Last week Regional Councillor Clark Somerville Halton Region's representative and Second Vice President for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) participated in one of the final FCM board meetings before the federal election. One hundred municipal leaders spent three days in Burnaby, British Columbia to develop the FCM election platform which outlines the solutions that will help solve the greatest challenges facing the country. The FCM Board of Directors was adamant that all federal parties should make a deliberate commitment to work with cities and communities to strengthen Canada's economy through its municipalities.
"This is not about what municipalities need, it's about what the country needs," said Councillor Clark Somerville, Second Vice President for FCM. "Infrastructure, affordable housing, rail safety and protection of the environment are key issues facing municipalities across the country. The time has come for the federal government to focus on the things it can control to improve the quality of life for all Canadians."
Members of the FCM Board were also introduced to the winner of FCM's Hometown Proud Campaign which asked Canadians to share their stories and photos about how they are connected to their hometowns. Whether in Western, Atlantic, Central Canada, or in the Territories, Canadians have come together in their belief that a strong Canada starts with strong hometowns.
Morag Schonken impressed the judging panel with her pride for her hometown of Pierson, Manitoba which she described as "ordinary people, extraordinary actions". "I am so happy to have had the opportunity to share the love of my hometown not just within in my region but to the whole country," said Ms. Schonken. To read Morag's story and all hometown submissions visit hometownproud.fcm.ca.
FCM believes that the next federal election must focus on strengthening Canada by supporting our cities and communities. Hometowns are where Canadians live, work and raise their families - they drive our economy and contribute to a strong Canada. Municipal leaders meeting in Burnaby challenged federal parties to partner with municipalities in the lead up to the federal election.
"Working in partnership with all levels of government is vital to ensure municipalities like Halton Region can address the pressing issues facing their communities while continuing to be able to deliver the critical programs and services that all Canadians need and expect from their hometowns," added Councillor Clark Somerville, Second Vice President for FCM.
Halton Region continues to advocate to the Provincial and Federal governments for long-term, predictable funding and legislative amendments on a number of issues facing the Region through its Advocating for a Strong Halton campaign. To learn more visit www.halton.ca/advocacy.
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is the national voice of municipal government. In leading the municipal movement, FCM works to align federal and local priorities, recognizing that strong hometowns make for a strong Canada.