Maroc - MYMUSKOKANOW.COM - A La Une - 15/Jul 14:28

MPP Smith reassures ‘funding is not going anywhere’

Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith says the area will be getting "two new, acute care hospital sites." In a statement posted a statement on his Facebook page, he called on Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) to ensure whatever plan is submitted is what's best for all of Muskoka, adding how the best way to make sure it's accepted is "a level of community consensus." "The funding for these projects is not going anywhere," reassured Smith. "Our government is committed to making this redevelopment project a reality. Despite what is now being claimed by others, we were the first, and remain the only party willing to formally commit the funds necessary to deliver a two-site hospital solution for Muskoka and Almaguin." Smith explained the $1 billion in funding through the Ministry of Health and the local share is "unprecedented." However, the some of the funding could soon include conditions after a decision by Bracebridge council earlier this month and pending a discussion by District of Muskoka council Monday afternoon. "The financial commitment from the provincial government remains larger on a per capita basis than anywhere else in Ontario, and perhaps even the country," said Smith. "This story is not about a lack of funding, rather, it is about our provincial government and our local municipalities coming together to create a unique opportunity by working together." He added how the future hospital sites in Bracebridge and Huntsville will not just serve those municipalities, but the entirety of Muskoka and the some of the surrounding area. "We must not lose sight of the fact that we are in an enviable position, whereby a catchment area with approximately 80,000 residents is receiving nearly the same amount of provincial funding as areas approaching 500,000 residents," said Smith. "This is not by chance or happenstance. It is the result of hard work by many, done quietly, far away from the toxicity of social media." As he has done throughout the ongoing process, Smith encouraged everyone involved to be patient. "I know that everyone wants the best for their community for many generations to come," continued Smith. "I encourage everyone to try to put themselves in the other’s shoes, be a bit more patient, a bit more conciliatory and together we will get to a place where everyone wins." This is the second statement Smith has made on the project this month. Ahead of MAHC's decision to move forward with "detailed planning" for its redevelopment proposal, they were cautioned by Smith that it could serve to "further erode" the trust necessary for the plan, and the board, to be successful. The post MPP Smith reassures ‘funding is not going anywhere’ appeared first on My Muskoka Now.