Growing Our Local and Regional Economy

"Over the past four years, it has become clear to me that cities are increasingly playing a leadership role in the economic development efforts for their communities. Working together with the new regional chair and local mayors, I am committed to ensure that we continue to have a diverse and thriving local economy with opportunities for all."

Growing the economy is a key focus for any 21st century Mayor and is a priority that our community has identified for City Council.  I am committed to work collaboratively with a wide-range of partners to ensure we continue to lead and be resilient as a community.

Together with my city and regional colleagues, we will:

1. Continue to advocate for public transportation improvements along the Toronto Waterloo Region Innovation Corridor, including 2-way, All-day GO Train service and high-speed rail.
2. Develop a strategy and an incentive program to encourage the reuse of neighbourhood plazas that are currently not fully utilized in many of our neighbourhoods.
3. Re-ignite plans for an arts & culture hub by supporting the arts & culture cluster as a critical sector to both enhance quality of life for our residents and to grow the local economy.
4. Develop an action plan for development of the next phases of the city’s Innovation District.
5. Actively engage with the Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation in seeking foreign-direct investment as well as provide trade support for local companies.