‘Tis the season

As 2015 comes to a close, there is no shortage of activity at the township office including: several planning applications for the impending growth, the 2016 capital and operating budgets, key position recruitments, a new strategic plan, countless committee meetings, fundraising and appreciation dinners, council meetings and Scugog’s new ISP initiatives (just to name a few).  

There is one thing for certain, the council and staff work tirelessly ensuring Scugog's future remains bright. If you ever question the amount of time, energy and dedication of township council and staff, I urge you to attend the many public council, committee and regional meetings.  You will be surprised at how much information that is expected to be absorbed and make sound decisions on. I wish to personally thank all of council and township staff for their dedication and hard work. I also encourage you to give thanks the next time you see a firefighter, snowplower, arena attendant, counter staff, librarian, park attendant, director, councillor etc.

Switching gears, I would like to thank all the business owners, service providers and farmers in our community. We are very fortunate to have an excellent variety and diversity of expertise. To ensure their viability, it is very important for the residents to support locally. There is an economic term called the Money Multiplier Effect. The money you spend locally helps businesses pay their commercial taxes, expand their operations and employ more locals. Having more employees means more money is spent locally when they receive a paycheck. The cycle multiplies for all the expenditures that remain in the community.

It is often habit that we drive to the big-box stores, malls and restaurants that are not in our municipality; meanwhile, many of those purchases and services could be made locally. Likewise, before completing your online purchase, check out the local stores to see if they carry it. You could save the shipping costs while getting some exercise and fresh air.  

Many residents will have already completed their Christmas shopping; however, many of you will just be starting.  I urge you to shop your local stores first.  Often you will be reminded that the prices are just as good while the small town service is unparalleled. When you need a break from shopping, support the various choice of excellent eateries.

As the Christmas season wraps up and we look to make New Year's Resolutions, I recommend that you
try and make at least 75 per cent of your 2016 purchases at local stores, restaurants, service providers and farms. Your commitment to shopping locally will make a meaningful difference in our community.
On behalf of Council and Staff, Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

MayorRowett@scugog.ca