Gord Hume's blog

We are well into the New Year now, and despite the often-gloomy economic times we will get through this recession.  In fact, the economic realities that confront Ontario municipalities are a powerful tool for those of us promoting and pushing Municipal Cultural Planning, because MCP is so focused on the new economy.

While the CRINK (CReative, INnovative, Knowledge-based) economy is at the heart of the Creative City movement, many municipal leaders still struggle to accept the new economic structure that is being imposed by the international credit market.  This dichotomy provides even greater incentive to move municipal leaders towards MCP because municipalities need to shape their communities to attract and retain the creative class.  This is a rather new responsibility for many local council members, and it is one they may not yet fully embrace.

There are overwhelming signs that the Ontario economy will continue to have a tough year in 2009 and that will create budget problems in 2010 for many Ontario municipalities.  Slower home construction, soft assessment growth, plant closings and employment concerns are all key indicators, and these will all impact next year’s local tax rates.  That is also an election year, so council members won’t be in a mood to raise taxes. 

MCPP will continue to help municipalities that want to progress and move ahead.  This economy offers local councils new opportunities to face the realities of changes in the local economy and start creating new economic spires.  MCP is a strong response for Council’s seeking positive action and change, and I am confident that MCPP will grow in importance and influence in the year ahead as we continue to assist local councils with their MCP needs.

We will do this through continuing to reach out to municipalities, to speak at seminars and conferences, to offer information and research, to assist with developing new tools  read more »