Coronation town council discussed revisiting communication policies and the possibility of introducing a proposed communications bylaw at their Sept. 24 regular council meeting in response to resident’s concerns about a lack of information sharing.
Council noted that although meetings are streamed on Facebook and agendas are posted on the town’s website, not all residents use Facebook. Council acknowledged that space limitations prevent uploading meetings directly to the towns website and cost would have to be considered.
“I thought we were being transparent, however we have been told otherwise,” noted Coun. Mark Stannard.
Deputy Mayor Brett Alderice proposed adding more information to the back of utility bills, but it was noted that not everyone reads them, and those who pay online wouldn’t receive a printed copy. It was also suggested that paper copies of meeting materials be made available at the town office.
If established, a communication bylaw would seek to establish clear guidelines on how the town communicates with the public, stakeholders and within its municipal government. The bylaw would outline the roles and responsibilities of town administration and council members in public communication.
A communications bylaw would provide guidelines for public engagement including responding to inquiries, managing complaints and organizing public consultations. Additionally, it would outline protocols for crisis communication and ensure timely and accurate information is shared with the public during emergencies.
Mayor Ron Checkel was confirmed as the communication director who is authorized to speak on behalf of the town in public forums and on media platforms. All communication would be defined by approved methods, ensuring that it complies with the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP).
Council moved that the administration review current communication policies and present its findings at a future meeting.
Town hall
A delegation at the Sept. 9 council meeting had requested a Town Hall meeting to allow the public to discuss with the council several concerns residents have.
To ensure the meeting is neutral, organized and effective, the council discussed engaging a third-party facilitator. It was noted that a facilitator would maintain objectivity, manage time efficiently and foster a productive, respectful dialogue. A facilitator would also help summarize key points and ensure actionable outcomes.
“We have had an email from a group that would be willing to host the meeting for us,” said Coun. Brett Alderice.
“Would they be a third party?” asked Coun. Cody Hillmer.
“We would want to have someone that is not from the community, who is not connected to issues here,” said Wintfley.
Council moved to schedule a Town Hall for Nov. 25 and directed administration to explore facilitator options.
Paintearth partnership
Council discussed the payment of $75,000 from Paintearth Regional Waste to the Paintearth Economic Partnership Society (PEPS) for the 2024 fiscal year.
The Town has historically been a member of Paintearth Economic Partnership (PEPS), which is a regional economic partnership that aims to foster collaborative economic development efforts between municipal members.
Alderice moved to approve the payment, seconded by Coun. Stannard, however, Mayor Checkel and Coun. Hillmer opposed and the motion was defeated.
Municipal by-election
The council’s request to postpone the upcoming municipal by-election was approved by the Minister through Ministerial Order No. MSD:072/24. The by-election will not take place and the vacant council seat will remain open until the next general election in October 2025.
Cheryl Bowman
Multimedia reporter
ECA Review
