County of Simcoe Supports Community Partnerships

Midhurst/ November 27, 2009 – County Council approved the County of Simcoe 2010 operating budget this week, including funding for Georgian College’s Health and Wellness Centre, Lakehead University in Orillia, the Banting Homestead restoration project in New Tecumseth and a $3 million contribution to the Simcoe County Hospital Alliance.

“When two parties work together it’s good. When all parties work together, it’s great,” stated Warden Tony Guergis. “The needs in our communities are growing and the available dollars are limited in all sectors; all the more reason to bring together our community partners whenever possible. By joining our resources, we can all be more effective and realize greater goals.”

Throughout 2009, Council received an increased number of requests from community groups asking for funding of services and initiatives that are not mandated to the County of Simcoe. In response to the identified need, a policy was approved in September allocating $54,000 to cultural and historical grants. Successful applicants in 2010 include the Banting Homestead, MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie and the Coldwater Canadian Heritage Museum.

However, effective partnerships are about more than just funding. The County has recently participated in local events alongside the Child, Youth and Family Services Coalition of Simcoe County, the Food Partners Alliance of Simcoe County and Hospice Simcoe.

The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.

Child and Youth Coalition member Brenda Ingersoll, Rama First Nation Councillor and Simcoe County District School Board Trustee, spoke at the Charter launch, representing native communities in Simcoe County. She agrees that when governments and community agencies develop and maintain partnerships, residents benefit.

"I feel honoured to represent First Nation peoples in Simcoe County and wish to congratulate the County of Simcoe for its progressiveness,” said Brenda Ingersoll. “Truly the rest of Ontario could learn from Simcoe County on being innovative, inclusive and forward thinking."

The County believes that collaboration is an effective approach to achieving community goals for the greater good of agencies and residents across the region.

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.