In my first term as a Town Council member, I learned that seven members of a town council can greatly benefit from working together with residents. As a result of the efforts of citizens, many areas traditionally handled by council have benefited greatly from their involvement. Community input and ideas have made a positive impact on the community through a variety of committees, such as the Cemetery Committee, Communities in Bloom Committee, Heritage Committee, and Economic Development Committee.

In 2017, the Town Council took the first steps toward developing Gull Lake's first strategic plan. The process began with a comprehensive survey distributed to residents in order to elicit feedback for use in developing a five-year strategic plan. Residents' input was critical in developing the five-year plan. The process started with an extensive survey that was shared with residents to obtain valuable feedback that was used in the creation of the five year community plan.

The Town of Gull Lake Strategic Plan 2017-2021 plan established a set of municipal priorities for council to focus on, including Business Development, Infrastructure, Recreation Facilities, Tourism, and Culture and Heritage. Council concentrated on the strategic directives established under each municipal priority in the plan with the help of resident feedback. As the end of 2021 approaches, existing priorities should be reviewed and new ones established. To help the community continue its move forward, the council should reach out to residents once more to help the community establish some new strategic directives.

The adage "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail" contains a great deal of truth. It is preferable to plan and prepare for future challenges and opportunities. Rather than confronting the difficulties and frustration that result from an inability to deal with obstacles or opportunities as they arise.

Blake Campbell

Gull Lake Events