Greetings! Sharing my News Update…
Foothills County Petition still open: Just a reminder that our online Petition, change.org/say-no-to-cmrb, is open until the end of September for you to express your concerns about the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board and the Regional Growth Plan, if you choose to do so. We ask that you join us in sending a strong message to the Minister of Municipal Affairs that we, the residents of Foothills County, do not support this Board or the Regional Plan. More background information can be found on the County’s website: foothillscountyab.ca/services/planning-and-development/calgary-metropolitan-region-board-.html
The 2021 Municipal Election: will be held on Monday, October 18, 2021. For more information, please visit: foothillscountyab.ca/council/election-2021.html
Foothills County Division 4 Candidate for 2021 Municipal Election: I have enjoyed getting to know many of you while serving as Division 4 Councillor over the past 11 years, including two years as Reeve. We have worked together to find solutions to challenges and joined forces to make our community a great place to live. It would be an honour to continue as Division 4 Councillor, in partnership with you, bringing my passion and dedication to the many projects currently underway and the new ones that will emerge. I will:
- Continue fighting for our rural perspective to be included by all levels of government.
- Be creative in the face of challenge and stand strong for fairness in decision- making with County matters and with inter-governmental issues, including the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board.
- Gain ground in the areas of interest to residents while being careful of any associated tax burden, keep taxes steady, the budget well-managed and strike a balance between service level and taxes.
- Make informed planning decisions on developing our area, keeping in mind the cumulative effects of all our activities on the landscape, respecting resident input and direction given through our local and intermunicipal plans.
- Build relationships with neighbouring municipalities and other government to provide solutions that spend tax dollars efficiently and represent the interests of Foothills residents in these endeavors.
- Collaborate on: tackling rural crime, coordinating emergency services, delivering effective 911 service, improving road safety, constructing prioritized road and infrastructure projects, sharing wildfire preparation strategies and dealing with agricultural issues (including – livestock, bugs, disease, crops, environment, land, water, weather, weeds, hunting, wildlife and more).
- Research the many new opportunities and promote dialogue including diverse perspectives.
- Support business, including agriculture, tourism, energy and inviting industrial development to our Highway 2A Industrial Corridor to increase services, diversify our tax base, create jobs and trade prospects.
- Plan for the future, find ways to improve rural internet, reduce red tape, streamline processes and build our community vision for recreation.
- Join in with our local watershed management groups to develop source water protection, support our residents to receive flood protection as recommended by our studies and promised by the Government of Alberta, promote flood intelligent development from lessons learned, and strategize sub-regional water and wastewater developments.
- Help our community maintain its rural character, natural beauty, open spaces and enjoy the benefits of country living.
- Preserve the scenic views along our Highways, promote our “Dark Sky Country” initiative and support areas for cherished cultural heritage activities, including our community associations and agricultural societies.
- Assist residents in understanding our municipal services, departments, guidelines, plans, budget, taxes, jurisdiction and navigating our processes.
- Provide information on municipal resources and practices to help residents with their proposed projects and guide impacted neighbours when they wish to participate in the public process regarding development that affects them.
- Communicate with residents through writing a monthly article for the High Country News, sending email updates and posting news through Facebook and other media.
- Stay connected with residents by hosting public meetings on relevant topics and by volunteering in the community and with our local rural crime watch.
- Represent residents effectively using experience gained through years of public service, 30+ years in business and as a long-time rural landowner.
- Make a positive contribution to the County by bringing skills to the table: being energetic, organized, a team-player, analytical, technology savvy, future- thinking, resourceful, collaborative, environmental-minded, and respectful in communication with other council members, staff, businesses and residents.
- Welcome continued interaction on the topics which matter to you.
I sincerely thank you for considering support of my candidacy for Division 4. As we face a changing world, I hope to continue working together with you to enhance and protect our beautiful home in the Foothills. Please contact me with any questions or comments you may wish to share and discuss.
For Other News, Updates & Contact info:
Please visit my website: suzanneoel.com
With Best Regards,
Suzanne Oel
Division 4
