Watch Highlights of the Economic Information Session
January 16, 2009

 

Watch highlights from the session

Mayor Fred Eisenberger recently organized a special Economic Information Session for all of Council.  The session consisted of a panel discussion and Question and Answers on the Economy. The purpose was to provide an overview of the economy and its effect on different sectors in the City of Hamilton. The session was attended by the key employment sectors. The theme was "Making the Right Investments today to Set the Foundation for a better tomorrow".

 

The Mayor emphasized that Hamilton's shared goal is to ensure the city comes out of this bad patch intact and stronger.  He promised to utilise the ideas generated as input into the city's budget process.

 

The Keynote speaker, Mr Benjamin Tal focused on the current economic downtown giving Council an understanding of the linkages between the global situation and Hamilton's own economy. He indicated that Hamilton would weather the storm better than some cities due to its diversification while providing a national context.

 

There were also presentations from city staff including the new City Manager, Chris Murray and Neil Everson, Director, Economic Development Department,  who gave a synopsis of the overall goals of the city and the business sector.

 

Other speakers included:

 

Manufacturing:   Franck Mastrandrea, ArcelorMittal Doffaso

Health Care:        Murray Martin, Hamilton Health Sciences

Education:           Rosemary Knechtel, Mohawk College

                             Peter George. McMaster University

Small Business:   Tyler MacLeod, President, Chamber of Commerce

Retail:                  Sheila Fildes, store Manger, Home Depot

Construction:       Adi Irani, past President, Hamilton-Halton Home Builders Association

Voluntary Sector: Carolyn Milne, Hamilton Community Foundation

JPC                       Mark Chamberlain

 

* With special thanks to the Hamilton Spectator for the video coverage

 

The common themes to come out of the conference were:

that the City needs appropriate infrastructure investments, strategic investments, that will provide jobs and a stimulate the economy.

 

Of equal significance is our social economy and to identify how best to support Hamilton families.

 

All panelist offered their support to the City and asked to be involved in different aspects of the budget process to ensure all sectors emerge stronger.

 

There was also a request for less Red-tape in City processes to push the business sector forward.

 

Overall there was a general feeling of community dialogue, which many panelists acknowledged was an innovative approach.

 

While closing Mayor Fred Eisenberger thanked everyone for

attending and acknowledged the interest of the broader community of working with Council to ensure Hamilton is the Best Place to Raise a child, promote innovation, engage citizens and provide diverse economic opportunities.

Share Your Thoughts

Mayor urges Hamiltonians to participate in Power Pledge initiative
July 27, 2010 - Mayor Fred Eisenberger urges Hamiltonians to participate in the Power Pledge initiative and to join h... (Read More)

Michael Fenn agrees to assist with stadium site evaluation
July 12, 2010 - Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger and City Manager Chris Murray are pleased to announce that Michael Fe... (Read More)

City of Hamilton and Hamilton Tiger-Cats Approve Terms of Reference
June 07, 2010 - For Immediate ReleaseJune 7, 2010City of Hamilton and Hamilton Tiger-Cats Approve Term... (Read More)

City, Tiger-Cats agree on facilitator
May 18, 2010 - Hamilton – Top City officials and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats have... (Read More)

"To be the best place in Canada to raise a child, promote innovation, engage citizens, and provide diverse economic opportunities."