Message from Mayor Byvelds
Council
When I started this term as Mayor, I promised that we would have a new
Strategic Plan created by the people of South Dundas. Through this process,
residents have had the opportunity to set a direction for Council and shape the
next 10 years for our community. It has been 14 years since amalgamation, and
we have now created a unified vision for South Dundas.
Acknowledgements
The Township of South Dundas would like to thank all the citizens
that took time to participate in the public consultation process to
develop this Community Strategic Plan. We are very grateful for
your input.
This document reflects the character of South Dundas; our history, our values
and our desires. The community has shown that we have much to be proud of.
When identifying projects to build on these assets, I asked residents to be
ambitious but practical and they responded with a number of sound
recommendations.
I look forward to working together to implement these initiatives. With the
community’s help, I believe we can make great strides towards becoming the
‘South Dundas’ we have envisioned.
Page i
Table of Contents
About South Dundas
1
The Strategic Plan: Charting Our Future
3
Strategic Plan Development Process
3
South Dundas’ 10 Year Vision
5
South Dundas’ Core Values
6
South Dundas’ Future: Our Community’s Opportunities
7
South Dundas’ Seven Community Directions 2012 – 2022
1
Council’s Strategic Approach
22
Implementation and Reporting
24
Appendix A: South Dundas Today – Our Community’s Assets
Appendix B: Community Wishes from Public Consultation
Page ii
About South Dundas
The Township of South Dundas is one of six municipalities
within the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas, and
Glengarry. The community has a population of
approximately 10,794 individuals1 and experienced a steady
population growth of 2.5% between 2006 and 2011.
South Dundas is a picturesque, vibrant, growing municipality
that enjoys a rich heritage. Lifestyle is an unbeatable
combination of rural setting, strategic location, and cordial,
safe neighbourhoods. Residents and visitors enjoy a wide
range of recreational and cultural activities including the
famous Upper Canada Village and Upper Canada Playhouse.
The Township is also ideally located beside the St. Lawrence
River and situated along one of North America’s major
economic corridors. Its great location allows quick access to
Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and New York State. In a
community highly supportive of enterprise, excellent and
affordable space for all types of businesses can be found in
South Dundas.
1
Statistics Canada. 2012. South Dundas, Ontario (Code 3501020) and
Ontario (Code 35) (table). Census Profile. 2011 Census. Statistics Canada
Catalogue no. 98-316-XWE. Ottawa. Released May 29, 2012.
Page 1
Map of South Dundas
Page 2
The Strategic Plan: Charting Our Future
Strategic Plan Development Process
In a world that is constantly evolving, Strategic Planning
provides a proactive way of anticipating outcomes and
managing change to create the best possible future.
In 2011, the Township retained Dillon Consulting Limited to
facilitate the development of the South Dundas Strategic
Plan. The project took place between December 2011 and
September 2012 and involved local residents, stakeholders,
and businesses who worked together to develop the South
Dundas Strategic Plan.
It is reflective of a strategic and creative process for
establishing common goals, identifying priorities, and
implementing actions that makes the best use of a
municipality’s strengths, assets, and opportunities.
In January 2012, municipal documents, and reports from the
United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry were
reviewed and assessed to assemble an inventory of
community assets, which included the community’s built,
cultural, financial, human, natural, social and political assets
(see Appendix ‘A’).
In December 2011, the Township of South Dundas
embarked on an exciting journey to chart the
municipality’s future for the next decade. The
Community Strategic Plan will provide the Township with a
blueprint that will govern and establish strategic priorities
and directions for South Dundas for the next ten years. The
Community Strategic Plan is designed to bring together a
range of interests and priorities in an integrated and
balanced strategy.
A process was used to help residents and business owners
to identify the range of their community’s assets. With the
Mayor and Council’s support, citizens were asked to
articulate a community vision that is meaningful and worked
together to discuss the long-term directions of the
community.
This Strategic Plan is an asset-based, locally led plan that
establishes a vision shared by citizens, businesses, Township
Council and staff which is reflective of an inclusive
consultation process. It captures the community’s desires
and is designed to bring positive, long lasting change to the
community. While the Strategic Plan establishes a common
vision and priorities that will shape Council’s future
decisions, it is also a living plan with an evolving set of
actions that allows for the introduction of new and
innovative ideas.
Between March and May 2012, a wide range of
communication and consultation activities were undertaken
to invite individuals to participate in the strategic planning
process, including:

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A municipal website with a dedicated project web
page;
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result of this work is the South Dundas Community Strategic
Plan.
A project email address to allow individuals to submit
electronic comments;
Interviews with six (6) key informants from the
community;
Four (4) Community Café workshops;
An online survey which yielded sixty-one (61)
responses;
Photo Journal submissions;
Discussions with forty-five (45) students at a local
high school;
Six (6) Action Planning Sessions with twenty (20)
individuals; and,
Interviews with municipal Councillors.
Across the various engagement activities, over 200 people
told us about what they value about living in South Dundas.
As people connected with one another, we learned about
their visions for the future, what they would want in their
community, and the actions that would need to be
accomplished in South Dundas.
We received over 200 community wishes – specific
aspirations of citizens for the betterment of the community
– across the various consultation activities. A wide variety of
feedback was received from sessions held in Dixon’s
Corners, Morrisburg, Iroquois, and Williamsburg. Many of
the community wishes were similar across South Dundas.
The results of the community consultation were synthesized
and refined with the assistance of Dillon Consulting. This
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South Dundas’ 10 Year Vision
A Vision Statement describes South Dundas’ aspirations for
the future and where we want to be in 10 years. The Vision
Statement for South Dundas defines the Township’s identity
and purpose, and celebrates aspects of the community that
citizens value.
This Vision Statement is developed by the community, for
the community.
Vision Statement
“South Dundas is a safe, inclusive
community that maintains vibrancy by
enhancing its natural, cultural and
historical assets. Here, our small town
lifestyle is enriched by a range of services
and amenities with community partners
working together to foster future
opportunities!”
Page 5
landscapes that are unique to South Dundas to
support wellness and physical activity.
South Dundas’ Core Values
The Strategic Plan is supported by the following core values,
which guides how decisions will be made and result in a
clear set of expectations:
6. Safe and secure environment
We are a safe community and provide a safe place to
live, work and play.
1. Caring and welcoming community
We are a community made up of good, friendly
neighbours who come from diverse backgrounds and
have various talents. We provide a welcoming
environment for long-time residents and newcomers.
7. Celebrate our historical roots and traditions
We are proud of and celebrate the Town’s rich
history and culture, including our waterfront,
historical architecture, the McIntosh Apple, local
farmers and artists. We will use our historical roots as
a means of building and guiding our future.
2. Community values
We value the local sense of community and are loyal
to our community, our families, and to one another.
8. Strong volunteer spirit
We care for the most vulnerable populations and
have a strong volunteer spirit.
3. Collaboration and partnership
Our community leaders and residents work together
for long-term continuous improvement within our
community.
9. Mutual respect and trust
We have mutual respect and trust among one
another and work together to develop a common
understanding between farmers and non-farmers,
residents and commuters, and between generations.
4. Appreciation for a small-town lifestyle
We appreciate living in a small town and will provide
an environment that will attract small and medium
size businesses, young families to raise children, and
the aging population to retire.
5. Value our natural environment
We value our rich natural heritage features, including
the waterfront, green space, and locks, and the
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4. Create a unique experience along Highway 401 and
Highway 31, and to establish gateways celebrating
the Township’s rich history and culture, to encourage
commuters and visitors to drive “to” and not
“through” South Dundas;
South Dundas’ Future: Our Community’s
Opportunities
South Dundas’ community strengths have an important role
in shaping our future. There is a strong opportunity to
utilize South Dundas’ current assets to their fullest
potential. Strengths and resources that are currently
available in the community serve as a strong foundation to
sustain and grow a prosperous and vibrant South Dundas:
5. Leverage local capacities, talents, assets and
strengths to attract business supporting economic
growth in all sectors, as well as protect and create
jobs; and,
1. Recognize South Dundas’ unique community identity
– its rich cultural heritage, its location, rich natural
environment, waterfront potential, entrepreneurial
spirit, friendly community and strong values to
develop a unified vision and approach across the four
former villages;
6. Leverage the current range of recreational programs
and facilities to support additional programs,
facilities, and social opportunities that will encourage
young people to stay.
2. Facilitate waterfront development that is
appropriate and respectful of the community’s
character, neighbouring historical homes, and natural
environment, as well as takes advantage of its
tremendous potential to attract development,
visitors, and residents;
3. Recognizing growth opportunities and determining
development that is appropriate, while maintaining
the municipality’s current community character to
attract and retain residents, particularly youth and
families;
Page 7
South Dundas’ Seven Community Directions 2012 – 2022
Encourage and facilitate waterfront development
Develop our municipal identity to celebrate South Dundas’ rich history and culture
Create recreational programs, opportunities and facilities that will attract and retain
families, children and youth
Strengthen resident and visitor’s connection to South Dundas’ agricultural sector through
awareness building and increased availability of products/produce
Support business expansion and job creation
Sustain South Dundas’ small town lifestyle through appropriate development
Implement beautification projects to strengthen our sense of pride and community
Page 1

Encourage and facilitate waterfront development
There is a strong potential in South Dundas to enhance the
waterfront to facilitate a greater range of recreational
activities, such as boating sports and to improve its
functionality and appearance to support additional uses
including shopping, dining, entertainment and public
enjoyment.
Community Actions
Note: The Township will defer to the recommendations of the
Iroquois and Morrisburg Waterfront Committees who have
been mandated to address waterfront development as part of
their work.
Priority Objectives

To facilitate waterfront development that is appropriate
and respectful of the community’s character,
neighbouring historical homes, and natural environment.
To protect and enhance the waterfront for the use of
residents and visitors; and,
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
Develop our municipal identity to celebrate South
Dundas’ rich history and culture
South Dundas’ has the opportunity to develop our municipal
identity that celebrates the community’s strengths, history
and culture, which establishes a sense of place, strengthens
community pride, increases tourism, and attracts new
residents and businesses.
Community Actions
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Objectives
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
To develop a unifying direction, slogan, and visual
identity that will be used in all Township promotional
materials and signage.
To expand the community’s knowledge and pride of
South Dundas’ history, culture, and assets;
To inspire all citizens to communicate our culture to
visitors and create a welcoming environment; and,
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Evaluate the merits of the ‘Upper Canada Region’ brand
against the community assets and values identified
through the community strategic plan; pursuing
accordingly a community-wide contest to develop a
community identity (i.e., slogan) for South Dundas;
entries should be judged by a group of community
members;
Capitalize on local knowledge, and engage local
historians/ historical societies to identify
narratives/stories which can be used to enrich our
identity ;
Work with schools to generate awareness of our history
and culture among youth; and,
Develop a display case at the new Township Office that
showcases historical artefacts, documents, family trees,
etc. that celebrate South Dundas’ history.
Longer-Term Actions2
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Create a video highlighting South Dundas’ assets to play
at the Carmen House, Municipal Offices and other
appropriate locations;
Develop display boards with historical information about
South Dundas in public facilities; and,
Create a regular “Did You Know” message to
communicate historical facts on South Dundas’ website.
Implementation Considerations
A regional branding exercise is currently being undertaken
at the County level. This does not preclude the Township
from embracing its own municipal identity.
Staff time will be required to review existing communication
mediums plan community-wide competitions and to develop
promotional materials.
Leadership from Council will be required to promote the
identity and create a sense of accomplishment and
excitement as it is developed.
2
Actions not possible within the first two years of the Community
Strategic Plan are listed here for Council’s consideration in the future.
Page 11

Create recreational programs, opportunities and
facilities that will attract and retain families,
children and youth

There is an opportunity in South Dundas to leverage the
current range of recreational programs and facilities that are
available to support additional recreational opportunities
that will encourage families and young people to stay, and
the aging population to be healthy.

Community Actions
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Objectives
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To develop a central location that will support sports,
recreation activities, arts and cultural needs, and
meeting spaces;
To increase the physical activity level of youth, children,
adults and seniors; and,
To provide a greater range of affordable recreational,
sports, arts and cultural programs and classes.
To increase the community’s awareness of available
sport and recreational programs and facilities;
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Undertake a Facilities Needs Assessment to identify the
community’s recreational and services needs and
recommendations for programs and facilities;
Undertake a site assessment to identify suitable
candidate sites that would support a Multi-Use
Recreation Facility. The Facility should be located in a
central location to give all villages and hamlets a shared
interest;
Investigate funding sources, including a grant funding
source, as well as a potential for a recreation levy that
will be applied to each household per year; and,
Develop a Facility Phasing Plan, which is a practical
option for developing a multi-use recreation facility with
the resources that are available to the Township.
Implementation Considerations
Potential partners include (but are not limited to) the Lions
Club, the Legion, Professional Sports Associations, Chamber
of Commerce and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission.
Staff time will be required to review external funding
opportunities and to communicate with neighbouring
municipalities who have successfully developed multi-use
recreational facilities.
Leadership will be required from Council to advance the
application of a recreation levy and to create excitement
about a future Recreation Facility.
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Strengthen resident and visitor’s connection to
South Dundas’ agricultural sector through
awareness building and increased availability of
products/produce

South Dundas has a strong agricultural and horticultural
industry that has the opportunity to promote agriculturalbased businesses.
To support the non-farming community who want to
grow their own food and to provide them the education
and the knowledge to do so; and,
To support the local agriculture industry, including
organic farms, food exports, new products, agriculture
and the local craft market.
Community Actions
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
Objectives
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To create a greater awareness in the non-farming
community about the importance of the agriculture
industry to our area;
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Add a new agriculture / farmgate food section to the
spring/summer Town newsletter and Recreation Guide;
Review current policies regarding the Farmers Market
and allow them to attract more shoppers and grow (i.e.,
become a bigger tourist asset);
Partner with the All Things Food Network to update a
food resources map that documents farmers markets,
farm gate sales, cash crops and other agricultural based

businesses in South Dundas; key details should be
bilingual (English and the language of a target tourist
audience); and,
Sponsor an annual networking event between the
hospitality, horticultural and agricultural sectors by
bringing together the Chamber of Commerce and the
Dundas Federation of Agriculture.
Institute, local schools, and businesses in various industry
sectors.
Staff time will be required to reach out to various
organizations, coordinate events, and solicit support
funding.
Council leadership is needed through its consistent support
for strengthening the relationship between the agricultural
and other sectors in the local economy.
Longer-Term Actions
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Hold an Annual Food Festival, which could be
undertaken over a weekend or an evening to celebrate
local farmers, in partnership with the Federation of
Agriculture, Municipality, local restaurants, hospitality
industry, etc.;
Work with the Dundas Farm Safety Association to
educate the non-farming community about public road
safety; enhance road signage;
Engage students at local schools in farming and food
production-related educational activities, including a
potential partnership to support the Seaway District
High School and related initiatives planned and
underway; and,
Create an incubator site for value-added
businesses/manufacturing related to the agriculture
industry.
Implementation Considerations
Potential partners include (but are not limited to) the
Eastern Ontario Agri-Food Network, OMAFRA, Rural Ontario
Page 15
Community Actions3
Support business expansion and job creation

The citizens of South Dundas have an entrepreneurial spirit
and diversity of talents that can sustain our economic
development when paired with our community strengths.
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Advertise the availability of land/business space through
the municipality’s website and through billboards
adjacent to Highways 401 and 31;
Apply the South Dundas brand to the local businesses
community, promoting it throughout marketing and
investment attraction material;
Evaluate the locations of the Tourist Information Centres
within South Dundas and adjust accordingly; and,
Undertake a labour study (with input from local
businesses) to anticipate labour market trends and
identify future needs and then liaise with schools and
service clubs to address needs through education and
volunteering experience.
Longer-Term Actions
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Objectives
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To reduce market loss to neighbouring municipalities
and support our own retail and service needs;
To strengthen the community’s awareness of local
businesses and what they have to offer;
To lengthen the stay of visitors (particularly those
heading to or coming from Upper Canada Village) to
increase the economic impact of tourism;
To maintain and grow the overall number of jobs and
businesses in the community; and ,
To address challenges with the quality of local labour.
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3
Plan for more retail and/or office space (possibly
accomplished by the development of a business
incubator) through Official Plan and Zoning By-law
updates; and,
Investigate opportunities for establishing a medium or
large accommodation provider, possibly in partnership
with private or public enterprises (i.e. OETIO).
Further actions to be identified through the South Dundas 2012
Economic Development Strategy Update
Page 16
Implementation Considerations
Potential partners include (but are not limited to) local
businesses, the real estate sector, the hospitality sector,
schools, service clubs and regional economic development/
tourism organizations.
Staff time will be required to coordinate specific projects
and engage stakeholders.
Leadership will be required from Council to promote the
creation of new business while supporting existing
businesses.
Page 17

Sustain South Dundas’ small town lifestyle through
appropriate development
South Dundas has an enviable small town lifestyle that has
to be maintained while it must also adapt to the
transportation and housing needs of a population in
transition.
To maintain the current community character that
attracts and retains residents, particularly youth and
young families.
Community Actions
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Install better signage to mark the crosswalk on County
Road 2 in front of the Home Hardware;
Quantify current housing stock and identify
development needs;
Plan for affordable and multigenerational housing
options such as apartments, nursing homes, and
hospices through Official Plan and Zoning By-law
updates; and,
Complete a review of related infrastructure and policies
to better facilitate pedestrian traffic in South Dundas’
villages and hamlets. The study should address snow
removal policy, current needs for sidewalk4
repairs/expansions and requirements for new
commercial/residential developments.
Objectives
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To reduce barriers to active transportation to facilitate
access to work, recreation and social activities while
promoting healthy living ;
To increase community safety;
To encourage the housing forms for an aging but diverse
community; and,
4
Initial suggestions include: from the Felkerway Subdivision south to the
Waterfront on County Road 31/Ottawa Street; from the Hwy 31/Hwy 2
intersection west on Hwy 2 (to the Tim Hortons); between Iroquois and
Morrisburg and along Lakeshore Drive, and from the high school to the
shopping plaza.
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Longer-Term Actions
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Evaluate and implement tools to conserve heritage
properties;
Create a bike trail through Brinston Park;
Upgrade sections of key streets (County Road 2, Ottawa
Street and/or Sir James Morris Street) to create a main
street character; and,
Undertake a Community Improvement Plan to offer
financial incentives for development that enhances
South Dundas’ small town lifestyle.
Implementation Considerations
Potential partners include (but are not limited to) the
County Roads Department, local developers, and local
landowners.
Staff time will be required to coordinate specific projects
and engage stakeholders.
Leadership will be required from Council to budget for and
champion capital projects by acknowledging them as
community investments with both short-term and long-term
benefits.
An advisory committee of Council, staff, and citizens should
be involved in any major projects.
Page 19
Community Actions
Implement beautification projects to strengthen our
sense of pride and community

South Dundas’ citizens and organizations have great pride in
their community and can demonstrate this pride through
beautification efforts.
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Promote community clean-up days in the spring and fall
editions of the Town’s newsletter;
Join the Communities in Bloom program and engage the
community with a call to action;
Obtain annual grant funding for a horticultural student
to undertake community greening activities at municipal
facilities and gateways;
Work with the County to plant trees or shrubs along
major roads, in particular at community gateways; and,
Implement a sign by-law.
Longer-Term Actions
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
Develop, fund, and implement a public art program (may
involve murals, memorial art work, and/or signage) that
reflects South Dundas’ identity; and,
Establish a contribution/recognition program for
citizen/business donations to fund new beautification
infrastructure (e.g., benches, patterned sidewalks).
Objectives
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To maintain the attractiveness that is part of South
Dundas’ character;
To strengthen the pride of home and business owners;
To engage citizens and businesses in community cleanup; and,
To welcome visitors at the gateways to our community.
Implementation Considerations
Potential partners include (but are not limited to)
community service organizations, the County Roads
Department, citizens and businesses.
Staff time will be required to coordinate specific projects
and engage stakeholders.
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Council leadership needs to be demonstrated through
support and participation in the community beautification
projects.
An advisory committee of Council, staff, and citizens should
be involved in major projects.
Page 21

Council’s Strategic Approach
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
There are three overarching elements that span this entire
Community Strategic Plan. These elements are inherent to
all of the Community Actions and are part of Council’s
commitment to continuously improving the South Dundas
community.
Provide updates on the municipality’s website, Twitter
and Facebook accounts;
Provide updates in the Township’s newsletter; and,
Issue media releases to local media such as newspapers
and radio.
Raising Awareness
The community must know about the Community Strategic
Plan and understand its relevance. The following activities
will help entrench the Community Strategic Plan into the
minds of citizens and the municipality as an organization:

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
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When approached by constituents with special requests,
Council members will ask how the request is or could be
aligned to the Community Strategic Plan;
When debating major decisions, Council will refer to the
Community Strategic Plan to help in its deliberations;
Council will require all staff reports to discuss any
implications to the Community Strategic Plan; and,
Council will regularly check on the Community Strategic
Plan’s progress (more details on the following page).
Securing Partnerships
With its limited municipal resources and desire to be fiscally
responsible, Council recognizes this Community Strategic
Plan needs partnership to complete all the Community
Actions. To leverage partnerships, Council will:
Improving Communications
For all of the Community Actions, Council will take
advantage of these opportunities to improve
communications. As actions are initiated, implemented and
completed, the municipality will:
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Emphasize to other levels of government that projects
needing partnership support/funding are identified in
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the Community Strategic Plan which has strong
community buy-in;
Formally recognize the efforts of citizens, agencies, and
businesses whose substantial contribution helped
achieve a Community Action; and,
Seek out youth to participate in Community Actions so
that a strong connection is made with the future
generation of South Dundas ratepayers and
entrepreneurs.
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Implementation and Reporting
Success of the plan will require sustained work on the many
Community Actions. Success also depends on Council and
the community moving forward on new Community Actions
as the short term actions identified in this plan are
complete.
An Implementation Strategy Chart and Regular Reporting
will help maintain momentum.
Implementation Strategy Chart
An Implementation Strategy Chart is a timeline illustrating
the Community Actions with milestone dates for the
beginning and completion of each action. The timeline
extends for the first two years of action, from 2012 to 2014.
The first version of the Implementation Strategy Chart
appears on the following pages.
Regular Reporting
Bi-annually, Council will receive a staff report from the Chief
Administrative Officer showing the progress made on
Community Actions and anticipated milestones. An updated
Implementation Strategy Chart with revised milestones, if
needed, is recommended as the reporting tool. As Council
approaches the latter half of 2014, it will review the
Community Strategic Plan and decide what Community
Actions for the next few years will be undertaken.
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Implementation Strategy Chart
2012
Community Actions1
2013
Sept to Dec Jan to June
2013
2014
2014
Department
July to Dec
Jan to June
July to Dec
Responsible
Develop our municipal identity to celebrate South Dundas’ rich history
and culture
Evaluate the merits of the 'Upper Canada Region' brand against the community
assets and values identified through the community strategic plan
Capitalize on local knowledge, and engage local historians/ historical societies to

identify narratives/stories which can be used to enrich our identity

X
 Work with schools to generate awareness of our history and culture among youth

Develop a display case at the new Township Office that showcases historical
artefacts, documents, family trees, etc. that celebrate South Dundas' history
Economic Development Officer
X
Economic Development Officer
X
Recreation Program Coordinator
X
Manager of Recreation & Economic
Development Officer
Create recreational programs, opportunities and facilities that will attract
and retain families, children and youth
Undertake a Facilities Needs Assessment to identify the community’s recreational
and services needs, and make recommendations
Undertake a site assessment to identify suitable candidate sites that would

support a Multi-Use Recreation Facility
Investigate funding sources, including a grant funding source, as well as a

potential for a recreation levy

 Develop a Facility Phasing Plan for developing a multi-use recreation facility
X
Manager of Recreation & Recreation
Program Coordinator
X
Manager of Recreation & Recreation
Program Coordinator
X
Manager of Recreation & Recreation
Program Coordinator
X
Manager of Recreation & Recreation
Program Coordinator
X
Clerk &
Recreation Program Coordinator
X
Manager of Planning and
Enforcement
X
Economic Development Officer &
Recreation Program Coordinator
Strengthen resident and visitor’s connection to South Dundas’
agricultural sector
Add a new agriculture / farmgate food section to the spring / summer Town
newsletter and Recreation Guide
Review current policies regarding the Farmers Market and allow them to attract

more shoppers and grow

 Partner with the All Things Food Network to update a food resources map

Sponsor an annual networking event between the hospitality, horticultural and
agricultural sectors
X
Page 25
Economic Development Officer
Support business expansion and job creation
Advertise the availability of land/business space through the municipality’s
website and through billboards adjacent to Highways 401 and 31
Apply the South Dundas brand to the local businesses community, promoting it

throughout marketing and investment attraction material
Evaluate the locations of the Tourist Information Centres within South Dundas

and adjust accordingly
Undertake a labour study to anticipate labour market trends and identify future

needs and then liaise with schools and service clubs to address needs

X
Economic Development Officer
X
Economic Development Officer
X
Economic Development Officer
X
Economic Development Officer
Sustain South Dundas’ small town lifestyle through appropriate
development

Install better signage to mark the crosswalk on County Road 2 in front of the
Home Hardware
X
 Quantify current housing stock and identify development needs
Plan for affordable and multigenerational housing options through Official Plan
and Zoning By-law updates
Complete a review of related infrastructure and policies to better facilitate

pedestrian traffic in South Dundas’ villages and hamlets

Manager of Public Works
X
Manager of Planning and
Enforcement
X
Manager of Planning and
Enforcement
X
Manager of Public Works
Implement beautification projects to strengthen our sense of pride and
community
Promote community clean-up days in the spring and fall editions of the Town’s
newsletter
Join the Communities in Bloom program and engage the community with a call to

action
Obtain annual grant funding for a horticultural student to undertake community

greening activities at municipal facilities and gateways
Work with the County to plant trees or shrubs along major roads, in particular at

community gateways

 Implement a sign by-law
X
Clerk
X
CAO & Clerk
X
CAO & Clerk
X
X
1
Refer to the text of the Strategic Plan for full descriptions of the actions
Page 26
CAO
Manager of Planning and
Enforcement
that have been made at the municipal level to maintain
and support infrastructure improvements to support the
current population and future population growth. South
Dundas’ well-maintained physical infrastructure, which
includes the road network, water, wastewater, sewer,
garbage, and telecommunications facilities were also
well-recognized as strong community assets.
Appendix A: South Dundas Today – Our
Community’s Assets
People in South Dundas are proud of their community and
are very passionate about moving the community in a
positive direction. Across the different communities, and
across the various age groups, people value South Dundas’
small-town lifestyle and support opportunities that enhance
the community’s current assets and strengths. The
following is a synthesis of the local assets and what the
community most value about living in South Dundas:
3. A strong social sector. The social services sector in South
Dundas provides a range of programs, public services,
support services and community groups, including the
sports clubs, legions, church groups, community support
groups, Lions Club, Boy Scouts, Leo Group, Chamber of
Commerce, and the House of Lazarus. South Dundas
also has a willing and committed volunteer base and
charitable network that work together with the
municipality and other community groups to support
community activities, recreation programs and create
opportunities to develop an inclusive community.
1. Location. South Dundas is accessible to major
transportation routes (Highway 401, St. Lawrence River
and rail), and is located in close proximity to the United
States and nearby larger city centres5. South Dundas’
competitive location along one of Ontario’s main
highways presents economic development opportunities
to support growth and development along the 401. Its
proximity to Highway 416 (that links Highway 401 to
Ottawa) was also considered an asset.
4. Rich natural heritage features and landscapes. The St.
Lawrence River is a natural amenity that is not unique to
South Dundas but the municipality also has an abundant
and undeveloped green space, including a rolling
countryside, rivers, creeks, trees, forests, maple bushes,
and habitats to support a diversity of wildlife. Its natural
heritage features also support wellness, recreation and
adventure tourism opportunities. The bike paths,
walking trails, waterfront, beaches and rivers offer a
variety of opportunities for cycling, walking, kayaking,
boating, swimming and fishing.
2. Strong and proactive municipal leadership. Decisions by
the Mayor and Council balance economic development
and social needs. Council has taken a strong leadership
position to communicate, interact, and engage
residents, both in-person and through social media. The
community also recognizes the appropriate investments
5
City centres: Ottawa, Montreal, Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall.
Page A-1
Upper Canada Playhouse emerged through the
consultation as strong community assets and as unique
defining factors that distinguish South Dundas from its
neighbours.
5. Caring, open, sharing and friendly people. People in
South Dundas have a strong sense of community,
community pride and care about one another. It is a
community made up of good, friendly neighbours who
come from diverse backgrounds and have various
talents. We heard that the community is supportive of
one another, are dedicated and hard-working, and share
a common commitment to make South Dundas a better
place to live. The community has a large aging
population with a rich knowledge of the local culture and
history who act as mentors, volunteers, and supports for
one another and the younger generation. There was
also recognition that the community was embracing
newcomers, both those from Canada and those from
abroad. More people care about their community, are
engaged and have a greater interest in what the
community can offer them.
8. Recreation facilities and programs. There are a diverse
range of recreation facilities and programs throughout
South Dundas that are well recognized by youths, adults
and seniors. These include dirt bike trails, snowmobile
trails, parks, splash pads, hockey arenas, camp grounds,
and soccer fields. In addition, social opportunities have
also been recognized by youth throughout South
Dundas, which include baseball, dance lessons, game
nights, and movie nights.
9. Economic development opportunities and
entrepreneurial spirit. There is an established and
connected business community made up of the retail
sector, agricultural industry, logistics and transportation
industry, home-based businesses, and bed and
breakfasts that support the community’s rural lifestyle.
Low taxes, lower operating expenses, and the
availability of an industrial land base also present
opportunities for growth and expansion for new
businesses and sectors. The residents in South Dundas
have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and diversity of
talents. Quality of the people, loyalty, skills (and skills
development opportunities through institutions such as
the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario),
and strong values are just some of the traits that help
6. Support for arts and culture. There is a strong arts and
cultural sector in South Dundas that brings people
together from across the municipality and from different
socio-economic environments. The murals and public art
that are located throughout South Dundas create a
pictoral history of the town and are well-recognized by
the community.
7. Strong historical value. From its historic villages,
Loyalist period houses, to the discovery of the McIntosh
Apple and Battlefield Memorial, South Dundas is steeped
in history and culture. Upper Canada Village and the
Page A-2
make South Dundas’ workforce competitive. People are
loyal to the community, their family and to the employer.
10. Strong agricultural industry. There is a strong
agricultural sector and community in South Dundas,
which includes farmers markets, organic farming,
community gardens, greenhouses, apple orchards,
market gardens, cash crops, and dairy farms.
Page A-3
Appendix B: Community Wishes from Public Consultation
We received over 200 community wishes – specific aspirations of citizens for the betterment of the community – across the
various consultation activities. Many of the community wishes were similar across the consultation sessions. The community
wishes have been grouped into seven topic areas and are presented below.
Community Wish Topic
Community Wishes
Culture, Heritage,
Tourism and Waterfront
Development






Be a strong tourism destination. South Dundas will be a waterfront tourism destination. South Dundas
will have a well-developed and promoted tourism industry, which celebrates the waterfront. South
Dundas’ waterfront will offer residents and visitors with a range of waterfront resources and activities,
including a marina, waterfront park, fishing, and boating sports, diving board, expanded boat docking
facilities, restaurants, boutiques, a splash pad, safer beaches, and live entertainment;
A Tourist Information Booth will be developed at the waterfront that will make information available for
visitors. South Dundas will also be a heritage tourism destination. South Dundas’ discovery of the
McIntosh Apple will be well-known, celebrated, and promoted through signage and local events.
Villages will also be illuminated at night to showcase the Town’s rich history and heritage sites;
Have a clean and expanded beach front, including landscaping, walking paths, an upgraded marina,
benches and restaurants within five years;
Promote South Dundas’ assets to support tourism. Promote Iroqois Point and Galop Canal, the Don
Graham Trail, and heritage housing for their historical significance. Support the Township’s heritage
tourism potential through signage;
Comments were mixed with regards to the potential to develop housing along the waterfront. This will
be further explored throughout the Plan development process; and,
Have a unique brand that preserves its historic culture for South Dundas and supports community
cohesion. Branding will be continued throughout the Township’s villages through signage and
landscaping to create a strong and consistent message that recognizes the South Dundas’ strengths,
such as Upper Canada Village and its historic sites.
Page B-1
Community Wish Topic
Community Wishes
Beautification


Economic Growth, Job
Creation and Business
Support







Social Supports,
Community Resources
and Affordable Housing



Beautify the community through landscaping, streetscaping, signage, and enhanced lighting at
intersections; and,
Landscaping and street trees will be planted along County Road 31, making the corridor more inviting.
Landscaping will also enhance the beauty of the community, particularly in Williamsburg, Iroquois Beach
and Iroquois Locks and around the new Township Office. Streetscaping, landscaping, and public art will
celebrate the Town’s local arts and culture and maintain the community’s small town feel.
Have a strong supply of jobs. Local industries and financial institutions will have a strong role and will
work in partnership with the Town to create new jobs in South Dundas;
Support businesses, tourism, and business potentials along Highway 401;
Have a sustainable economy with a thriving business core that will attract more business, economic
growth, and job opportunities. Shops within South Dundas will be reflective of the Town’s culture and
small town lifestyle and sustainable to support the local population;
Attract industry to support our existing assets,create jobs and attract visitors;
Encourage the creation of new businesses, keeping employment opportunities in town;
Create a shopping experience in South Dundas. For example, improve shopping malls by providing
popular clothing stores, such as American Eagle; and,
Support the development of more youth friendly shops and retailers, as well as entertainment like movie
theatres.
More opportunities for families and support services for those in the community facing challenges;
Offer diversified housing, services, programs, and facilities for seniors, including a seniors support centre,
medical facilities, educational course, seniors sports clubs, retirement residences and condominiums,
seniors housing for independent living, nursing homes and a hospice centre. Increase the range of
services, for example, family doctors, home care services and specialized services to help seniors age in
place; and,
Offer affordable and multigenerational housing options, such as apartments, and a nursing home for
seniors.
Page B-2
Community Wish Topic
Community Wishes
Planning and
Infrastructure



Recreation Programs and
Facilities



Agriculture





Have sidewalks and crosswalks, in the Township’s villages, and particularly along County Road 31 from
that will provide safe places for residents to walk and cycle;
Provide walking and cycling paths, particularly between Iroquois and Morrisburg and along Lakeshore
Drive, and from the high school to the shopping plaza; and,
Make a bike trail/park through Brinston Park.
Offer a range of recreation facilities and programs that will retain current residents, in particular youths,
and encourage families to locate in South Dundas. Facilities should include a youth centre, physical
activity centre including an arena and swimming pool, sports grounds, and meeting rooms. The library
should also have longer hours of operation;
Have recreational facilities, parks, social programs activities, and maintain greenspace, including an
indoor swimming pool, and programs to retain families with children and youths; and,
Develop a skate park in Brinston Park.
Provide strong rural advanced education, particularly in Dixon’s Corners and Brinston, to support the
agricultural industry, trades, and local industries. Education and marketing to support local businesses,
technology, and industry can focus on maple syrup production and the processing of apples from
planting and harvesting to market production;
Support the local agricultural industry, including organic farms, food exports, new products, agricultural
and the local craft market;
Develop an understanding between the farm community and commuters and support a strong
understanding between the groups engaging each other without confrontation;
Have a tourism office and promote tourism that supports the Township’s rich agricultural industry and
local artists; and,
Municipality should support partnership between agricultural community and schools to educate
students about the agricultural community. There is a need to partner to make farms available and
students to support agriculture and tourism.
Page B-3