There’s a TON of potential in the North

The time has come to unlock Northern Ontario’s resources with a home-grown solution, says Cochrane Mayor Peter Politis.

The Tim Horton’s Event Centre in the northeastern Ontario town will be the venue for the Transforming Ontario’s North (TON) Summit on September 11-13.

An Aug. 10 news release said the North comprises 87 per cent of the province’s landmass, one of Canada’s most diverse populations, a “treasure trove” of natural resources and attractions, water and energy potential, and is the “future of the province’s economy and prosperity. The time has come to set the stage for that development.”

Endorsed by the Northern Policy Institute, the event will attract community and business leaders, experts, politicians and government regulators to devise a “grassroots-driven approach” to mapping out a vision for the North. The agenda is under development.

Through facilitated dialogue, the news release said, participants will identify key challenges and opportunities which will be developed into a document to guide future development initiatives that will help the region prosper.

“Through the TON Summit, we are striving for exceptional results,” said Politis.

“We know the time has come for this type of cohesive approach. We have a government with stated support for economic development and is prepared to work toward shared goals. This summit is the first step in ensuring a shared vision and a logical, coordinated approach to achieving mutual goals and objectives.”