to ensure accountability, integrity, and transparency at the local level where it matters most.
Focusing on Public Health in Simcoe-Grey
I recently met with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) to discuss key public health priorities in our region, from disease prevention and health promotion to emergency preparedness.
Having served on the SMDHU Board of Health from 2015 to 2019, I know first-hand the dedication of their staff and the positive impact of their work in our communities. Guided by the Ontario Public Health Standards and a strong strategic plan, the Health Unit partners with individuals, families, and organizations to build healthier people and healthier places.
It was a pleasure to connect with Ralph Cipolla, Board of Health Vice Chair; Ann-Marie Kungl, Board of Health Chair; and Dr. Charles Gardner, Medical Officer of Health and CEO. Thank you to the entire SMDHU team for your ongoing leadership in protecting and promoting public health in Simcoe-Grey.
Celebrating the 172nd Barrie Fair
I was delighted to join Essa Mayor Sandie Macdonald for the opening ceremonies of the 172nd Barrie Fair at the Essa Agriplex. Since 1853, this annual tradition presented by the Essa & District Agricultural Society has celebrated our agricultural roots while bringing together residents from across Simcoe-Grey.
From livestock shows and agricultural exhibits to local vendors, carnival rides, and live entertainment, the fair truly offers something for everyone. It was inspiring to see families of all ages enjoying the festivities and to witness firsthand the important role agriculture continues to play as a key economic driver in our region. My sincere thanks go to the volunteers, board of directors, and sponsors whose efforts make this Fair such a success year after year. Your dedication ensures this wonderful tradition continues to thrive for generations to come.
Celebrations across Simcoe-Grey!
New Business: HERCS
Congratulations to Romino Costanzo on the grand opening of HERC’S Nutrition in Alliston! Building on the success of his Woodbridge location, Romino is bringing high-quality supplements, shakes, and health products to support healthy, active lifestyles in our community!
New Business: Varlin
Congratulations to Lindsay Webb and Varlik Saraf on the opening of Varlin in the Blue Mountain Village. This vibrant new shop brings a beautifully curated selection of Turkish goods to our community.
New Business: La Benita Pizza & Wings
Congratulations to Bhumika Mahant and the team from La Benita Pizza & Wings on their grand opening in Stayner. With fresh pizza and 40 flavors of chicken wings, there is plenty to choose from.
Celebrating A Milestone: Loretto Restaurant
Congratulations to Crystal Feaver and Nick Vinkovic on their first year managing the historic Loretto Restaurant. This community landmark continues to thrive under their leadership, offering warm hospitality and showcasing the best of local small business.
Celebrating A Milestone:
Stayner Camp & Christian Retreat Centre
Congratulations to the Stayner Camp on reaching a significant milestone: 100 years of service, hospitality, and spiritual enrichment.
Thanks to Managing Director Kathleen Denbok and the many volunteers and staff whose dedication has shaped generations. To mark the milestone, 100 trees were planted at the camp, a fitting tribute to its lasting legacy.
Celebrating A Milestone:
Coates Creek Cabinetry
Happy 36th anniversary to Bobbie Jo and Jeremy Van Severen of Coates Creek Cabinetry in New Lowell. Since 1989, this family business has grown into a trusted local success story, built on pride, craftsmanship, and community
Together, let’s make every day, a better day, in Simcoe-Grey!