The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities is concerned with several health-related issues in its northern communities.
The FONOM Board recently met in Callander and discussed outcomes and its approach for this summer's Ministerial Delegation meetings during the August 2025 AMO Conference in Ottawa.
FONOM is an association of some 110 districts/municipalities/cities/towns in Northeastern Ontario mandated to work for the betterment of municipal government in northern Ontario and strive for improved legislation respecting local government in the north. It is a membership-based association that draws its members from northeastern Ontario and is governed by an 11-member board.
Many of FONOM's members have shared their rising concern with the lack of dialogue between the Minister of Health and Hope Air’s request for multi-year funding from the Government of Ontario.
See related: Fedeli feels more can be done for Hope Air
"Many members supported the resolution to ensure this vital service continues for residents of Northern Ontario," reports the FONOM Board in a media release. "Discussion during the meeting was related to the many health challenges in our communities. Specifically, our smaller health care centres have doctor and nurse recruitment challenges."
The Board also expressed concern about Billy Bishop Airport's future. The airport's proximity to downtown Toronto benefits work, travel, and tourism but is critical for accessing critical medical services. Hope Air, Ornge, and Porter are often used to access health care in downtown Toronto. FONOM has sent a letter of support to Transportation Minister Anita Anand and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, sharing its concerns about the airport, which requires urgent action and a modern governing agreement.
The Board also received a presentation from the LAS (Local Authority Services) on its consultation on the Water and Wastewater Utility — Feasibility Study. "We are interested to hear more about this project once LAS has concluded its consultation," shared FONOM President Danny Whalen, and "We hope the work LAS is studying will assist our members with their infrastructure deficit."
Later, the Board reviewed the auditor's year-end financial statements for the 2023–24 fiscal year with accounting firm Bakertilly.
Lastly, the Board reviewed and discussed legislative amendments to improve the Municipal Code of Conduct and enforcement and the roles of Municipal Integrity Commissioners.
"Our members are concerned about the cost complaints have on municipalities and elected councillors," the FONOM Board states.
See also: City solicitor to Integrity Commissioner: your advice on our Code of Conduct rules 'not required'
"Municipal governments do not have the necessary tools to adequately enforce compliance with municipal Codes of Conduct and support appropriate accountability," when it comes to violence and harassment in the workplace.
"Also, the province should increase the training of municipal Integrity Commissioners to enhance the consistency of investigations and recommendations across the province."
