Upgrades open floodgates for economy.

Improvements to drinking water supplies create a pipeline connecting directly into the economic development of a community.

Residents of Dubreuilville, Assiginack, Timmins and Espanola are set to benefit from cleaner, safer drinking water through government investments under the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program. These municipalities will each contribute funds of their own to assist with upgrades required to bring their municipal water systems into compliance with the Ontario Drinking Water Systems Regulation.

"A reliable water infrastructure is a key element to placing small communities like Espanola in a position for future economic growth and prosperity," says Northern Development and Mines Minister and Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) Chair Rick Bartolucci.

Similar views were expressed across the north. Rejean Raymond is the Mayor of Dubreuilville. He is optimistic that improvements in water purification will benefit the economic development of the town by attracting new businesses to the area.

"Better infrastructure, cleaner water is a plus to the community. We can promote this. We can attract more people to the area and more businesses to open."

Thirsty for development

Some communities already have businesses waiting in the wings. "We already have a hotel/conference centre which has expressed interest in building just outside of the town plot, but we've had to put them on hold until we can meet the water requirements," explained Assiginack Township Reeve Leslie Fields. "We also have a Native theatre group that has purchased an empty building in town. They are planning renovations to incorporate their theatre group. We will be able to serve them better with the upgrades to our water supply. We do see it (the funding) as being a real bonus, a direct financial benefit to the entire community. Small rural communities need to know there is a way to grow."

www.mndm.gov.on.ca

By COLLEEN KLEVEN

For Northern Ontario Business