Lincoln, ON – (January 22, 2025) – Joined by delegates from across the province, the Town of Lincoln brought forward local priorities at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) 2025 Conference in Toronto, Ontario, from January 19 to 21, 2025. ROMA is an annual conference where municipalities representing rural communities meet with provincial ministries to discuss local matters and advocate for economic support to foster community growth and well-being.
The delegates addressed critical issues such as community investment, sustainable development, and transportation infrastructure, among other priorities.
The Town of Lincoln remains dedicated to driving meaningful change for the municipality and raising awareness about the initiatives and concerns of the Lincoln community.
Key priorities discussed:
Shoreline Protection:
The Town of Lincoln has received funding from the Federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) to enhance shoreline protection infrastructure in response to potential future flooding events. The Town is now seeking provincial support to further fund parts of the remaining the project as the Town has experienced multiple flooding events over a four-year period and remains at risk of future floods and shoreline erosion. The project aims to adapt the existing shoreline to address rising water levels in Lake Ontario and relocate existing roads damaged by flooding. This funding will ensure the town has a sustainable, long term capital program.
Rittenhouse Branch Library Renovation Project:
The Town has applied to the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Fund (large-scale renovations and new building stream) to support the renovation of the Rittenhouse Branch Library. The project seeks to create a climate-resilient, open and accessible space to better serve Lincoln’s growing community. Libraries play a fundamental role in removing barriers to accessing information, fostering literacy, supporting community development and promoting learning and connection. While this is a federal grant, the Town is seeking provincial support to strengthen its application and identify additional provincial funding opportunities aligned with the project.
Truck Bypass Inspection Project & Safety Blitzes:
The Town of Lincoln remains steadfast in its commitment to improving roadway safety through enhanced enforcement initiatives. Since 2022, the Town has partnered with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to implement targeted safety blitzes to address commercial vehicles bypassing the Vineland MTO inspection station. These efforts have significantly reduced commercial vehicle traffic on residential roads, enhancing safety for residents, visitors, and employers alike. The Town of Lincoln would like to thank the province for their continued support with enforcement blitzes and requests ongoing collaboration and support moving forward. The province did share with the Town that with the Vineland station being the only such station between the boarder and the GTA heading west, more officers and a stronger focus on border security and truck by-passing will be present.
Multi-model Transportation & Prudhommes:
The Town of Lincoln spoke about the regional significance of GO to Niagara and asked the province to continue its collaboration with Metrolinx and third-party owners to advance the establishment of a GO station in Lincoln and to pursue all day two service across the Niagara Line. This infrastructure project will enhance tourism visitation and provide improved support for residents that commute to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Town also advocated for support for the Prudhommes development through the enhancement of the Victoria Avenue and Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) interchange. This expansion is vital to supporting growth and accessibility in this key area of our community.
Physician Recruitment:
As a rapidly growing municipality, the Town of Lincoln has been experiencing increased pressure on its existing medical clinics and family physicians, impacting residents’ access to essential healthcare services. With even more retirements looming, the entire province is in need of re-thinking how we recruit doctors. In response, the Town has implemented a physician recruitment incentive and is exploring other non-monetary options, such as clinical space, to attract doctors. The Town is committed to working collaboratively with the province and healthcare stakeholders to attract and retain primary care providers, ensuring that the health and well-being of its residents remains a top priority. Continued provincial support is critical to addressing this urgent need. The Town did share with ministry of health staff and officials, the BDSS site as a potential hub and requested further dialogue on opportunities with respect to the site.
Quotes:
“We are thankful to our provincial partners for their continued commitment to supporting our growing community through key initiatives and funding opportunities. Their engagement and collaboration are vital in helping us achieve Lincoln’s vision of being a place where everyone can grow, prosper, and belong.”
~ Sandra Easton, Mayor, Town of Lincoln
“Advocacy and collaboration with our provincial partners allow us to address local challenges while planning for a stronger future. Funding and policy support directly impact our ability to invest in essential services and infrastructure, ensuring Lincoln remains a vibrant community.”
~ Michael Kirkopoulos, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Lincoln
“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to meet with key ministries to discuss the unique needs of our community. By working together, we can tackle local challenges and drive meaningful progress for the residents of Lincoln.”
~ Dianne Rintjema, Deputy Mayor, Town of Lincoln
As information becomes available regarding grants and funding received through the upper levels of government due to these advocacy efforts, the Town will share them with the community through our website, Lincoln.ca, social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and traditional media channels. The Town’s advocacy program is vital in creating positive impacts on the Lincoln community for our present and future.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Liliana Busnello
Manager of Corporate Communications
Town of Lincoln
905-563-2799 ext. 230