Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/September 21, 2022
Municipal elections will be held in Ontario on October 24, 2022. The municipal government makes decisions about programs, services, and policies that affect the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties (HPEC). During this election, Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) encourages residents, community partners, and candidates to:
- get informed about the role of the municipal government in local health issues that are important to you;
- be heard by expressing ideas, needs and concerns; and
- make health matter by casting your vote
HPEPH has prepared a Municipal Election Primer to inform residents of HPEC about local health issues and how to engage with the upcoming municipal elections.
The Primer provides an overview of key issues that contribute significantly to health and well-being in HPEC, and are influenced by municipal decisions, along with possible evidence-informed actions to address the issues. Issues discussed in the Primer include:
- income and the cost of living,
- housing and homelessness,
- mental health and substance use, and
- inclusive communities.
The Primer is also being shared with municipalities and many local community organizations. Candidates may familiarize themselves with the evidence and actions contained within the Primer to prepare for local discussions and incorporate health into their platforms and future policy decisions.
Municipal government plays a vital role in making communities in HPEC healthy and positive places to live, work, and play. “Before voting, we encourage all residents to get informed about issues that will shape the future of community and individual health”, says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at HPEPH. “Municipal policies and programs can address many issues related to health – so get informed, be heard, and vote!”
The 2022 Municipal Election Primer is available online as a downloadable PDF, at hpePublicHealth.ca/advocacy.
-30-
Media Contacts:
Emily Tubbs, Communications Specialist
etubbs@hpeph.ca
Communications Team
communications@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
We invite community partners and residents to share this Media Release with their respective networks.
