Finally! Upon reading Nolan Crouse's endorsement of regional collaboration in the May 3 St. Albert Gazette, I'm sure many are delighted that St. Albert and the region now have Nolan’s leadership and vision.
We all know St. Albert is blessed, recognized as number one in liveability: an extraordinary respect for the environment, a well-educated population and a great place to raise a family. But St. Albert has lacked a sustainable economy. To their credit, the last two councils have elevated the priority of economic development. A plan is now in place with the designation of the employment lands for light industrial growth, creation of an economic development department to attract investors, developers and new businesses to the area as well as a promoting a business friendly attitude to work with stakeholders. The intent is to improve the balance between residential and non-residential tax assessments so that our public services will not have to continue to rely on residents bearing the burden of higher taxes which is an unsustainable long term option.
Others in the region are practicing heads-up collaboration, preparing for the future: the Industrial Heartland with upgraders in the northeast, Strathcona County with refineries in the southeast, Leduc-Nisku with the industrial park and airport in the southwest, and Edmonton with public service jobs aplenty. All are well-endowed.
Until now, the northwest quadrant of the Edmonton Capital Region has lacked focus and collaborative leadership. But times are changing and there is now reason to envision this quadrant as an “Innovation Zone.” The northwest sub-region is already “green” as the source of the region's wind, water and wattage – Keephills and Wabamun. Collaboration in economic planning among municipalities and counties in the northwest would bring together their common interests in the environment, education and emerging technologies. Consider: alternative energy futures for Devon – "Energetic." Parkland County already designated "Intelligent." Stony Plain/Spruce Grove with an emerging cleanTech cluster. And now, data analytics for St. Albert – "Smart"!
So "Go for it" Nolan – and council, capture the moment. Take the initiative; collaborate with our neighbours and stakeholders in formulating a common vision for the northwest sub-region to the long-term benefit of all its residents. It's all about leadership and the future!
Perry Kinkaide, St. Albert
