Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan - Perth County

. What needs to change?3. Understanding what these differences are, how do we get from where we are now towhere we want to be? What key actions should be included in Perth County, Stratfordand St. Marys economic development strategy?Emerging from an analysis of the focus group sessions were seven predominant themes or visions for thefuture of the region:1. Quality of life2. Business and industry3. Population growth4. Agriculture5. Government and regulations6. Environment7. Downtown revitalization1. Quality of Life and Place – By far, this theme was most often cited as the asset for the area andthe reason that there is confidence towards new and continued economic growth. Peopleappreciate their healthy, active and safe lifestyle with access to hospitals, schools, recreation,theatre, culture, recreation, park areas, heritage facilities and events. The small townatmosphere was considered a treasure and one that is carefully guarded from urban practicesand a big box mentality. There was a desire to create more events in the off seasons to make thearea a four season destination.2. Business and Industry – Community members are proud of the unique mix of businesses,educational, cultural and tourism enterprises in the area. The area is an anomaly in the sense ofhaving a reputation as a strong manufacturing area as well as being equally well known for itstheatre and unique retail experiences. Participants want to keep the diversity of business andculture and to encourage both the small business operator as well as larger more industrial typeof ventures. It was also felt, however, that it is much healthier for the area to attract small andmedium sized manufacturing companies with a focus on new technologies than larger employerswho create a false sense of security for the employment base. There was consensus on theimportance of making good use of brownfields and empty properties and focus efforts on theattraction on the creative economy, light manufacturing, new technologies and providing businesssupport in terms of mentorship, research and financing.3. Population Growth – Each group spoke on the importance of population growth in order to makethe area attractive to new business and residents. It was felt that it is most important to attractthe return of young families to the area and develop community services to entice a younger workforce. This would include enhancing educational offerings, health services, recreational assets,encourage a cultural diversity and invest in services for a younger demographic. This themeworks in tandem with ‘business and industry’ and ‘quality of life’ as the availability of employmentis paramount to attracting a new and younger resident.4. Agriculture – Strong support was given for the protection of agriculture in the County and theretention of agricultural lands. Concern was expressed for the lack of abattoirs in the area andthe government regulations surrounding their establishment. It was felt that agriculture shouldproceed towards more modern and technology based methods while advancing value addedprocessing. While encouraging local residents and businesses to buy locally was felt to be veryPerth, St. Marys and Stratford Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan 18 | P age