At Committee of the Whole on Tuesday January 16, Council was presented a draft of the Kawartha Lakes Strategic Plan 2024-2027. The Strategic Plan is the guiding document for the municipality that defines the community’s vision for the future, and sets the goals and objectives to achieve that vision.

“We are pleased to present our new Strategic Plan, a refreshed roadmap for the municipality, and excited to build off our momentum over the last few years,” commented Brenda Stonehouse, Manager, Strategy and Innovation. “The Strategic Planning process began in August 2023 and was a collaborative effort with connections to Council, staff and the community.”

The Draft Strategic Plan is consistent with the progress of the previous plan and features a number of similarities to keep the municipality on track, like the vision and mission.

Vision
Thriving and growing communities within a healthy and natural environment.

Mission
Working together to deliver the highest standard of municipal service and uphold our commitment towards a sustainable future.

During the consultation process last year, several key themes came to light that indicated areas for continued focus within the municipality, including: affordable housing, sustainability and the environment, health care, transportation and preserving Kawartha Lakes’ unique culture and heritage.

To meet the community’s needs, the Plan outlines that staff will maintain their core values of Accountability, Respect and Teamwork, as the municipality works to fulfill its Strategic Priorities. Balancing those priorities, all actions and decisions will also be directed by the Guiding Principles.

Strategic Priorities

• A Healthy Environment
• An Exceptional Quality of Life
• A Vibrant and Growing Economy
• Good Government

Guiding Principles

• Fiscally Responsible
• Open and Transparent
• Partner and Collaborate
• Service Excellence

For more information, the Draft Strategic Plan is now available on the municipal website at www.kawarthalakes.ca/strategicplan. After Committee of the whole, the Plan will return to the Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 30 for deliberation and approval. Following Council’s approval, staff will then move forward with developing and rolling out action plans to further detail the work ahead.