Streamlined Local Economic Development In The City Of Windsor.
by Drew Dilkens
Whether it’s free-trade, increased labour mobility or advances in information technology, cities around the world have been forced into the international arena in the pursuit of investment for job creation and development.
In order to be competitive, local governments make the factors they can control, such as tax rates and available land, as attractive as possible for potential investors. However, these are not the only variables influencing decisions, many of which are outside a city’s control. Factors such as the price of electricity, labour costs and incentives are increasingly determining where investors choose to develop.
In order to overcome uncontrollable factors that may be working against cities, local governments must provide an overall strategy for sustainability and growth that drives development. The City of Windsor is seeking to do this through the development of a 20-Year Strategic Vision, which will serve as a cornerstone for decisions with respect to programs, services and infrastructure.
City Council identified three themes that will guide Windsor’s future prosperity. The three themes – job creation, population growth, and rebranding – form a coordinated plan within an overarching commitment to responsible and balanced fiscal choices that will help ensure the City of Windsor is prepared to manage its challenges and build on its strengths to compete on the global stage
One of the focuses identified under the job creation theme is “streamlined and local development initiatives, coordinated with other bodies where appropriate.” This focus highlights the fact that approximately 80% of new jobs come from expansion of local businesses and that increased international competition means cities must put more effort into retaining its local businesses.
Currently, the City of Windsor contributes $1.2 million to the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation to deliver business expansion, retention and attraction services, along with the operation of the Small Business Centre.
