By Rosalind Russell – Espanola council will consider adopting a regional economic strategy at their regular meeting this evening.
Kyra Knapp from KLB Consulting will present the LaCloche Foothills Region Economic Diversification Strategy, a detailed document outlining the move away from a single industry base, to more diversification in tourism, economic development, housing and business.
Officials say the area saw a direct loss of jobs following the idling of the Domtar Pulp & Paper Mill.
The strategy is also expected to diversify or lessen dependence on the forestry sector while creating the conditions for other sustainable economic priorities.
Funded by a Northern Ontario Development Program grant through FedNor, in April 2025, the Town of Espanola invited qualified consultants to submit proposals awarding the contract to KLB Consulting.
In October and November, several public open houses and roundtable discussions were held across the LaCloche Region to allow the public to provide suggestions and comments on the local economy and its future growth.
In addition, a public survey was released both electronically and in hard copy to collect further public input.
One-on-one calls were held between the KLB Team, board and committee members, community partners, service groups, staff members, and Mayor & Council, and local businesses, including BMI Group/Bioveld North.
The strategy has identified priority sectors, initiatives and investments that can have a tangible impact on sustainable economic diversification for Espanola, and the region as a whole.
The Economic Diversification Strategy establishes five broad priority sectors and goals which were determined based on the consultation processes explained above. Each goal includes a strategic priority and potential initiatives to help guide Council and staff in the direction to achieve the goals.
Screenshot by Rosalind Russell
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