Dear Editor of the Markdale Standard, Ontario Premier McGuinty and Minister of Health David Caplan,

The Markdale community needs your help.

The area was hit by a tornado August 20 and has suffered another blow with the loss of the Chapman’s Ice Cream processing plant to fire on Friday, September 4. Buildings were destroyed in both catastrophies resulting in real threats to the incomes and welfare of families throughout the area.

Over five years ago, after consultation with the Ministry of Health, local physicians, engineers, other professionals and the community at large, your government challenged the community to grow a fund of $12 million toward the construction of a new hospital. If the money could be raised, the province would provide its share of the costs and the new facility would become a reality.

The money was raised in an amazingly short period of time and all eyes turned toward the government, excited about what was about to come. More consultation took place, a new and improved cost sharing program developed, drawings created and a site approved. A large sign was erected indicating where the new hospital is to be.

This new facility is to be a model for other areas to follow. A facility that could assist people in need of day-to-day emergencies, family health care, counseling and so on, including affiliation to a seniors’ long term care centre located next door. What a fabulous concept.

Both Minister Caplan and the previous Minister of Health, George Smitherman, have been briefed throughout the entire process and, according to all the reports we in the community have received, they have been positive and enthusiastic.

We are excited about our new hospital and the time is right to have construction begin. This community needs not only a boost to its economy but a boost to its morale. We look forward to seeing the building take shape.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter.

David Watson
Markdale