Moment with the Mayor: Civic Engagement/Volunteers

Hi Neighbours:

Our community is changing. This isn't unusual. Every community changes with time; that’s what time does. The big change in our community, which has been happening since the 1980s or so, is the impact of consumerism and the rising cost of living. We live in a socio-economic environment that requires most families to have double incomes. By the time residents work all day, taxi kids to their activities, do errands and spend time with family, additional time for building community is sparse. After all, we only have so much energy and time.

We can see the results in volunteer fatigue and declining citizen engagement. I don’t know of an organization in Kindersley that is not looking for volunteers, or leaders of different groups who are also asking for help with their workload or to take a break from their responsibilities. Without the contributions of volunteers, the day may come when a lot of what makes Kindersley rich and dynamic fades away. This is happening with Town committees.

Back in December, the Town advertised for people to enrich Kindersley by participating in 6 committees: Library, Regional Park, Cemetery, Communities in Bloom, Arts and Culture Committee, and the Development Appeal Board. All of these committees contribute to the richness and vibrancy of Kindersley. It’s not about the specific committee, it’s about community. There were about 25 positions available and we received 4 applications. This is not enough. The Development Appeals Board, as an example, is a legal board required by the province enabling people who want variances in their building project to be accepted. This is a result of the Town saying no. Sometimes the Town supports appeals (the Town may have to say no for legal reasons but supports the variance for other reasons) and sometimes the Town is against the appeal. Nonetheless, this mechanism is needed to ensure healthy growth in Kindersley. We need your help and your neighbours need your help.

The Town is but one organization in Kindersley needing help. Sports groups like Kindersley Minor Sports, arts groups such as Kindersley District Arts Council, civic groups like Citizens on Patrol, and non-government agencies like SPOKES need help. If you want to make a difference, be a part of something larger. If you want to leave a legacy, please consider helping out any of the organizations in Kindersley that enhances our (and your) quality of life.

Please write or phone if you would like me to discuss a particular topic. If you have any questions or comments, drop me a line at the town office or email me at mayorenns-wind@kindersley.ca. You can also check out my blog at http://mayorjohn.blogspot.ca/. I appreciate your feedback.