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Organized by key priorities – as an incumbent Councillor, I will continue to advocate for:
Encourage thoughtful development that positions us within the region as a community worthy of welcoming residents and businesses. Our economic strengths are manufacturing, the energy sector (both nonrenewable and renewable), agriculture, and the service sectors that support them. Major employers include a hospital with all related services, a large school campus hosting students from K-12, the Division Office of a regional school division, and a federal medium security prison – continued focus on economic development within the Town that builds on what currently exists, as well as basic infrastructure to create opportunities for new and emerging sectors is critical. It is time to reenergize our Power of Place Community Economic Development Plan, and be lazer focused on achieving the outcomes detailed in that plan. Innisfail has gained a reputation with builders and businesses as being efficient and effective – “doing business at the speed of business”. Ensure that reputation continues to be well earned and protected.
How we earn revenue and expend resources is a significant part of Council’s fiduciary responsibility. It is imperative that we continue to serve taxpayers by ensuring transparent and efficient budgeting input and processes. Continue to support administration as they seek efficiencies, resulting in a corporate culture that is effective and change oriented. Maintain focus on the “revenue side” of the budget – building on our reputation as a “business friendly” community, and continuing to promote our town through reputable site selection processes. Review utility franchise fee programs, ensuring rates are set with tax payer benefit at the forefront, and clearly define and communicate recommendations arising from that review.Continue to offer opportunities for community input and feedback into desired programs and services, and suggestions relative to changing or eliminating others. Ensure relevant capital budget requests are supported by our Asset Management plan. In light of diminishing provincial Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF) grants, ensure budgets are maximized and leveraged where possible.
Maintain and improve essential services for residents. Moving the needle on housing is difficult work, however using our Housing Needs Assessment and Housing Action Plan will position the community for investments in affordable and market housing – which will ultimately mean higher density – however allows for our seniors and next generations to become housed in a sustainable way. Continue to focus on building adequate reserves for facilities and infrastructure (utilities, roads, sidewalks, aging facilities) as we know that funding from other levels of government is shrinking. Support the Napoleon West development, including higher density multi family townhouses and apartments, as well as a retail/commercial development. Continue to advocate for accessibility for all citizens through inclusive design, affordable pricing, seniors and family designs, and promoting basic Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles.
In collaboration with the Mountain View Regional Water Services Commission and the South Red Deer Regional Wastewater Commission, ensure our citizens continue to have access to safe, accessible and affordable water and sewer services. Ensure adequate reserves continue to be maintained to deal with aging and well used infrastructure. Support recreation, culture, and opportunities for youth, families, and seniors. Advocate for our Primary Care Network – doctors and health professionals – and sustainable developments and programs in our hospital and auxiliary health services. Support the work identified in the Community Safety & Well-Being Strategy, and continue to build strong relationships with our RCMP, Bylaw and Emergency Services staff.
Strengthen trust in Council and Town administration and staff by keeping residents informed and engaged. Judging by the extremely low participation in meetings, forums, surveys, committees, etc., the Town’s communications strategies must be reevaluated.
I continue to be extremely concerned at the aggressive and disrespectful manner in which citizens address issues and neighbours in our community. Lack of civility not only hurts people we rely on as we live and work in our community, it discourages new businesses, Not For Profit organizations, new residents, and potential regional partners from looking at the opportunities provided in this beautiful town. I remain committed to pursuing more diverse events and activities that might provide information to ensure our residents and businesses understand how the Town operates its business and how Council governs itself.