April 7th, 2022 (Guysborough, Nova Scotia) – At the April 6th, 2022 Special Meeting of Council, the District of Guysborough passed several motions to establish the Guysborough District Business Partnership (GDBP). This will be a private sector lead organization, with oversight provided by a Board made up of 7 members. The GDBP will be a separate entity from MODG and will be opening a new office space.
The mandate is clear- to advance tourism offerings and small business opportunities in the Municipality through a framework, led by an Executive Director, to position the MODG to enhance local services and attractions.
The Board is comprised of a varied skillset of members who will primarily work to enhance tourism and small business in MODG, and have a direct connection to high school-age students through the linking of an education member sitting on the Board.
GDBP’s Founding President has been selected by Council. Mr. Glynn Williams, President and Proprietor of Authentic Seacoast will sit as President for the first 3 years that the Board is in operation. The remaining Board member terms will be staggered to ensure stability and continuity.
The remaining Board positions include local business leaders, as well as two ex-officio members – one elected Councillor and the Director of Economic Development.
MODG Council has committed $1.5 million over the next five years to fund this initiative and Ashley Cunningham Avery has been seconded to serve as the Executive Director, she has been employed as MODG Municipal Clerk for well over a decade and is approaching her 14th year with MODG.
Cunningham Avery stated that “I am very excited to get started in this role. I’m hoping to make an impact on the tourism and small business offerings in MODG working with our experienced lineup of Board members to create partnerships and enhance what MODG has to offer.”
The establishment of this new organization is a demonstration of the MODG’s confidence in the future of our communities, and the need to demonstrate that confidence to local business owners and private sector investors.
Warden Vernon Pitts stated that “Council took a strong position on this new initiative as it is something we are in great need of- more people. This strategic new venture will hope to draw additional visitors, additional businesses and a more deliberate impact on the future viability of our Municipality.”