Town of Cochrane Strategic Plan – Final Report October 2014
Potential Funding Sources
It may be possible to defray expenses by collecting nominal fees from exhibitors, as per the
Timmins model. Residents are asked to bring a donation to the local Food Bank as an entry fee.
7.4.1.4 Establish a Workforce Development Taskforce
The Far Northeast Training Board (FNETB) is a regional body that works with business, labour,
educators and community representatives to develop solutions that address local labour market
needs. Cochrane may wish to create a local Workforce Development Taskforce or Committee to
formally liaise with the FNETB. This should facilitate communication between Cochrane
stakeholders and the FNETB to ensure that they have the information they need to develop an
effective, fully engaged workforce.
7.4.2 Consider all Ages when Improving Amenities
Given the need to reduce outmigration in Cochrane, it would be wise to identify and improve
services that will keep the current population healthy, active, and committed to staying in the
community. It is generally easier and less expensive to incorporate age-specific considerations at
the beginning of a project than it is to add them at a later date. Thus when considering new
infrastructure or services, the Municipality and its partners should ensure that development
accommodates all age groups wherever possible. Examples of such planning include:
• Ensuring that green spaces have sufficient outdoor seating.
• Providing sidewalks that are well-maintained, free of obstructions and reserved for
pedestrians, or divided for multi-use (e.g. cycling, rollerblading).
• Facilitating the development of affordable housing.
• Sufficient and affordable home maintenance and support services.
• Exploring the viability of a voluntary transportation servic e such as formal ridesharing or
ridematching programs (often web-based).
• Holding events at times convenient for a range of age groups and demographics.
• Establishing a wide selection of activities and attractions that are affordable and appeal to a
diverse population.
• Consistent outreach to include people at risk for social isolation.
• A range of volunteer, employment and self-employment options are promoted to both
youth and older people.
Senior-Specific Enhancements
There are several established toolkits and resources for communities wishing to make their services
and programs more senior-friendly. So-called Age-Friendly Communities are designated by the
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