In 2011, five new advisory committees were established to improve the overall performance and public image of the Highlands East region. Each group has been given an area of accountability, basic operating guidelines and a list of additional resources available.

Although they have no direct authority to change municipal policy, they are expected to provide Council with realistic guidance and action plans. The committees cover the current priority areas affecting Highlands East.

Economic and Business Development
This group will identify existing businesses, their needs and challenges, as well as, explore business expansion opportunities that could generate new business opportunities. They will also investigate ways to promote and enhance the image of the area as a place to invest, which includes developing a Highlands East brand. They will cover, but are not restricted to, industries involving: retail, tourism, culture, construction, creativity and manufacturing.
For more information go to the Economic Development tab.

Trails
This group will identify and map existing trail systems and explore opportunities for trail expansion across both motorized and non-motorized venues. They will be continually looking for best practices for affective trail marshalling and maintenance. They will network, and possibly coordinate, projects with other private and public sector groups across the municipality. They will also promote the spirit of cooperation when crossing jurisdictional boundries.
For more information contact Councillor Joan Barton.

Housing and Grants
This group will identify the need and opportunities for appropriate and affordable housing. This will include projects where both the private and public sectors are involved. They will also be the major player for investigating grants and other related subsidized funding. This could evolve into local long-term care and assisted (rent geared to income) housing opportunities.
For more information contact Councillor Steve Kauffeld.

Environment and Green Energy
This group will identify trends and opportunities for green energy development and affective environmental management across the municipal. This will include devloping best practices for waste management and overall clean water stewardship, which includes exploring ways to expand ecological and environmental education.
For more information contact Deputy Reeve Suzanne Partridge.

Recreation and Culture
This group will provide current and long term vision for developing our recreational and cultural facilities. This includes events and activities that cover both the recreational and cultural aspects of our communities. They will also ensure that these projects are well managed and promoted.
For more information contact Reeve Dave Burton or Councillor Steve Kauffeld.