Economic Sustainability Framework
February 2, 2010
Residents asked for views to shape Economic Sustainability Framework
Strathcona County wants a healthy, innovative and sustainable economy – one that balances prosperity, social responsibility and the environment. A healthy economy means jobs and business opportunities. It allows the County to run quality community programs, and provide the services and infrastructure that residents value.
With this in mind, Strathcona County has begun work on an Economic Sustainability Framework. It will guide decision making to foster and sustain a healthy economy that benefits residents, business and industry.
Community members are being asked what is important to them in how the County supports economic opportunities. How can municipal fiscal policy, for instance, encourage development and diversity for local business, employment and quality of life?
The first step in community consultation has focused on gathering input through targeted interviews and stakeholder focus groups. An online questionnaire provides residents the opportunity to share their views on the priorities and important qualities in building an Economic Sustainability Framework.
The questionnaire is available online until March 5. Those preferring a paper format can call 780-424-0091.
The Economic Sustainability Framework, together with the Social Sustainability Framework approved in 2007 and the Environmental Sustainability Framework approved in 2009, completes Strathcona County's triple-bottom-line approach to sustainability.
"Our Strategic Plan is based on the ideal of having a healthy community in three areas—economic, environment and social," says Mayor Cathy Olesen. "These strategic frameworks are important guides for decision making. They will help the County consider the appropriate balance in serving community needs. I encourage residents to provide input through the questionnaire to help shape the Economic Sustainability Framework."
Once all input has been gathered, a draft Economic Sustainability Framework will be available for public review in late spring of this year.
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Contacts:
Mayor Cathy Olesen, 780-464-8000
John Elzinga, Chair, Economic Sustainability, 780-464-8165
Last updated: Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Page ID: 4856