The Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce hosted their first ever Innovation Frontier Forum yesterday at the Norfolk Fairgrounds. The forum introduced a number of different speakers, who discussed economic development in Norfolk County.
Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce told those gathered, that this is a time for bold action. Specifically, our political leaders at all levels of government need to be more bold. Tisch went on to say that members of the Chamber community are optimistic people, and believe that a prosperous and sustainable future is possible.
The lunch panel was the main event and welcomed MP Leslyn Lewis, MPP Bobbi Ann Brady and Mayor Amy Martin to the stage for a conversation on sustainability and growth. The discussion soon centered around housing, affordability and infrastructure. When asked about their vision of growth for Norfolk, Brady had this to say:
The moderator asked the panel if they had a magic wand to fix something, what would they do with it? Mayor Martin knew exactly what she’d do.
When asked how she can help rural municipalities build the infrastructure needed to enable housing, Lewis looked to the Federal infrastructure fund.
The lunch panel made it clear that the sustainability and growth in Norfolk is attainable. There are a number of obstacles that need to be overcome and it will take smart planning, that identifies where the need is greatest.
The Forum appeared to be an enormous success, with more than 100 people in attendance to hear what the speakers and panel had to say.
Over 100 people in attendance at the Innovation Frontier Forum .
Written by Jeremy Hall