Public Input is an Important Part of the Plan DID YOU HAVE A SAY IN THE FUTURE OF CYPRESS COUNTY?
County
residents were invited to participate in an important survey, on-line or
on paper. Their
understanding, advice and foresight will help to shape the future of
Cypress County. The
deadline for completing the survey was Wednesday March 10.
The Federal
and Provincial governments have been providing substantial funding to
all urban and rural municipalities since 2007.
This funding is conditional on
developing a long term Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP or
Municipal Sustainability Plan) by March 31, 2010.
Both levels
of government define an Integrated Community Sustainability Plan
as "any existing or new long-term plan developed in consultation with
community members, for the community to realize sustainability for the
environmental, cultural, social and economic dimensions of its
identity." Therefore, an
ICSP needs to be a plan addressing those dimensions, with community
input and looking 10 to 30 years into the future.
It also needs to demonstrate long term fiscal, environmental,
cultural and social commitment and planning.
A Multi-Year Capital
Infrastructure Plan is also a very important part of the ICSP.
County
Council has completed a lengthy consultation process with residents for
the new Tri-Area Intermunicipal Development Plan.
Public input has provided good information regarding
agricultural priorities for the County and how the land is to be
safeguarded while encouraging economic development and healthy growth.
Now council wants to consult residents about their preferred
future for Cypress County in all aspects.
During the
past year, Council members participated in a future planning retreat and
developed a mission statement.
Residents are encouraged to expand on or add to the overall goals
that Council has envisioned and offer innovative ways to accomplish a
successful future for Cypress County.
By
restating components of Council's vision for the future within the five
pillars of sustainability, an ICSP outline begins to develop:
Economy:
A vibrant and sustainable agricultural community, attracting
economic growth that will make a positive contribution to the
municipality.
Governance:
Provide leadership, with fair and equitable decisions for the County as
a whole instead of only for districts within the County.
Environment:
(Housing, Parks, Utilities, Services, Roads) Provide municipal services
to agriculture, hamlet, industrial, commercial and residential
development
Social/Community:
Encourage a rural lifestyle;
safe and friendly, social well being. Provide assistance, information
and support to the agriculture community.
Culture:
Maintain a rural identity. County Council thanks the citizens for their insight and foresight about the future of the county. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the ICSP, feel free to discuss them with Doug Henderson at the County office.
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