Richard Froese
South Peace News

Big Lakes County council members are ready to increase their presence at community events to listen to views, ideas, questions and concerns from citizens.

At its regular meeting July 24, council approved a motion to increase the 2024 operating budget by $13,800 for council and administration to attend selected community events.

Depending on the location of the event, the local council member, one other council member and one person from administration would be present.

Council passed a second motion to create a calendar of events to help council determine what events would be best to attend.

The County would contact organizers to request they set up a table at the event.

Council also plans to increase engagement online by creating space on its website for people to express concerns, questions, views and suggestions.

CAO David Reynolds says the engagement is vital.

“Administration has taken a long look at this … to increase transparency and accountability,” says Reynolds.

“It’s really important we get out there and talk to the people and get this started now.

“We know there are many events throughout the county.”

Big Lakes plans to be present at events such as the annual High Prairie Gun and Sportsman Show as it has for many years, along with the Enilda Farmers’ Market and other events.

Reeve Tyler Airth strongly supports public engagement.

“It’s to try to get council and administration out to the people,” Airth says.

Joussard Councillor Richard Mifflin says he has heard that call from residents.

“I have been asked by people for more engagement from council,” Mifflin says.

“We want to listen to their concerns.”

He says when council members from outside their ward hear from people in another ward, it gives them a broader view and understanding about issues throughout the county and would help council make good decisions.

Heart River – Salt Prairie Councillor Garrett Zahacy says the County hosting an open house doesn’t draw many people.

“We have to go to the people,” Zahacy says.

Kinuso Councillor Roberta Hunt says it’s not all about getting lots of people.

“Even if one or two people show up, it will be good,” Hunt says.

North Gilwood – Triangle Councillor Jim Zabolotniuk doubts the program will last long.

“It will work for a short time and then it won’t – it’s guaranteed,” Zabolotniuk says.

“Nobody will show up.”

South Gilwood – Sunset House Councillor Ann Stewart says it won’t work in rural wards.

“Hamlets are totally different,” Stewart says.

“It won’t work in my ward.”

Grouard Councillor Jeff Chalifoux agrees the program will not work the same in all areas of the county.

“What will work in one ward, in Grouard, won’t work in another ward,” Chalifoux says.

He suggests council create a communications strategy to meet the varied needs throughout the county.

The CAO says it is important to engage citizens in various ways.

“Resident engagement serves as a crucial platform to foster community involvement and enhance civic participating,” Reynolds says in his report to council.

“These events provide opportunities for council and administration to interact directly with residents, address concerns and collaborate on local issues.”

Resident engagement events promote transparency and accountability, enhance county participation, improve level-of-service development and increase public awareness and education, he states.

“Big Lakes County values public participation for the information that it provides our decision-makers to make well-informed and well-supported decisions,” explains the policy statement.

“The county will consider public participation when it comes to our bylaws, policies, programs and services.”

The policy will ensure that citizen participation is consistent, outcome-driven, efficient and effective and complies with the Municipal Government Act.