Outgrowing its current headquarters, the County of Stettler has set a priority for a new office and shop as part of its new strategic plan that also raises stronger economic development effort on the top of the list.
“Everything needs to be put in motion soon for plans for a new office and workshop,” chief administrative officer Tim Fox said during the monthly meeting in July when the plan was presented.
By this December, the strategy calls for steps to identify a timelines and financial plans to replace the office building and shop, explore options for the current building and update and enhance a functional plan for the office and shop.
More than two years ago, the county set a committee to discuss the future of the current base site with the option to relocate since the area is growing with residential development.
Economic development
Economic development has been set as a top priority.
“We need to spend some more time on economic development and we don’t have an economic development officer in the budget,” Fox said.
For many years, the position was shared with the communications officer.
Fox and the plan recommends the county explore partnerships with Stettler Regional Board of Trade and Community Development by next year August.
To move forward, the plan calls for the county to determined desired outcomes for economic development next May.
“The county needs to look at pros and cons of increasing funding to an economic development authority or increase funding resources for the county to do in-house or status quo,” the plan states.
Currently the county is also reviewing the need to fund such economic entities such as Canadian Badlands, Boomtown Trail and Trail of the Buffalo.
Priorities
Responsible accountable government, sustainable environment, infrastructure and service growth and organizational excellence are the top overall priorities laid out the strategic plan that was developed with suggestions from residents, council and staff.
“Council and staff continually work to make the community we live in, the County of Stettler, a strong, vibrant and sustainable community,” the strategy states.
Communications
To connect with residents, the county plans to develop a communications-engagement strategy and create a schedule for public consultation in December.
Strategies for infrastructure
Strategies to reduce waste and enhance water, roads and gravel are also outlined in the plan.