In spite of all the depressing economic news we have witnessed recently, there are some bright signs that the worst may be just about over, and that the economy will even out, hopefully, by summers end.

But, just as I reported last month, Pickering's economy is in relatively good health because it has such a diversified economic business and commercial base that companies, large and small, continue to open their doors here and grow their businesses.

In mid January, I was pleased to be included in the Grand Re-Opening of the new regional Investors Group offices, for me - the second time. The first was back in 1999 when Investors Group, located at 1550 Kingston Rd, launched their flag here. During the past decade, Investors has increased their floor space by a third, to 9,500 sq. ft; financial consultants have tripled in number to thirty and Investors continues to seek out, and train, exceptional people wishing to make their career in the financial services industry.

Five hundred employees of Aditya Biria Minacs (formerly Minacs Worldwide) call centre, collectively can now breath a sigh of relief. Rogers has recently completed negotiations to take over the call centre facility at 1851 Sandstone Manor. If the economy allows, an ambitious path will be laid out that could see the call centre staff increased to seven hundred.

In addition to Aditya Biria Minacs, few residents are aware that we are also home to two more major call centres: Veridian has approximately 60 employees; and RecoverCorps has doubled its size in the last six months to 60 employees, with an expectation of major continued growth over the next year. Positive outlooks!

Always a good indicator of local economic conditions is the housing industry, and again, Pickering stands out with those wishing to invest in a home. New home starts were up last year by nearly 50% over 2007. Elsewhere, Oshawa reports starts down 14%; Ajax down 37%; Whitby down 11%; and the Region of Durham, as a whole, down 17%.

With more and more new, small to medium size, businesses moving to, or growing, in Pickering - even in these difficult economic times - it is little wonder that the City continues to attract new residents in search of new accommodations. With the upgrading of Brock Rd. to four lanes, from Rossland Rd. to Taunton, to commence shortly; and the servicing of the Duffin Heights living area to commence this year, construction activity will be plentiful. I would anticipate commercial and housing starts could begin in 2011 with first move-ins sometime in 2012.

On a final note, I just want to say "thanks" to the two residents who supplied me with leads on two different companies looking to re-locate. I followed up, have arranged meetings, and with any luck, you'll be working in your home town within the year! And I continue to invite anyone, should they know, or hear, of any company looking to expand &/or relocate, please let me know. We know if we can make their "short list", our success story here in Pickering will close the deal. Please call me at 905 420-4605.