City of Cornwall Advances Priorities at 2025 ROMA Conference

Mayor Justin Towndale and key city staff represented the City of Cornwall at the 2025 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference, held in downtown Toronto from January 19 to 21. Alongside over 1,600 municipal leaders from across the province, Cornwall’s delegation engaged in critical discussions with provincial officials to address pressing local issues and advocate for the city’s priorities.

Advocating for Cornwall’s Needs

Throughout the conference, Cornwall’s representatives participated in several sessions and meetings, focusing on issues that impact small and medium-sized municipalities. Key topics included asset management, mental health and addiction responses, and strengthening partnerships with First Nations communities. Additional discussions addressed broader challenges such as infrastructure funding, homelessness prevention, and local democracy.

“I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to participate in five delegations with the provincial government to advocate for some of the challenges that we face daily,” said Mayor Towndale. “The City of Cornwall will continue to address our residents’ needs in areas including infrastructure, housing, and public services.”

Key Meetings with Provincial Leaders

During the conference, Mayor Towndale and city staff engaged in crucial discussions with key provincial ministers and officials to push forward Cornwall’s agenda:

• WSIB Presumptive Injury Rule: In a meeting with The Hon. David Piccini, Minister of Labour, discussions focused on this priority issue for the Eastern Ontario Mayors’ Caucus (EOMC), where Towndale serves as Vice-Chair.
• Municipal Liability Insurance Costs: Concerns over rising costs were brought to The Hon. Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, highlighting the financial strain on municipalities.
• Police Services Costs: With The Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General, Cornwall’s delegation addressed the increased costs resulting from the Community Safety and Policing Act.
• Secondary Water Intake Project: Discussions with MPP Amarjot Sandhu, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Infrastructure, focused on securing support for Cornwall’s top infrastructure priority.
• Social Services Collaboration: A joint meeting with SDG Counties and The Hon. Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, explored opportunities for improved service delivery.

Strengthening Cornwall’s Position

Katherine Wells, Director of Government Relations and Strategic Priorities, emphasized the significance of the conference, stating, “Attending ROMA is a key opportunity to directly engage with provincial leaders about Cornwall’s priorities. These discussions are vital in ensuring that our city’s most pressing needs are aligned with provincial plans and receive the necessary attention and support.”

By participating in ROMA 2025, Cornwall has reinforced its relationships with provincial decision-makers, ensuring the city’s concerns are addressed in future provincial initiatives. The insights gained from the conference will play a vital role in shaping Cornwall’s strategy for securing resources, improving public services, and enhancing infrastructure.

About ROMA

The Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) is dedicated to supporting and enhancing strong and effective rural governments. Representing 270 of Ontario’s 444 municipalities with populations under 10,000, ROMA advocates for policies and programs that foster thriving rural communities.

With the 2025 ROMA Conference now concluded, Cornwall’s leadership remains committed to turning these discussions into actionable solutions that benefit the community and support long-term growth.