More than 250 municipal leaders from across northern Ontario are set to gather in North Bay tomorrow as the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) hosts its annual Northeastern Ontario Municipal Conference.
The conference begins Monday at the Best Western Hotel with an opening ceremony. The event will bring together mayors, councillors, and senior municipal staff to discuss the most pressing issues and opportunities facing the North.
This year’s theme, The Next 100 Years, pays tribute to North Bay’s centennial while casting an eye toward the future of northern Ontario.
Delegates will participate in workshops and sessions focused on regional issues including power generation and transmission, northern highway safety, and homelessness.
The conference will feature updates from the Government of Ontario, including participation from seven members of Premier Doug Ford’s Cabinet.
FONOM President Danny Whalen highlighted the significance of this strong provincial presence, noting that it reflects the increasing recognition of morthern Ontario’s priorities at Queen’s Park.
Nipissing MPP Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, will be honoured with the FONOM Executive Award "for his time as mayor of North Bay, distinguished political career, and steadfast commitment to northern Ontario."
The highly anticipated Minister’s Forum, scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, will provide a direct dialogue between municipal leaders and provincial ministers.