Penholders find and say what's best for town

Discover Penhold.

That was the theme for the Town of Penhold's annual fall registration night at the Penhold Regional Multiplex on Aug. 16.

“It's discover Penhold day and people are discovering all the things you can do in Penhold,” said Dennis Cooper, Penhold mayor. “There's lots of different booths here and people are joining up.”

Penhold residents and local families enjoyed face painting for kids, the community market, a free barbecue with council members and a community engagement table where Penhold residents had an opportunity to provide some feedback to council on different municipal issues.

“Everybody gets two poker chips and we ask residents to take a look at areas we have here. There's everything from parks and playgrounds, trail development, safety, strong community programming, strong library services, multiplex and outdoor recreation area, and enhance water services. We ask people to put their chips where they would like to see (focus and improvements),” said Cooper. “When we come to budgeting we will have an idea of what the people think. We try to do our best by talking to people but this allows for community engagement and gets people involved.”

Longtime resident Susan Shaw said it was a good way for residents to have some input on what would be best for the community.

“I think it's a great way and it's fun using the poker chips,” said Shaw. “I think they're all very important services. It's hard to pick a top priority, but I chose enhance water services because I have heard some complaints around town.”

More than 45 information booths were set up inside the multiplex by community and sports clubs, non-profit groups, churches, and several other organizations.

“We've had quite a few people here. I think we're at over 80 people tonight,” said Jamie Seiyama, of the community services department. “We've got recreation, town programs, non-profit groups, clubs, organizations and programs that service Penhold and area.”

Hope Constantine of Penhold was in attendance with her children and said she was happy to see so many organizations and support services available in Penhold and nearby areas.

“It's fun seeing what's new in the community and great connecting with people,” said Constantine.

Seiyama said the community discovery night was a good time to register for fall programs and learn more about what the town offers.

“People can register for fall programs. As well, there's information for newcomers so they can know what services we have and programs there are,” said Seiyama. “Even people that have lived here for a while may not know about all the programs we have and the supports and services for families.”

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