Mayor Bill Given delivered the annual State of the City Thursday.
Given says after a slowdown the last few years, things are finally picking back up.
“We are seeing housing sales increase, we’re seeing the price of houses increase, we’re seeing employers hiring again, we’re seeing more heavy vehicle truck traffic going through the City and all of these are positive indicators of a return to a very active local economy.”
Given adds both statistical and anecdotal reports point to improvement.
“That’s obviously great news for employment and for our community residents.”
He also highlighted the many activities Grande Prairie will take part in for Canada 150 celebrations.
“The approach that city council chose to take was to enhance a number of existing events rather than having one big event and I think that means that there’s going to be a lot more activity and a lot more things to enjoy across the community for a longer period of time.”
Given says the city is excited to co-host the 2018 Alberta Summer Games with the County.
He also highlighted things the city has worked on in the past year, like the Downtown Rehabilitation, Downtown Incentives Program, a new snow clearing plan and renovations to the Bear Creek Pool. Given also encouraged everyone to continue supporting downtown businesses while construction work takes place in the city’s core.
Given also saluted his Council colleagues at the State of the City address, in particular Helen Rice.
After 38 years on a city council, Rice has decided not to seek re-election.
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