Aug 18 Leader

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www.LamontLeader.com

Vol. 10, No. 42, Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Diversification key to regional economic growth Michelle Pinon Editor Even though the economic picture isn’t as rosy as it was a year or two ago, development isn’t at a stand still either, that according to Alberta HUB. Bob Bezpalko, executive director of the 36 member non-profit alliance, told The Lamont Leader there is still $30 billion worth of investment in the region. “All of our communities are being looked at for investment.” While the time frame for some of the industrial projects have been set back, there hasn’t been

an exodus of companies, and Bezpalko is still very confident about the economic outlook in the region. “We’re always looking for opportunities

on projects,” said Bezpalko, who works closely with LCREDI Executive Director Doug Sullivan, Lamont County Manager of Economic Development Jim Newman, and representatives with all of the local municipalities. “All our members are focusing on diversification,” stated Bezpalko, “and are looking to get away from the boom bust cycle in the oil industry.” While oil and gas is in a down cycle, Bezpalko said he has received inquiries regarding investment opportunities in the value added petrochemical industry. “Lamont County is very strong in agriculture, and we’re trying to put together information for people.” He adds that people are very focused on locally grown food, and he says there are opportunities in that area. There is also more interest in tourism and manufacturing opportunities, and he sees several opportunities opening up in those industries as well. Another upside to the low Canadian dollar

MICHELLE PINON PHOTO

Members of the Iron Head Dancers performed for audiences during the Bison Festival at Elk Island National Park on Saturday, Aug. 15. There were several culinary demonstrations, musical performances by The Wardens, canoe rides, and impressive offering of bison art, soapstone carvings, leather wallets, satchels and purses available for sale. is that more and more Americans are spending tourist dollars in Alberta. Transportation and infrastructure are always top of mind for Alberta HUB members, and they, along with other Albertans will have the opportunity to provide

their input online until Sept. 14. Bezpalko said Alberta HUB has received grant funding to conduct a transportation study for the entire northeast region in the near future. The study will encompass highways, airports and rail

lines. The key, added Bezpalko, is gaining an understanding of the issues and then finding ways to address them effectively. He expects the study to take about 16 months to complete, and said the results of the study will be shared

with all 36 members of Alberta HUB after that. Bezpalko takes the glass half full approach, and says reassuringly that, “Things are still happening; maybe not as fast, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.”


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