West Grey has scheduled a public meeting as one of the final steps before they adopt the new 2020 Action Plan.
The meeting is being held at 9am Monday February 29 at the municipal council chamber and a second draft is available for public feedback before council makes a final decision.
Mayor Kevin Eccles says they want to know what residents and businesses think about the plan before the document is finalized. The draft plan can be reviewed at the municipal office local library branches or on the West Grey website.
Council intends to adopt the Action Plan in March
Eccles says a series of community meetings, and household surveys helped council put the plan together.
In the draft action plan, council focuses on three key themes: ensuring the financial sustainability of the municipality, pursuing economic development in the community, and enhancing its communications.
Under each theme, council proposes several strategies.
For example," continues Mayor Eccles, "under Economic Development, our first strategy is to do whatever we can to accelerate the installation of high-speed internet throughout West Grey. We also focus on what we can do to attract trades training and employment opportunities, and on our urban cores. Under Financial Sustainability, we recognize that no-one wants taxes to skyrocket but that we have a lot of work to do on our roads and bridges, among other things. So, the Action Plan would put a priority on finding new sources of municipal revenue, looking for partnerships with neighbouring municipalities or the private sector, preparing long-range infrastructure funding plans, and beginning in-depth reviews of our services and administrative operations."
"The Action Plan doesn't dwell on routine municipal operations, such as ploughing roads, collecting waste, or issuing building permits. Those operations will carry on,” notes the Mayor. "The Action Plan will guide what the Municipality tries to achieve over and above the basics, to make a difference in the community, and to improve things not just now but for the long-term."
"We'd like people to read it and then give us their feedback. If there are other actions that will be feasible and effective, let us know. More importantly, if West Grey's volunteers, business groups and community organizations can help us to implement the Action Plan, we would like to work with you."
