-Reported by Richard Coffin
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) says several measures in the provincial budget will support communities, economic growth, and quality of life across Northern Ontario.
One measure being welcomed is the extension of the Northern Ontario Resource Development Support program by another three years.
FONOM says it has consistently advocated for the program to continue.
“This program provides important support to Northern municipalities, helping to address infrastructure pressures and enabling communities to plan for growth and respond to development opportunities,” says Dave Plourde, President of FONOM.
He adds the ability to stack funding over multiple years is a key strength of the program.
Other budget measures that FONOM says will have positive impacts across Northern Ontario, include:
• A reduction in the small business corporate income tax rate from 3.2 per cent to 2.2 per cent, supporting local businesses and economic activity
• An additional $300 million over six years through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, supporting youth development and community infrastructure
• Continued investment through the $20 million Fire Protection Grant for 2026–2027, supporting forest fire preparedness and response in Northern Ontario
• $1.1 billion in additional funding for home and community care services, helping seniors remain in their communities
• $284 million over four years to support small, rural, and Northern post-secondary institutions, addressing higher costs and French-language service needs
“These investments reflect an understanding of the unique needs of Northern Ontario communities,” says Maggie Horsfield, First Vice-President of FONOM. “From supporting local businesses and youth development to strengthening health care and education, these measures will help build stronger and more resilient communities across the North.”
FONOM also welcomes the removal of the HST for eligible buyers of new homes with Plourde saying the housing measures will help make new home construction more attainable.
In terms of Northern Highways, the municipal group says improvements remain a priority, and they’ll continue to work with both the provincial and federal governments to advance long-term solutions that improve safety, reliability, and capacity.
