Municipal officials are already looking at how to bounce back after the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new staff report details some of the steps that have been taken so far to address the impacts that the pandemic is having on local growth and on the local economy.
"The COVID-19 crisis has had a profound impact on the local economy, as well as national and international economies," reads the report. "The impact continues to evolve as the health crisis unfolds. At this time the total economic impact is unknown. The unexpected economic impacts from COVID-19 have created economic uncertainty. Therefore, the CK Growth Strategy needs to be flexible to address the new and uncertain changes happening to our economy."
An economic recovery committee has been created as a result. The group is made up of staff from different municipal departments and will review the municipal corporation’s role, opportunities and policies to mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19.
"This is crucial to getting the municipality focused and ready for the economy after the COVID-19 crisis," states the report.
The Chatham-Kent Economic Development Department is also putting in work to support businesses facing hardships during the pandemic.
Economic Development is temporarily being additionally staffed by existing employees that are being redeployed from other jobs.
According to the report, the department is enhancing several services including increased communication, one on one support with businesses, increased digital support for e-commerce practices and business continuity planning.
Additionally, Chatham-Kent is focused on continuous communication with business leaders across the municipality.
"A communication plan will be developed that will enhance the CK Economic Task Force and corporate message using a continuous quality improvement approach."
Any specific recommendations with financial implications will come back to council at a later time.