Jill Dunlop MPP for Simcoe North

As we approach the holiday season and look forward to a new year full of opportunity, I am pleased to share some recent provincial updates that will directly support families, businesses, agriculture, and communities across North Simcoe.

It continues to be an honour to serve as your Member of Provincial Parliament. The 2025 Ontario Fall Economic Statement – A Plan to Protect Ontario includes several initiatives designed to make life more affordable and strengthen essential services.

First-time homebuyers will now benefit from a full rebate of the provincial portion of the HST (8%) on new homes priced up to $1 million, a meaningful step toward home ownership for many families.

The province is also investing more than $56 billion over 10 years in health-care infrastructure, with $235 million next year dedicated to expanding primary-care teams and home-care services, ensuring stronger care close to home.

Our local businesses and manufacturers are receiving important support as well. The Ontario Together Trade Fund has grown to $150 million over three years, helping small and medium-sized enterprises expand production and access new markets. Enhancements to the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit, temporarily increasing the rate from 10 % to 15 %, will further boost innovation and competitiveness.

In agriculture, Canada and Ontario are jointly investing $14.6 million through the Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program to help farmers improve soil health and sustainability. I was also proud to see a Simcoe County farm family recognized in the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards, a well-deserved acknowledgment of local innovation and leadership.

Finally, our communities will benefit from stronger municipal partnerships. The Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund has been increased to $600 million annually, alongside an additional $1.6 billion for housing infrastructure, ensuring North Simcoe continues to grow in a sustainable way.

As we look ahead to the new year, I invite you and your family to join me for some fun community activities! Come out and enjoy our Free Skating Events across Simcoe North on January 2, and don’t miss our Free Roller-Skating Event on Family Day.

Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!