‘Common Voice’ Created

After lengthy negotiations and considerable debate, Municipal leaders
have decided to create a new Regional Development Authority, called a ‘Common
Voice.’
The Agency’s mandate will be to advance the economy of the Region and
bring the concerns of the area to both levels of Government.
NOMA delegates voted in support of the agency Saturday after receiving
a guarantee that First Nations would be considered full partners and
consulted on the structure of the group.
Chair Iain Angus says the next step is to form several partnerships.
Angus says the Regional alliance will include Municipalities, labour
groups as well as the business, health, education and tourism sectors.
A number of task forces have been established focusing on agriculture,
transportation, youth, education, health and energy to ensure the North is
investment ready.
Area communities have been asked to provide seed money for a ‘Common
Voice’, based on population, ranging from $53 to $15,000.
Once established the Agency budget could be $160,000 to $240,000.