The Deputy Mayor also shares the influx of new businesses which has seen a rise in female-led enterprises along the main street. “It’s phenomenal, the number of new businesses that have opened,” she remarks, pointing out the collaborative spirit among these entrepreneurs who promote and support one another, creating a “groundswell of new entrepreneurship.” REVITALIZING MEAFORD: INFRASTRUCTURE AND ECONOMIC EXPANSION As Meaford grows, significant infrastructure and economic developments are underway to redefine its landscape and enhance its appeal as a destination. A pivotal development is the Billy Bishop Airport, located on the municipality’s western extremity. “It’s a regional airport that serves all of Northern Grey County,” notes Mayor Kentner, emphasizing its importance in regional connectivity. Unlike the traditional Business Improvement Area, the Municipality has launched a citizen-led nonprofit “Main Street Meaford” organization to support downtown revitalization. [https://www.meaford.ca/ en/living-here/main-street-meaford.aspx], which Mayor Kentner believes “will make a significant difference in revitalizing downtown.” A cornerstone of the downtown revitalization is repurposing historic buildings, such as the original fire hall which, along with Meaford Hall, anchors the market square. It is set to re-open this summer as a restaurant. A glass elevator will access one of the two outdoor patios. This is also part of a broader vision to “regreen”what has become a parking lot.“We want to take that space back and green it, turning it into downtown park space for the community to enjoy,” Mayor Kentner asserts, describing the initiative as part of a broader effort to transform Meaford into a vibrant destination. The celebration of Meaford’s 150th anniversary extends beyond the urban center, reaching into the rural hamlets like Bognor, Woodford, Leith, and Annan, each with their unique contributions to the municipality’s cultural tapestry. Mayor Kentner highlights the diverse uses of these spaces, from Sweetwater Music Festival concerts in Leith Church to community theatre productions in Woodford Hall and social events at Bognor Hall and Riverside, all underscoring the community’s vibrant local culture. Discussing the economic milestones, Mayor Kentner proudly mentions,“We had an amazing $100 million in building in 2022, setting a new record for us.” He ties this growth to the region’s emergence as a 263 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 MEAFORD, ON
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