That was the message to about 100 business and community leaders when a new name and logo for economic development was unveiled this morning.
The Sarnia-Lambton Council for Economic Renewal and the Sarnia-Lambton Office of Economic Development will now be known as the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership. “Our new identity will provide one name for economic development services, and position Sarnia-Lambton as a distinctive Canadian business destination,” said George Mallay, General Manager of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership. “It is time for a more aggressive, distinct positioning that reflects Sarnia-Lambton’s strengths.”
Mallay reinforced that the new name does not mean a new organization structure for economic development. The day to day activities of the Economic Partnership will be managed by the staff of the former Office for Economic Development and be guided by the board of directors and general assembly that made up the Council for Economic Renewal.
Officials believe the new image will energize the community’s efforts to diversify the economy and reverse the population decline.
Sarnia-Lambton led the way eight years ago when the Council for Economic Renewal–a partnership between government, industry, business and education– was formed to set the course for economic development. In his remarks, Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley indicated that many communities across Canada have adopted this approach and are increasing their resources and incentives to attract new businesses.
“If we are to continue to be successful in growing our economy in an increasingly competitive global market, we must find ways to work together to do things even better, ” said Bradley.
Warren Burton, President of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, acknowledged that much had been accomplished since the CER was formed in 1995, but that diversification requires the community to attract more export businesses. “If we do not have diversification and growth of our export sectors than our secondary businesses will suffer.”
Burton, who is manager of Imperial Oil in Sarnia, said that to be successful in growing the local economy the Economic Partnership needs more involvement and financial support from local business owners and managers. “Prosperity will come if we can get our economy growing at a rate that attracts people to the community.” Lambton County Warden, Todd Case, said that economic development is a vital component of any successful community. ” We have to focus our limited financial and human resources in key areas,” he said and he challenged the audience to think about the best approach.
“Which mix of industries makes sense for this community? The automotive and chemical industries are obvious areas; however, what are the others? Can we become a leader in a new emerging sector?”
He also encouraged the business leaders to actively support economic development. “Adopt and communicate a positive attitude of our community. Promote Sarnia-Lambton in your dealings with customers and suppliers. Contribute to the effort financially and intellectually by becoming directly involved in the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership.”
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