pointing out the importance of manageable projects that can be completed by local artists and community members. So far, initiatives have included murals and art installations—projects designed not only to beautify but to also enhance community engagement. The larger vision, however, involves more than just aesthetics.The city has launched a business retention and expansion plan.This plan seeks to work directly with local business owners to better understand current challenges and find ways to support growth. “We are trying to pinpoint exactly where barriers are,” Roberts-Young says, “whether that’s retaining existing businesses or attracting outside investment.” The goal is to ensure that Flin Flon’s Main Street has the infrastructure and business environment needed to thrive and grow.” One key effort has been the introduction of a Business Storefront Improvement Grant, an initiative aimed at refreshing the face of downtown.“It’s a 50% matching grant, up to a certain amount,” RobertsYoung explains, allowing business to revamp facades and create a more visually appealing atmosphere that can attract new customers. The goal is to spark further investment and encourage new enterprises to set up shop. In some cases, the City has looked at other ways to encourage investments through establishing a by-law on offering incentivization and offering residential lots for one dollar. UNLOCKING NEW DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES As Flin Flon looks to the future, a mix of challenges and opportunities shapes the town’s plans for growth, particularly when it comes to expanding beyond its current boundaries. The town is bordered by vast expanses of Crown land, a fact that both limits and enhances its potential. “The potential here really is limitless,” RobertsYoung says, referring to the abundance of Crown land. However, she acknowledges the difficulties, describing it as “the never-ending mountain” when it comes to navigating the approval process.While some projects are already tied up in this red tape, the town 248 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11
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