left to right: Chris Gerrits (Amaranth), Lisa Post (Orangeville), John Creelman (Mono), Janet Horner (Dufferin County Warden and Mayor of Mulmur), Steve Soloman (Grand Valley), Wade Mills (Shelburne); regrets: Darren White (Melancthon) and Guy Gardhouse (East Garafraxa)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dufferin Board of Trade Hosts Successful Annual State of Business Breakfast
Dufferin County, ON – January 28, 2025 – The Dufferin Board of Trade hosted its Annual State of Business Breakfast this morning at Westminster United Church, bringing together local leaders and businesses to address key issues impacting the community.
The event began at 7:30 a.m. with breakfast and networking, followed by a panel discussion featuring the Mayors of Dufferin County. This annual event serves as a vital opportunity to advocate for the local business community and launch the Dufferin Business Survey, designed to gather insights into challenges businesses are facing.
The panel discussion highlighted pressing topics, including the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and trade relations, which could have significant impacts on local businesses. The Mayors emphasized the importance of standing together as a united community to navigate these challenges.
Audience questions brought attention to other critical issues, such as the need for increased support in the agriculture sector, the availability of affordable housing, and reducing red tape regulations. A standout moment from the discussion was Orangeville being recognized as a Canada-wide leader in fare-free transit. Plans are underway to expand this success with a new inter-county transit system that will also remain fare-free, improving connectivity across Dufferin County.
The discussion concluded with a shared agreement among the panellists that municipalities must focus on keeping taxes low, cutting red tape, and fostering predictability to support the business community.
“The Annual State of Business Breakfast is one of our key initiatives to advocate for local businesses,” said the Dufferin Board of Trade. “We are committed to supporting our community as it adapts, innovates, and grows stronger in the face of uncertainty.”
The Dufferin Board of Trade thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s success. Together, we can ensure a resilient and thriving business community in Dufferin County.
– 30 –
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jaemilyn Gavino
Communications Manager
Dufferin Board of Trade
519-941-0490 ext. 204 | [email protected]