Keeping young people, newcomers & families in Marathon

My answer

Jobs and housing are fundamental, but getting someone to Marathon and getting someone to stay are two different things.

I think we need to be more intentional about both recruitment and retention.

That could mean stronger partnerships with colleges, universities, apprenticeship programs and employers to introduce students and young professionals to Marathon through placements, practicums, co-ops and employment opportunities.

And there are many sectors that can be part of that — mining, health care, education, skilled trades, local businesses, municipal employment and other regional industries. We should be looking for ways to connect young people and new graduates with real career opportunities here.

But once someone arrives, what happens next?

Can they find housing? Childcare? Recreation? Clubs? Community events? If they move here with a partner, are there employment opportunities for that person too? Do they feel connected to the community?

I would be interested in exploring a coordinated Welcome to Marathon approach — not necessarily creating another municipal position, but bringing the Town, employers, community organizations and other partners together so newcomers can more easily understand what is available and get connected.

I also think we should ask people who leave why they leave. If the same barriers keep coming up — housing, childcare, employment for a partner, career growth or social connection — that information should help guide future decisions.

Council cannot make someone stay in Marathon, and we cannot promise every young person that the career they want will exist here.

What we can do is help create the conditions that make staying possible: housing, economic opportunity, recreation, childcare, infrastructure, community connection and a sense of belonging.

I want Marathon to be an across-the-lifespan community — somewhere young people can leave to learn and explore if they want to, but also somewhere they can see themselves returning to build a career, raise a family and create a life.

Recruitment gets people here. Belonging helps people stay.