During a public engagement session on how to improve parks, trails and open spaces in Olds, Mayor Judy Dahl consulted students on what they'd like to see.
She also stressed the importance of local government and public consultations during the event, held March 14 at the Olds Legion.
Grade 6 students from both Deer Meadow and Holy Trinity schools then had a chance to tour the booths and talk with representatives about their concerns and ideas.
"I made it very clear to them that their opinion matters," Dahl said. "Just like their opinions matter when they go to the stations here."
Hanna Andrew and Laela Cheverier of Deer Meadow were keen on some new tennis or badminton courts, as well as playgrounds for specific age groups.
"We'd like stuff made for our age level," said Andrew, "so that it's not tiny and you have to crawl."
"And cooler parks, more slides and hanging bars," said Cheverier, "instead of just stairs and baby swings."
Cheverier was also thinking outside the box, suggesting the town consider a cat park.
"Because if dogs can go out and do whatever they want," she said, "maybe cats could too."
The mayor handed out her business card, and asked students to write followup emails if they had further concerns or suggestions.
"I'm just overwhelmed at the interest of the students today, as well as the citizens and the public," said Mayor Dahl. "The questions are out-of-box thinking, and exactly what we are looking for."
"I made it very clear to them that their opinion matters."MAYOR JUDY DAHL
