Since he was first elected in 2022, MPP Brian Riddell has been more than a voice at Queen’s Park; he’s been a tireless advocate for his community, passionately working to improve the lives of his constituents.
Guided by a vision of a thriving, inclusive city, MPP Riddell is committed to driving economic growth while addressing the pressing needs of healthcare, housing, and infrastructure. MPP Riddell says, “Cambridge thrives on the strength of its people who are dedicated innovators, entrepreneurs, and hardworking individuals. This progressive spirit makes Cambridge not only a wonderful community to call home but also a prime destination for investment and business growth.”
A hub of economic opportunity
Cambridge is prospering and the numbers speak for themselves. Over 1,600 well-paying jobs have been created in the past few years as employers look to regions’ rich economic potential. Behind this momentum is the unwavering advocacy of MPP Brian Riddell, whose dedication to bringing new opportunities to Cambridge is shaping the city’s future.
MPP Riddell and Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative government have played a pivotal role in making Cambridge an attractive destination for major employers, including Bruce Power, Vue Real, Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre, DANA, OVH Cloud, FluidAI, BWXT, Shimco, Quantum Valley Ideas Lab, and Amazon. MPP Riddell stresses, “Strategic investments in critical infrastructure, healthcare, and community development send a clear message that Cambridge is open for business.”
The $220 million redevelopment of Cambridge Memorial Hospital is a significant milestone bringing enhanced health care services to Cambridge and North Dumfries. MPP Riddell adds, “It’s a transformative project that modernizes healthcare for residents and signals community growth and stability to prospective investors.”
Employers see value in a community and its leaders that prioritize people, and Cambridge offers that in spades. MPP Riddell says, “The redevelopment of local facilities, our commitment to affordable housing, and investment in infrastructure that supports growth all contribute to creating an environment where businesses, individuals, and families can thrive.”
Big impact on small and medium-sized business
Cambridge is buzzing with entrepreneurial energy, thanks in part to MPP Riddell’s unwavering support for small and medium-sized businesses. Recognizing the challenges many businesses still face in the aftermath of the pandemic, MPP Riddell has worked to ensure they have the resources and support they need. He says, “Smaller businesses have been hard hit by the effects of the pandemic, and I’ve assisted 63 businesses in Cambridge with funding to help them thrive. Since 2022, businesses throughout the community have received $123 million in government support."
Through initiatives like the Ontario Trillium Foundation, businesses in Cambridge have benefitted from $2.8 million in investments that have offered support during challenging times. From upgrading equipment to expanding operations, businesses are seizing these opportunities to grow, and the ripple effects are being felt throughout the community. MPP Riddell says, “These funds have helped businesses keep doors open, jobs secure, and dreams alive. Our government’s investments have not only created greater job opportunities but have also transformed Cambridge into a landing zone for new skilled workers in Ontario.”
Advocating for protection
As Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, MPP Brian Riddell has played a key role in advancing meaningful change alongside Minister Todd McCarthy. Together, they’ve championed four pivotal pieces of legislation, including the Homeowner Protection Act (2024) which ensures that individuals are no longer trapped in predatory financing agreements for essential home systems like HVAC units, water heaters, and furnaces. The legislation prohibits the registration of Notices of Security Interest on title to property when such notices relate to financed or rented consumer goods.
MPP Riddell says, “These changes have significantly reduced the risks of homeowners being financially exploited. I worked alongside Minister McCarthy and Detective Constable Adam Stover of the Waterloo Regional Police Service to emphasize the need for this legislation which received Royal Assent in June 2024.”
MPP Riddell helped spearhead Ontario’s Strengthening Cyber Security and Building Trust in the Public Sector Act which enhances digital security by requiring public sector organizations using AI to meet strict transparency and ethical standards that safeguard personal information. MPP Riddell points out, “The legislation enhances cyber protection for individuals including, patients in hospitals and children in schools and childcare centres. Having this legislation in place ensures parents in Cambridge and throughout Ontario can be assured that their children’s personal and private information will not be accessible to bad actors.”
The Better for Consumers, Better for Businesses Act, is a bold step into the 21st century for consumer protection. The legislation modernizes outdated laws, tackling issues like refund policies, digital fraud, and fair marketplace practices. It balances consumer rights with business growth, ensuring both thrive in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Meanwhile, the Building Infrastructure Safely Act, updates Ontario One Call that helps builders meet locate timelines, reducing liabilities in construction deadlines and costs in being a single point of contact for all underground infrastructure locate requests.
A brighter future
Through MPP Brian Riddell’s tireless efforts, Cambridge is a hub of innovation and opportunity. Whether it’s attracting top-tier employers or ensuring that residents benefit from meaningful investment and economic development, MPP Riddell and the Ford government are building a foundation for long-term prosperity.
Contact MPP Brian Riddell at (519) 650-2770; Email: [email protected] or visit their website
Constituency Office is located at 73 Water Street North., Unit 601, Cambridge, N1R 7L6