The Municipality of Magnetawan, located in the Almaguin Highlands, has a population of 1,454 and is home to 75 businesses in sectors such as construction and contracting, retail, service, and tourism. Magnetawan is over 500 square kilometres, has four-season recreation, and a significant seasonal population and tourism influx.
In its second year of operation, the Magnetawan Economic Development Office (EDO) continued its programs to attract and retain business. Efforts are also underway to implement recommendations of the Economic Development Strategy such as expanding broadband coverage and developing housing.
Magnetawan’s Economic Development Officer, John Santarossa, says, “The municipality is an open-for-business community and we proactively seek out opportunities. This year Magnetawan attracted new owner/operators who purchased long-established businesses such as a resort and a marina.”
“We really lobbied as a community
with respect to the school accommodation
review of 2013-2014,”
he adds. “In fact, the Cinderella story this year is that
Magnetawan Central Public School will stay open.”
The EDO continued an active business visitation program to address concerns of existing enterprises and also pursued opportunities in the energy, tourism, and small business sectors. Highlights in 2014, included the following:
Magnetawan is being considered as a location for an agri-health business.
A commercial blueberry farm is proposed on Spence/Croft Boundary Road.
Holy Shiitake Mushrooms is starting a
specialty log-grown mushroom
business.
The Magnetawan Building Centre celebrated its 45th year in business.
Whitewater rafting returned to the Magnetawan River.
A First Impression Community Exchange was completed with Dorset, Ont.
A new 90-metre Bell communications tower is now operative on Ahmic Lake Road.
Highways 124 and 520 are being upgraded to improve transportation infrastructure.
“With no development charges, one of the lowest taxes in the region, and an excellent quality of life, we are confident in the future of Magnetawan,” says Santarossa.
