Each of the Open Houses across Abee, Thorhild, Egremont, Newbrook, and Radway will provide identical content and engagement opportunities to ensure consistent information for all community members. At each Open House, there are three planned interactive sessions to gather valuable input:
 

1. Rural Community Mapping Workshop: This session features a large map of the county where residents can mark areas they envision for future land use, as well as highlight geographical areas of concern or aspiration, especially as they relate to rural and agricultural lands. This exercise is essential to help understand community members’ priorities for rural spaces and gather insights on areas that need preservation, development, or special attention. Your input directly informs how to approach rural land use decisions in the updated MDP.
    
2. Priority Setting: There are identified, approximately 50 rural and community-focused theme words, representing topics and goals that could shape the municipality over the next 20 to 25 years. Residents can select the themes they feel are most important and should be emphasized in the Municipal Development Plan. This session is critical, as it ensures that the MDP aligns with rural values and aspirations, addressing areas such as agricultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and rural quality of life.
    
3. Hamlet Boundary Review Maps: There will be maps of each hamlet, showing current boundaries alongside proposed adjustments. Reviewing and updating hamlet boundaries is important because it:
   • Ensures the growth areas are adequate for future development.
   • Aligns with municipal infrastructure and rural service delivery.
   • Preserves valuable agricultural or natural spaces.
   • Encourages efficient rural land use planning.
   • Reflects recent population and development trends.
      

By examining these boundary changes, feedback received on whether these adjustments reflect the community’s vision and will gain diverse perspectives on potential impacts, especially from those with deep ties to the agricultural areas in the municipality.

Residents are encouraged to participate in these open house sessions, as they are a valuable platform for sharing your insights and guiding the future of Thorhild County.

For questions about the Open House Events please contact: Baily Lapp, RPP, MCIP, Manager of Planning & Development Services Beairsto & Associates Engineering Ltd.

Email: bailyl@baseng.ca / Phone: 780-512-5818

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