13 Ways to Kill Your Community/ 14 Ways to Anger the Mayor

Robert Thomas

The topic may have been “13 Ways To Kill Your Community” but for a brief instant it appeared like one Councillor had figured out “14 Ways To Anger The Mayor.”

During discussion of a new strategic initiative for the City which includes a branding and a new outlook, Councillor Brian Swanson said he had seen numerous efforts come and go and this one was no better than any of its predecessors.

Coun Swanson called the entire exercise a “highly overrated process full of platitudes” before going on to typify it as “backwards.” .

“It’s an expensive proposition. I’ve been through many of these and this one is not much different.”

The Councillor's comments did not sit well with Mayor Frasier Tolmie who sternly raised his voice in response.

“I disagree Councillor Swanson, you walked out on this planning session,” Mayor Tolmie stated, adding “I’m offended you commented on it.”

Previous to the two stating polar opinions on the topic, City Manager Jim Puffalt said he was “excited to present this to Council.”

“Certainly there is a time for talking but there is also a time for doing,” Puffalt said.

Mayor Tolmie had likewise stated “the community as a whole is quite happy with this…most members of Council are happy.”

Councillor Scott McMann expressed concerns about timing and the budget implications from the the initiative.

Councillor Chris Warren said he also “took offence” with Coun Swanson's comments.

“It’s a commitment, we need a strategic plan and look forward to the future,” Coun Warren stated.

Councillor Dawn Luhning said she saw value in the process.

“I do believe this is a worthwhile process,” Coun Luhning stated.

“He does bring some truths that need to be heard,” she said, adding “it’s a good opportunity to look at some good options and ideas.”

Councillor Crystal Froese said she supported the initiative as he gave worthwhile illustrations where communities fail.

“I would bet number 14 would be create a strategic plan and then don’t follow through with it,” Coun Froese stated.

Councillor Heather Eby said “A great strategic plan us only as good as the actions taken afterwards.”

13 Ways To Kill A Community is a program devised by Doug Griffiths that assists communities across North America to find the pathway to success.

As part of the process a strategic plan was developed with prioritizing the budget to come up with a set of outcomes to create a stronger and successful community.

The new prioritized budget is designed to mesh in sync with the strategic plan as developed in conjunction with Griffiths.