A newly formed Intergovernmental Relations Standing Committee will help the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo speak with one voice when dealing with Indigenous partners, neighboring communities and higher levels of government.
Council green-lit the panel on Oct. 6 after Ward 1 Coun. Jennifer Vardy put forward the motion.
Mayor Sandy Bowman will chair the group, which will also include four councilors chosen by their peers—at least one of them from a rural ward. Selections will take place each year at the organizational meeting, and the entire structure will be re-examined after its first year to confirm it is still workable and worthwhile.
“We have seen firsthand the value of productive and collaborative relationships with other levels of government,” Bowman said. “This Committee is designed to support and grow those relationships, advance advocacy priorities and champion regional interests with a clear and unified voice.”
The committees core duties include drafting advocacy priorities and an overall advocacy plan for full council approval, tracking progress on those priorities, spotting chances to connect with other governments and partners, and examining funding programs, policy shifts, proposed laws and any other matters that affect the region.
The panel will also set out clear ways for councilors, municipal staff and outside consultants to work together. Its efforts are meant to back council goals around intergovernmental and First Nation relations, economic growth, competitiveness, community services and quality of life for residents.
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