In the evening of Dec. 6, an RCMP officer knocked on the residence of a 91-year-old town resident, informing him in the presence of his wife that he could be arrested for criminal harassment. An Innisfail peace officer had placed a complaint against the senior.
Over the past couple of years the senior had informed the town office, via telephone, email and letters, that the bylaws adopted by the Town of Innisfail were not being enforced.
The senior had submitted several complaints of bylaw infractions. Although reviewed by the peace officers, nothing was done to correct the infractions. Due to the non-response, the 91-year-old senior contacted the mayor, town councillors and the CAO via email, telephone and letters. There was either no response or a weak excuse, but again no enforcement of the bylaws.
Another concern raised by the senior was the waste of taxpayers' money. It was brought to the attention of town management and town councillors, that Innisfail peace officers would leave their town vehicles running for an hour while enjoying lunch at home during winter months.
This waste of fuel was costing taxpayers money and polluting the environment. The RCMP constable explained security vehicles should remain running in cold weather to ensure operation.
Why was this explanation not given when the initial complaint was filed?
The result of the RCMP officer's visit with the 91-year-old town resident was no charges laid.
These multiple submissions regarding the lack of bylaw enforcement and waste of taxpayers' money seemed to have struck a nerve with the peace officer.
This event confirms the following: the peace officer felt insecure, nepotism should never be allowed in the workplace, and it's not easy to dismiss an employee for incompetence when they are family or friend.
Why have bylaws when there is no intention to enforce them?
Despite what councillors have said at recent town meetings, when residents of the town voice their concerns directly to town management, the mayor or town councillors, nothing is addressed. The residents' only course of action is voicing their concerns through the media, with letters addressed to the Innisfail Province.
It would appear the residents of Innisfail are justified to have the conduct of the Innisfail CAO reviewed by the Province of Alberta. Perhaps the mayor and councillors should also be included.
Helen Adair
Innisfail
Editor's note: Innisfail RCMP said members have investigated the issue and are satisfied it has been resolved.
