Rural Economic Development (RED) Program
News Release

For Immediate Release

July 4, 2005

Ontario Supports Economic Development in Trent Hills

Invests In Local Business And Retention Project

Trent Hills - The Ontario government is supporting economic development in the Municipality of Trent Hills by investing in a local business retention and expansion project, Lou Rinaldi, MPP Northumberland, announced today on behalf of John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

"Ontario's success depends on building strong communities, a strong economy and a healthy environment," said Rinaldi. "Today's announcement supports Ontario's rural plan to give communities like Trent Hills the tools they need to prosper."

The Ontario government will contribute $4,500 to the Municipality of Trent Hills and its partner, Trenval Community Futures Development Corporation. The project will gather feedback from local business about issues they currently face. The feedback will be used to identify potential new business developments and potential export opportunities for existing businesses.

"This partnership with the government creates a very positive climate for business development," said Hector Macmillan, mayor of the Municipality of Trent Hills. "This project will play a tremendous role in our community's economic renewal."

"We are solidly supportive of this worthy initiative," said Gerrit DeBruyn, executive director, Trenval Community Futures Development Corporation. "This program will provide an excellent foundation to meet the needs of our community and enhance economic growth."

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 Ontario's Rural Plan. The rural plan provides a coordinated 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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