Shop local – it’s a phrase we’re all familiar with. Almaguin Community Economic Development – known as ACED – is giving a hand up to businesses in the region. Sarah Cooke, formerly a reporter with Metroland Media, recently joined the ACED team. She’s been hitting the streets and social media to speak to consumers and business owners about how services in the region can be improved.
ACED is also giving residents the opportunity to promote Almaguin. You can drop into your local library and have your say on what makes Almaguin a unique region. Next month, ACED has four $100 gift cards up for grabs. All you have to do is take a photo or a selfie with a purchase made at an Almaguin business. For more information head to www.explorealmaguin.ca.
Another important initiative ACED is spearheading is a housing task force to help alleviate the housing shortage in the region. Five area town councils have voiced their support including Sundridge, Armour, Perry, Strong, and Ryerson. The initiative could also prove beneficial to Almaguin businesses that had trouble attracting workers.
The first plan of action for the task force is identifying the most effective plan for creating more housing. While reasonable land costs and development fees could work in their favor, municipal services and zone bylaws could pose a challenge. An expanded housing market could also impact the real estate market by driving prices higher.
For more on ACED and its strategy for growing Almaguin, listen to our interview with Dave Gray, Director of Economic Development, and Communications Officer Sarah Cooke.
705BLACKFLY.COM is proud to be a Brand Ambassador for Explore Almaguin.
