ROMA Board Update: Voter Registration, Agricultural Forum & Municipal Energy Plan Review

July 23, 2026

ROMA continues to advocate for and support rural municipalities across Ontario. The following updates highlight opportunities, resources, and initiatives that may be relevant to your municipality and community.

Voter Registration Reminder

With the 2026 municipal election approaching, municipalities can help support a strong local democracy by encouraging residents and property owners to confirm that their voter information is up to date.

Eligible voters can check or update their information at registertovote.on.ca until August 12. This includes non-resident property owners, tenants, and their spouses who are eligible to vote in municipal elections.

Those who miss the August 12 deadline can contact their municipal clerk to update their information.

More information: www.registertovote.on.ca

Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum

The Ministry of Rural Affairs, Perth County, and investStratford are hosting the Municipal Agriculture Economic Development and Planning Forum on September 28-29, 2026.

Agriculture continues to be a major driver of economic growth, business development, workforce attraction, and community prosperity throughout rural Ontario.

The forum will bring together municipal leaders, economic development professionals, planners, and agriculture partners to discuss issues and opportunities affecting rural Ontario.

Learn more and register: www.perthcounty.ca/AgForum

Municipal Energy Plan Grant Program Review

The Province is seeking municipal feedback as part of its review of Ontario's Municipal Energy Plan Grant Program.

For rural and northern municipalities, this is an opportunity to help shape a program that reflects the realities of smaller and geographically diverse communities. Feedback will help identify barriers to participation and opportunities to improve program accessibility, ensuring municipalities have the supports they need to advance local energy planning initiatives.

Learn more and share your perspective: https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/026-0716