McGuinty Government Supports Town's Long-Term Strategy

TORONTO - Ontario is helping the Town of Orangeville strengthen the local economy and build on tourism opportunities. The Town of Orangeville is implementing the key recommendations of its economic development and tourism strategy, which will:

- Enhance opportunities for the retention and expansion of local businesses, and attract new business investment and entrepreneurs;

- Implement a dedicated website for economic development;

- Enhance the Town's and region's tourism profile through the Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association; and,

- Develop a coordinated tourism and marketing plan for the development and promotion of the arts, culture, recreation, and tourism industries.

The Ontario government is providing $85,000 under the Communities in Transition program to assist with the implementation.

"Orangeville is on the move with an excellent economic growth plan. This plan will help to enhance the city's tourism opportunities and attract new business investment to the area." - Michael Bryant, Minister of Economic Development

"Business retention and expansion and tourism continue to be major priorities for the Town of Orangeville. We welcome the government's significant support in that effort." - Rob Adams, Mayor of the Town of Orangeville.

- Orangeville has experienced significant growth over the past decade.

- The Ontario government has more than doubled support to municipal operating budgets. By 2011, ongoing annual operating support for municipalities will exceed $2.8 billion, an increase of more than $1.7 billion, or 160 per cent, compared to 2003.