The Town of Amherst and the Municipality of the County of Cumberland are announcing a new approach to delivering economic development services that will strengthen collaboration, improve efficiency, and enhance accountability while continuing to support local businesses and entrepreneurs.
With the recent expiry of the operating agreement between the Cumberland Business Connector, the Town of Amherst, and the Municipality of the County of Cumberland, both municipal councils undertook a review of how economic development services could best be delivered to meet the region's evolving needs.
Following that review, both municipalities have concluded that economic development services will be most effective when delivered directly through municipal staff. This approach provides a direct reporting relationship to each municipality, resulting in greater accountability, more responsive decision-making, and improved alignment with each municipality's strategic priorities.
The new model will also create administrative efficiencies by integrating economic development functions into existing municipal operations. Administrative responsibilities such as payroll, human resources, information technology, budgeting, financial reporting, and governance can be supported through existing municipal systems, allowing economic development staff to dedicate more of their time to supporting businesses, attracting investment, and fostering economic growth.
The decision reflects a commitment to delivering the best possible service for the region.
“The Cumberland Business Connector has made many valuable contributions to our business community over the past decade, and we sincerely thank the Board, staff, volunteers, and business leaders who have helped advance economic development in our region," said Amherst Mayor Rob Small.
"As we looked to the future, Council felt the best way to build on that success was to integrate economic development directly into our municipal operations. This approach will allow us to make decisions more efficiently, strengthen accountability, and ensure our resources are focused where they can have the greatest impact—supporting businesses, creating opportunities, and growing our local economy."
Although services will now be delivered through the municipalities, collaboration will remain a priority. Staff from both municipal units will continue to work together on regional initiatives, including tourism promotion, youth entrepreneurship, business education, and other opportunities that benefit the Cumberland region.
Mayor Rod Gilroy of the Municipality of the County of Cumberland said the new model reflects the strong working relationship between the two municipalities.
"Economic development is most successful when our communities work together," said Mayor Gilroy. “This new model will ensure the work remains focused on municipal economic development priorities. In many cases, these priorities will align with the Town of Amherst, and when they do, we will continue to work together to advance them.”
The Town and County recognize the importance of maintaining a strong connection with the local business community. Municipal staff will work with business leaders to develop an effective and meaningful process for ongoing consultation, ensuring that the experience and perspectives of the business community continue to inform economic development priorities and initiatives.
This new approach reflects a shared commitment by both municipalities to delivering efficient, responsive, and collaborative economic development services that support business success and contribute to the long-term prosperity of Cumberland County.