Statement from Mayor Heidi Lorenz regarding hospital redevelopment

Mayor Heidi Lorenz issued the following statement today:

The Town of Gravenhurst is a proud supporter of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare and an advocate for strong local health care services. 

That is why in 2023 the town committed $1 million to a reserve to improve health care, inclusive of any necessary contributions towards two new hospital sites in Muskoka.

I want to reiterate the town’s contribution towards the new hospital sites is subject to the following conditions: 

·         Confirmation that the funds are required at the time of construction

·         That a suitable site for Gravenhurst residents be prioritized in the site selection

·         That every effort be made by Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare to provide urgent-care clinic services in the Town of Gravenhurst as well as walk-in clinic support

·         That the financial commitment is not fulfilled until such time as construction is to commence – approximately 10-14 years from now.

To fund our commitment, we have placed $500,000 from the existing Tax Stabilization Reserve in a newly established Health Services Reserve Fund. Investment income associated with the fund is to be directed to the reserve as a means of reaching a total of $1 million. 

The above remains our focus and it has been something we have repeatedly reminded hospital officials about during the redevelopment process. 

Last night, Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare’s board decided it will move forward with its hospital redevelopment plans and is directing planning consultants to proceed with detailed planning for the redevelopment of its hospital sites in Bracebridge and Huntsville. 

The board has directed the Board Capital Redevelopment Steering Committee to collaborate with staff in developing a process that addresses such issues as bed capacity, transportation, and community service integration. This, according to the hospital, will include consultation with physicians and the community.

Work on getting new hospitals must continue.

I have and continue to meet regularly with other municipal partners, physicians, and Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare to ensure our community needs remain at the forefront. 

We will continue to ensure our funding conditions are met so that the best possible healthcare is available for the people of Gravenhurst. 

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For more information, contact:

Mike Gennings

Communications Specialist

mike.gennings@gravenhurst.ca

705-687-3412, ext. 2239