Rural communities around Thunder Bay are looking at forming a new social services board.
Conmee mayor Kevin Holland also represents Shuniah, Oliver Paipoonge, Gillies and Neebing on the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administrative Board. Known as Area One municipalities, Holland said in 2011 those communities contributed $2.1 million more than what they received.
A study, expected to be released next week, explores whether Area One can leave the Thunder Bay DSSAB to form its own board in order to bring better services to residents.
"That our more relevant to our residents' needs," Holland said.
Most residents need minor services such as help with yard maintenance or ramps installed in their homes. But Area One can't provide those services and they aren't provided through DSSAB.
"A lot of times because these programs aren't available our residents are forced into Thunder Bay before they're ready to go," Holland said.
While the final report isn't due until next week, Holland said early reports show that a new Area One administrative board is a good possibility.
The politicians would then head to Toronto to seek provincial approval. Holland said in Southern Ontario there are cases where a larger city has its own board and outlying areas have another.
"This isn't something new in the province. It will be something new for our area," he said.
"We have to do everything we can to try and maximize the tax dollars that we receive for our residents."
