The layout of the community and the focus on the success of the Quarry has resulted in a perceived rift between our growing business community and our Historic Downtown businesses. How will you, as a mayor or councillor, foster a business community that is more cohesive?
As a councillor, I will work with council, economic development staff and business owners to create a cohesive atmosphere through shared projects. When the downtown and Quarry businesses come together we will have stronger outcomes for all. This would likely include things like attracting tourism, community events, parades, holiday events and Christmas shopping.
To assist in this process, a task force could be developed with some businesses from the Quarry and some from downtown to discuss with council the problems or divisions that have taken place. As a group, we can determine what the problems are and begin to rectify them. As this happens and joint projects take place, the trust will build among all parties.
Once we get transit in place, we can encourage tourists and residents to visit all parts of our business communities. The transit station will be on the old bulk station site across from the library. This and the planned downtown pedestrian railway crossing will mean success for all Cochrane businesses.
Our recent downtown revitalizations with new entrance features and increased landscaping make our downtown as beautiful as the Quarry.
