Rural, northern and remote

With a federal budget on the way, municipal and federal leaders gathered today to explore solutions to the economic uncertainty facing many western communities, from market access to energy and climate policies, economic development and local infrastructure.

FCM’s recommendations for the federal government’s first 100 days represents the united vision of cities and communities of all sizes, in every region. It urges the federal government to move quickly to engage municipalities in 15 policy areas.

This report presents concrete recommendations for the new government’s first 100 days in 15 priority areas—from getting infrastructure built to making housing more affordable to achieving universal Internet access.

FCM President Bill Karsten issued the following statement on the creation of a municipal Western Economic Solutions Taskforce.

FCM acknowledged the release of the Conservative Party of Canada’s election platform today. The platform commits to a “rural lens” in Cabinet decisions and recognizes the need for communities to respond to new climate extremes, but it lacks critical clarity on key issues, while reducing year-over-year infrastructure spending.

Municipal leaders respond with concern to news from Canada’s largest telecommunications companies that they intend to reduce or review the number of rural households that will receive improved broadband connectivity, following a recent CRTC decision.