Effort would see one representative speak on behalf of Mattawa, Calvin, Papineau-Cameron and Mattawan
A group of four area municipalities is taking a new step in a long-running effort to leave Cassellholme, this time by appointing a representative to push their case.
Mattawa, Calvin, Papineau-Cameron and Mattawan are moving to reaffirm a joint approach and designate one representative to speak on their behalf in discussions about their collective exit.
The move is the latest development in an exit strategy that local leaders say has been in the works for years.
“We have a nursing home in our own town that we can’t contribute to because we’re handcuffed at Cassellholme with their capital levy and their operational levy,” said Mattawa Mayor Raymond Belanger, referencing the Algonquin Nursing Home.
“We’re trying to do something that’s going to be beneficial for our constituents.”
Cassellholme is governed by a board of management representing North Bay and eight surrounding municipalities, with operations and capital funded through municipal levies and provincial support.
Outlying municipalities are represented on the board by Papineau-Cameron Mayor Robert Corriveau and Mattawan councillor Michelle Lahaye, alongside three North Bay representatives and two provincial appointees.
Belanger, whose municipality is leading the effort, says they are seeking to exit the operational levy while continuing to pay their share of the redevelopment’s capital costs. Any withdrawal from the operational levy would require provincial approval.
At a recent Calvin Township council meeting, Mayor Richard Gould introduced a motion to formalize the group’s approach.
The resolution reaffirms that Don Gracie of CG Group will act as the sole representative in discussions with various provincial ministries, local MPP Vic Fedeli and the Cassellholme board.
“It is important to ensure clarity, communication and coordination,” Gould read from the motion.
The motion also directs that all updates flow through Gracie, who is expected to present at an upcoming Cassellholme board meeting.
“The exit strategy is something that began 20 years ago,” Belanger said. “And we’re back at square one.”
Cassellholme board chair Dave Mendicino says the board is aware of the group’s position.
“We’ve been having ongoing discussions with the municipalities,” he explained to BayToday.
“This issue has been around since back when I was on the board in 2012. It’s time we find a solution that works for all our member municipalities.”
