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NORTHERN ONTARIO – The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) acknowledges the Province of Ontario’s 2026 Budget and welcomes several measures that will support communities, economic growth, and quality of life across Northern Ontario.

FONOM is encouraged to see the continued commitment to the Northern Ontario Resource Development Support (NORDS) program, which has been extended for an additional three years at $15 million annually.

FONOM has consistently advocated for the continuation of NORDS, recognizing its importance in supporting municipalities experiencing growth and pressures related to resource development.

“FONOM appreciates the Province’s decision to extend the NORDS program for an additional three years,” said Dave Plourde, President of FONOM. “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.”

“The ability to stack funding over multiple years remains a key strength of the program,” added Plourde. “It allows municipalities to move forward with larger infrastructure projects and provides greater certainty for municipal financial planning.”

FONOM will continue to advocate for the program to be made permanent and to expand eligibility to include agriculture alongside mining and forestry as recognized sectors within NORDS.

Supporting Northern Communities and Economic Growth

FONOM also highlighted several additional budget measures that will have positive impacts across Northern Ontario:

  • A historic 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,” said 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.”

Supporting Growth and Housing Affordability

FONOM also welcomes the Province’s continued efforts to improve housing affordability, including measures to remove the provincial portion of the HST on eligible new homes. These changes are expected to reduce costs for families and help stimulate new housing development across Ontario.

“These housing measures are positive and will help make new home construction more attainable,” added Dave Plourde, President of FONOM. “This is particularly important in Northern Ontario, where communities are working to attract and retain residents and support workforce growth.”

Continued Advocacy on Northern Highways

FONOM reiterated that improving the safety and capacity of Highways 11 and 17 remains a top priority.

“Highways 11 and 17 are critical to our communities, our economy, and Canada’s supply chains,” said Plourde. “We will continue to work with both the Province and the federal government to advance long-term solutions that improve safety, reliability, and capacity along this corridor.”

FONOM noted that continued progress will require coordinated action between both levels of government and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing this issue as a national priority.

Looking Ahead

FONOM remains committed to working collaboratively with all levels of government to support economic development, improve infrastructure, and strengthen Northern communities.

“Today’s budget includes several positive steps for Northern Ontario,” said Plourde. “We look forward to continuing to work with the Province and federal partners to build on this momentum and ensure our communities have the tools they need to grow and succeed.”

 

Media Availability

 

Dave Plourde, President,

Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities
705-335-1615 | [email protected]