Last week I attended a Centre Wellington public meeting that hit close to the heart.
WrightHaven Homes is proposing a new subdivision in Inverhaugh and there were people at the meeting who spoke in opposition, fearing that it would negatively affect their hamlet.
I understand this fear. While I was still in elementary school, the swampy forest behind my childhood home in Guelph-Eramosa was the site of a subdivision proposal. My parents were in opposition and did what they could to stop the development, but it happened.
And to be honest, it’s okay. I still look out the window and think about what was, but really, I just gained new friends and my parents new neighbours.
What really struck me in Stephen Wright’s presentation was his talk of wanting to take on the subdivision to ensure he had enough business to employ local trades people, suppliers and other people in the community.
I don’t know about you, but I want a guy who’s thinking about the local economy and providing local jobs to take on a subdivision like this. It will provide years of employment opportunity. And the construction will matter to them. They’ll do a good job on the project because they know chances are, they’re going to meet some of the people who are in opposition to the project at the grocery store.
You’ve got to love a small community.
Not only that, but the subdivision is being built on the site of a former aggregate extraction site. That’s just good planning and makes good business sense, not taking away from the agricultural sector and adding to land that isn’t useful for much else.
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It’s always great to hear when businesses are so successful that they’re comfortable expanding. That’s what’s happened with Taste Detours.
Starting in Guelph, business owner Lynn Broughton is expanding the business to Elora.
The Grand Food Tour will take guests on a walking tour of six local eateries to sample food and share information about the people who make it.
Between the six eateries, the tour will point out areas of historical, architectural and cultural significance within the village.
“There are shared agricultural roots within Wellington County, even historic connections,” Broughton said. “Telling these stories through food and drink – connecting our regional flavours, even slowing down and connecting people with each other – is the very essence of Taste Detours.
“Elora’s vitality is evident with every step, in every shop and building … I’ve always loved this beautiful village, and hope to keep growing our tour offerings with partner businesses in the future.”
Tickets for The Grand Food Tour are available at tastedetours.ca.
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If you’re looking for OSIM Interactive, go to 12 Elora Street in Harriston.
Glen and Jennifer Hall recently moved to this new location.
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Don’t forget to email questions/news tips to businessleader@wellingtonadvertiser.com.
