A group of Irricana business owners met on June 5 to discuss ways of attracting and retaining businesses and overcoming the negative perception some may have of small-town businesses and Irricana in particular.
The group determined the main problem Irricana businesses face is a low population and lack of industry that produces jobs, which would keep Irricana residents at home during the day.
Stalled subdivision developments are also preventing growth that could bring the business sector a huge boost.
Other factors such as taxes and a commuter population cause special challenges for Irricana businesses. Unlike places such as Linden, which has a nursing home, Acme with a swimming pool and Beiseker with its school and industrial base, jobs are scarce in Irricana.
A good marketing program could change Irricana’s future and many ideas about promoting Irricana in areas of anticipated growth such as Conrich and Balzac were discussed.
Frank Dusome, councillor and business owner, as well as Deputy Mayor Andrew Carr attended the meeting. Dusome talked about the Calgary Regional Partnership (CRP) and how it is beginning to explore economic development. He was optimistic that Irricana’s involvement with CRP will be a very valuable resource for the town.
Those present said the enthusiastic brainstorming session was an excellent way to begin formulating a direction for economic development.
The group will meet again in the Irricana Recreation Centre on June 19 at 7:30 p.m.
All people who own businesses of any kind and the public are encouraged to attend.
