Recent News

·         China Mission – Planning continues and contacts are being scheduled for the June China Mission for some 20+ delegates from the Brockville/Leeds Grenville area associated with a friendship agreement/linkage to the 1000 Islands area of mainland China. The focus of the mission will be on immigration/international students, tourism and economic development with specific attention to environmental and alternate energy businesses. Both the federal consulates and trade investment offices have been approached on the identification of key organizations, businesses and contacts associated with nurturing these three key areas of opportunity. Local businesses that currently manufacture in China as well as international linkages from the Fulford Academy and St. Lawrence College, will assist in ensuring some positive outcomes from the mission. One of the key platforms associated with the mission will be a formal reception at the Canadian pavilion as part of the World’s Fair being hosted in Shanghai.

·         Economic Development Advisory Team – Outlining the terms of reference associated with the formation of an economic development advisory team will be presented to the Economic Development Committee at their June meeting. This action is a recommendation from the recently completed Economic Development Strategy identifying the need to establish a proactive team of champions to drive various economic development activities and programming for both people and business attraction.

·         Signage 401 – A new visual image and messaging sign will be erected during the summer 2010 on the 401 to better demonstrate the offerings and attractiveness of the City of Brockville. Additional opportunities for 401 signage is under investigation.

·         Information Radio – Content of the information radio is being enhanced to better redirect visitors and motorists from the 401 into the community. Additional tourism and special event activities and available services will be reported regularly 24/7 on Information Radio 94.5 FM. Additionally, all special events and activities at the Brockville Arts Centre are being featured and updated weekly to promote Canada’s best mid-sized heritage theatre. 

·         Solar Energy – By late May, the City is anticipating to be advised on the status of its Feed-In Tariff application currently under review by the Ontario Power Authority. An approved application will provide the green light for the installation of over 1200 solar panels atop of the Brockville Memorial Centre roof, which was endorsed by Council early in 2010. The identification on the solar manufacturing employment associated with this and other projects is still under negotiation with the Ontario Government and private sector solar manufacturing companies.