Media Release: Phase Two: Municipalities Exploring Collective Economic Development Opportunities

Today the municipalities of St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Paradise, and Conception Bay South announced the next phase of a feasibility study that seeks to explore regional economic opportunities and build stronger, more resilient communities. 

The initiative was first announced in June 2021, with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) contributing funding towards the project and each municipality contributing $10,000. 

Following a public call for proposals a consultant, MDB Insight, was retained. During the first phase of the project MBD Insight completed research, stakeholder interviews, and analysis along with a scope of opportunities.

During the second phase, which will begin this month, MDB Insight will undertake additional research and analysis and present options and recommendations for a regional economic development framework. The goal being to leverage the expertise and resources of each municipality to achieve a greater collective impact.

The project is led by a Steering Committee which includes the mayor of each municipality and an Advisory Committee of senior municipal staff who are guiding the work of the project. 

Quotes

“I am pleased to work collaboratively with our neighbouring municipalities as we move into the next phase of this exciting project. With each municipality bringing unique strengths and perspective to the table, coupled with the guidance that our consultant provides, I’m looking forward to seeing the regional economic development framework come to life in the coming months. We can achieve more for the region by working together.”

Danny Breen, Mayor, City of St. John’s

“We are pleased to participate in the continuation of this collaborative process given the City of Mount Pearl’s strong focus on economic development. We appreciate the opportunity to add our strengths to this collective effort that remains focused on ensuring the perspectives of all involved municipalities are heard and considered as we pursue this regional initiative.”

Dave Aker, Mayor, City of Mount Pearl

“We are now at the threshold of a new era of economic development cooperation for the region and I am very excited to see what we can achieve by working together.  Conception Bay South has many strengths, but with a regional economic development strategy, I believe our strengths will be enhanced, along with those of our neighbours.  We look forward to the outcome of the next phase of this study and to expanding collaborative efforts with our regional counterparts.”

Darrin Bent, Mayor, Town of Conception Bay South

“It’s exciting to be moving into the second phase of this project and to begin the work on a regional economic development framework, one that builds on the strengths and experiences of all our municipalities. In the Town of Paradise, we’re committed to creating a thriving, well-balanced community together and this project directly supports that work. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with our neighbours and to see the recommendations from this phase of the project.”

Dan Bobbett, Mayor, Town of Paradise