OLDS — Coffee With Councillors, a new initiative from the town, has been “a very positive experience,” says Coun. Wanda Blatz.
Under the program, certain town councillors make themselves available at various locations. Two sessions were held last week, in the Albertan building on Aug. 15 and in Olds Town Square on Aug. 18.
They’re an opportunity for residents provide input into what they’d like to see in the town’s upcoming budget. It’s also a chance for residents to meet face to face with councillors to discuss any concerns they have.
Between now and Sept. 12, three more sessions remain.
About 15 people attended the first two sessions. Blatz and Coun. Heather Ryan attended each.
“Overall, this was a very positive experience,” she wrote in an email. “The residents attending asked positive, polite questions.”
"We are encouraging residents to participate in the budget survey; asking for comments and suggestions on how to improve services the town provides and needs, trying to keep tax increases to a minimum."
Issues covered included garbage pickup and recycling centres, snow removal and traffic speed and enforcement, mowing and maintenance of green spaces.
Councillors urged residents to use the Report a Problem option on the town's website to submit questions and complaints.
“Using this tool gives administration (an opportunity) to log and tabulate any problems in our community,” she wrote.
The sessions are a council initiative.
“Council wanted to meet with and listen to residents by giving them an opportunity to discuss concerns and ask questions, in an informal setting,” she wrote.
Town council plans to hold more such sessions in the future but has not yet determined when or how often they will occur, she said.
The schedule for Coffee With Councillors is available via social media and online at https://www.olds.ca/councilcoffee.
