MEADOW LAKE — Meadow Lake’s city council has released a four-year strategic plan, outlining the vision, goals and priorities for the community during the current council’s term.
The plan, which is available online at the city’s website, says the community is home to more than 5,300 residents, with an expected increased population of 6,400 by 2032. With the vision of moving the city forward in a positive way to support growth and future prosperity, the council’s mission is to support the best quality of life for all residents, today and tomorrow.
“Through listening to the community and focused strategic conversations, the City of Meadow Lake City Council has identified five priorities to guide actions and investment in our community,” says the plan. These priorities include strengthening the economy, delivering value, investing in community infrastructure, focusing on community safety and creating housing opportunities.
Strengthen the economy
The city council would like to continue to build partnerships in the region, including the relationship with Flying Dust First Nation and the RM of Meadow Lake. There are also plans to collaborate on regional economic development plans with adjacent regional neighbours. There will also be a focus on supporting and attracting small businesses through the Chamber of Commerce, exploring incentives for new and existing businesses. With the recent addition of the Co-op Centre in Meadow Lake, the ability to host a wider variety of events is possible. Council is looking to update the city’s logo and branding, while developing an Events and Programming Strategy to maximize the facility’s usage.
Deliver value
As the city evolves, the council must also evolve its financial capacity to make investments in the priorities of the residents while balancing the budget and limiting tax increases. The Council will introduce the new City Manager and work to build a committed public service through competitive wages, benefits and a welcoming work environment with ample staff training and peer networking opportunities. There are also plans to increase communication between Council, administration, local businesses, organizations and residents through a range of channels.
Invest in community infrastructure
One of the top priorities with community infrastructure is addressing the odour from the Lagoon, along with the environmental and reputational risks associated with it. The council is looking at immediate-term solutions as well as longer-term financial strategies to rectify the issue. Small-scale improvements will see some funding, with opportunities for citizens to take part in these projects. The city will also continue to invest in preventative maintenance in water, sewer and roads, while also preparing for the future replacement of some public buildings.
Focus on community safety
The City of Meadow Lake and local law enforcement agencies need to work together to reduce crime and increase safety. While significant efforts have been made, gang activity, crime rates and perceptions of safety remain a concern for residents. The Council is looking to increase coordination and transparency with law enforcement to help explore the resources available and to assess where challenges lie and how those challenges can be minimized. Derelict properties and bad landlords will also be held accountable, with increased bylaw enforcement and collaboration with local landlords and the Landlords Association.
Create opportunities for housing
City Council understands the need for a range of housing options. While the provincial and federal governments are key partners, the municipal government is willing to play its part. They will advocate to provincial and federal governments for the development of new affordable housing units and the renovation of existing empty units. Council also plans to ensure that there is an adequate supply of market housing to meet the growth of the community. They will explore municipal incentives for new housing developments and improvements to existing properties.
The full plan is available here for viewing.
