Economic recovery task force launched, volunteers needed

This morning, Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff and senior municipal staff, held a meeting regarding the creation of the Economic Recovery Task Force.

Municipal officials say the meeting included a presentation on the current state of Chatham-Kent, actions taken by the municipality up to this point, and an outline of the task force.

In addition, with over 200 people in attendance, there was an opportunity for interactive sharing of thoughts and ideas that helped share a look forward to next steps.

“We had a lot of great feedback from the business community and there were some key points made during the discussion,” stated John Norton, general manager of community development, in a press release.

“We heard loud and clear that we need to look at improving Internet access across Chatham-Kent, that we need to ensure our municipality is operating efficiently while still providing the services that the community wants, and that small businesses need our help to get them through this tough time.”

Norton added: “Specifically, businesses are asking for training on digital tools, help with workforce, and understanding the options in place that make it easier to manage their cash flow. These are all great points and have been identified as important actions to help businesses be able to plan for their recovery.”

During the presentation it was identified that there would be nine task force sector-specific sub-groups formed. The sub-groups include:

– Manufacturing

– Professional Services

– Agriculture and Food Processing

– Small Business and Entrepreneurship

– Property, Real Estate, and Construction

– Utilities, Communications, and Information Technology

– Not-for-Profit and Social Enterprise

– Logistics, Transport, and Warehousing

– Hospitality, Tourism, Restaurants, and Arts

Each group will meet to assess sector needs, identify how businesses and networks can work together, and discuss how all levels of government can help Chatham-Kent’s economy.

“The reality is that we don’t have all of the answers right now, but together, as a community, we can work to find the made-in-Chatham-Kent solutions that are needed,” stated Mayor Canniff, in a press release.

“It is essential that businesses have a voice and are involved in the process. Together we are stronger, and together we will come out of this challenging time and get Chatham-Kent back on a path for growth.”

There is an open call to the community to apply and volunteer with the task force and sub-groups.

Applications must be submitted by noon on Monday, April 20, 2020.

You can find a link to the application online at www.investck.ca.

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