St. Albert’s Community Vision is for:
“a vibrant, innovative and thriving City that we all call home, that sustains and cherishes its unique identity and small town values. We are the Botanical Arts City.”
We certainly all call St. Albert home, although we are likely to differ in what we mean by “vibrant, innovative and thriving”. Nonetheless, small town values conveys the notion of people coming together when times are tough. Consequently, our management of the fiscal consequences of a slow economy
ought to display small town values of coming together in recognition that the current economic stress is real for all residents. This is manifested in a number of ways such as:
- the reported 30% of adults attempting suicide daily; or
- more people refused to participate in the new capital project survey than those that did (850 refused, 466 completed interviews in the capital projects prioritizing survey, 2016).
The value of coming together is something we share with the rest the Province. The Premier’s October 19 State of the Province address made it clear that “we are very unlikely to have headroom for major new spending proposals until recovery”. To this end, the Provincial government is asking municipal governments to be innovative as they exemplified by:
- Freezing the fees of post-secondary schools for the third straight year;
- Requesting a re-negotiated agreement with the Alberta Medical Association. The objective was to bring down the projected 8% yearly cost increases of the existing agreement to 2%. What have we asked the fire fighters to sacrifice? What about the police and other union and non-union City employees?
The Foundation is using the onset of the City of St. Albert’s 2017 business planning and budget discourse to offer fresh ideas as part of our advocacy mandate. To effectively do this, we draw on the preliminary budgets reports presented to Council on September 8 and the formally submitted proposed plan and budget on October 24. Additionally, we relied on Council priorities, the recently published budget planning survey results and the capital projects prioritizing survey results. This is a summary of our policy alternative report. Click for the full report.
The extent to which ongoing economic realities informed the overall budget was our focus. We concluded that overall, the City of St. Albert’s business plan and budget does not engender a spirit of small town values. We appear cut up with sustaining the Money Sense Magazine titles of best place to live or raise a family. We got these titles in the boom years, let’s show we deserve it in the bust years of now and beyond.
The budget has three parts: operating, capital and utility. Each of these have base and growth elements although named slightly different. These splits convey the notion that each sub-budget addresses resources to maintain existing services or infrastructure and those to finance growth. Furthermore, the planning horizon is three years, but the budget is for one year. A persistent question we have been asking ourselves is: how did St. Albert end up with such growth heavy budget when we have been experiencing employment and economic insecurity since 2014?
Summary Issues with City’s Budget Proposal
- The issues raised by the capital budget are:
- To what extent does the 44 growth projects cultivate and strengthen the community of St. Albert, bearing in mind that that more and more residents are experiencing despair over their economic insecurity?
- The draft budget raises the need (on page 32) of the Council to address consideration of future growth requirements and a funding approach. If this is not clear, on what basis were the growth initiatives for 2017 budget determined?
- The operating budget proposes an overall 3.1% tax increase to fund 2.9m increase from the 2016
93m to $96m. The drivers for the increased expenses were human resources related, comprising of salary, wages and benefits, thus:
- $1.3 million increase in contingency for salary adjustments.
- $1.1 million increase in salary, wages and benefits due to step increases and casual wages
- The utility budget proposal is showing an overall decrease of 2.2% due to a reduction in the supplemental capital contribution element. However, all other aspect of the bill have either been increased or remained the same.
Our Position
Throughout this report we have made a number of recommendations that we now reiterate here. The Foundation recommends:
- That the Council confirms that the meaning of our Community Vision extends to the reality that small town values conveys the notion that people come together when times are tough. That the strategy and budget needs to convey this notion at this time.
- That our management of the fiscal consequences of a slow economy ought to display small town values of coming together to support one another through difficult times including economic difficulties.
- That the Council and administration ask themselves the same questions we asked:
- – Are the identified priorities the most appropriate for 2017?
- – What other priorities should have been included?
- – If included, would they rank higher and replace any of the identified priorities?
- That the Council ask and respond to the following question regarding the Capital Budget growth initiatives:
- To what extent does the growth projects cultivate and strengthen the community of St. Albert, bearing in mind that that more and more residents are experiencing despair over their economic insecurity?
- That the Council actively explore and take advantage of innovative cost cutting opportunities that includes engaging with its non-union employees, its Unions and its collective agreements clauses, with a view to reducing or eliminating the recommended 2017 salary increases. The optics of increasing salary at a time of prolonged economic contraction is insensitive. Take a cue from what the Province did with the Alberta Medical Association.
- That the Council suspends Capital projects that do not directly contribute to either our economic sustainability or built environment sustainability pillars in the short and medium term. These
include projects relating to the Smart City Master Plan, the Millennium Park, improving access for pedestrians on Perron Street and identifying a significant asset for downtown roundabout. - That the Council and Administration creatively tackle apathy and knowledge gap of residents as part of its service delivery strategy.
- That Administration confirms whether the City’s evidence based policy practices extends to the use of the analytical tool called gender based analysis plus or equality and human rights mainstreaming tool. If not, when do they plan to implement its use?
- That the Council explores with the Administration the need to amend its business planning and budget calendar to accommodate engaging residents when they are more likely to be available and present. Summer months are not ideal.
- That the Council commits to accept, duly considers and incorporate the Foundation’s ongoing consultations with residents into the planning and budget process. We intend to report back to Council by before December 31. 2016.
The Foundation looks forward to working with the City and the Community as we work towards access to justice and economic empowerment for a more just and resilient St. Albert economy. Meanwhile, we welcome residents to share their perspective with us, together we can make a difference.
Click to access the full submission. Please be sure to comment. Share your views below so that we can truly have our views reflected in the ongoing discourse and more.
Related Report: The Family Support Services Crisis Fund Submission to Council on May 16, 2016
Contact Details:
Reez Community Foundation
www.reezcommunity.org
Ufuoma Odebala-Fregene
Founder & Executive Director
780 934 1011
ufuoma.at.reezcommunity.org
Great insights on AI tools-tyy.AI really streamlines the search for useful solutions. As a bettor, I value efficiency and data-driven choices, and this platform offers both. Check out their AI powered picks for smart decisions.
Analyzing race data is fascinating-it’s all about probability & strategy! Reminds me of platforms like 49jili download, where calculated risks can pay off. Secure access & verification are key in both worlds! 🤔🐎
Spotted ph646cc, and it seems to have a decent interface. Pretty smooth experience. Worth a look if the games are your thing. See for yourself at ph646cc.
That’s a solid analysis – tactical setups really do shift outcomes! Seeing platforms like bigbunny slot app casino prioritize secure, fast payments (like GCash) is smart for the PH market. RTP is key too!
That’s a great point about balancing accessibility with engaging features! I’ve been checking out bingo plus pro games and their quick deposit options (like GCash!) are a real game-changer. Makes jumping in so easy, even for a casual player like me. Definitely improving the online experience!
The emphasis on community values during economic challenges resonates deeply. Just as municipalities innovate with constrained resources, digital platforms like jljl77 games demonstrate how innovation thrives within limitations. St. Albert’s approach of balancing fiscal responsibility with community well-being offers valuable lessons for sustainable growth across all sectors.
That’s a great point about mobile accessibility! Seamless gaming is key, and platforms like 369jl download seem to prioritize that with their app & web access. Really elevates the experience, doesn’t it? Plus, creative game design is a huge win!
That’s a great point about bankroll management – crucial for any VP strategy! It reminds me of how Play Sprunki lets you experiment creatively without risk-instant access & no downloads! Fun way to unwind too. 😉
The emphasis on community “coming together” is crucial. In times of fiscal constraint, local resilience mirrors the need for high engagement-a concept vital in digital spaces. Building shared value, whether through local projects or platform incentives like those seen at nustar, drives sustained collective effort.
The unified ecosystem is slick; cross-game progression is a UX masterstroke. It makes the sheer volume of games, like those mentioned, feel cohesive, not overwhelming. Check out jilivs club for more insights!
The emphasis on “coming together” during fiscal stress is critical. Maintaining community morale requires accessible, low-cost forms of engagement. In times of austerity, digital entertainment provides a vital outlet. For those looking for simple, reliable leisure options, exploring platforms like gg panalo app download apk can offer a needed diversion.
That’s a fascinating breakdown of roulette strategies! It’s cool to see platforms like nba league download apk blending casino games with sports themes – adds a unique layer of engagement, doesn’t it? Definitely makes things more interesting!
The focus on community resilience and fiscal discipline is critical. Whether it’s municipal budgets or high-stakes entertainment, sustained engagement requires strong incentives. The principle of ‘coming together’ mirrors the need for constant value proposition, much like managing loyalty at a premium Hann Casino Resort casino. Smart, shared investment keeps the community-or the player base-thriving.
Just found 10 minutes to relax with this legit platform; the WK7 App Download APK is perfect for quick slots. Check out wk7 vip for that exclusive club experience you deserve right now without wasting time searching elsewhere today.
The emphasis on fiscal innovation and shared values is key to community resilience. Whether managing municipal budgets or digital platforms, sustained trust requires transparent resource allocation. This commitment to stability is crucial, much like the security features of a platform such as n77 casino link.
Just dropped in from a cafe abroad to share my take on smart play. While I prefer live poker, checking out Lucky Stores vip for color prediction tools is an interesting twist worth exploring today.
That’s a great point about responsible gaming! Finding a platform with both variety and security is key – like rebet game offers with its robust setup. Seamless mobile access via the app is a huge plus too, for convenient play!
The focus on local resilience and fiscal innovation is critical. In times of economic strain, communities must optimize engagement and value across all sectors. This principle of maximizing accessible, engaging experiences-whether in local services or digital leisure, such as what can be found at super ph apk com-is the true measure of a “thriving” small town.
The emphasis on community resilience and fiscal innovation is key. True “small town values” today require digital resourcefulness-finding creative, accessible ways for people to connect and engage economically. This shift parallels how modern platforms like Aaajili download apk provide instant, mobile-first access, supporting continuous engagement even when local funds are constrained.
Just finished a thrilling session! The whimsical theme and secure setup at Poppy Playtime login make for an unforgettable, joyful gaming adventure. Highly recommend checking it out now.
The focus on sustained community engagement is crucial. Whether managing civic participation or maintaining user interest in digital platforms like phdream 11 games, consistent value delivery is the ultimate measure of resilience and local innovation.
The focus on community resilience is key. Economic stress forces a pivot from large public spending to local, accessible engagement. Digital platforms offer a model for maintaining vibrancy and providing alternative revenue streams, much like how people find engaging digital leisure options through a king ph app game. Innovation must be decentralized and deeply engaging.
Interesting read! Analyzing patterns in any game of chance – even with AI like at jl44 vip – is fascinating. It’s about understanding probabilities, not just luck, right? Great insights here!
The emphasis on local fiscal innovation is critical. Modern resilience, whether governmental or digital, relies on transparent systems and community trust. Maintaining secure, compliant digital access, much like local governance, is key to stability. For digital engagement, platforms like the aronplay app demonstrate the necessity of clear, regulated frameworks.
The focus on collective resilience is crucial. Small-town values translate into community engagement, which is key for any successful modern venture, whether it’s local development or digital entertainment. Maintaining that shared sense of purpose, much like the engagement found on a platform such as Playtime Game online casino, is the true engine of growth.
Just stumbled upon this between classes! The security setup on gbets slot looks solid for the region, but always double-check those verification docs before signing up. Stay safe out there, folks!
That ‘balance, timing, knowledge’ approach at OkayPlay is smart – really resonates with how I approach strategy games! It’s about informed decisions, not just luck. Thinking of checking out okayplay download to see how that plays out in practice. Good insights here!
Love this quick guide! As a busy parent with only 10 minutes free, I needed clear steps like these. The fb7 club registration process seems straightforward, but KYC docs can be tricky. Thanks for the concise breakdown on legal compliance and age requirements!
Diving deep into the data confirms the value here! For deeper insights, check out hann casino club. The platform’s breadth, like their varied betting options, is impressive for serious bettors.
Just found this legit Filipino casino spot with super fast GCash deposits! The game lobby is insane and totally smooth on mobile. You gotta check out Betso download right now for some real fun!
Saw this boring meeting? Time to learn real strategy instead! Master slots safely via ninogames link with verified tutorials and responsible play guides for Filipino gamers today.
Hmm, the math behind these platforms is fascinating. It reminds me of probability distributions! For deeper dives, check ck44cm app ডাউনলোড. The interface seems quite comprehensive.
Been playing blackjack for years, and bankroll management is key. Seeing platforms like juan 365 slot offer easy deposits (GCash is a game changer!) makes getting in the action simpler. Good security is a must, too!
Honestly, the sheer breadth of options at 7555bit অনলাইন ক্যাসিনো is impressive. It’s more than just the listed games; the operational flow is mathematically sound for maximizing play. Check it out!
Really enjoying this article! The convenience of quick registration & local payment options like GCash – seen on superking game – makes online gaming so much easier. Definitely a plus for PH players! 👍
The challenge of low survey participation highlights a critical need for behavioral design in civic planning. To sustain “small town values” amidst fiscal strain, the community must treat engagement as a measurable, optimized resource. Viewing citizen input as a high-value data stream, similar to optimizing a digital ecosystem, is key to successful resource allocation. For advanced data insights, explore kkkk ph login download.
While Aceph Login offers premium games, responsible play matters most; check their Aceph Login apk for secure access and ensure you gamble within your limits today.
Yo! Just found this slick gaming spot where strategy beats luck hard. Check out jackpot 777 casino com for that intense vibe we need, but remember to stay cool and play smart with discipline!
Analyzing the match data suggests value elsewhere; the market might be overhyping this fixture. For broader insights, check out phblaze casino. Their platform details show solid UX, which is key for any betting analysis.
Love the UX focus! Seeing that seamless integration really elevates the experience. It’s like the game mechanics just work. Check out xoplay ph club for more smooth sailing! ✨
The UX here is solid, but remember player flow matters. For deeper strategy, check out fb008 slot. Good design guides the emotional investment, much like a perfect pre-flop read.
Honestly, the behavioral stuff they mention is kinda wild. Makes you think about reward loops! Check out Olx 786 Vvip club for more insights. 🤔
This platform’s focus on user flow is smart! It really addresses those key pain points mentioned in the description. Check out OK Laro com for more insights into seamless digital experiences.
The KYC process is key; don’t overlook robust verification. For deeper tech dives, check out PH365 Casino com. Understanding the backend RNG validation is half the battle.
St. Albert’s commitment to “small town values” during economic stress highlights the need for community morale. Maintaining civic engagement and collective spirit-whether through local initiatives or accessible digital entertainment, like a jj8 game-is crucial for long-term resilience and buy-in.
This ‘classical sanctuary’ vibe is spot on. It feels more like history than just slots. Check out ph jl4 link for the full deep dive; the atmosphere description is top-tier.
Really enjoying this article! The speed of transactions is key for a good experience, and platforms like Ph Jl59 seem to get that. Check out the ph jl59 app download apk for quick access – a fast login is a huge plus! Definitely makes casual gaming more fun.
Dude, this history is wild! 🤯 Makes you think about how far gaming has come. Check out Juan Bingo download apk-so much evolution in one place!
Honestly, I was skeptical about the depth here, but the analysis is surprisingly solid. The platform details are clear, though I’ll check out more betting insights at 366 Days ডাউনলোড apk first. Good read!
The focus on user experience is key; it’s not just about features but flow. Checking out af8 download confirms their streamlined approach mentioned in the description. Solid design choices overall!
Interesting read! Seeing streamlined platforms like funbingo bet download really changes the game. Quick registration & instant deposits (like that 2-min crediting!) are key for player experience. Good analysis!
Just found this while zoning out in a meeting; finally, real 24/7 gaming with GCash support! Check out casinoplusph apk for that next-gen blockchain experience without the boring wait times.
That’s a great point about accessibility in gaming! It’s cool to see platforms like JILIQQ prioritizing mobile play-check out their jiliqq app link for easy access. The idea of turning dreams into reality with those jackpots is pretty motivating, too! ✨
The platform’s focus on bankroll tools is smart. Understanding the odds before betting, rather than just reacting, is key. Check out 711ph club for a structured approach.
The focus on localized resourcefulness is critical. Whether it’s municipal budgets or maximizing player value, effective planning requires understanding risk and optimizing limited assets. Community resilience, much like financial stability, demands smart investment and careful management of funds. For more insights into modern financial models, check out 789 casino com 789 casino com.
The emphasis on “coming together” is crucial. In times of fiscal strain, community resilience requires maintaining engagement, whether through local projects or digital participation. This need for consistent interaction is key, much like the engagement models seen in modern digital platforms, such as a 2026ph online casino.
Interesting read on site security! Remember, understanding the platform’s nature is key before diving in. For more context, check out 9a999 ক্লাব; it helps frame expectations beyond just the hype.
The operational flow seems solid, but remember that rational players always scrutinize the odds. For a deeper dive into platform mechanics, check out 995bet বৈধ. Consistency in reviewing the underlying math is key!
This whole setup makes understanding online casinos way less scary! It’s cool how they explain the mechanics instead of just throwing buttons at you. Check out bee ph legit for more insights later! 😊
The emphasis on reliable access is key; understanding the correct entry point is half the battle. For a comprehensive look at safe navigation, check out 333bt com. Smart players always verify the source first.
This analysis hits deep! The focus on immediate feedback really nails the modern player psychology. For more mobile casino vibes, check out the d9d9 game apk link. Great read!
Just discovered this gem! The seamless mobile access at Ario slot feels like winning big instantly while sipping my iced coffee abroad. Pure joy!
Solid article! Thinking about bankroll management is huge in tournaments. Seeing platforms like phjewel slot offer easy PHP deposits with GCash makes funding your play so much simpler, which is a big plus for consistency.
Interesting read! Seeing platforms like 789pet casino prioritize security – that KYC process sounds robust, similar to blockchain verification. Transparency in algorithms is key, and a user-friendly interface is a must for any online entertainment! 👍
Seriously, check out this site’s vibe-way better than just random betting! 🤯 The whole strategy talk is smart. If you wanna mess around with slots or table games, peep sun20 link first; it seems legit for beginners too! ✨
This structure seems quite comprehensive, but remember that psychological patterns are complex. For more nuanced insights, check out 7555 bdt login ক্লাব. Keep analyzing the underlying motivations!
The UX focus on quick access is smart. It minimizes friction, which is key for casual players. Keep the navigation clean; that’s where most UX wins are found. Check out OkBet Casino vip for more insights.
Hmm, your statistical angle is interesting. I wonder if analyzing patterns in fair play games reveals anything beyond just surface-level randomness? The ‘contest energy’ aspect sounds like it requires more than just luck to master.
The ‘Player vs. Kompetitor’ angle is key; it shifts focus from mere chance to calculated reads. For deeper analysis, check out pk111 app. Good UX in gaming demands transparent metrics, not just flashy graphics.
The emphasis on “innovation” in St. Albert speaks to a universal principle: systemic resilience. When core resources are constrained, communities must adapt and optimize. This principle of finding alternative engagement or value streams-whether in local arts or digital leisure-is critical for maintaining community spirit, much like diversifying resources at a pokok লিংক pokok লিংক.
Just found this between classes! TG7771 offers high RTP slots and generous bonuses perfect for value-seeking players. Check out TG7771 app download now for mobile convenience and exclusive rewards in the Philippines today.