Strathcona County is well positioned to weather the economic storm. While difficult for many, Mayor Roxanne Carr is optimistic and reassures the community that leaders are reducing costs while maintaining needed programs and services and will come out stronger.
Creating a bright future for citizens in the county means keeping a strong focus on priorities. At the Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, Mayor Roxanne Carr spoke about the present and future of Sherwood Park. Mayor Carr says, “Our municipality is unique and we work together to maintain a balance of urban and rural services that lead to a high quality of life for all of us.”
Mayor Carr has spent nine years on council and believes the county is in the best position it’s been in many decades. As council plans the budget for the coming year, Carr says the focus is on priority based budgeting. Strathcona County provides 315 unique programs to residents. Mayor Car says, “Budget 2017 will apply resources to where it matters most.”
According to the latest economic development reports, the local economy is stable and even growing. Unemployment is 5.3% compared to Alberta at 7.8%. County businesses, while some struggling, the number of new businesses has increased by 35% in the past 5 years with a total of almost 11 thousand businesses operating in Strathcona County.
Mayor Carr attributes the growth to the commitment of local government to the growth of hydrocarbon projects within the Heartland region, a pro-business environment, favourable tax structure and no business license or registrations. Mayor Carr says, “Key to our success is how we build collaborative partnerships with other municipalities, industries and attract new business and helping existing businesses expand.”
Mayor Carr also attributes the county’s success to a productive local and regional labour force, above average incomes, excellent road network systems and railways, and close proximity to three airports. Mayor Carr says, “We have an amazing quality of life that includes our excellent schools, recreational facilities and programs, access to parks, open spaces and trails, and a state-of-the-art library!”
Mayor Carr is proud how Strathcona County builds on its strengths, capitalizes on opportunities and address challenges. As a result, she believes the community is well positioned to maintain quality of life while at the same time assisting those who are struggling and feeling the impact of the economic downturn. Through business partners, non-profit agencies, faith-based groups and residents, together Mayor Carr is confident a shared collective vision can make the difference.
She’s grateful to business leaders who help support fundraising efforts of community charities or starting their own and encourages participation. “Success in social and community outcomes is not achievable or sustainable without concerted effort by all,” says Mayor Carr. County council invites feedback on the issues and concerns that matter most to you and to share ideas on how to make Strathcona County continue to be the safest and most thriving place for residents.
Approximately 96 thousand people resident within the municipality of Strathcona County.
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