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Located in the Almaguin Highlands at Highways 124 and 520, Magnetawan is home to more than 40 businesses in the agriculture, retail, service, and tourism sectors.
In July of 2011, the municipality of 1,454 suffered a major setback due to a devastating fire in the downtown core.
Undaunted, Magnetawan developed a community recovery plan to address downtown revitalization and also hired John Santarossa as its economic development officer, bringing with him more than 30 years of experience in the profession.
An economic development advisory committee was also established to address development issues and projects.
With more than half of the population within the pre-retirement or retirement age, the municipality has been looking into affordable housing, along with other initiatives related to entrepreneurship, tourism, and green energy.
The town has a community energy partnership program to explore opportunities in renewable energy projects.
At more than 500 square kilometres, Magnetawan has four-season recreation, trails, attractions, numerous lakes and rivers, and enjoys a significant seasonal population and influx of tourists.
“The municipality has vision, a probusiness attitude, and is fiscally responsible,” said Magnetawan Mayor Sam Dunnett. “Magnetawan has one of the lowest tax rates in the area and the municipality is also undertaking asset management and energy planning that will bode well for our budget and operating efficiencies.”
The downtown is coming back to life with the recent opening of the Magnetawan Grill & Grocery, a restaurant and grocery store.
“We are confident in the future of Magnetawan,” said Dunnett. “Our location, quality of life, businesses, residents, heritage, and nature are our best assets.”
