To encapsulate a four-year term of office into a single report is nothing less than a feat in itself, but that is what the Town of Saugeen Shores staff has accomplished in its recent Strategic Plan Report Out, that gives a comprehensive summary of progress made with Council’s priorities during its term.
The number of achievements over the four years, and looking forward to the future, clearly lays out the plans that have been undertaken to ensure that quality of life considerations meet the anticipated growth in the community.
The report summarizes achievements made across the Strategic Plan’s four pillars and eleven strategic directions and showcases over 130 key initiatives, projects, service enhancements, and partnership efforts undertaken from 2023 through to 2027. It also includes performance measures that are used to track outcomes and progress throughout the term, helping to ensure transparency and accountability. It is “… a clear snapshot of work completed to date and demonstrated progress toward a growing, well-serviced, inclusive, and vibrant community.”
Among some of the achievements achieved, and set out in the Strategic Plan, during the past four years are:
When it comes to business growth and investments, over the four years, the town has also achieved considerable goals:
Presented at Council’s meeting on September 28th, the report also highlights how the Town has advanced the goals and objectives established in the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan through municipal decision-making, service delivery, infrastructure investment, community partnerships, and organizational improvements.
Among one of the most positive steps forward in the municipality has been the building of a strong relationship with neighbouring Saugeen First Nation community. Among the steps include the first Joint Council meeting ever held, a signed Friendship Accord between Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation, a new Tourism Strategy – all important steps on the road to Truth & Reconciliation between neighbours.
“This report highlights the tremendous work accomplished over the past four years through the dedication of Council, staff, community partners and residents,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “The Strategic Plan has provided a clear direction for decision-making and investment, and this report shows the meaningful progress we’ve made together to strengthen our community and plan for the future.”
The Strategic Plan also serves as Council’s roadmap for guiding municipal priorities and ensuring that Town programs, projects, and services support the community’s long-term vision.
Throughout the current term of Council, progress has been monitored through annual business planning, departmental work plans, quarterly reporting, and performance measures aligned with each strategic direction.
The Strategic Plan Report Out is a Strategic Initiatives Division Highlight in the Saugeen Shores 2026 Business Plan (pg. 19).
