The Highland Companies says "economic growth and diversity" are key to ensuring Melancthon Township's financial stability and future.

In a press release Tuesday, Highland sad it wants to work with Melancthon Council and residents "in pursuit of an economic vision, a vibrant local economy and a more self-sufficient sustainable community."

It said achieving those objectives "could assist the Township in addressing the financial challenges of the coming years without such actions as increased property taxes, reduced government services and the possibility of amalgamation with another municipality."

The press release noted some of the current and future challenges facing the Township:

• The first draft of the Township's 2009 Budget envisioned a 76% property tax increase.

• The next drafts avoided an increase, in part by transferring reserves, reducing costs and deferring activities.

• The Province has indicated that it will reduce its grant to the Township by nearly $200,000 in 2010.

• Melancthon will face a challenging budget process for 2010 and beyond.

• The region is dealing with the worst economy in seven decades.

• Area residents are experiencing plant closures, cutbacks and layoffs.

• The County Growth Management Study projects little population and employment growth for Melancthon.

"The Company wants to work with others toward a future based upon the natural resources that are the foundation of the local economy: agriculture, wind and aggregates.

The responsible development and use of the area's natural resources is a hallmark of the area's past and can help shape its future. Responsible development can help create a sustainable community with the right mix of economic activity, local government services and quality of life, and without having to increase taxes, reduce services or deal with the impact of any changes in provincial grants.

Highland said that in investing in the community and its future, the company "believes that economic growth and diversity are essential if the community is to create jobs, fund government services and amenities for people, and ensure a sustainable future."