Updated agreement strengthens regional collaboration in Muskoka

The major change adds the District to the agreement and management of the program moves to the Town of Bracebridge

An updated agreement strengthening the regional collaboration in Muskoka was presented to Huntsville General Committee, in the January 28, 2026, meeting.

Committee approved an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Venture Muskoka, a regional economic development partnership involving Muskoka's lower-tier municipalities, aimed at reflecting changes in governance, financial administration, and regional collaboration.

According to the staff report, Venture Muskoka was originally formed by economic development staff from the six lower-tier municipalities to jointly promote the region and attract investment. The partnership was formalized through an MOU in 2017 and has since supported initiatives such as the Muskoka Workforce Strategy and the Muskoka Job Board.

It adds, the updated MOU reflects several changes that have taken place in recent years, including the creation of the District of Muskoka's first dedicated economic development role in 2024 and an increase in collaborative regional initiatives requiring coordination with external partners.

One of the key changes outlined in the updated agreement is the addition of the District of Muskoka as a full member of Venture Muskoka. While the District will now formally participate, the partnership remains lower-tier led, with the District participating as an equal member rather than assuming a leadership role.

The updated MOU also clarifies the roles and responsibilities of member municipalities, noting that participation in Venture Muskoka does not limit a municipality's ability to pursue its own local economic development initiatives. The agreement emphasizes principles of collaboration, trust, and healthy competition, and confirms that municipalities are not obligated to participate in projects that do not align with their interests.

Governance updates clarify that while Venture Muskoka strives for consensus decision-making, matters may be decided by majority vote if needed. The agreement also allows for the formation of subcommittees or working groups to support specific initiatives, with participation remaining voluntary.

Financial administration is another area addressed in the updated MOU. Since Venture Muskoka's inception, Muskoka Futures has managed financial administration. Under the revised agreement, those responsibilities will transition to the Town of Bracebridge, which will act as the financial lead. All Venture Muskoka expenses will be processed through Bracebridge, with participating municipalities invoiced annually for their proportional share of verified costs.

The report notes that annual municipal contributions have historically ranged between $1,000 and $1,500 per member. For 2026, the Town of Huntsville has budgeted $2,000 for Venture Muskoka activities. The MOU does not create any new financial obligations beyond approved project costs.

Mayor, Nancy Alcock, suggested it was “interesting that Bracebridge is the one that takes funds and redistributes,” and sought clarification that Huntsville will continue their role.

Staff confirmed this was the new model which will be signed by March. The said it “will be signed and handed to that municipality to take on” because of “continuity with staff” for the role.

They added that the goal is to strengthen economic development, “to attract people to work, live, and stay here,” rather than the focus solely on tourism.

They continued, “Larger scale support collaboratively works better versus each municipality doing their own videos, etc.”

Retaining businesses and supporting various factors was also a key factor mentioned by staff.

Once the updated MOU is executed, any remaining funds currently held by Muskoka Futures, estimated at less than $10,000, will be transferred to Bracebridge. Those funds will be applied to planned 2026 projects, including a new Venture Muskoka brand launch, website redesign, and marketing campaigns, with an estimated total budget of $13,000.