When you're moving from a bigger city to a smaller town, you naturally expect some downgrade in the level and availability of services. You might have to trade in your Toronto executive search firm registration for the classifieds section of the newspaper or buy a car instead of relying on the now nonexistent subway. But if you're moving to Addington Highlands, don't think of it as returning to the Stone Age. There are plenty of city resources and services to keep you going.

Business

The township of Addington Highlands has recently received funding from OSTAR, an Ontario provincial government program that funds rural economic development. The funds are earmarked for tourism and if you're thinking of opening a business in Addington, perhaps a franchise of Vynckier Enclosures, you can get assistance from the Economic Development Committee. The township also maintains a directory of local businesses for the reference of residents.

Emergency

The township of Addington Highlands has its own dedicated fire service in case of emergencies. There is, however, no local police force or ambulance service, though the fire services personnel are trained in first aid. As a rural township, responsibility for policing lies with the RCMP. Though there are some medical services, there are no specialty or emergency hospitals like in Toronto or Mississauga. Dentist service is available, along with a physician, a lab, and a dispensary, at the Northbrook Medical Center.

Services and Enforcement

The town council handles the by-laws on animal control, building, fire prevention, recycling and garbage collection. The town collects and disposes of residents' garbage, issues permits for buildings, additions, and special events, and inspects properties for adherence with fire and building codes. Anyone seeking a permit should apply to the town council. These services are funded by your property taxes, which are paid to the township, and by-laws are enforced by an officer from the council.

Information

You can have most of your questions about Addington Township and the services available in town answered by the town council, which meets in Flinton on Thursdays and Fridays between 8:30am and 4pm. They can be reached by phone at (613) 336-2286. If the information you're looking for is unrelated to town services, try one of the two town libraries. There's one in Flinton and another in Denbigh. They have 24/7 internet access and books for kids and adults on everything from kangaroos to contemporary dance.