The federal government is spending more than $972,000 to fund three economic development positions in Wawa ($297,000), Hornepayne ($245, 250) and Dubreuilville ($231,250) and to spur an Indigenous community forestry strategy.
Sault Ste. Marie MP Terry Sheehan delivered the goods on July 26 on behalf of federal Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu, the minister responsible for FedNor.
According to a FedNor news release, these economic development officers will be focused on broadband expansion, strategic planning, investment and workforce readiness, tourism, mining, forestry, business support and housing.
In addition, Michipicoten First Nation snagged $198,000 to hire a forestry technician for a three-year period to work on a community forestry strategy, create partnerships with industry, and participate in area forest management planning.
“We have a talented individual in the role that has already helped us achieve some impressive results for the community,” said Hornepayne Mayor Cheryl Fort in the release. “Over the past three years, we have been able to increase business, residential and commercial development, attract a 44-room hotel, and more.”
“An economic development officer will allow us to support and expand new and existing businesses and push our local development initiatives to the next level,” said Wawa Mayor Melanie Pilon in a statement.
“Having a full-time economic development professional on staff has been a gamechanger for community development, growth and job creation,” said Dubreuilville Mayor Beverly Nantel.
“We are excited to have received FedNor funding to hire staff who understand our goals and have the knowledge and expertise to strengthen and grow a key sector of our economy,” said Patricia Tangie, chief of Michipicoten First Nation. Hiring a forestry technician for a three-year period gives us a dedicated resource with the focus of implementing our Community Forestry Strategy.”
