Have you heard? The Creston Valley – Kootenay Lake Economic Action Partnership (CV-KL EAP) is actively creating an “Economic Action Strategy” that will guide us to improve our regional economy in the next 5-10 years!
Recognizing that our economies are linked in many ways, the local governments of Creston Valley – Kootenay Lake (Yahk to Riondel) have come together to look at shared opportunities and challenges for economic development, and areas where we can work together to make things better. The project is a joint effort between the Town of Creston, Lower Kootenay Band, and Areas A, B, and C. On behalf of these partners, Kootenay Employment Services is leading the project, with help from EcoPlan International; an experienced, Vancouver-based planning firm.
The strategy is being developed for the people who live here, local businesses, and community groups. Together, steps will be taken to improve our local economy – which means community input and involvement is critical for determining the direction of this plan. If evaluations and priorities align, implementation of the strategy will commence in Winter 2018.
To ensure a steadfast approach, a community-wide search took place to designate five community ambassadors to represent each partner area. These roles are an integral part of the project, as ambassadors will bring forward community aspirations, build local capacities, and lead with a positive vision on behalf of their area. Though selection was competitive, the CV-KL EAP was happy to select the following community members for this project: Serena Naeve – Town of Creston, Michael White – Lower Kootenay Band, Laverne Booth – Area A, Jenneil Peters – Area B, and Ginger Knudsen – Area C.
In September, the CV-EAP and community ambassadors hit the ground running with community engagement activities. At the Creston Valley Fall Fair, hundreds of comments were received at the booth area. As well, various community meetings took place and many more are planned and underway.
Want make a difference? It’s not too late. There are a few ways connect with the team. Keep an eye out for community meetings, events, contests, and a survey around the region this fall and join the conversation! At any time, you can connect directly with your area’s community ambassador. They would love to talk to you about the project. To do this, please email economy@kes.bc.ca , or if you prefer phone, call Laura Heykamp at 250-428-5655 ex. 429 and you’ll be connected to the right ambassador.
Want to know more about the local economy or the project? Check out the project website at eap.kes.bc.ca for background information on our local economy, sign up for updates on Facebook, or contact one of the project consultants at colleen@ecoplan.ca or 1-877-374-4685 ex 6 (toll free).
The best time to act is now. Reach out and get in involved today!
