As a 38-year St Albert resident it is my obligation and democratic right to voice my opinion on what has transpired in three short months with St. Albert city council.
Based on the following rationale I give our new city council a Grade F rating.
Braeside Condos: More than 90 per cent of Braeside residents were against the construction of this project for economic, safety and aesthetic reasons. Dr. Matthew Wheatly, U of A professor specializing in Renewable Resources and Ecology gave an informative and compassionate presentation to council regarding his concerns and the very real effect this project will have on the Sturgeon River. Council disregarded his presentation. Mayor Cathy Heron said this is only one project, it will not impact the river. I don’t believe Heron understands the meaning of “precedent”. Council then approved the project.
Library Plebiscite: I am not against library expansion, but not a new building with a price tag of $21.9 million. In the plebiscite the majority of voters said no to the library. Council had an opportunity to rescind the library borrowing bylaw, as put forth in a motion by Councillor Sheena Hughes, but they voted to defeat the motion. Total disregard for the voters wishes. Mayor Heron says, “The whole plebiscite is very difficult to interpret about why people voted no and why people voted yes." She also said, “Every council member will approach that plebiscite in a different way. I’m really hoping it's good honest open discussion.” It can only be interpreted one way Mayor Heron, “NO.”
Procedural Bylaw: Now the latest debacle. Council gave first and second reading to a motion that requires speakers to register five days prior to addressing an agenda item at city council. Materials must be provided at least 30 minutes prior to the council meeting. Chief Legislative Officer Chris Belke, says this is to allow administration to prepare for questions and ensure that the right staff are present at the meeting. Mr Belke, this is just smoke and mirrors. This a blatant attempt to control the speakers and the content.
Council is proposing that the agenda committee will review the speakers and decide what council meeting they will attend to make their presentation. Is this an attempt to muzzle and control St. Albert residents? I believe it is.
Strategic Plan Meeting: Westlock January 11 and 12, 2018. Regarding city council transparency and accountability when will the minutes of the two days of meetings be available to the public?
This new city council must take the time to listen to the residents of St Albert, respect the majority and govern in an open democratic manner.
It certainly appears that in their first three months this new council and administration has neither the time nor interest in listening to St Albert taxpayers.
They seem to forget we pay their salaries and they work for us.
Craig Skarupa, St. Albert
