As part of their Economic Development Week, the town released a comprehensive economic development strategy that outlines their actions "to strengthen the local business environment, attract investment, support workforce development, diversify the economy, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors" as outlines on their website.
The five year development plan focuses on agriculture and the business of it, manufacturing and light industry, healthcare and wellness services, tourism and hospitality and potential academic partnerships. Through this tool, they will be able to look at the current market and trends, implement a framework to guide public and private investors. As well as look to the current stakeholders, businesses, and residents in Westlock.
The project is set to start this month where they will work to gather information from stakeholders to understand the current economic landscape. Between June and August of 2025, they will move into phase two where they will explore future scenarios, look at the potentials and challenges and "define a shared community vision."
By the end of November 2025 they will have created actionable and achievable list that aligns with the priorities of everyone in Westlock. The polished strategy with practical tools and measurable goals will be presented in October 2025.
Surveys, interviews and workshops will be a critical part of keeping the community engaged in the process. Residents, businesses, community organizations, students and regional partners will all be asked to participate to ensure the needs and priorities are properly represented in the town.
