Piecing Together the Social Fabric Val Marie’s economic plan improving town’s fortunes Cont Continued rued ffrom Page 16 ge 16 Community Beautifi cation was the main concern that emerged


from the survey. Upgrading infrastructure and attractions and retention within the village followed. In response, the Village Square Project began. Once it is


completed, the focus will shiſt to the downtown area. Local donations are important, said Clausen, but accessing


external grants are key. “Without access to grant money we would be in much diff erent


situation, because I am paid for this position I am able to focus my energies on these projects,” said Clausen. “You can only fundraise so much in a village of 100 people. By


SEDA sponsoring my position, it has given us the opportunity to work with the entire region, not just Val Marie … In order to grow we need to help other communities too, it is not just about our community it is about the whole region.


the southwest)


“I have had contact with a couple of people (throughout the southwest) wondering how they can start up an economic development committee. T ey think if Val Marie can do it, why can’t we do something similar and hire our own economic development offi cer.”


“I have had co est) wonderi g der ng how th yca


h a couple of people (t t ey can start up an ec


ugho neconomic Val Marie recently hosted an asset mapping and community


regional planning session that had representation from a variety of communities such as Cabri, Maple Creek, Ponteix and Mankota. According to a presentation by MCDP, “Communities and


municipalities that inventory their resources are better equipped to attract investment, plan their future and understand their potential and opportunities.” Complimentary to the activities of the Val Marie Economic


Development Committee, Prairie Wind and Silver Sage, Friends of Grasslands National Park are working to develop the museum into an ecomuseum, which tries to foster a sense of place, local participation, and local community development.


Southwest Progress Report 2012 17


Val Marie has a reputation that it is a good place to raise a family.


Photos by Elizabeth Heatcoat


Town of


GROWING ECONOMICALLY Thanks to the strength of the activity in the Oil & Gas Industries in our area.


GROWING SOCIALLY Thanks to generous donations from our Oil & Gas Companies toward our facilities & community organizations.


GROWING PHYSICALLY With the development of a new residential subdivision and the creation of new industrial lots.


Growing with You!


306-297-2605 • www.shaunavon.com


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