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PRESENTATION - YVONNE HURST, MUNICIPAL ADVISOR FOR THE MINISTRY OF MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS AND HOUSING
Ms. Yvonne Hurst, Municipal Advisor for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing addressed General Committee concerning the role of the Municipal Services Office operating within the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Ms. Hurst explained that the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s goal is to foster strong local governments. She explained that the Municipal Services Offices are the primary point of contact within the Ministry for such matters as transfer payments, financial assistance and disaster relief. She also noted that staff in the Municipal Services Offices are available to explain key government initiatives and programs for municipalities, deliver training and information, monitor the financial health of municipalities and partner with municipal associations.
Ms. Hurst indicated that the key activities conducted by the Municipal Services Offices are:
• Enhancing the Provincial/Municipal relationship
• Providing client outreach and partnerships
• Building local capacity
• Corporate Activities
Ms. Hurst concluded by providing an overview of training sessions available through the Municipal Services Offices and contact information for Central Region staff.