One of the things that Mayor and Council value most is hearing directly from our residents. In the months ahead, we will be inviting you to share your thoughts and ideas on the future of recreation in our community through various public engagement events. Beginning this May, the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee (RFAC) will launch a comprehensive consultation…
Our community is evolving and so is the way we communicate. Mayor and Council are excited to introduce two major advancements designed to enhance communication and accessibility: a newly refreshed municipal website and the launch of the District of Sparwood app. Our website, which is the centralized hub of information, has been redesigned with user experience at…
Soon Council will be seeking public feedback on the budget. Feedback is crucial and assists Council in the decision-making process, as various factors are considered when going through the steps to develop the financial plan. This plan guides the community in the years ahead and assists with forecasting, service delivery and achieving the goals and objectives of…
This month, I want to reflect on the importance of volunteerism and express my gratitude to each of you who give your time and energy to make our community a better place. Whether you are coaching a local sports team, helping organize events, or assisting our most vulnerable residents, these acts of service fill critical gaps and ensure that our community remains…
Reflecting on 2024, Mayor and Council are incredibly proud of the growth and achievements completed over the past 12 months. The year was not only filled with many important projects and milestones being met, but we were also able to celebrate our community spirit through many activities and events. From infrastructure advancements to vibrant community celebrations,…
In an age where misinformation spreads rapidly through social media and word of mouth, the importance of clear, reliable, and transparent information has never been greater. Municipal governments, as key pillars within their communities, have a responsibility to provide accurate information to their constituents, not only for effective governance but also to foster…
It’s time to talk budget. Each year, one of the most important responsibilities of Council is to set the budget, this year it is more challenging than ever. With a preliminary look at the budget and significant projects on the horizon, we will have to make very difficult decisions. At the regular meeting on October 15, Council reviewed the 2025 – 2029 Financial…
Anyone who is familiar with Sparwood knows that the crisp, cool mornings and the shorter days signify the change of seasons. With the turn in weather, bears begin searching for food before winter and the Public Works Department begins preparing for snow. Bears in the community is not something to take lightly and there are many things’ residents can do to prevent…
Council is excited to share two projects nearing completion that will positively impact the safety and well-being of Sparwood residents. While each vary widely in their development, scope and cost, they will both serve the community for many years to come. The first, is the highly anticipated arrival of Sparwood’s newest fire truck, Engine 55 which will replace…
Progress in Sparwood is at an all-time high with several new businesses opening their doors in the past 12 months. Council has been thrilled to welcome McDonalds, Dollarama, Sparwood Pizza, Pizza Hut, Canco Gas and the Pita Pit to the community. The launch of these businesses not only provides options for those that live, work or visit our community, but also proves…
Volunteerism is often referred to the glue that holds communities together. This is because acts of volunteering build empathy, bring people together and significantly improve the social, mental and physical well-being of community members. In Sparwood, this can be clearly recognized as there are many non-profit organizations and groups that provide so much for the…
Post Date: May 28, 2024 | Category: Mayor's Monthly Editorial...
Project season is in full swing within the District of Sparwood. Residents will see many things happening in and around the community throughout the remainder of the year as projects start and complete within 2024. Council is particularly proud to see the continuous progression and advancement of the District as we aim to provide the best quality of life and services…
With the seasons changing from winter to spring and back again, Mayor and Council want to remind residents about the importance of safety and services in and around the community this time of year. As Public Works focuses heavily on snow removal or street sweeping, it is of the utmost importance to use caution around equipment. Residents who are approaching equipment…
This month’s editorial is one of particular importance as it relates to the wellbeing of District staff and members of Council. The topic is engagement. Over the past couple of years, some residents of the District of Sparwood have taken a keen interest in expressing their thoughts and feelings about District issues or projects on social media. While discussions…
Winter may be in full swing in Sparwood, but there is no shortage of things to do. This season brings many opportunities to get fresh air and enjoy the outdoors with a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a high intensity activity, or just to pass the time on a weekend afternoon, you can find an abundance of winter fun right outside your…
Looking back on 2023, it is astounding to see the accomplishments of the District of Sparwood. Despite a challenging summer with the Lladnar Creek Wildfire, we maintained a dedicated focus on project completion, progressive growth and communication. Before we celebrate successes, it is with much gratitude we extend thanks once again to everyone who assisted with…
Each year, November sets the stage for the future as the budget process becomes a key focus of Council and Staff. Developing and approving the budget is one of the most important responsibilities of Mayors and Councillors. Many factors impact the budget and various considerations must be taken into account as the budget is planned. It is a fine balance between moving…
We are beginning to see the arrival of winter. With the first snowfall, discussions relating to snow removal become a frequent topic of conversation. Over the years, the snow and ice removal program has been through significant changes, with the most notable being the inclusion of driveway windrow removal. This has become a valued service to the community, but it…
Mayor and Council are excitedly awaiting the re-opening of the pool as the hot tub renovation project nears closer to completion. With considerable down-time due to age and failing components of the old hot tub, Council knew it was important to invest in this well loved and well used amenity. This project will see significant improvements for pool users as accessibility…
The first Town Hall Meeting with the newly elected Council is scheduled to be held next month. Town Hall Meetings are an important platform for public engagement, providing an opportunity for Council to share news and information about upcoming projects and topics of interest, but also supporting important two-way dialogue with members of the community. Taking place…
As the months near closer to spring and the snow slowly starts to melt, residents may notice items within the community that need a little maintenance or repair. Because of this, Council wanted to highlight an important tool on the District website, which allows residents to easily report non-emergency issues or concerns. By visiting the ‘Report a Problem or Request…
Snow Removal With winter well upon us, Mayor and Council wanted to dedicate this editorial snow removal. Sparwood is well known for outstanding snow removal, which is undertaken with pride by the dedicated members of the Public Works Department. Snow clearing requires not only the efforts of the operators, but also residents to ensure the process can be undertaken…
Let’s Talk Communication Having worked in 3 of the 4 levels of government (municipal, regional and federal) I can say with surety that communication with the public is vital. I also know that you will have people who will agree with a topic, and some do that do not agree. I have seen the best in people, and I have seen the worst in some people. As we have…