People in the Blue Mountains will soon learn what kind of first impression their community leaves on outsiders.
The town recently participated in the First Impressions Community Exchange program run by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs.
Communications and Economic Development Coordinator Lisa Kidd says Blue Mountains was partnered with Gravenhurst.
Kidd says it was a good match because the communities share similarities such as fluctuations in population, the kinds of industry present, and a strong tourism base.
Kidd says a delegation visited Blue Mountains in September under the guise of young families interested in moving to the community, people interested in setting up businesses, and tourists.
She says they look at things like signage, infrastructure, and amenities.
They have now compiled their findings into a report and will present it at the Marsh Street Community Centre this evening.
Kidd says she has not been given a sneak peak, but is hoping to hear the delegation had a positive experience and has some constructive criticism as well.
Kidd says the information will be very helpful in some initiatives already underway.
Blue Mountains is putting together a Community Improvement Plan for the villages of Craigleith, Thornbury, and Clarksburg, as well as an Economic Development Strategy.
Today’s First Impressions presentation goes at 5 o’clock at the Marsh Street Community Centre in Clarksburg and is open to the public.
A Blue Mountains delegation also visited Gravenhurst in September and will present their findings to the town on Thursday.