Grey County is celebrating an Award of Excellence for its Economic Development, Tourism and Culture (EDTC) Master Plan.
The Plan, called ‘The Grey’t Reset’, was recognized in the Excellence for Planning and Strategic Development – Urban category on February 8 at the annual Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Conference in Toronto.
The Awards of Excellence identify new ideas that lead economic development best practices of the future.
The Master Plan provides a 10-year vision for the growth of economic development, tourism, and culture in Grey County, alongside detailed five-year action plans for each of the department’s three streams. The plan includes specific action items for priority areas, including leadership, investment readiness, and business retention.
The actions in the plan focus on ensuring work is proactive and practical while considering the available resources and priority needs of each community.
“It’s an honour to be identified by EDCO as an example of economic development best practices across the province,” said Savanna Myers, Director of Economic Development, Tourism, and Culture for Grey County. “This plan was a truly cooperative effort – it would not have been possible without the meaningful input and support we received from member municipalities, residents, business owners and community partners throughout the consultation process.”
Priority areas for the culture sector include inclusive storytelling, interactive experiences, and destination development.
“Grey County is proud to be recognized for this initiative that shows that together, we’re stronger,” said Grey County Warden Brian Milne. “Working with our partners and member municipalities, we’ve built a solid foundation of caring for our communities, and created a strategy that reflects all of our needs and our drive to move forward.”