It's been a busy year since the new Penhold Economic Development Committee was founded.
The committee was started in August 2011. Julie MacKinnon, the chair of the committee, said the time has been productive as the board has hosted a business mixer and started other initiatives to help grow Penhold.
“Right now we're working on getting some kits together to promote investing in Penhold,” MacKinnon said. “We want to help anyone who's interested in either growing their business or starting a new business.”
MacKinnon said there are six current members of the board, including two town councillors.
“We had one new member recently and we're definitely open to anyone who'd like to apply,” MacKinnon said. Interested residents can apply through the town.
The committee is dedicated to supporting current businesses in Penhold and helping to attract more businesses to the rapidly developing town.
On the business front, MacKinnon said the committee is planning on having business visitations to help with dialogue. The community can learn about the committee and its efforts during a barbecue on Aug. 25 at the Penhold Splash Park.
“Our goal with the event is to let everyone know what we're doing,” MacKinnon said. The barbecue will run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. In addition to the splash park, a bouncy castle will be on hand for the kids' entertainment.
The Economic Development Committee has had inquiries about light industrial and commercial spaces available in town.
“We've had a lot of interest in Penhold,” MacKinnon said.
When asked if they're targeting any particular kind of business, MacKinnon said they're interested in community and business input.
“We're listening to the community,” MacKinnson said, noting a grocery store and doctor's office are a couple of popular requests.
With the opening of the multiplex and the upcoming build of the regional high school, MacKinnon said this is “the perfect time” for economic development in Penhold.
For those interested in joining the committee, the group meets about once a month and more often if needed. The Town of Penhold volunteer and advisory board application is available online at www.townofpenhold.ca.
