Not sure if you are aware but Council takes a break for the month of August. I used my time off to visit some friends and family and get caught up on some outstanding Council issues. I also reflected on where I am in my commitment to our community.
I reviewed the concerns/complaints I received during the past 10 months and determined that the following topics are the most important to Bearspaw residents: crime prevention, fire prevention, gravel, construction and road issues, and County customer service levels.
To address the first two issues, crime and fire prevention, I am pleased to say that I will be holding an open house on Saturday, September 15th from 9-11AM at the Bearspaw Lifestyle Centre. I will have a panel consisting of the Cochrane Foothills Protective Association, Cochrane RCMP, Rocky View’s Fire Chief and Enforcement Manager. There will be presentations by the panel followed by a question and answer period.
Refreshments and goodies will be provided. Hope to see you there.
Gravel remains a contentious matter. Council received its project update on the Aggregate Resource Plan in July. Administration will bring forward options as to how Council would like to see the document proceed in early Fall. I am as committed to following through on this issue as I was when I was elected.
Regarding construction and road issues, the County often has little control over delays. While the rains set the 12 Mile Coulee Rd upgrades back somewhat, the city is confident construction will be completed by November this year. Please know that I understand your frustration over this project and that I forward on all expressed concerns to the appropriate channels.
Bearspaw Rd and Burma Rd turn lane installation is delayed due to utilities relocation and the need for ministerial approval. Regarding the construction by Jewel Valley, the County is waiting on Water Act approval to extend culverts and widen slopes. Both projects are estimated to be completed this Fall.
In terms of customer service, things are improving. Streamlined policy and enhanced customer service training are just the start. Our interim CAO has also been busily interviewing staff to determine where improvements can and should be made throughout the organization.
I am hopeful that our move to the new building (October 9th) helps facilitate a culture change – a new beginning, so to speak. The building’s open concept that locates staff under one roof is an important adjustment that allows the County move towards being one team with one goal – consistent, efficient and effective customer service.