The Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) had a strong presence at the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference, engaging with provincial leaders to advance priorities that strengthen communities across Western Ontario. The conference provided a platform for WOWC to share municipal perspectives, address pressing challenges, and explore collaborative solutions with provincial partners.
“Western Ontario municipalities are dealing with complex challenges that affect residents’ daily lives, from staffing shortages in essential services to the need for robust municipal infrastructure that supports growth, community safety and well-being,” said WOWC Chair, Marcus Ryan. “ROMA provides a vital opportunity to bring these local realities directly to provincial leaders, ensuring decisions reflect the needs of our communities and support practical, sustainable solutions.”
Key Discussions at ROMA 2026
WOWC met with Parliamentary Assistant Silvia Gualtieri (Ministry of Solicitor General) to discuss challenges with Vulnerable Sector Checks, including delays affecting timely hiring in long-term care and early childhood education, inconsistent interpretations across jurisdictions, and impacts on staffing stability and service delivery.
The Caucus also met with Associate Minister Sam Oosterhoff (Ministry of Energy and Mines) to discuss broadband and cellular infrastructure priorities for Southwestern Ontario, focusing on building on provincial investments, addressing remaining service gaps, and supporting economic development, public safety, and quality of life in rural communities.
In addition, WOWC met with Hydro One staff to explore opportunities for ongoing collaboration on regional infrastructure and energy initiatives, reinforcing the importance of strong municipal–industry partnerships in supporting local growth and sustainability.
Powering Ontario’s Economic Engine: After-Hours Reception
A highlight of ROMA 2026 was the Powering Ontario’s Economic Engine After-Hours Reception, hosted by WOWC and sponsored by Bruce Power and the Nuclear Innovation Institute. The event brought together municipal and regional leaders, Ministers and Members of Provincial Parliament (MPP), to exchange ideas on building stronger communities, strengthening infrastructure, and supporting workforce growth across Western Ontario.
Provincial Attendees included:
• Minister Stephen Lecce, Ministry of Energy and Mines
• Associate Minister Sam Oosterhoff, Ministry of Energy and Mines
• Minister Lisa Thompson, Ministry of Rural Affairs
• Minister Rob Flack, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• Associate Minister Graydon Smith, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• MPP Matthew Rae, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• Minister Jill Dunlop, Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Minister Todd McCarthy, Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
• Minister Andrea Khanjin, Ministry of Red Tape Reduction
• Associate Minister Charmaine Williams, Ministry of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity
• Associate Minister Kevin Holland, Ministry of Forestry and Forest Products
• Dawn Gallagher Murphy Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care; Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Natural Resources
“The conversations at ROMA focused on turning dialogue into action for Western Ontario. Continued collaboration and sustained investment in critical municipal infrastructure and in attracting and retaining skilled workers are essential to keeping our communities strong and our regional economy moving,” added Chair Ryan.
WOWC thanks all Ministers, Parliamentary Assistants, and staff who took the time to meet with the Caucus and engage in meaningful dialogue. The Caucus remains committed to advancing practical solutions that enhance quality of life, support workforce development, and strengthen communities across Western Ontario.
About the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus: WOWC is a not-for-profit organization representing 15 upper and single-tier municipalities in Southwestern Ontario, representing more than 1.6 million residents. The WOWC aims to enhance the prosperity and overall wellbeing of rural and small urban communities across the region. Caucus members work collectively to influence federal and provincial legislation and programs through advocacy, research, analysis and education. For more information, visit www.wowc.ca.
