Grey County sees progress from delegations at 2026 ROMA conference

Grey County officials sought to advance rural priorities at the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference, held January 18–20 in Toronto. County representatives participated in eight ministry delegations, using the opportunity to advocate for local needs, share progress on ongoing initiatives, and strengthen relationships with provincial partners.

“These delegations are a valuable opportunity to advance the priorities of Grey County residents,” said Grey County Warden Andrea Matrosovs. “We appreciate the openness and engagement demonstrated by every ministry we met with. The progress made at ROMA will help move key projects forward in meaningful ways.”

County representatives used the meetings to raise issues including the need for increased rural housing support, flexible approaches to development charges, stronger funding models for rural post-secondary campuses, improved support for long-term care transitions, enhanced rural primary health care solutions, clarity on court security directives, upcoming changes to Conservation Authorities, and opportunities to address transportation delays and highway infrastructure needs. Ministry staff were receptive, and each delegation resulted in a clear commitment, request for additional information, or defined path for continued collaboration.

Grey County also extends sincere thanks to MPP Paul Vickers (Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound) and MPP Brian Saunderson (Simcoe–Grey) for joining delegation meetings as their schedules permitted. Their participation and local insight strengthened discussions and helped amplify the importance of the issues raised.

Beyond delegations, Grey County Council and staff participated in conference programming, including sessions related to economic resilience, Great Lakes initiatives, and regional collaboration. Warden Matrosovs also spoke on a panel about strengthening Ontario’s economic resilience, highlighting Grey County’s efforts to support local businesses and adapt to a changing trade environment.

Grey County looks forward to building on the positive momentum from ROMA 2026 and continuing its work with provincial partners to support strong, vibrant rural communities.

The 2026 ROMA Conference welcomed more than 2,400 municipal leaders from across Ontario, and Grey County was pleased to have all eight of its delegation requests accepted.

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For media inquiries contact Katrina Peredun, communications officer, at katrina.peredun [at] grey.ca (katrina[dot]peredun[at]grey[dot]ca) or call 519-370-7064.