The Sustainable Sundre Committee, a multi-stakeholder group operating under the auspices of the Town of Sundre, plans to continue working with local government, businesses, community groups and individuals in 2011 to promote an environmentally healthy Sundre, councillors heard.
During last week's governance committee meeting, committee member and spokesperson Anton Walker said the committee's plans for this year will include a public sustainability education session, participation in September's SPOG Trade Show to showcase local foods, and participation in the upcoming Pathways to Sustainability Conference in Red Deer.
The committee's overall goal is to promote a healthy town environment, a strong economy, a strong social network, and good governance.
ìCommunities across Canada and around the world are moving towards sustainability,î said Walker. ìSustainable Sundre is where we are headed.î
The new Sundre town council had requested an update on the committee's activities.
Walker told councillors the committee has been involved in a number of environmental promotion activities in town in recent times.
Those activities have included support of the low flow toilet rebate program, the anti-idling policy, involvement with the Sundre Engagement Site's environmental classes, a push for more bike racks in town, plans for a community gardens or gardens, and pushing for sustainable development with less urban sprawl.
A vibrant town centre that is pedestrian friendly and encourages social interaction helps make Sundre a sustainable community, he said.
Sustainability over the long term requires a ëgolden thread' of communication between town council, individuals, schools, chamber of commerce, community groups and businesses, he said.
Councillor Michael Baird asked Walker where plans for a community garden stand at this point. Walker said the town's Parks and Recreation department will be coming forward with a plan for the garden.
Councillor Patricia Toone called on local individuals to make personal choices aimed at promoting sustainability.
The committee was responsible for the formation of the Town of Sundre's Municipal Sustainability Plan (MSP), which was adopted by council in April 2009.
The MSP is a ìmaster document to guide and inspire all other community plans such as economic development and municipal development as well as town operating practices and capital and infrastructure expenditures,î the plan states.
The vision of the plan reads: ìThe citizens of Sundre and district, current and future generations, enjoy an enhanced quality of life in a safe, caring, cooperative, culturally vibrant, affordable and healthy community. They have the opportunity to direct their destinies in a well-planned, sustainable future.î
The complete MSP is available for viewing on the Town of Sundre's website, at www.sundre.com.
