7
Township of Scugog: Value Added Agricultural Practices
Population: 21,569
Initiative
Rural communities finding creative solutions for value added agricultural practices.
Context
A key initiative that aids the township is a comprehensive zoning by-law that allows for home occupations and home industries. This type of zoning by-law is meant to encourage small businesses on rural properties.
Official Plan Policy
2.7 Economic Development
c) Encouraging the development of home-based businesses provided the proposed use is compatible with adjacent land uses;
d) Providing opportunities to improve and enhance the quality of agriculture value-added industry in the Township including local agricultural food production processing and distribution;
Innovative Features
Home Industries Zoning By-Law
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These industries are meant to serve the surrounding farm community and could include: small welding shops, wood- working businesses, bed and breakfasts, as well as other home occupations.
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These home industries are considered small business incubators which could move into larger employment areas in the future.
Key Lessons and Tools
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Focus on promoting agricultural businesses and food production businesses. Some of the success that the township has been experiencing is a result of hard work which has focused on promoting and growing agricultural related businesses.
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Have committees that support various municipal initiatives.