Jim Brownell, MPP
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry
Once upon a time, it was said that “Ontario ended at Kingston.” Communities further east were largely ignored. I always found this unacceptable. In fact, ensuring that government recognized that Ontario runs all the way to the Québec border was one of the reasons I chose to run for provincial office. Since 2003, that trend has changed. The hospital redevelopment projects, which were repeatedly promised by other governments, are now well underway. We have benefited from significant infrastructure renewal and support programs. With the work being done in Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry, it is clear that Eastern Ontario is well positioned on the map of Ontario.
The current government of Ontario has demonstrated its commitment to our corner of the province. The Eastern Ontario Development Fund, designed specifically to stimulate the economy in Eastern Ontario, and announced in Cornwall by Premier Dalton McGuinty on July 15, 2008, is the latest example of that commitment. This fund, created after extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholders including the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, Municipalities United for a New Deal, and other community leaders, provides $80 million over four years to help businesses create new jobs, and invest in new technologies, equipment or skills training for workers.
Eastern Ontario has already begun to benefit from this fund, with $3,214,657 in funding already having been invested, including $804,707 right here in Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry. This funding supports economic growth for Minimax Express Transportation Inc. in Cornwall and Ross Video Limited in Iroquois.
Through the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF), businesses that invest $500,000 or more in projects that create or retain at least 10 jobs over five years are eligible for up to 15 percent support. Also, agencies, associations and NGOs leading local economic development work can qualify for 50 percent support for projects valued at $100,000 or more.
I encourage all businesses in Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry to visit www.ontario.ca/easternfund, or contact my office via e-mail at jbrownell.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org or by phone at 613-933-6513 to learn more.
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