Richard Froese
South Peace News

Trying to lure investors to locate plants in Big Lakes County are top priorities in a new economic development strategy.

Those were the targets presented to county council at its regular meeting May 11 by Lisa Baroldi, a consultant with Progress Unlimited. The company was contracted for 2016 to develop a plan and strategy for the Big Lakes Economic Development Authority.

“A company is looking to set up a fertilizer plant in Alberta,” says Baroldi, a former High Prairie resident.

She has also been approached by four other companies seeking to settle in Alberta.

“We have potential investors that could create 30-plus jobs,” Baroldi says.

Engro fertilizer plant, Swan Hills Synfuels, and Ripple Rock straw co-generation plant place as the most feasible projects, according to a scoring system.

“I think the Swan Hills and Ripple Rock projects are the top priorities for us,” CAO Bill Kostiw says.

Baroldi says she has spoken with many companies.

“We want to make contacts so we can move forward,” Baroldi says. “Our focus is on quality jobs, investments and increased tax revenue.”

The county has been adversely impacted by the economic downturn, with several private operations related to the oil and gas sector closing.

“However, agriculture and forestry keep the economy going, as do the growing number of service and independent retail sectors,” Baroldi says.

She notes the key to the process is to find the right companies for the county and to attract them here.

Within the next three years, the EDA calls to:
– Secure three projects by the end of 2016 to produce at least 50 jobs in the next three years;
– Attract $10-40 million in investment from private, public sources and;
– Increase tax revenue by up to five per cent.

An action plan has been set with the foundation of five strategic priorities to:
– Develop a strategy that considers previous economic development strategies and work, incorporating and building upon those when relevant;
– Prioritize high-potential projects and partnerships that produce short- and long-term results;
– Produce up-to-date and relevant asset, sector and community profiles and other relevant information.
– Improve the image of Big Lakes County and create buzz about the place;
– Strategically expand and nurture the county’s network for an economic development perspective.