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Township Updates for Businesses

Thank you for subscribing to the Southgate Economic Development Newsletter. Stay updated on all that you need to grow a thriving business in the Township of Southgate. Find out about Southgate-specific policies and by-laws as well as regional programing that will benefit your enterprise's development and expansion.

A Message from the Planning and Building Departments

Southgate is one of the fastest growing communities in Ontario. In the next 20 years, ten thousand more people could call Dundalk home.

 

Staff in the Planning and Building Departments are responsible for making sure that the Township not only plans for the future, but that new construction meets all the rules and regulations of the development industry. It’s a big job to keep up with changing planning guidelines in Ontario, work with the County of Grey, inform Council’s decision making and to help residents navigate building requirements. 

 

Our Building staff can help educate you about permits to renovate your home or build your dream project. Planning staff, meanwhile, can help you understand zoning rules that apply to your land, and assist you with approvals such as lot severances, site plans, minor variances, and other applications. 

 

Since 2022, Ontario has changed many planning policies and building laws to encourage developers to build new homes, and landowners to add rental units. Planning and Building staff make sure agreements are in place so that developers meet their commitments to the community and can help you develop building plans to efficiently invest in your home.

 

The Planning and Building Department have a renewed commitment to reach out to you with information about our efforts, and to offer opportunities for you to provide feedback on the services we offer. We understand what it means to work for Southgate residents and how important it is to focus our efforts on community needs. Look for upgrades to the Township website, new communication opportunities as well as streamlined and clearer reports in the coming months. 

 

We thank you for the helpful feedback and support as we move forward.

Learn about the Planning and Building Departments
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Your Feedback and Priorities

The Township spoke with you - our business community - in our Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) report. Now your feedback is being put into action to streamline planning and building services, increase marketing efforts, and draw more customers to local businesses like yours. Read the BR+E report to find out actionable priorities to improve processes, increase communications, and foster stronger connections with the business community.

Read the BR+E Report
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Paint Downtown Dundalk

The Township of Southgate - in partnership with Mural Routes - has received grant funding to install 10 new murals and hold an installation celebration in downtown Dundalk from September 27-29, 2024. Volunteer or run a business booth at the festival to promote the value of shopping locally. Murals raise property values, increase retail foot traffic, and create a sense of belonging for residents. Contact our event planner Rasheen for details at 647-520-3037.

Volunteer for the Mural Festival
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Network at Edgewood Suites

Expand your reach and build positive community ties by connecting with Southgate businesses at this free "After 5" Business Mixer. Edgewood Suites and the South Grey Chamber of Commerce invite you to 270 Hagan Street East, Dundalk on Wednesday, September 25 from 6-8pm for a networking event and panel discussion on catering to customers in the 55+ age demographic. This event features food from new Southgate business La Tino'z Pizza. Don't miss out!

RSVP by September 20
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Apply Easily for Building Permits

To enhance services for our business owners and operators, you can now complete the entire building permit process online on any mobile device with Cloudpermit, a cloud-based software. Having the correct permits is vital for your safety, as well as the safety of your customers. Cloudpermit enables you to apply for building permits, schedule inspections, connect with staff, and make changes to your permit applications.

Explore the New Process
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Library Resources for Businesses

Visit the Southgate Public Library for help with your business needs! Access free wi-fi and computers, printing and faxing services and scheduled tech appointments for help with using your devices and apps. Go to our website for free digital resources such as LinkedIn Learning where you can access thousands of free video courses led by industry experts in the business, creative, and technology fields. Follow us on Facebook @Southgate Ruth Hargrave Memorial Library for info on our free programs like how to use Canva for your promotional needs and more!

Visit the Library Website
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Free Business Support

Access services customized for Grey County entrepreneurs and small business owners through the Business Enterprise Centre (BEC). Receive feedback from professionals on your business start-up or expansion, attend seminars to improve your organization, access grants, and so much more. Schedule a free in-person or virtual consultation appointment so that you have the tools and guidance you need to successfully grow your business.

Get BEC Program Details
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Grants to Improve Your Property

Start renovating your business with support from Southgate Community Improvement Plan (CIP) incentives. Enhance your façade, signage, building, accessibility, and so much more through this grant matching program. Help to rehabilitate publicly used frontages and streetscapes across the Township of Southgate by applying for funding. For program-specific questions, connect with Economic Development Officer Brenna Carroll.

Apply for CIP Grants

Connect with us!

Email  Facebook  Instagram

You can reach us via email and social media. If you have specific questions or concerns, connect with Economic Development Officer: Brenna Carroll.

Book time with Brenna Carroll: Southgate EDO Connection