Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford is in the area this week announcing funding from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for various projects throughout the District. The following projects were announced:
- $630,000 for the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls to build a roof over the community outdoor rink and $316,100 to develop outdoor features at the Northern Ontario Sport Fishing Centre, including nature-themed children’s play structures, interactive displays, an accessible pathway, and a northern lights observation deck.
- $344,282 for Brielmann Agriculture Ltd. – a farming operation in Pinewood – to purchase a grain elevator.
- $200,000 for Naotkamegwanning Business Corporation to establish Tricksters Coffee Co. – a coffee roasting and canning business to support the Naotkamegwanning First Nation.
- $200,000 for Rainy River District Regional Abattoir Inc. to purchase and renovate the building it currently leases.
- $198,000 for the Township of Emo to upgrade the Emo-LaVallee Community Centre, including accessibility and safety improvements, and $134,100 to build an outdoor skating rink facility
- $180,000 for the Dance Township Community Association to renovate the Devlin community hall, including modernizing kitchen and bathroom plumbing, updating the electrical and HVAC systems, replacing the roof and enlarging the parking lot
- $93,275 for Emo Feed Service Ltd. to upgrade operations and expand grain handling capabilities
- $63,000 for the Town of Rainy River to refurbish the Hannam Park Campground, including installing sanitary sewer service and improved power supply at each campsite, and modernizing the shower and washroom facility
- $53,645 for the Township of Chapple to build an accessible sports field shelter with more seating, $45,000 to transform the outdoor community rink into an accessible all-season facility and $45,000 to build an accessible public washroom facility on the waterfront
- $47,625 for the Rainy River Soil and Crop Improvement Association to purchase a no-till drill to be used by local agriculture producers
- $41,903 for the Township of LaVallee to upgrade the community baseball field and recreational park, including new bleachers, an accessible seating area, updated washroom facilities and installation of topsoil and sod in the playground area
- $14,372 for Romyn Farms Ltd. – a farming operation in Stratton – to purchase a bushel grain bin.
James Gibson, President of the Rainy River District Abbatoir says the funding will help agriculture across the district.
“Rainy River District Regional Abattoir Inc. appreciates the continued support we receive from Minister Rickford and the NOHFC programs,” Gibson said. “Funding our agriculture projects continues to strengthen our industry and grow valued infrastructure for all of the Northwest. Thank you, we are looking forward to continued partnerships.”
Rhonda Hyatt, secretary of the Dance Township Community Association says the hall is a major part of the community and is happy to have the funding to support the refurbishment of the building.
“Sustaining the community hall is crucial to our families, community and surrounding communities’ families,” Hyatt said. “Without the support of the NOHFC and the efforts our board and members have made over the last two pandemic years, this project would not have been possible. Thank you Minister Rickford and the Ontario government.”
