Bay of Quinte: A Briefing for Visiting Dignitaries

Welcome to the electoral district of Bay of Quinte! Located in eastern Ontario, this district comprises a diverse array of rural and urban communities. Bay of Quinte is known for its natural beauty, its thriving regional economy, and its engaged and active citizenry. In this briefing, we'll tell you everything you need to know about our district, including its population centres, its issues and events, its economy, its important landmarks, its arts and culture, and its electoral issues, as well as key community organizations and multicultural groups.

Population Centres

Bay of Quinte is home to several significant cities and towns, including the following:

• Belleville: This vibrant city is the largest in the district, with a population of approximately 50,000 people. Belleville is known for its artistic community, its downtown core, and its location on the Bay of Quinte waterfront.
• Quinte West: This municipality is composed of several smaller communities, including Trenton, Frankford, and Sidney. Quinte West is home to the Canadian Forces Base Trenton, the largest employer in the district, as well as numerous parks, trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
• Prince Edward County: This picturesque region comprises several communities, including Picton, Wellington, and Bloomfield. Prince Edward County is famous for its wineries, its beaches, and its historic downtowns.

These urban centres are connected by a network of highways and rural roads, making it easy to travel throughout the district.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, Bay of Quinte has faced a number of issues and events that have affected the district's residents. These include:

• COVID-19: As in other parts of the world, the pandemic has had a profound impact on the lives of people in Bay of Quinte. The district has seen a significant number of cases and has had to balance public health concerns with economic challenges.
• Flooding: In the spring of 2019 and 2020, Bay of Quinte experienced significant flooding, which impacted local farmers, homeowners, and businesses. While the district was able to respond quickly to the crisis, the extent of the damage was significant.
• Affordable Housing: As in many parts of Canada, the cost of housing in Bay of Quinte has increased dramatically in recent years, making it difficult for many residents to find affordable homes.

Economy

Bay of Quinte is home to a diverse array of businesses and industries, including:

• Manufacturing: The district has a significant manufacturing sector, with companies like Procter & Gamble, General Electric, and Kellogg's all operating facilities in the area.
• Agriculture: Bay of Quinte is an agricultural hub, producing a wide range of crops, including apples, grapes, and corn. In addition, the district is home to several successful farmers' markets and artisanal food producers.
• Tourism: Bay of Quinte's natural beauty and historic downtowns make it a popular destination for tourists. The district has numerous attractions, including Sandbanks Provincial Park, the Belleville Waterfront Trail, and the Prince Edward County Wine Trail.

One recent event that has had a positive impact on the regional economy is the expansion of the Canadian Forces Base Trenton. This expansion has created jobs and stimulated local economic growth.

Important Landmarks

Bay of Quinte is home to many significant attractions, including:

• Sandbanks Provincial Park: This park is known for its beautiful beaches and dunes, which attract visitors from around the world.
• Bellevue House: This National Historic Site was the home of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister. The house provides a glimpse into life in the 19th century.
• Trent-Severn Waterway: This historic waterway connects Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay, providing boaters with access to some of Ontario's most beautiful landscapes.
• Prince Edward County Wine Trail: This collection of wineries and vineyards is a popular destination for wine lovers, featuring some of the best vintages in the province.

Arts and Culture

Bay of Quinte has a rich artistic and cultural scene, including:

• The Empire Theatre: This historic theatre hosts a wide range of performances, including theatre, music, and comedy.
• The Belleville Art Association: This organization supports local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and other resources.
• The Hastings County Historical Society: This group documents the region's history through artifacts, photographs, and oral histories.
• The Waring House: This historic inn and restaurant is known for its music concerts and community events.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, the major issues in Bay of Quinte included affordable housing, climate change, and economic recovery in the wake of COVID-19. Candidates were also asked to weigh in on the proposed expansion of the Trent-Severn Waterway and the future of the Canadian Forces Base Trenton.

Community Organizations

Bay of Quinte is home to many community organizations that work to support residents and promote economic and social development. Some of the most important include:

• Quinte Regional Chamber of Commerce: This organization represents businesses and advocates for economic development in the district.
• Community Development Council of Quinte: This group works to address poverty and promote social inclusion in Bay of Quinte.
• United Way Hastings & Prince Edward: This organization supports a range of local charities and nonprofits, including those that address mental health, homelessness, and food insecurity.
• Quinte Humane Society: This animal shelter provides adoption services, education, and community outreach programs.
• Canadian Mental Health Association - Hastings Prince Edward: This organization provides mental health services and support to people in the district.

Multicultural Groups

Bay of Quinte is home to a growing multicultural population, including significant Indigenous, Black, and South Asian communities. In recent years, there has been increased focus on promoting diversity and inclusivity in the district, with organizations like the Hastings County Historical Society working to document the histories and experiences of these communities.

We hope this briefing has provided you with a comprehensive overview of Bay of Quinte. If you have any further questions or need additional information, please visit the official website of the Bay of Quinte Electoral District.