Economic Development News

The City of Owen Sound is thrilled to share that it was successful in its grant application to receive funding for the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre Ice Pad and Arena Board and Glass Replacement project, as announced earlier today by Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers. The project will receive up to $915,000 from the Ontario Ministry of Sport’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund. 

A new public-facing Geographic Information System (GIS) web application is now available through the City of Owen Sound’s website. This interactive tool offers residents improved access to a range of mapped city services and information. It makes it easy to explore a range of city services and infrastructure through information-rich map layers.

The City of Owen Sound is celebrating local innovators and entrepreneurs with a new economic development toolkit that highlights the amenities, opportunities, and sense of connectedness enjoyed by residents. 

Available in both digital and print formats, the cinematic community profile invites potential residents and investors to spend time getting to know their future neighbours.  

Coinciding with Arbour Day, Owen Sound is thrilled to once again be recognized as a 2024 Tree City of the World by the Arbour Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Owen Sound is one of only 21 Canadian cities recognized, and one of only 210 cities worldwide.

Mayor Ian Boddy received the Municipal Government Stewardship Award from the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) on Tuesday evening as part of the Canadian Nuclear Association’s conference in Ottawa.  The award recognizes the excellence of an elected official who has emerged as a leader in promoting regional isotope production, workforce and talent development, and partnerships to strengthen the regional supply chain.

The City of Owen Sound is thrilled to launch its new Green Bin Program, with collection starting the first week of June. Residents will be able to use green bins to dispose of organic waste, such as food scraps, soiled paper, pet waste, and other compostable materials, with curbside collection every week. It’s easy and convenient to take part in the program; no additional tags are required, and bins will be delivered directly to eligible homes!

The City of Owen Sound has received its 2023 Financial Indicator Review from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The results confirm that all the City’s key financial indicators are within low-risk thresholds, meaning financial metrics (such as debt levels, reserves, and revenue stability) do not pose any major financial concerns. 

The Owen Sound River District is proud to announce that it is the recipient of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) Special Events Award of Excellence. The Award was received in the Marketing & Promotions category in recognition of the Wheel & Ride Safety Festival and Bike Program event held annually.

The Owen Sound River District is excited to announce the launch of a new local initiative as part of the nationwide movement: Shop Main Street Canada. Support Local. This campaign encourages our community to embrace a local-first mindset and recognize the importance of supporting Main Street businesses that serve as the economic and cultural heartbeat of our City.

The City of Owen Sound continues to make significant progress on its Climate Action Strategy, with over half of its planned initiatives either completed or currently in progress. While significant steps have been taken, the City acknowledges that ongoing efforts are required to achieve its long-term climate goals.