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In 1998, representatives from the Simcoe County Federation ofAgriculture, Simcoe County District School Board and HumanResources Development Canada compiled information on theeconomic impact of agriculture in Simcoe County. A Socio-Economic Profile and Agriculture-Related Business Survey wasproduced in July of 1999.

The group subsequently hosted a forum called "Agriculture at aCrossroads in Simcoe County". This forum was held in April1999, to discuss the future of agriculture and related sectors inSimcoe County.

In February 2000, consultations began with communityorganizations. Participants identified a number of critical issuesand corresponding strategic actions to address these issues. Asecond session was held to establish Action Groups. The Ag-Industry Task Force report was finalized and accepted in the fallof 2001.

The goals and strategic actions of the Ag-Industry Task Forcereport have been incorporated into this plan.

Community Consultations
Essa Township's Economic Development Committee, inpartnership with the Nottawasaga Community EconomicDevelopment Corporation (Nottawasaga Futures) and HumanResources Development Canada, began a community-basedstrategic planning process in June 2002. To encourage optimalparticipation, weekly advertisements were placed in localnewspapers. Invitations were sent to individuals andorganizations, and followed up with telephone calls.

Residents, both experienced, and new to community involvement,provided their input during two facilitated sessions.Representatives from businesses, community organizations, artsand culture groups, seniors, and youth are some examples of thesectors that participated.

During the first session, people were encouraged to talk about thecommunity's strengths and their vision for the future. As well, theyshared their concerns about the issues facing the community.

Within weeks, the second session was held. Participants workedtogether to develop action plans that would build upon thestrengths, meet the challenges, and achieve their vision for thecommunity.

All of this information has been included in the plan.

Business Retention and Expansion Survey
The Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housingprogram created a forum in which sensitive businessinformation could be addressed effectively, yet confidentially.

The Essa Business Retention and Expansion Task Force andselected volunteers visited 24 local businesses to conduct astandardized survey. Upon completion of the survey, theBusiness Resources Coordinator reviewed the data andresponded to immediate concerns. Typically, each participatingbusiness was contacted within two weeks.

The survey data was entered into specifically designed software,ensuring the business information remained confidential. Astatistical analysis was conducted, and a report prepared for theBusiness Retention and Expansion Task Force.

The survey results were shared with the Task Force and localbusinesses in September 2002. The Essa Business Retention andExpansion Task Force used the report to develop action plans toimprove the local business climate.

The goals and action plans identified by the Business Retentionand Expansion Task Force have been included in this report.

Using this Document
The vision, goals and actions contained within this CommunityStrategic Plan were based upon three inputs:

• the Ag-Industry Task Force report;
• community consultation sessions; and
• the Business Retention and Expansion Survey.

This symbol identifies the goals and strategic actions from the Ag-Industry Task Force report.

Similarly, goals and actions identified through theconsultations undertaken by the Business Retention andExpansion Task Force, are designated by this symbol.

Input from the community consultations is broadest in nature and therefore, requires no specific designation.

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