North Shuswap-Goodbye 2023, Welcome 2024

North Shuswap - Goodbye 2023, Welcome 2024.

 

As we say goodbye to 2023, we may look at the past year with a heavy heart.  Our community has gone through a tragedy that few will ever experience in their lifetime.  As one of the Top 10 worst structure loss fires in Canadian history, the North Shuswap will forever transform. 

 

As we reflect on the events of the summer, we must recognize and appreciate that there are many individuals and groups who have put the needs of the community ahead of their own interests.  These include individuals that live within the North Shuswap geographic area and also those that do not.  These include (however are not limited to), locals, business owners, farmers, non-profit groups, disaster relief groups, teachers, local firefighters, CSRD firefighters, first responders, emergency operations staff, religious groups, restaurant owners, business professionals, economic development groups, tourism groups, indigenous groups, and countless others that I may have missed.  

 

The point here is that while we must drive accountability for areas of opportunity to improve, (in a collaborative way), we must also take some time to deeply appreciate the efforts of each other through these unprecedented times. 

 

Lets all take this opportunity together; to express deep gratitude to one another for the resilient efforts throughout this past year.  We have seen an incredible sense of community spirit, fortitude, resolve and strength and we need to celebrate that as we look to recover and move forward in 2024!

 

As we strive to rebuild, it is essential that we come together to harness our collective strengths, ideas, and resources. I am confident that through collaboration, we can achieve meaningful and sustainable progress.

 

Let's all continue to work together on a collaborative effort that brings together diverse stakeholders from various sectors, including local businesses, non-profit groups, local institutions, government agencies, and community members.   

 

The Economic Recovery Task Force has been working hard to pool expertise and skills to develop a comprehensive strategy for community recovery and growth.  

 

Here are a few areas where collaboration will make a significant impact:

 

Economic Revitalization:  Exploring ways to support local businesses, attract new investments, and create job opportunities to stimulate economic growth.

 

Infrastructure Development:  Advocating for and working towards the improvement of essential infrastructure, ensuring that our community has the necessary resources for long-term sustainability.

 

Community Engagement and Empowerment: Fostering a sense of community pride and involvement is crucial.  Organization of events, workshops, and outreach programs to engage residents and businesses to actively participate in the recovery process.

 

Environmental Sustainability: Incorporating environmentally sustainable practices into our recovery plan will not only benefit the community in the long run but also contribute to a healthier and more resilient future for younger generations.

 

Communications: Looking at communication initiatives that will empower our community members to see different perspectives while also recognizing changing circumstances that impact the overall growth strategy for the community.

 

Your involvement in this process is essential.  Your questions and comments are needed and appreciated.  

 

I believe that by combining our efforts, we can create a more vibrant, resilient, and thriving community for generations to come.

 

Let's make 2024 the best year ever for the North Shuswap.  

 

Happy New Year everyone.

 

Adam Oruclar