Council approves engagement plan for future recreation direction

By Nikki Jamieson
Sunny South News

Coalhurst resident can soon weigh-in on the future of recreation in town.

An engagement plan for the town’s future Recreation Master Plan was reviewed during Coalhurst council’s regular March 19 meeting.

The Town has engaged a consulting firm, RC Strategies, to work with them to develop the plan. 

When completed, the plan will assist the Town in providing direction regarding development recreation services in Coalhurst for the next 10-plus years. 

As they develop the Master Plan, RC Strategies will be undertaking a comprehensive public engagement process. An engagement plan has been prepared by RC Strategies and town staff, containing different ways _ both virtually and in-person for Coalhurst residents to provide feedback.

CAO Shawn Patience noted as per the Public Participation Policy, council must review and approve Public Participation Plans developed by the CAO or designate.

“I determined that even though they were a contractor, they were our contractor, and I considered that a designate,” said Patience. 

Information about the engagement process as well as methods to provide feedback will be shared through numerous town communications, including a news release, the town website, the town’s community events calendar, social media posts, newsletter, and updates on the town’s LED billboard. The contact information for relevant user groups and community organizations will be given to RC Strategies, with the organizations’ permission, so they can invite representatives to participate in the input sessions.

The engagement tactics will include:

• An online project page

• Various survey, including a resident, youth and user-group surveys

• One-on-one and group input sessions for town staff, user-groups and interested parties 

• Open house/pop up sessions for youth and the general public

“I think the engagement plan is really well written, its really well planned out. I appreciate the work that’s gone into this, and I’m really look forward to seeing how the community steps up and engages with us,” said coun. Heather Caldwell.

Council unanimously passed a motion to endorse the Town of Coalhurst Recreation Master Plan Engagement Plan, as presented. 

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