The Grey Bruce Health Unit wants closer ties with Saugeen Shores.
Program Manager Linda Bumstead was at Monday’s Council meeting and says they want to collaborate with the town to encourage a healthier community.
Bumstead says it’s part of the agency’s goal to make it easier for local residents to make healthy living choices.
She says Saugeen Shores has already set a good example but wants to help with best practises and research.
The closer relationship could lead to encouraging good public health, even in the design of buildings and the planning process.
Mayor Mike Smith says it’s a great idea and he wants to see how it moves forward.
He says the health unit should be involved the next time the town updates its official plan.
Bumstead says the health unit already has linkages with municipalities, and now they just want to support healthy public policy.
She says they are interested in those broader aspects of population health and wants to partner with sectors of the community that can have an influence.
Bumstead says a series of meetings will be necessary with staff to develop the partnership, if it goes ahead.
Councillor Diane Huber says the health unit should resume water testing in Lake Huron, because it is something that is a significant part of the community and affects the health of residents.