The Canadian Federation of Municipalities feels the federal parties need to pay closer attention to rural communities in the run up to the October election. The federation wants each party to focus on the needs of rural municipalities in their election platforms. The President of the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities fully endorses the federation initiative. Ray Orb also feels the key to getting on the same page with towns villages and RM’s is for federal representatives to meet face-to-face with rural officials. Orb stressed improving roads and bridges for the expedient transportation of goods from rural areas is crucial for residents and businesses. SARM’s President credited the federal government for improving internet access in rural communities but pointed out it needs to get better. The federation says it’s time for Ottawa to modernize outdated funding models feeling cookie-cutter approaches won’t meet the challenges presented by the climate, geography and demographics of rural areas.