Gravenhurst needs a comprehensive economic strategy.

That was the common theme Gravenhurst council heard during Saturday’s public pre-budget consultation.

The meeting drew a crowd of roughly 30 people to the Terry Fox Auditorium, where they were presented with a budget information package compiled by councillor Lou Guerriero, chair of corporate services.

The package laid out budgetary timetables, year-by-year comparisons, a detailed breakdown of last year’s expenses and an analysis of how taxes are spent.

The package also contained a list of considerations for the 2008 fiscal year. Some of the larger projects include an estimated $3.3 million toward the purchase of the health unit property, $3.2 million for a new fire station, $1.3 million for the reconstruction of James Street and $1.7 million to conduct phase two of the streetscape improvement project.

The floor was then opened to the public for their input on which projects and services should be council’s top priorities.

Representing the Greater Gravenhurst Ratepayers Association, Gail Stiver said last year’s strategic plan was a step in the right direction, but only a comprehensive economic strategy will help set concrete priorities.

That sentiment was echoed by Gravenhurst resident Lola Bratty. An efficiency and effectiveness review of town departments would be another useful tool toward better financial management, she added.

Representing the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, chamber manager Jodi Holder said she would also like to see an economic strategy and greater investment in economic development, in addition to a comprehensive branding strategy.

“When the economic sector of the town is thriving, it enhances the quality of life for the entire town,” she said.

Several speakers commended the municipality for hosting the public meeting, the first of its kind in Gravenhurst, and called it a step toward openness.

Gordon Durnan said the municipality is constantly under fire from the public and the media for perceived financial mismanagement but, in fact, the town is making wise investments.

“You need to tell them that we aren’t losing money, we’re investing it. We can have a pool here in Gravenhurst because it’s not a loss, it’s an investment,” Durnan told council. “Continue to invest in the community, because I’m here to tell you you’re doing a good job.”

Heritage sector volunteer Hank Smith said heritage needs to be a top priority in the town budget. The town should focus on investing in the Segwun, and buildings like the Carnegie Library and railway station, he said.

Mayor John Klinck agreed that heritage is important and pointed to the town’s investment in Muskoka Wharf and the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre as evidence.

“We are constantly keeping our eye on heritage,” assured Klinck.

There was little input on any of the proposed projects for 2008, and resident Ross Ashforth said the meeting was premature for proper budgetary discussions. Several presenters, including Ashforth, said they would have more specific input on the budget as the process moves along.

After the meeting Mayor Klinck said he was pleased with the outcome, and impressed with the positive nature of the discussions.

“Sometimes when you’re talking about spending, it can get emotional. This is a process by which we manage people’s money and why shouldn’t they have a chance to voice their opinion,” said Klinck. “I got some clear messages here this morning . . . including the need for an economic development strategy.”

Klinck said council will digest the information it received during the meeting and continue to seek public input on the budget in the coming weeks.

Presentation of the proposed budget is expected to take place March 18.’