Municipality of Barrington releases 3-year strategic plan

‘Period of growth and development’ evident in commercial property sales, capital investment, growth in seafood exports

Infrastructure renewal, economic growth, promotion and support of the tourism industry, and the provision or support of services for residents are the four pillars of a three-year strategic plan released by the Municipality of Barrington.

Described as “the dynamic blueprint” for growth and development in the municipality, the plan “has been developed through intensive deliberations with council and staff, feedback from open public meetings on budgeting and branding, and discussions with many stakeholders,” the municipality said in a release.

“The Municipality of the District of Barrington is in a period of growth and development, as shown by sales of commercial property, commercial capital investment by local business and the increase in seafood exports. Council and staff of the municipality know that the time is right to develop a strategy that will help continue this positive growth and development.”

Things identified as key strategies for infrastructure renewal in the plan include:

• a new recreation centre or possible recreation/ municipal building, with the intent to improve recreation opportunities, service delivery and cost efficiencies on buildings;

• development of an asset management plan, with a commitment to renewal of assets;

• the renewal and possible expansion of sewer systems to assist with residential and commercial growth are identified as key strategies for infrastructure renewal in the plan.

Initiatives for the economic growth component of the plan include:

• development of additional business/commercial properties to create the ability to attract and retain commercial enterprises and increase opportunities for local expansion;

• improved access to internet;

•a reduction of commercial taxation that send the message “we are open for business.”

Key strategies for promotion and support of the tourism industry include the development of amenities at beaches such as parking areas, change rooms, washroom facilities and boardwalks, with a commitment to financial contributions each year, and, the municipality says: “In conjunction with the economic development strategy, work to attract accommodations to support our tourism opportunities in the summer and the fishing industry in the winter.”

Listed in the plan as actions for the provision or support of services for residents of the municipality:

• continue work towards additional medical services and the development of a dialysis unit;

• development of a multi-year strategy with a funding commitment to improve water access at docks, wharves and marinas:

• improved active transportation opportunities through the development of sidewalks, trails and boardwalks, with a commitment to develop an active transportation plan by 2019.

The strategic plan’s statement includes:

• Providing municipal services that meet the needs of residents to enhance and maintain the quality of life in the community;

• encouraging economic growth of the industrial, commercial, tourism industries in order to maximize employment opportunities and related benefits to residents;

• ensuring residents have access to adequate recreational and cultural facilities and activities and local community health-care facilities;

• improving access and awareness of the municipality’s natural assets. mission