EAR FALLS – Government representatives joined the Township of Ear Falls today to celebrate the completion of their new multiplex facility. “The construction of this multi-use building was made possible with generous financial contributions from the federal and provincial governments, as well as our own community. It makes services accessible, increases energy efficiency, streamlines municipal operations, and creates a safe workspace for staff. This building will benefit our community now and in the future,” said His Worship Kevin Kahoot, Mayor of the Township of Ear Falls.
The 16,000 square foot facility consolidates a number of municipal operations, including municipal offices, a fire hall, the public library, a day care and parent resource centre, the tourist information centre, a museum, and public meeting space. The centrally-located, accessible building also serves as the community’s primary Emergency Management Operations Centre, health and safety training site, and economic development office.
“Our Government is proud to support the Ear Falls Multiplex – a central hub for municipal operations, culture and community activities,” said Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora. “Thanks to Canada’s Economic Action Plan, this project created local jobs and economic growth, and will provide families and residents in the Ear Falls region with a great resource centre for many years to come.”
“Our government is making strategic infrastructure investments to strengthen communities, stimulate local economies and create jobs for Ontario families,” said the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation. “This new facility will provide residents with increased access to critical community support and resources“.
The governments of Canada and Ontario each committed $2.7 million toward the project through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The Township of Ear Falls contributed the balance of the total eligible project cost of $8,116,200.
This project also supports Building Together, the Government of Ontario’s long-term infrastructure plan to repair, rebuild and renew the province’s roads and highways, bridges, public transit, schools and postsecondary institutions, hospitals and courthouses. Ontario is investing $12.8 billion in infrastructure projects in 2011-12, bringing the government’s total infrastructure investments since 2003 to $75 billion. Building modern, efficient infrastructure has created or preserved close to 100,000 jobs each year, on average, making Ontario’s economy more productive and improving quality of life, now and in the future.
Also today while in Ear Falls, Greg Rickford, MP for Kenora, on behalf of Minister Moore for Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, was also pleased to announce multi-year funding in the amount of $50,000 for the Trout Forest Music Festival for the fiscal years of 2013 and 2014. “Our government is pleased to provide ongoing support to these important regional festivals which not only bring economic benefits to these communities but provide a great venue to showcase local and national talent to approximately 1200 attendees and also has an emphasis on youth including workshops and audience interaction”.
Executive Director David Hoey enthusiastically stated “This is great news; having multi-year funding in place early will make it easier for planning and it shows that we are trusted to put on a high quality annual event for years to come”.