Just after the municipal election in 2007, I contacted all elected representatives working in SW Edmonton and asked if there was interest in meeting together. There was!
In July 2008, MP James Rajotte, MLAs Fred Horne and Dave Hancock, Councillors Bryan Anderson and Don Iveson, and I met for the first time in the historic McKay Avenue School and Archives with regrets from Edmonton Catholic Schools Trustee Marilyn Bergstra. At that initial meeting we agreed, “Meeting together to share ideas and respective priorities informally is positive for our constituents. We should continue.” Conversation ranged over a number of cross-sectoral areas that might form potential points of collaboration. Among the areas proffered for future work and discussion were: Immigration and multiculturalism; Environmental concerns, transportation, and creating a sustainable city; Exploring alternative methods of taxation; Encouraging and supporting lifelong learning; Improving the overall health of population; Developing strong, caring, respectful, and well-connected communities; and Inspiring engagement in the political and governance processes.
Since that first meeting we have met twice a year, which has given us the opportunity to share information and ideas on an informal basis.
In addition, I have been pleased to invite all elected representatives to my three community meetings and I appreciated Councillor Don Iveson and MLA Fred Horne taking the time out of their busy schedules to attend.
January 2009: Although not able to attend, I was pleased to contribute to Edmonton-Rutherford MLA Fred Horne’s community meeting on Safe Communities by sharing some information about what Edmonton Public Schools in regard to Safety in Edmonton Public Schools
Late 2008/ Spring 2009: I was pleased to visit most schools serving the Edmonton Rutherford area with MLA Fred Horne…and also, to flip burgers with him at Sweet Grass School in June. Thank you, Mr. Horne, for your interest in Public Education!
September 2009: Special thanks to Councillors Bryan Anderson and Don Iveson for inviting Trustee Marilyn Bergstra and me along on their Ward 5 Bus Tour for Community League representatives.
May 2010: I was pleased to attend one of MP James Rajotte’s Town Halls.
