Grey County is feeling optimistic about its reception at last week’s Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference.
The County says it was pleased all of its eight delegation requests were accepted. It says it used the opportunity to advocate for local needs, share progress on ongoing initiatives, and strengthen relationships with provincial partners. The 2026 ROMA Conference welcomed more than 2,400 municipal leaders from across Ontario, and Grey County was pleased to have all eight of its delegation requests accepted.
County representatives used the meetings to raise issues including the need for increased rural housing support, flexible approaches to development charges, stronger funding models for rural post-secondary campuses, improved support for long-term care transitions, enhanced rural primary health care solutions, clarity on court security directives, upcoming changes to Conservation Authorities, and opportunities to address transportation delays and highway infrastructure needs. Ministry staff were receptive, and each delegation resulted in a clear commitment, request for additional information, or defined path for continued collaboration.
Grey County Warden Andrea Matrosovs says in a statement, “These delegations are a valuable opportunity to advance the priorities of Grey County residents,” adding, “We appreciate the openness and engagement demonstrated by every ministry we met with. The progress made at ROMA will help move key projects forward in meaningful ways.”
Grey County says Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers and Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson joined their delegation meetings as their schedules permitted. The County states, “Their participation and local insight strengthened discussions and helped amplify the importance of the issues raised.”
Beyond delegations, Grey County Council and staff participated in conference programming, including sessions related to economic resilience, Great Lakes initiatives, and regional collaboration. Warden Matrosovs also spoke on a panel about strengthening Ontario’s economic resilience, highlighting Grey County’s efforts to support local businesses and adapt to a changing trade environment.