Investment will help township make important improvements and encourage active and healthy living

October 31, 2025

CONMEE — The Ontario government is investing $147,510 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Township of Conmee renovate its outdoor community rink. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to build stronger, healthier and more self-reliant northern communities by revitalizing local infrastructure, increasing local tourism and helping residents stay active and connected.

“Improving access to sports and recreation is one of the many actions our government is taking to strengthen northern communities and promote physical activity, social interaction and community wellbeing,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Renovations to the outdoor rink will make it safe, accessible and inviting, greatly improving the user experience for the residents of Conmee and all other visitors to the facility.”

Key upgrades include replacing the rink boards, refurbishing the skate shack, installing a canopy and new benches for spectators, adding pathway mats and bird netting, and updating the electrical system. Once complete, the outdoor facility will be an efficient and enjoyable space for year-round sporting and community events.

“On behalf of the Township of Conmee, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Government of Ontario and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for their support in improving our community rink facility,” said Sheila Maxwell, Mayor of the Township of Conmee. “This funding will allow us to upgrade vital infrastructure that serves as a gathering place for residents of all ages, especially during the winter months. These improvements will ensure it continues to be a safe and welcoming space for recreation, connection and community spirit for years to come.”

“This NOHFC investment in the Conmee Township will provide great benefits to our community. The rink is a well-used gathering place for residents, hosting summer and winter sports, community events and celebrations,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan. “I’m glad to see this investment helping ensure the community can continue to enjoy and make use of this important community space.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $983 million in 7,951 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.9 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,350 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.