Participants noted that many farmers incur a high cost of operating their farms with low income potential. As such, maintaining the strength of the agricultural base in rural communities is an on going challenge. Participants were very concerned about the declining services available in rural communities. In particular, participants were concerned about the lack of social services, educational opportunities, medical services, child care, long-term care facilities, bank services, postal services, and public transportation. Participants suggested that government downloading of costs and services is being carried out without adequately considering the impact on rural communities.
Rural residents are concerned about the escalation of taxes.
This concern is magnified by the diminishing income opportunities available locally, the increased aging population with fixed incomes and the declining availability of many services. Participants noted that government must make efforts to keep tax levels in line with income expectations in the area. Participants believe they have limited access to the governments' decision making process and the necessary power and financial resources to influence the policy agenda. The existence of too much government bureaucracy and red tape. Given the diversity of people and interests found in rural communities, participants believe the lack of consensus within communities often holds the community back.