Community Involvement
Published February 2, 2005
Community leagues and associations, once the social backbone of the community, are falling on hard times, not only in Strathcona County, but throughout most of Western Canada.
Grassroots involvement with the community has a long history in rural Alberta. In the early decades of the past century, we depended on our neighbours for social interaction, support and even survival. Now, the bonds of community have been weakened by entertainment competition from larger centres, busy lifestyles, fluid demographics and general apathy.
Yet community organizations still have a place in booming, 21st century Alberta and their revival would serve more than simple nostalgia; they are more than country dances and horseshoe tournaments.
Community associations are a source of political power. This is a representational democracy. It is the job of Strathcona County Council to reflect the wishes and opinions of the electorate. We on Council depend upon your support and encouragement to meet the goals you have set for us. A strong, cohesive and vocal community association is one of the best ways of insuring that your wishes and opinions as a community are kept in the public eye.
There is a great deal happening in Strathcona County these days and a lot more planned, as you will see from reading this newspaper. There is talk about the location of a new health facility; new developments are being planned; roads, recreation facilities and utilities are always under review. Decisions are being taken that will impact your lifestyle and bank balance. So, please participate, whether you are motivated by political activism or by the need for more social interaction. You may find that a meeting every month or so or helping out with a community event is not as onerous as you might believe and that the benefits may be well worth the effort.
If you do not have a community league in your neighbourhood (or even if you do), resources are available through the County to start or revive one. Similarly, if you and your neighbours have an issue that would be better dealt with through unified action, organize. Call me to find out how.
Alan Dunn
Councillor Ward 6
780-464-8206
dunn@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Page ID: 2069