Terrace Bay Council Gets Update on Strategic Plan

Terrace Bay held its first council meeting of January 2025, beginning with a land acknowledgment recognizing the Anishinabek people as the traditional custodians of the land. The agenda included the approval of previous meeting minutes, presentations, and various administrative reports.

The evening's primary presentation focused on the strategic plan for Terrace Bay, delivered by Tracy McQueen of McQueen/McSweeny and Associates. Developed over three to four months, the plan is structured into three key phases: background research, engagement, and plan building. Tracy highlighted the importance of having a clear strategic direction to prevent the council from navigating issues reactively. She also emphasized the collaboration that took place among council members, staff, and the community throughout the development process.

The strategic plan introduces a revised vision and mission for Terrace Bay, built around four main goals: fostering a healthy community, ensuring safe and reliable infrastructure, promoting a resilient economy, and encouraging collaboration. Each goal is accompanied by specific priorities and actions—14 priorities and 38 actions in total—organized into short, medium, and long-term implementation timeframes. Tracy underscored the importance of council and community ownership of the plan, recommending the inclusion of a progress tracker in council agendas to maintain transparency and accountability.

Following the presentation, council members engaged in discussion, with many expressing appreciation for the plan’s clarity and structure. Councillor St. Louis particularly valued the visual representation of responsibilities, noting that it would help ensure tasks are not overlooked.

The meeting then proceeded to administrative reports, beginning with an update from CAO Jon Hall on the 2025 council meeting schedule. Traditionally held on the first and third Mondays of each month, the schedule may be adjusted to improve attendance and community engagement.

A key topic of discussion was a lease agreement with the North Superior Travel Association for office space within the Terrace Bay Community Center. The agreement aims to strengthen the partnership and enhance the association’s presence in the community.

Council also reviewed a proposal for a childcare center in Terrace Bay, recognizing the need for licensed childcare services. Members discussed potential support and collaboration with various stakeholders and were asked to provide a resolution and letter of support for the initiative.

Additionally, the council examined proposed increases in water rates for the upcoming year, deliberating on the financial implications and operational costs necessary to maintain and fund the water system’s infrastructure.

Toward the end of the meeting, council members addressed community concerns, particularly regarding grocery delivery services for seniors and assistance with household needs. There was a shared commitment to exploring possible solutions, including volunteer initiatives or partnerships with local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter an in-camera session to discuss labour relations and personnel matters related to bylaw enforcement.