A northern Ontario town that offered generous incentives to potential newcomers in a bid to revitalize the community says its efforts were successful enough to merit a second round. “The outcome to date has been extremely positive and encouraging, not only for Smooth Rock Falls, but for people and businesses looking to establish themselves,” Denault said in a telephone interview. People drifted away from the town after the Tembec pulp and paper mill shut up shop in 2006. In response to the declines, Smooth Rock Falls developed a 20-year strategic plan focused on reviving industry in the area. Branding itself “Near North, Near Perfect,” the town offered bold incentives to draw people to the community about 100 kilometres north of Timmins, Ont., on the Mattagami River.

Source: National Post November 18, 2017 19:18 UTC