Recently elected as president of the Rainy River District Municipal Association, Fort Frances Coun. Sharon Tibbs stressed broadcasting the district’s voice is important as change continues to be drafted by the province.
“I think that basically the message is that we are aware of the legislated changes and how they affect this area, and that we monitor it and have our voices heard,” said Coun. Tibbs.
Tibbs was acclaimed president, along with Atikokan Coun. Cathe Hoszowski as vice-president, during the RRDMA’s annual meeting Jan. 20 in Atikokan.
“I think it’s a great representation of organized municipalities in the Rainy River District,” noted Coun. Tibbs.
“The general membership has more input into it. Basically what it is is a district-wide group that can lobby [the Northern Ontario Municipal Association],” she added.
Coun. Tibbs is taking the helm during a time of change as the province continues to download a number of services to municipal governments.
“Trying to find money to run communities in a different manner than they have for so long is difficult, it’s a change in responsibility,” she noted. “What we have to do is make sure change is fair and equitable.”
Coun. Tibbs added it is important to lobby the province as a reminder that the main resource in Northwestern Ontario is not just the forests but the people.
The annual meeting of the RRDMA is a rare opportunity for all the district’s leaders to meet and compare notes.
“There’s usually a common thread throughout . . . I certainly enjoy it,” said Coun. Tibbs.
Fort Frances Times
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