In an unveiling that took place yesterday at the Winkler Arts and Culture, the city of Winkler shared an ambitious strategic plan aimed at transforming Winkler into a leading hub for technology and innovation, while enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Developed in partnership with 13 Ways Inc., a company dedicated to fostering dynamic communities, the plan focuses on economic growth, infrastructure development, and regional collaboration.
Collaborating with 13 Ways Inc.
Winkler’s collaborator 13 Ways Inc. was founded by Doug Griffiths, whose mission is to enhance the well-being of individuals in rural areas. Their expertise in community building ensures that Winkler’s plan is both visionary, as well as actionable with three main goals.
Goal 1: Driving economic growth through innovation
The first goal as written in the strategic plan is, to “Transform Winkler into a leading hub for technology and innovation to drive economic growth and productivity”.
One of the key features listed as a way of going about bringing this goal to fruition is the proposed ‘Innovation Mall’, designed to be a premier location for startups.
To align educational programs with industry needs, Winkler plans to create formal partnerships with universities and technical colleges. Additionally, the city plans on assisting local organizations in accessing research and development grants to foster innovation.
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Goal 2: Infrastructure for a growing community
Recognizing the importance of infrastructure, the second goal focuses on ensuring that Winkler’s facilities and services support both current needs and future growth. As written, it states:
“Ensure Winkler’s Infrastructure supports current needs and future growth while enhancing the quality of life for residents”
Mayor Siemens emphasized the necessity of collaboration in this effort, stating, “We have the opportunity here today to be leaders in that area and that’s something we really want to work towards.”
The plan includes investing in master plans for prioritizing infrastructure and capital projects, developing diverse and affordable housing options, and enhancing social gathering spaces.
Goal 3: Strengthening regional collaboration
The third goal focuses on emphasizing leveraging the region’s unique strengths to create a cohesive and competitive area. The city plans to establish a tri-regional economic development council to coordinate joint initiatives and improve efficiency through shared services and resources.
As written, it states this goal is to: "Leverage the unique strengths of the region to create a competitive, cohesive area that attracts investment and fosters sustainable growth"
Siemens noted that “As we work together with our neighbours to be able to provide the services that we want... When we do that, we’ll be able to compete on the provincial level.”
Vision for the future
“So often strategic plans are 50 or 60 pages long... it ends up on a shelf and it collects dust... This idea here that we have a two-pager that we can take a look at, at any point in time and it’s got three key points... That makes sense.”
As the city of Winkler moves forward with its new Strategic Plan, residents and stakeholders can look forward to a future that emphasizes sustainable growth, enhanced quality of life, and a vibrant community where people want to dream, build, and live.
Click below to hear the full interview with Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens.
- with files from Connie Bailey