Chatham-Kent–Leamington will play a key role in coming years on issues as food security and technological innovation, the riding’s MPP believes.
Progressive Conservative MPP Trevor Jones was on hand Friday morning at a breakfast organized by the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce at the John D. Bradley convention center.
Jones, first elected last year, called small businesses the “lifeblood” of a community, saying they can be a catalyst for change.
“Small businesses and family farms are truly pillars of our broader economy,” he said. “They represent our collective entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, resourcefulness, and they’re fulfilling critical components in the lives of all Ontarians.”
And the area needs to continue sharing its success stories, particularly how it grows food for the world, not just for domestic markets, said Jones, who’s also parliamentary assistant to the agriculture minister.
“We have fresh food, we have fresh fruits and vegetables available year-round,” he said. “We’re also exporting know-how. We’re exporting technology.”
Jones also discussed his first year at Queen’s Park, noting it’s important for elected officials to build relationships and foster teamwork with colleagues to get things done.
Also involved with Friday’s event were the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers.
George Gilvesy, the group’s board chair, said it was crucial to develop policies and practices to ensure food security, and innovative ways to address challenges.
During a question-and-answer session, Jones fielded queries about tackling the housing crisis, saying governments need to assist developers while working to reduce barriers, such as regulatory delays.
“That is probably one of the foremost questions on my mind,” he said, adding he thinks of his children and how difficult it is for them to own a home.
He said the province has been taking steps, including empowering municipalities through initiatives like the strong mayors legislation.
Jones also encouraged residents and businesses to reach out to his office if they have any ideas or initiatives they wish to discuss.
“Use your local offices, your local members, or constituency teams,” he said. “Share those ideas.”