The Town of Saugeen Shores and Nuclear Innovation Institute announced July 10 a potential partnership to enhance municipal services through the creation of the Municipal Innovation Council (MIC) with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) expected to be considered by Saugeen Shores Council July 22.

In a joint media release July 10, the MIC would connect municipal governments across the region to engage in opportunities to leverage learning, explore public private-partnerships and change the way municipalities are doing business. Working with the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII), the MIC would aim to find solutions to deliver modern, efficient services and improve how municipalities deliver services.

“Through a collaborative and strategic approach, the Municipal Innovation Council will discover efficiencies and transform the way we work,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “We are looking forward to advancing four areas of focus through our partnership with Nuclear Innovation Institute, including Construction and Infrastructure, Employee Engagement, IT and Digital Services, and Accessibility and Inclusivity. Together, we will ensure Saugeen Shores and our neighbouring municipalities work smarter and more efficiently," he said.

As host community to NII, the Town of Saugeen Shores would lead the initiative. Municipalities in the region would be invited to participate on the MIC and have the opportunity to implement enhanced policy, process and common practice toward service delivery for ratepayers.

“The Municipal Innovation Council is a welcome partner to the Nuclear Innovation Institute,” said Frank Saunders, President of NII. “The Town of Saugeen Shores has taken a leadership role in moving this initiative forward, demonstrating their forward thinking, while promoting collaboration and continued learning. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage the region in NII and help connect our private and public sector partners to find innovative, new solutions to service delivery.”