Mayor Van Bynen provided a
brief account of the direct linkage of Council’s Strategic Priorities as
they relate to the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee’s mission
statement and work plan.
Mr. Gragtmans, Chair
provided an overview of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory
Committee’s accomplishments since its inception as well as the Committee’s
planned refresh beginning with today’s workshop. He advised that
anticipated outcomes for this term include: more jobs, a globally
connected Newmarket, Newmarket as the regional hub, identification of economic
drivers and making Newmarket an even better place to live and work.
Overview
of ‘Why?’
Mr.
Farmer provided a synopsis of the intended distinctions behind the words in
the recently created tagline:
‘To
accelerate the growth of our community environment where business and
people thrive.’
Overview of Areas of Focus – Innovation, Collaboration,
Urbanization
Regional
Councillor Taylor provided an outline of the three areas of focus being
Innovation, Collaboration and Urbanization.
Mr.
Pothier queried those present of their level of comfort with the statements
and concepts.
Discussion
ensued with respect to a vision of prosperity within the community, the
potential to recruit young, talented individuals to live and work; the need
for affordable housing and the challenge associated with the current accommodations
scenario.
Further
discussion ensued involving creation of an environment that fosters and
retains individuals to the community as well as a sustainable formula for
the future.
Members
of Council in attendance formed a consensus of comfort with the vision
statement, the areas of focus and the projected future actions.
The
workshop recessed at 6:26 p.m.
The
workshop reconvened at 6:40 p.m.
Mr.
Pothier engaged those present with a strategy identification exercise using
index cards to note possible strategies in support of the areas of focus.
During the exercise, participants would pair-up with another group, share
their findings and arrive at a ‘Top 3’ list.
The
following broad strategies were identified as part of this exercise:
·
Broadband strategy for
specific corridors along Harry Walker Parkway/Davis Drive
·
Municipal energy plan/district
energy area
·
Eco-sphere such as the
CreateIT program for businesses along with health care
·
Post-secondary
partnerships/technology based
·
Establish Town/Region led
dialogue/sharing ideas
·
Inclusion of public art
·
Reward system for innovative
designs particularly along Davis Drive
·
Accommodation units/social
space
·
Being approachable to new
housing designs
·
Outdoor art performances/night
life/walking/cycling
·
Incentives associated with
development of more affordable housing units
·
Partnering with more private
sector businesses for public benefit
·
Engagement opportunities for
new Canadians
·
Collaboration with
post-secondary institutions
·
Digital communication
engagement strategy
·
Holistic view of economic
development
·
Incubator – company landing
zone for business to proceed and succeed
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