Message from the Mayor and Warden

Town Council

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Mike Smith, Mayor of Saugeen Shores and newly-elected Warden of Bruce County is optimistic about the future.

"In 2009, we saw some effects of the economic slow-down here in the region, but fortunately, we weren't as dependant on the manufacturing sector as other areas were."  According to Smith, September actually saw a turn-around in the housing market with new permits issued and also a rise in tourism.

"One of our biggest 'industries' is tourism and, according to the crew of the Chicheemaun ferry at Tobermory [the tip of the Bruce Peninsula], they had the busiest month ever in September," says Smith.  "In fact, it was often difficult to get on the ferry, so that tells me that consumers are beginning to have confidence again when it comes to travel."

"Saugeen Shores has been involved over the past year in a lot of projects," he points out.  "From infrastructure such as drainage, sewers and the new affordable housing project, it has created a positive environment in our area."

As Warden, Smith says that one of his main areas of focus will continue to be the issue of affordable housing.  "This has been a real concern to me for a long time," he says, "and now all levels of government, Federal and Provincial, County and Municipal, have come to the table. The new affordable housing project to be built in Port Elgin is unique in the County and is going to set a precedent for what can be done."

The year is going to be a busy one, not only for Smith but for the municipality.  The first few months will see budgets and priorities being set .  "In addition to our dedicated town staff," Smith points out,  "We also now have new town personnel, such as the new CAO Larry Allison, who brings a new dynamic with his different set of expertise.

This year, 2010, is also election time for council.  "I will be running for Mayor again," says Smith, "but I am also looking forward to my year as Warden of Bruce County.   It's an opportunity to view the County in a different way and from a different and broader perspective.    People often forget what it is the County does.  First of all, it has a budget of approximately $90 million to oversee and, here in Saugeen Shores, it has an especially big presence with the two libraries and the centralized library and also the Bruce County Museum."

Smith also adds that he is excited about the recent acquisition of the Stokes Bay Lighthouse that was recently transported to Southampton.  "The Lake and the Museum, with the area's rich marine heritage, should complement each other.  One of my goals is to help make that happen.  The acquisition of this historical lighthouse is very important to Bruce County and to the Museum and we want to continue to build on that heritage."

What does Mayor and Warden Mike Smith see for the upcoming  year?

"By nature," he says, "I always try to stay optimistic.  I think this year is going to see a real turn-around in the economy and I think, in this area especially, we are going to see a return to some real consumer confidence again with a strengthening tourism market."

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Friday, January 01, 2010