Declarations of Pecuniary Interest

None.

1.

Welcome and Session Overview; Introductions

Mr. Pothier welcomed those present and announced the commencement of the workshop at 5:32 p.m.  He provided a brief overview of the agenda topics, advised that the focus should align with Council priorities within the realm of the Economic Development category and requested Mayor Van Bynen offer opening remarks.

Notice

Mayor Van Bynen advised that in accordance with the Town's Procedure By-law, no decisions are to be made but rather this meeting is an opportunity for Council to have informal discussion regarding various matters.

2.

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   

3.

Discussion ensued regarding some overarching themes within each focus area.

4.

What's Next?  

Mr. Gragtmans, Chair sought feedback related to possible continuation of these workshop settings with Members of Council or strictly with the NEDAC membership in an effort to fine tune details of proposed actions.

The Commissioner of Community Services suggested a larger stakeholder connections format and that perhaps the workshop notes could be compiled with an accompanying presentation and report to Council, after which a performance matrix could be utilized to track the achievement of NEDAC’S success. 

Mayor Van Bynen thanked everyone for their enthusiastic participation in the workshop.

Mr. Gragtmans, Chair also expressed appreciation to those in attendance for a productive workshop and acknowledged Mr. Pothier’s efforts and his facilitation talents.