Nault sees potential for booming tourism industry in Rainy River

Ken Johnston

Kenora-Rainy River M.P. Bob Nault visited Rainy River last Friday morning as part of a three community tour.
Nault began his day with breakfast at the Border Gasthaus, the new restaurant in the west end of town. The federal government having provided funding to the Rainy River Future Development Corporation, Nault was very impressed with the use of dollars from RRFDC’s business loan program to develop the Gasthaus.
Owner Werner Reimund gave Nault and his assistants a tour of the building starting on the main level where both dining rooms are completed and decorated. He toured the kitchen and bar area; the latter which is still under construction. He then was shown the upstairs of the facility which is getting close to being completed as a bed and breakfast.
“How close are you to completing the project?” asked Nault.
Reimund gestured that he needs more capital and indicated that he has borrowed as much as RRFDC is able to loan out. Both Nault and his assistant Julian Morrelli said that there is a way to borrow beyond that limit but it involves going to a higher government level. Nault said his office will work with Reimund to get the approximately $125,000 more he needs to finish the project.
“This is the type of tourism business I see a need for in Rainy River,” said Nault.
At a later meeting with Rainy River Town Council, Nault told council he would like to see council come up with a plan for more tourism related development from the Gasthaus east along the highway to town. “To me that is the property you need to look at,” said Nault.
Councillor Glen Armstrong said that council has been pursuing the land between the highway and the CNR tracks. It is owned by CNR and Armstrong was hoping the railway would strike a deal with the town so they could develop it.
Armstrong mentioned the possibility of putting a water park in along the highway.
Nault said that the main reason for his trip through Rainy River, Emo and Fort Frances was to get input on infrastructure needs from the communities.
“We are developing a 10 year plan for infrastructure and I am seeking input on it from municipal leaders,” said Nault adding that there have been only a few requests for major infrastructure money in Northern Ontario in the past year.