Image of Stratford Mayor Steve OgdenMayor’s Message
Fall 2021

As autumn soon begins to colour the leaves, we can thankfully hope to return to a new normal as the pandemic fades into the past. The summer has been extremely eventful with some major strides being made for our growing, vibrant Town. Here are some highlights:

  • Community Campus and New Stratford High School – land purchase complete and concept plan for land underway
  • Active Transportation Lane across the Hillsborough Bridge – completed and open
  • Waterfront Park - lagoons being removed and site near ready for first phase to bedeveloped into a future welcoming, inclusive waterfront park for all to enjoy
  • Stratford Business Park – expansion planned to accommodate increased demand from businesses wanting to locate in Stratford
  • Keppoch Road Multi-Use Pathway – construction underway for fall completion
  • On-demand Transit Pilot – pilot approved to extend transit service to some of the unserviced areas in Ward 3
  • Switch Program - in place to help residents improve the energy efficiency of their homes
  • Long-Term Fiscal Plan – being finalized to share with residents before the 2022-2023 budget process begins

Other positive initiatives that have occurred in the last months include the opening of a new state-of-the-art Operational Stress Injury Clinic for Veterans, many new business start-ups, new commercial construction, and solid month-over-month growth in new homes being built.

It is not possible for the Town to finance major infrastructure projects without the financial assistance of the Federal and Provincial governments. Chief among these is the development of roads, water, sewer, and electricity, all critical for the development of our new Community Campus, including the future high school property, and expansion of the Stratford Business Park. We have been working closely with Federal and Provincial representatives to secure this funding. Approval would result in considerable economic and social returns, including the possible development of a much-needed recreational complex within Stratford (to include potential ice surfaces, sports fields, trails, access to natural areas, etc.), and that would allow us to respond to the growing demand for sports and other programs of interest to residents. I cannot state enough how critical this funding is to our Town’s future not only in terms of fostering growth, but in our ability to provide programs and services to our residents within our municipality, that are available to residents of other communities on PEI, and elsewhere, that are similar to Stratford.

In closing, thank you for your ongoing commitment to making Stratford the best community possible through your involvement in activities, volunteering and providing your opinions and feedback on issues.

On behalf of all Councillors and the Deputy Mayor, I wish everyone a happy and safe autumn season.

Sincerely,
Mayor Steve Ogden