ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS
Overview
Through disciplined coordination and management of brand standards and
communications protocols, the City’s Corporate Communication services will be
maintained in 2008 to ensure that all communications, marketing, media and
event initiatives are aligned with strategic priorities, resonate with key
stakeholders and are well planned and implemented.
Brampton will continue to attract and support the expansion and innovation of
regional and local firms from key sectors, in 2008, allowing for the City’s
employment and built-form targets in planned business parks and the Downtown
and Central Area to be advanced. In 2008, a new Central Area Economic
Development Program is proposed to include two staff and a marketing budget
designed to attract new investment to Brampton’s central business district along
Queen Street.
In summary, the Department is proposing a 2008 Current Budget, which includes
a net expenditure increase of $275,000, or a 3.5% increase over 2007.
Approximately $83,000 of this total has been allocated to Base Operating
Adjustments such as Compensation Adjustments, Inflation, and $202,000 in
Growth and Service priorities. Mitigation measures identified during the 2008
Current Budget review totaled $10,000.
Operating Budget
Highlights of the recommended budget:
¾ A formal Central Area Economic Development Program that includes
$136,000 for two staff (Program Manager; Research Assistant) and a
business development/marketing budget of $50,000.
¾ The launch of a new Economic Development and Marketing Strategy for
2008-2010 funded from the base budget.
¾ The launch of an inaugural Annual Corporate Communications Plan that
identifies corporate, departmental, and Council/Committee communication
needs, aligned with corporate strategic priorities funded from the base
budget.
¾ Continue to identify need for new communication infrastructure; develop
policies, procedures and tools; and implement programs