By Thomas Smith

inden Hills is seeking the community’s input towards their Five Year Strategic Plan.

The first public consultation this year was held virtually over Zoom on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

Politicians participating in the discussion outnumbered the public. Only three participants of the session were either seasonal residents or fulltime residents of Minden Hills.

The session was led by Karen Jones Consulting.

The first question that was asked was on events. Participants were asked what type of events bring people together, what events should be revived, and what events would bring families out to attend.

Jamie Basco, a MH resident, said that he enjoys the Haliburton County Fair that happens every year in Minden.

“It’s good to see that in the community and at the ice races in the winter time,” said Basco.

The past sled dog races that used to go through Minden were also discussed as an event that drew a large crowd in the past.

Another set of questions asked participants how we can get people coming into downtown Minden, spend more time there, and enjoy the community spaces in town.

Susan Roper, a seasonal resident of Scarborough said that many of her friends that are seasonal residents refuse to shop in any store in Haliburton County. They do not want to venture into town at all.

Roper also suggested moving the community farmer and artisan market to the main street in town. To get people into town, you need to get people involved that are close to the community or those who can quickly make connections.

The next set of questions involved volunteerism. Topics included how we can tap into the interest and talents of volunteers, hurdles to volunteering, recognition of volunteers, and how seasonal residents can contribute while they are away.

Topics such as the hurdles due to insurance and the shooting down of ideas before they get the chance to flourish were mentioned.

The next set of questions involved how we can stay connected as a community and how we can gain momentum towards goals discussed during the public consultation.

“We are a community that comes together,” said Deputy Mayor Lisa Schell. Schell noted that when someone needs support, the community is quick to band together and support each other.

Cathay Mauro said that the Pride celebrations in Minden are a huge benefit to the community.

Public representation and outpouring, vocal support of the 2SLGBTQ+ communities within Haliburton County and beyond remind others that members of that community are valued in Minden. More awareness leads to more open mindedness.

The importance of water with the Gull River running through town was discussed. People enjoy floating down the river and coming into town.

Buildings that are boarded up and falling apart are eyesores to visitors. New businesses cannot seem to survive in Minden, or are pushed out to other areas of Haliburton County.

“We have done new things, but not enough to replace what we have lost,” said Schell. “Our biggest trouble is to have current businesses that are here, to stay open.”

Councillor Tammy McKelvey noted that she despises the firehall as it remains in Minden. Her goal is to replace the firehall with a splash pad.

“The old firehall is an eyesore,” said Mauro.

Participants also noted the contrast between the Minden Farmers’ Market and Haliburton Farmers’ Market locations. Haliburton’s Farmers’ Market is located beside the beautiful Head Lake. Minden’s Farmers’ Market is located in a parking lot beside an abandoned firehall. When wind comes, many vendors have to brace themselves and their goods from dirt flying up.

Councillor Pam Sayne noted that she has experienced issues with search engines pushing tourists towards Haliburton. Those searching Haliburton County are less likely to see things listed for Minden. She also noted that the tourism being based at the county level is a disservice to the municipalities in Haliburton County.

Later in the meeting, Mauro suggested finding a brand for Minden. Bala has cranberries, Creemore has beer, Minden needs its own niche to fill and become a draw for tourists.

Councillors agreed with the public participants that a Ribfest would be a great event for the community, but would need direction and the volunteers to make the event happen.

We need you to have your say about the future of Minden. Whether you are a resident or a business owner, MH council will benefit greatly from hearing ideas that can make changes in Minden for the better.

The next in-person consultation for their five year strategic plan, that will shape the future of Minden, will be taking place on Thursday Nov. 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.