For Release: September 16, 2005

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION
Invests In Business Retention and Expansion Project

QUEEN'S PARK - The Ontario government is supporting economic prosperity in the Township of Muskoka Lakes by investing in a business retention and expansion project, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky announced today.

"Our government's rural plan is helping Ontario communities to achieve more prosperity and develop more job opportunities," said Dombrowsky. "Today's announcement supports our government's commitment to provide the tools that will enable rural communities like Muskoka Lakes to thrive."

The Ontario government will contribute $32,766 to the Muskoka Community Futures Development Corporation and its partner, the Township of Muskoka Lakes, to develop a regional strategic plan for economic development and business retention and expansion that will help the municipality manage growth, while enhancing the well-being of its community.

"Improving the year-round viability of our community is a key component of council's strategic plan," said Susan Pryke, mayor of the Township of Muskoka Lakes. "We have seen how projects like these have stimulated innovation in neighbouring municipalities and look forward to similar successes here."

"This project means a lot to the community as it will enable local businesses to express their growth and development needs, along with allowing the municipality to respond through community volunteer action," said Robin Brushey, Muskoka Community Futures Development Corporation.

Today's investment was made through the Rural Economic Development (RED) program, which invests in projects that support sustainable rural economies and community partnerships, and is a key part of the government's plan for rural Ontario. The rural plan provides a co-ordinated framework across government to build on rural Ontario's strengths - committed people, diverse economic opportunities, unrivalled resources and a solid sense of community.

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Contact:
Tyler Fleming
Minister's Office
(416) 326-3077