SUNDRE – An ad hoc committee intended to build onto the vision for Sundre with a focus on encouraging and implementing strategies to spur future downtown development has been struck.
Additionally, the new committee that is going to be comprised of a core group of eight people will help draft and implement a downtown area redevelopment plan.
Per the committee’s terms of reference, there will be five voting “representatives from stakeholders such as individual service providers who have expertise and experience in the provision of downtown businesses, economic development, tourism; or town electors who have an interest in the sustainability and growth of the Town of Sundre, with a majority being business owners.”
There will also be non-voting members including the municipality’s chief administrative officer, the director of community development as well as the economic development officer.
As outlined in the terms of reference, council shall appoint committee members “based on recommendations of staff through an expression of interest process and scoring matrix.”
Linda Nelson, chief administrative officer, told the Albertan by email in response to follow-up questions that there will be “an advertisement for interested individuals to submit an application to participate on the committee” and that “the vetting process will follow the terms of reference for the committee.”
“By bringing together business owners, stakeholders and town representatives, the committee ensures the area redevelopment plan reflects local needs and supports economic growth,” reads the background included in council’s agenda package for the Feb. 24 meeting.
“The committee will offer feedback on downtown corridor enhancement communication strategies, engage in idea sharing and discussions to incorporate public input into the drafting of the area redevelopment plan, and assist administration during public information sessions.”
Council was unanimous in supporting the ad hoc committee’s creation.
“This is the first step on a long journey that this council won’t be dealing with,” said Coun. Owen Petersen.
“But I’m excited that this is starting so that the ball gets rolling and we can see a really solid plan for downtown area.”
