Cornwall and SDG Counties invite residents to regional forums on Community Safety and Well-Being Plan

The City of Cornwall and the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry (SDG Counties) are inviting residents to participate in two upcoming conversations on community safety and well-being, taking place Thursday, Sept. 17 in North Stormont and Wednesday, Sept. 23 in Cornwall.

The drop-in sessions are part of a series of region-wide opportunities to gather public input and feedback on a Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan for 2027 - 2031. Residents will have the opportunity to learn about the CSWB Plan, share their perspectives, and help shape the future of their communities. Light refreshments, food, and free childcare will be available. 

“Building safe, healthy, and inclusive communities starts with listening,” said City of Cornwall Supervisor of Community Safety and Well-Being, Tanya Miller. “These forums are an important opportunity for residents to share their experiences and help guide how we address complex issues like mental health, wellness, and community safety. By working together, we can create meaningful, lasting change across our region.”

The September forums are part of a broader collaborative effort by the City of Cornwall and SDG Counties that build on the 2022 Vibrant Communities Plan and will serve as a living framework to guide decision-making, strengthen partnerships, and respond to current and emerging needs across Akwesasne, Cornwall, and SDG Counties. 

The CSWB Plan is a legislated requirement under Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019 that aims to create a sustainable community where individuals and families feel safe, supported, and able to meet their basic needs. 

Community safety and well-being planning recognizes that safety goes beyond emergency response and enforcement. It takes an upstream, systems-wide approach that includes social development, prevention, risk intervention, and coordinated service delivery to address the root causes of complex social challenges. 

“This work reflects a shared commitment across our municipalities and partners to build capacity and improve outcomes for everyone in the region,” said Miller. “By aligning our resources, engaging community members and interest holders, and investing in our collective safety, well-being, and belonging, we are building a stronger, more resilient community together.”

Community engagement and feedback is a key part of the process, with a series of events, consultations, and feedback opportunities planned throughout 2026. Input gathered from residents will directly inform priorities, actions, and strategies in the Plan. 

For more information on the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan or to find upcoming engagement opportunities, visit Have Your Say Cornwall or contact cswb@cornwall.ca.