Plan sets priorities based on input from Basin residents
Based on input from people and communities in the region, Columbia Basin Trust has finalized a strategic plan that will guide its activities over the next two years. The plan includes six strategic priorities: community well-being, ecosystem enhancement, high-speed connectivity, housing, local food production and access, and support for business renewal. It also includes two integrated priorities—climate resilience and working with Indigenous peoples—that will be incorporated by the Trust in its work in the Basin.
“The Trust is guided by your input, and during these challenging times, we appreciate that so many people found the time to share their thoughts and perspectives with us as we developed this plan – thank you,” said Johnny Strilaeff, Columbia Basin Trust President and CEO. “People told us about the issues that matter to their communities and we have incorporated that feedback into the plan.”
From June to early August, the Trust engaged its volunteer boards and advisory committees, local government leaders, First Nations communities and individuals engaged in a range of sectors, including business and industry; education; environment; community services; arts, culture and heritage; and youth development. The Trust then sought public feedback on the draft plan from all people in the Basin from mid-August to early September.
“We will now be putting new resources toward the priorities in our plan. I also anticipate that we will continue to support many of our programs that strengthen social, economic and environmental well-being in the region over the next two years,” added Strilaeff. “Circumstances in the Basin will continue to change and evolve and we are committed to continuing to engage with people in the Basin, and to being flexible and responsive to the needs of Basin communities.”