Councillor Mark Tadeson, representing Ward 11 as Deputy Mayor, joined Hamilton’s delegation at the 2025 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference to advocate for rural priorities. Alongside city staff and fellow Councillors, Cllr Tadeson met with provincial leaders to address healthcare, housing, transit, agriculture, and infrastructure challenges affecting rural Hamilton.
Highlights from the Conference
Healthcare Improvements
Ambulance Services: Called for localizing ambulance dispatch management to improve response times, especially in rural areas.
Doctor and Nurse Shortages: Backed initiatives to recruit and train healthcare professionals locally to address medical deserts in rural communities.
Affordable Housing and Homelessness
Highlighted a Binbrook Senior Living housing project, requesting $6M in one-time funding and $14.4M in annual operating support to create 105 units, including 50 affordable (below market) units.
Advocated for sustainable funding to manage encampments and homelessness, emphasizing the growing rural impact.
Agriculture and Rural Business
Urged greater inclusion of Hamilton farmers and rural businesses in provincial funding programs, such as the Rural Economic Development (RED) stream.
Emphasized the need for energy reliability to support local agri-businesses and innovation in farming practices.
Recreational Infrastructure
Discussed expansion of recreation centers in Glanbrook, Waterdown, and Winona.
Flagged an upcoming $130,000 Trillium Fund application for ice-making machinery at the Glanford Curling Rink.
Rural Connectivity and Infrastructure
Advocated for improved rural internet access and funding for critical water systems in Carlisle, Freelton, and Lyndon.
Called for changes to development charge allocations to fund rural infrastructure without losing federal funding access.
Additional Key Discussions
Councillor Tadeson participated in panels addressing healthcare, economic development, and environmental initiatives. The delegation also discussed the Decarbonization Hub and funding for renewable energy projects to ensure Hamilton stays ahead in energy innovation.
Looking Ahead
The conference provided a vital opportunity to address rural challenges directly with provincial leaders. Councillor Tadeson will continue to advocate for tangible outcomes to benefit Ward 11 and all of rural Hamilton.
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I am delighted with Mark Tadeson's service to the Ward 11 community. I have never seen a quality communications effort like this.