City of Cornwall Advocates for Local and Regional Priorities at 2026 AMO Conference

The City of Cornwall brought forward key local and regional priorities at the 2026 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference in Ottawa, where municipal leaders from across the province met with provincial representatives, partner organizations, and sector leaders to advance solutions for Ontario communities.

Held August 16 to 19, the AMO Conference provided an important opportunity for Cornwall’s delegation to advocate directly for investments and partnerships that support residents, strengthen municipal services, and position the city and region for long-term success.

The delegations are closely aligned with Council’s strategic priorities by advancing efforts to improve access to local services, strengthen regional partnerships, support tourism and recreation opportunities, and build the infrastructure and connections Cornwall needs for continued growth.

“AMO gave us a direct opportunity to bring Cornwall’s priorities to the provincial table,” said Mayor Justin Towndale. “Whether we talked about access to doctors, support for long-term care, stronger transportation connections, or new opportunities for tourism and economic development, our message was clear: Cornwall is ready to work with our provincial partners to deliver results for residents.”

This year, the City’s advocacy priorities included improving access to primary care through continued physician recruitment in discussions with the Ontario Medical Association; positioning Cornwall as a winter tourism destination in discussions with Parliamentary Assistant MPP Natalie Pierre from the Ministry of Sport; supporting capital funding needs for Glen Stor Dun Lodge in discussions with Parliamentary Assistant MPP John Jordan from the Ministry of Long-Term Care; and seeking support for regional public transportation in Eastern Ontario through discussions with Parliamentary Assistant MPP Ric Bresee from the Ministry of Transportation.

“These meetings are an important part of the City’s government relations work,” said Katherine Wells, Director of Communications, Government Relations and Strategic Planning. “They help us bring local priorities forward, strengthened relationships with provincial decision-makers, and supported advocacy for practical solutions that benefit Cornwall and the broader Eastern Ontario region.”

Through its participation at AMO, the City of Cornwall championed priorities that matter to residents while advancing partnerships that support a healthy, connected, and resilient community.