NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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The Orillia District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) and its members will be calling out the critical need to enhance local infrastructure at a virtual open forum scheduled during the ODCC’s Update to the Community this Friday, March 25 starting at 9 a.m.
“It’s no secret that local businesses have suffered greatly through two years of the pandemic,” said Allan Lafontaine, executive director of the ODCC.
“Many are just starting to rebound now and they view investments into community infrastructure as one of the most important ways that government can help them get back on their feet.”
Lafontaine points to the most recent census data that highlights spiralling population growth throughout the region that is exceeding previous estimates and the provincial average. He says local businesses, particularly service providers, need to be properly positioned to meet the needs of a growing community.
In addition to updates from local political representatives and post-secondary education leaders, a portion of the discussion at Friday’s forum will focus on efforts to build a new hospital on a different site in Orillia to accommodate that unanticipated growth.
“We’re very appreciative of the support local businesses have shown in rallying behind our push to move the Future Hospital project forward now,” said Carmine Stumpo, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital president and CEO.
“Capacity pressures inside the hospital are mounting daily and we know that the community stands to benefit greatly, not just from a new hospital, but also from the benefits inherent to a major capital build.”
The Update to the Community is open to all to attend via Zoom by clicking here.
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