New strategic plan sets priorities for North Battleford’s future

Under community wellbeing, the city will focus on maintaining attractive neighbourhoods, exploring innovative policing solutions, implementing the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, and reviewing its housing strategy.

Patrick said it emphasizes “living attractive within a well kept community, innovative solutions in policing and review of the city’s Housing Strategy.”

Infrastructure renewal, maintenance, and investment includes an infill development program, rehabilitation or replacement of the Access Communications Centre, and reducing derelict residential and commercial properties.

The economic development pillar aims to grow the city’s commercial and residential tax base, support the development of a new North West College campus, and launch a formal economic development program along with a new advisory committee.

The final pillar, governance, partnerships, and advocacy, includes implementing the Regional Recreation Plan, encouraging regional and Indigenous investment, and advocating to other levels of government for support with complex social and health issues.

“It’s not a problem that the city can take care of on its own,” Patrick said, referring to complex social and health issues.

“We don’t necessarily have the people that have that expertise… but I think what we do have is an ability to talk to people who have more influence and can help bring some resources to it.”

The updated vision describes North Battleford as “the heart of Northwest Saskatchewan, a diverse, progressive and vibrant center with an abundance of accessible opportunities, a strong and growing economy and an enviable quality of life.”

Council also revised its core values, adding civic pride to the existing list of trust, integrity, respect, professionalism, and communication.

“We need to be really proud of what we have here, what we’re creating and working together,” Patrick said.

Mayor Kellie Hawtin said the strategic plan reflects the results of a full-day planning session with council and senior leadership. She also supported Patrick’s decision to revisit the plan each year.

“Sometimes it’s easy to [lose sight] when you’re stuck in the weeds, in the day-to-day dealing with things,” Hawtin said.

“Bringing this back every year gives us not only an opportunity to make sure our goals align, but to make sure these strategic pillars are what fits as well.”

Patrick called the strategic plan “the most important document of Council,” adding that “everything has to build off of this document.”

Council unanimously approved the plan following the presentation Monday during the regular meeting at Don Ross Centre chamber.

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kenneth.cheung@pattisonmedia.com