MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 22, 2023

Town of Smiths Falls unveils the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan

At their July 17^th meeting, Council approved the 2023 - 2026 Strategic Plan that will act as a guiding road map, defining measurable priorities and initiatives that will shape the future of Smiths Falls.

The Strategic Plan outlines priorities that will ensure a common direction and purpose for Council and staff over the next four years, and what the community envisions for its future. Through strategic discussion sessions held with Council, Town Staff and the community, six priorities were identified along with goals and initiatives that would lead to achieving these goals. The key priorities identified in the Strategic Plan are:

• Transportation Networks
• Housing
• Infrastructure Renewal
• Redevelopment of the Waterfront and Downtown
• News Business Attraction
• Parks, Trails & Recreation

“We are grateful to the community and all stakeholders that took part in developing this important document by sharing your input with us from lived experience, expertise, knowledge and your love for Smiths Falls,” said Shawn Pankow, Mayor of Smiths Falls. “Your feedback was crucial in developing a clear path for us to direct the Town in order to create the future we all want to see.”

To support implementation of the Strategic Plan, a plan has been developed that sets out high-level timelines and corporate performance measures for each strategic initiative that will be reviewed on an annual basis.

“Over the next four years, aligning staff work to these six priorities will ensure we stay on course and that the intent of the Strategic Plan is kept at the forefront of decision making. Through regular progress reports by Town staff, Council and the community will remain well informed regarding completed milestones, ongoing initiatives, and upcoming projects”, said Malcolm Morris, the Chief Administrative Officer.

The 2023-2026 Strategic Plan is now available on the Town’s website. Limited printed copies are also available at Town Hall.

-30-

Media Contact

Esther Njuguna

Communications and Marketing Coordinator

77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695

Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8

613-283-4124 ext. 1137