Proposal to go before ‘Smart Growth’ panel

The Northwestern Ontario “Smart Growth” panel will get some suggestions about the region’s economic future April 8.
That’s when a proposal drawn up by three regional partners will be given to the panel for approval, said Tannis Drysdale, president of the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce.
The proposal, endorsed by NOACC, the Northern Ontario Development Network, and the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association, “provides clear recommendations that when acted on by this government, will begin to build a healthy, strong Northwestern economy,” said Drysdale.
“The potential for growth in Northwestern Ontario is clear. We have the opportunity to become self-reliant and increase our contributions to the economy of this province.
“What we have lacked is a regional plan,” she noted. “Now, we have that plan.”
The proposal puts forth seven “pro-active, pro-North concepts,” said Drysdale, including:
•regional “Growth Bonds” that would allow Northwestern Ontario residents to invest in their own communities;
•corporate relocation-expansion incentives to draw more big business here;
•resource-revenue retention fund that would restrict new taxation for the region;
•free trade zones at regional airports;
•provincial fuel tax reinvestment, whereby business that relies on extensive fuel use (such as transportation) would get some funds back;
•redevelopment of reclaimed land; and
•release of Crown lands for cottage lots.
“We’ve seen all the growth happening in the ‘Golden Horseshoe’ and the money they’re spending on establishing infrastructure is incredible,” noted Drysdale.
“We have the infrastructure in place now, it makes sense to spread some of that money here. To us, that’s ‘smart growth,’” she added.
The proposal was formed from input by the three groups, and was drafted by a consultant funded by the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce and Development Thunder Bay.
But Drysdale stressed the proposal benefits the entire region and not simply Thunder Bay.
If endorsed by the panel, the proposal will be passed on to the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, after which the recommendations will be in the hands of the province.
“We can’t see any reason this won’t be endorsed,” said Drysdale.
Mayor Glenn Witherspoon, chair of the regional “Smart Growth” panel, was unavailable for comment by press time.
The “Smart Growth” initiative features five panels from across the province, with the purpose of evaluating how to promote economic growth in their areas.
The Northwestern zone will have as its priority the major issue of creating jobs and more opportunities for youth.
The zone includes the districts of Thunder Bay, Kenora, and Rainy River.