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NEWS RELEASE: Public Engagement Results from the 2022 Service Levels (and Budget) Survey

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Public Engagement Results from the 2022 Service Levels (and Budget) Survey

August 11, 2022 – LAMONT, AB: Between May and June, residents and stakeholders were invited to provide their input related to service levels and budget priorities through an online (and paper) survey. The 2022 Service Level Survey allowed individuals (residents and organizations) from Lamont County to prioritize service levels based on the six strategic goals from the Lamont County 2030 Strategic Plan.

Results of this survey were compiled and presented to Council at the August 9 regular council meeting. The information received is planned to be used in service level and budget discussions, as well as planning sessions for Council direction.

“This was a great opportunity for the public to provide direction on service levels and priorities. Public engagement and responses for a comprehensive survey such as this are on par and comparable with other municipalities,” said Lamont County Reeve, David Diduck. “We take the results and feedback provided seriously, and use the public’s input as Lamont County plans for the future.” 

Two key sections of the survey were questions 5 and 21: What is most important to you as Lamont County plans for the future? and Now that you have completed this survey and are aware of the programs and services, please rank what you feel is most valuable to Lamont County from most important to least?

The most important priorities for planning included to:

  1. Ensure long-term fiscal sustainability - and making financial decisions today to ensure a healthy financial position in the future (may result in tax updates and service level changes to ensure finances for the future).
  2. Increase service levels (snow removal, gravel, roads, etc.) at the expense of increased taxes.

The frequency identified in Top Three for service priorities were:

  1. Regular Road Maintenance (gravel, abatement, etc.);
  2. Winter Maintenance (roads); and
  3. Community Policing and Rural Crime Prevention.

Full survey results as presented to Council can be viewed at: lamontcounty.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/?preview=17471, and the summary post is available: https://www.lamontcounty.ca/news.

“Lamont County Council is committed to receiving input from the community, as well as a strong commitment to transparency as outlined in our public engagement policy,” said Lamont County Reeve, David Diduck. “We are accountable to our residents as well as the strategic direction of the County to ensure long-term sustainability and a strong balance of services provided and appropriately funded.”

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[PDF version and Summary – enclosure]

Media inquiries can be directed to:

Jay Zaal
Communications Coordinator
780-895-2233 Ext. 222
jay.z@lamontcounty.ca 
www.lamontcounty.ca/news                    

  

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