The Town of Lincoln, Ontario takes great strides in fostering economic growth and prosperity within its municipality. With the dedicated efforts of the Town of Lincoln Council and its staff, there is a continuous advocacy for key programming and policies that aim to support the local community. By actively engaging with upper levels of government and participating in influential conferences, the council ensures that the town’s priorities are heard, and essential changes are implemented. In this lincolnmain.ca post, we are highlighting some of the recent initiatives and programs advocated by the Town Council and staff during the 2023 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference.
- Letter to Minister Clark – Bill 23 : One of the key concerns addressed by the Town of Lincoln Council is the impact of Bill 23 on the Lincoln community. A letter has been drafted to Minister Clark and the Provincial government, highlighting these concerns and urging for their consideration. The town aims to voice its specific worries regarding Bill 23’s effects and work towards a resolution.
- Community Museums Operating Grant (CMOG): To enhance the experiences of visitors and ensure the stability and success of community museums, the Town of Lincoln, Ontario requests an increase in the funding envelope for the Community Museum Operating Grant (CMOG). This funding program plays a crucial role in supporting the operating expenses of community museums throughout Ontario. By securing improved provincial support, the Lincoln community can benefit from enriched programs, exhibits, and events.
- Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund: Advocating for the revival of the Ontario Sport and Recreation Communities Fund, the Town of Lincoln , Ontario seeks support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport. This funding program, which ceased intake in 2018/2019, has been instrumental in promoting sports and recreational activities throughout Ontario. Recognizing its significance in fostering healthy communities, the town aims to reinstate this vital fund.
- Provincial Funding Support: To enhance project and program efficiency, the Town of Lincoln, Ontario requests support from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. This support would enable the town to modernize its services and acquire tools to facilitate improved operations. Upgrading financial systems, planning/permitting tools, digitizing data, streamlining applications, and enhancing customer service are among the key areas the town seeks to address through additional funding.
Furthermore, the Town of Lincoln, Ontario expresses gratitude to the Province for its support and funding during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. To mitigate the impact of stunted revenue growth caused by the pandemic, the town requests further support from the Province to cover the financial shortfall experienced at the local level.
- Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Fund: To accommodate the growing community, the Town of Lincoln has submitted an application to the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Fund. This application aims to support the redevelopment of the Moses F. Rittenhouse Library Branch, transforming it into a comprehensive library facility. Currently, the Lincoln Pelham Public Library branches fall short of the recommended space per capita guidelines in Ontario. Moreover, the Moses F. Rittenhouse Branch requires significant renovations to meet accessibility standards outlined by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). By securing support from the Ministry of Infrastructure, the town envisions a 21st-century public library that will serve as a community hub, fostering digital literacy and civic engagement.
- Skills Development Fund Round 3: In collaboration with the not-for-profit partner Civiconnect, the Town of Lincoln, Ontario has applied for funding from the Skills Development Fund. The funding would support the ongoing Youth Skills Studio program, which has been successful in supporting youth and small businesses within the town. Seeking an opportunity to discuss the application’s merits, the town hopes to engage with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development.
The Town of Lincoln, Ontario Council and staff exemplify their dedication to the community by advocating for various initiatives and policies at the 2023 ROMA Conference. Through their active involvement with upper levels of government, they ensure that the town’s priorities are heard and considered. By highlighting concerns, seeking increased funding for essential programs, supporting local museums, reviving funding initiatives, and pursuing infrastructure development, the council aims to foster economic growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life for the residents of Lincoln, Ontario.
