New Tecumseth has large growth plans as many of us saw proposed earlier in the…

New Tecumseth needs a variety of businesses that provide employment opportunities for people at every age and stage of life. That could be a student looking for a part-time job after school, a parent looking for flexible or evening work to supplement their household income, a skilled tradesperson looking to build a career close to home, or a senior who wants to continue working part-time for the income, social connection and sense of purpose.

But we also need to think bigger. As our population grows, we need to actively attract larger employers and a more diverse range of industries that bring professional, technical, administrative and corporate positions with them. People shouldn't necessarily have to commute south to find those opportunities.

That means making sure we have employment lands available and serviced, creating an environment where businesses want to invest, and supporting the businesses that are already here so they can grow and create more jobs.

Education and training are part of that as well. I support efforts to bring skilled trades and technology training closer to home and to build partnerships between employers and educational institutions so residents can train for good careers without having to leave the community.

If we're going to grow substantially, we shouldn't just be planning where people will live. We should be equally focused on where they will work.