Wilmot delegation engages provincial leaders at ROMA 2026

Mayor Natasha Salonen, Ward 1 Councillor Stewart Cressman and Ward 4 Councillor Steven Martin proudly represented Wilmot Township at the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) annual conference held from January 18 to 20 in Toronto. 

The conference, which brought together rural municipal leaders from across Ontario, focused on pressing issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, infrastructure and homelessness.

Wilmot’s delegation participated in meaningful discussions on rural priorities, including:

• Accessible housing opportunities with the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility
• Aggregate zoning approvals with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing

The delegation also joined representatives from neighbouring townships in meetings about:

• Rural transit with the Ministry of Transportation
• Municipal spheres of jurisdiction with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• The Rural Investment Readiness Strategy with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, and the Ministry of Rural Affairs
• Infrastructure grant programs targeted to municipalities with a population of 50,000 or less with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Infrastructure

As a ROMA board member, Mayor Salonen also chaired a session on the critical role public health plays in promoting a healthy economy through the implementation of evidence-based strategies and collaboration with local community partners.

This year’s ROMA conference featured speeches by Ontario Premier Doug Ford, party leaders, and various provincial ministers. Delegates participated in two Minister’s Forums and workshops on corporate sponsorship, waste management, economic development, housing, arts and culture, community safety, healthcare and reconciliation.

“ROMA was a productive opportunity for Wilmot to move key priorities forward,” said Mayor Natasha Salonen. “Meeting directly with provincial partners allowed us to clearly communicate our community’s challenges and focus on practical, achievable solutions.”

The delegation will build on the insights and strategic connections established at ROMA to continue advancing key initiatives and ensure a strong voice for Wilmot Township.

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For media inquiries:

Brett O’Reilly | Communications Specialist
brett.oreilly@wilmot.ca | 519-556-0039