Regional cooperation is already in place
Published October 11, 2006
As the third member of Council to contribute to the ongoing series on regional cooperation, there has always been one question on my mind. "What are we truly disagreeing about?"
Every member of the Alberta Capital Region Alliance and of other regional groups comes to the table in the spirit of cooperation; otherwise they would not come to the table. Simply stated, in most cases, keeping a neighbourly perspective goes a long way.
It might interest you to know that of the 35 municipal services identified in the region, close to half already benefit from voluntary cooperation or joint service delivery. Edmonton region municipalities currently benefit from efficiencies and cost savings as a result. When Strathcona County sees a win/win situation - good for our community and good for the region - we spearhead, or at the very least encourage, initiatives.
Agreements are in place for transit services, emergency services (Capital Region Emergency Preparedness), industrial development through the Alberta's Industrial Heartland (Counties of Lamont, Strathcona and Sturgeon and the City of Fort Saskatchewan), cooperative planning of river valley development through the River Valley Alliance, wastewater service through the Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission (13 municipalities). We have protocols between the Edmonton Police Service and Strathcona RCMP for shared intelligence, pursuits, and integrated traffic plans. We participate on regional committees to work closely with our neighbours on economic development and social services.
Are there additional ways we can work together? Strathcona County has repeatedly stated this is the case. The perception that municipalities function in isolation is far from the truth. Strathcona County participates in regional, provincial and national groups. This benefits our municipality and ensures we remain partners and allies.
It seems to me that our region offers choice to its residents, businesses and industry. No matter what way of life one wishes - whether you enjoy the metropolitan lifestyle or are a third generation farmer, the Capital Region offers it all.
Strathcona County is a unique municipality in our region offering an urban option in Sherwood Park with a small town feel and rural opportunities which include country residential living, farming or lakefront properties.
With the designation of Specialized Municipality, Strathcona County is recognized by the province for having this unique urban/rural mix. This gives our Council and administration a good understanding of the complexities of combining urban and rural living, and a balanced perspective at the regional table.
Alan Dunn
Councillor, Ward 6
780-464-8206
dunn@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Thursday, June 17, 2010
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