Mapleton is the latest township to sign on with the county’s Live and Work Wellington program.
On July 25 council chose to enter into a license agreement to link the township’s website with Wellington County’s web portal and use the Live and Work Wellington trademark.
The program acts as a web portal for talent attraction.
“The goal of this program is to support the labour market needs of the business community, make connections between employers and job-seekers, and attract new groups to offset declining population trends,” states a report from economic development coordinator Tammy McQueen.
“Live and Work Wellington activities work toward supporting Wellington County businesses by growing a diversified workforce.”
In her report McQueen also says Mapleton needs to attract new residents and labour to help businesses grow.
“By aligning with the Live and Work Wellington program, Mapleton will help make connections between employers and job seekers, attract new people to our communities and showcase all that Wellington County has to offer,” she wrote.
“The Live and Work Wellington program also aligns with many of the priorities outlined in our Economic Development Strategy.”
Councillor Lori Woodham, who served as acting mayor in Mayor Neil Driscoll’s absence, asked how the township will promote the program.
“I know there are other job websites available … like Workopolis and things like that, so people already are geared towards something like this,” she said.
“How can we continuously let people know … they can shop local for (hiring) too?”
McQueen said that would need to be part of a future discussion.
CAO Brad McRoberts said the majority of the promotion and marketing would likely be coming from Wellington County.
“It will be a joint effort but I suspect the bulk of the effort will be through the county as they have the best resources. It’s their trademark (Live and Work Wellington),” he said.
Council authorized staff to enter a licensing agreement with Wellington County. The township will pay the county $1 for the rights.
