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Have your say on downtown

Sidney’s revitalization task force conducting research surveys

For each of the 50 days since the announcement of the Mayor’s Task Force on downtown revitalization, the group has generated one idea or strategy that will be debated by the town council. Now they’ll face similar scrutiny from the public.

Mayor Larry Cross has issued a call for input as the task force embarks on a series of research surveys of business owners, shoppers, residents and downtown business owners. The task force, he says, is looking for people’s top three ideas on what might have a positive impact on Beacon Avenue and all of downtown.

“I am very pleased by the progress the Task Force has been able to achieve in a relatively short period of time,” Cross stated in a media release. “Their focus and commitment to making Sidney’s downtown the best it can be is matched equally by the enthusiasm and positive energy they bring to the table each and every week.

“But we can’t do it alone, and as part of our mandate, we need to hear from all of the stakeholders on their ideas for downtown revitalization.”

The survey work is expected to be done in June or July and the task force is asking for people’s input right now. People can make their comments and suggestions and email mayorstaskforce@sidney.ca, drop off hand-written submissions at the town hall or at the Sidney Business Improvement Association office (Visitor Info. Centre on Beacon Avenue). People can also use the SidneySays portal at www.sidney.ca.

While some of the ideas generated by the task force are, according to the Town, in the works through the Town, the SBIA or Community Development Committee, others will require the decision of the town council. One of those has been the allocation of $3,500 to produce a community events calendar with the SBIA. Cross also received assent from council to use $10,000 out of the Town’s economic development fund to support task force recommendations.