In March 2017 the Town of Saugeen Shores launched the Developer/Staff Working Group to connect with active and potential developers in the community. In a Town of Saugeen Shores media release, in a report to Council on February 26, 2018, survey results show this model to connect and communicate with developers is working well.
“As our community continues to grow, it is important for residential and commercial developers to feel connected to, and supported by, the Municipality. The Developer/Staff Working Group has opened dialogue between the Town and private enterprise for mutual success,” said Mayor Mike Smith.
The Developer/Staff Working Group meets quarterly at the Town office in Port Elgin. With approximately 20 stakeholders, including developers and developable land owners; and two Town staff members in the room, the group reviews policies, procedures, provides updates on the local economy, and discusses perceived and identified gaps in the community.
Open dialogue with developers in the community aligns with the Corporate Strategic Plan for the Town of Saugeen Shores.
“A strategic priority for the Town of Saugeen Shores is to facilitate appropriate growth in our communities. The regular discussions we are having with developers/land owners are certainly supporting this priority. Stakeholders are providing staff with helpful comments, feedback and development professionals are bringing exceptional experience to the table,” said Jessica Linthorne, Manager, Strategic Initiatives.
The Developer/Staff Working Group has been highlighted on The Shore Report, the Town of Saugeen Shores podcast.