Mayor Doug Lawrance has high hopes for Sioux Lookout projects, after progressive talks at the Virtual Association of Municipalities in Ontario Conference.
Lawrence says they had discussions with 6 Ministries, in order to express their concerns.
“Speaking with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, we’re looking for a new emergency shelter and the expansion the women’s shelter in Sioux Lookout. Mental Health and Addictions, we’re looking for a detox and addictions treatment center. Long term care, we have a project of 76 additional beds here-so we’re trying to push that over the edge with the Minister.”
Other projects talked about include upgrading the by-pass and Highway 516 North.
Another main concern Lawrance says was discussed is transportation and getting Northland Bus service to Sioux Lookout.
“We discussed how that’s going to work and getting a bus connection to Dryden. It was very well received and the Minister of Transportation will be working with us.”
Even virtually, Lawrance says it was very worthwhile to attend.
“This was more one on one, myself to the Minister. I think there was a much more direct and longer connection, it felt in a strange way more intimate than in person.”
Lawrance hopes they will consider hosting the conference virtually in the future, as it cuts down on travel, time and cost.
