Grey County is taking proactive steps to support local businesses as the threat of U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump looms. County officials outlined their response during a council meeting on Thursday, February 13, emphasizing the potential economic impact and strategies to mitigate damage if a trade war between Canada and the United States escalates. Grey County staff presented a detailed plan on how they can assist local businesses, ensuring they are prepared for any financial strain imposed by new tariffs.
While federal and provincial governments are working to prevent the tariffs from being implemented, municipalities and advocacy organizations are also stepping in to help mitigate potential fallout. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities is compiling responses from major cities to create resources for local governments, while the Association of Municipalities of Ontario is assessing the financial impact of a trade war, developing tools to support “Buy Canadian” initiatives, and pushing for economic stimulus measures.
Grey County has already submitted data to AMO, highlighting that it has 28 capital infrastructure projects (excluding housing) valued at more than $55.5 million planned through 2027, with municipal contributions exceeding $13 million. Given these commitments, the county is looking at immediate procurement changes that prioritize Canadian suppliers. These measures include raising the threshold for bid invitations to the maximum allowed under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, sourcing furniture, fixtures, and equipment for the Rockwood Terrace Long-Term Care Home build from Canadian companies, and adjusting Amazon Business purchasing settings to prioritize Ontario and Canadian resellers.
