What Makes a Great Town?

Did you know that by 2030 approximately 60% of the world's population will be living in cities? Are you aware that it is cities that are fuelling the historically unprecedented economic growth? And yes I am aware that it is from West Central Saskatchewan that supplies the oil and gas energy and the food for the cities. However, if we are to be a vibrant and sustainable community that flourishes in the future we need to be thoughtful and intentional.

Here are three things that Mayors from around the world agree that when done well enhance the social and economic well-being of a community. My notes below are based on a report from McKinsey & Company "How to Make a City Great"

1. Smart Growth: great communities identify and nurture opportunities for growth, plans to cope with challenges, integrates sustainable thinking, and ensures that all citizens participate in the creation of wealth. One other thing: a great community is conscious of its regional neighbours collaborating with them to ensure healthy growth.
2. Smart Spending: great communities secure all their revenue, seek out mutually beneficial partnerships, and ensure the organization reflects the goals of the community; it is lean with all aspects in alignment with the vision.
3. Accepting Change: some people embrace change and others are reluctant about change creating a tension between the change agents and the change resistors. Change requires confidence and this can be achieved through early wins and a team that is high performing forging a consensus with residents and businesses.

My time as mayor is limited: I will either retire or you will decide someone else will/can do a better job. As a result the provincial government encourages, and I affirm and am working towards, is long term planning to start a virtuous cycle leading to decision making that ensures Kindersley is socially and economically vibrant enabling all residents and businesses to flourish.