For release: December 16, 2005

ONTARIO SUPPORTS COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION IN PETROLIA
Invests In Multi-Use Community And Recreation Centre

PETROLIA - The McGuinty government is improving access to healthy lifestyle programs and services for residents of Lambton County by investing in a multi-use community and recreation centre, announced Maria Van Bommel, Parliamentary Assistant (Rural) to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, on behalf of Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

"Ontario's greatest asset is our people," said Van Bommel. "Today's announcement supports our plan to invest in our people and focuses on health and wellness services for residents in Petrolia and surrounding communities."

The government will contribute $500,000 to construct a multi-use community and recreation centre for rural residents in Lambton County, providing improved access to health and wellness services.

"We are very pleased to be moving forward with this important project," said Wayne MacFarlane, president of the Oil Heritage District Community Association. "This community centre will provide residents with quality programs and services within their neighbourhood."

"The municipality is grateful to our project partners, the Ontario government and members of the Oil Heritage District Community Centre Association," said Brian McManaman, Mayor of the Town of Petrolia. "This centre will provide access to individuals of all ages to healthy lifestyle programs and services in Lambton County."

Today's investment was made through the Rural Economic Development (RED) program, which invests in projects that support sustainable rural economies and community partnerships - a key part of the government's plan for rural Ontario. Through the RED program, the Ontario government and its rural partners are building stronger communities that work better for the people who live in them. For more information about RED or Ontario's rural plan, visit www.mah.gov.on.ca.

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RELATED LINKS
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

Contact:
Christopher Flavelle
Minister's Office
(416) 326-3072