Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX CENTRE - There was a rosy outlook as Middlesex Centre council got an update on the municipality’s strategic plan at its April 8th council meeting.
The plan is a roadmap for municipal priorities, and 2026 is the final year for the most recent 5-year plan. “This report showcases our staff’s commitment to achieving the goals set forward in the strategic plan,” Communications Manager Heather Kepran told council.
The plan is broken down into five major areas: engaged community, balanced growth, vibrant local economy, sustainable infrastructure and services, and responsive municipal government.
Under the heading of engaged community, Kepran cited a new arts and culture policy and volunteer appreciation initiatives among the accomplishments. “We were able to offer free public skating throughout the skating season at both arenas,” added Kepran. “We expanded our recreation amenities at our local parks in cooperation with community groups and local businesses.”
In terms of balanced growth, accomplishments cited include using dollars under the provincial Housing Accelerator Fund to help grow the housing stock, and an initiative to increase the water supply to Kilworth.
The only area in the report with an initiative that hasn’t been started, is hosting an annual community organization forum to facilitate networking, exchanging of priorities, and sharing plans and concerns. Council was told the delay relates to the fallout from COVID. “There’s only one red bullseye, which I think speaks volumes. And you have a plan to go for that item that was delayed because of COVID,” said Mayor Aina DeViet.
A final report on the implementation of the strategic plan is expected to go before council in September.
“Often strategic plans sit on the shelf and this council have been very good about actually moving forward,” said Kepran.
