Tri Community Networks (Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Parkland County)

2010-2012 BUDGET SUBMISSION

SUBMITTED BY: FACTS (Family And Community Twining Society)

DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL:

We propose to work with the three municipalities mentioned above, and community groups to continue developing online community networks, to complement in person networking, so that more people can be involved in building community in areas such as Education, City planning, heritage and other community networks. see Towards Deliberative Public Dialogue

OBJECTIVE:

To partner with the City of Spruce Grove, and other community organizations to continue developing online networks that will provide opportunities for more people to be involved in community life.

DISCUSSION:

Background:

FACTS was formed as a result of the Tri-Smart proposal. This proposal advocated developing and using smart technology for economic and people prosperity. We are forming various “FACTSnet” networks mostly “Uniting for Children and Youth” and heritage networks (See links in attached email).

FACTS has made various presentations to the City to form community networks with limited success. The Google blogger technology we use makes it possible for community organizations to participate at minimal expense (the time it takes to do it). The blogger networking system developed by FACTS allows for participation at various levels (see FACTSnet link).

Proposal:

Based on the City’s “Bright New Future” and other initiatives and FACTSnet initiatives it is proposed that the City participate in community networks being developed and that they have their staff trained to be FACTSnet Coordinators, who could coordinate and/or participate in community networks for:

1. Community planning,

2. Heritage planning needs to be part of community planning (see previous presentations to council Spruce Grove Heritage network(s) could contribute to heritage planning for the City and the tri-municipal region and the province. See our Tri-Heritage Summer program.

3. Uniting for Children and Youth.

4. Other community initiatives.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

If we want to have an immediate impact, network development and getting community participation needs to be a priority. The budget is flexible depending on level of participation. Once training and network set up is complete networks should be self funded and possibly provide a source of income. Once initial networks are developed, participation in networks by City staff would be offset by the benefits gained from participation. On going costs for participation of City staff, community organizations and the public are voluntary and are not considered in the following budget estimates:

Training	5000
Network development	6000
Total	11000

CORE STRATEGIES:

This project contributes to the Building Community objectives as follows:

1. To foster residents' civic spirit, pride and active community commitment in Spruce Grove.

Genuine network participation will go meeting this objective.

2. To contribute to a culture that cares for and respects all citizens - regardless of age, income or background.

Networks could involve all citizens. Some will need assistance to participate.

3. To maintain and enhance civic and community facilities, parks, open spaces and services that contribute to an outstanding quality of life.

Planning networks could facilitate community involvement.

4. To support neighbourhood beautification.

Neighbourhood networks could contribute to this objective.