tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51168396382333258502024-02-20T00:40:23.240-07:00Mayor Linda OsinchukHope-Trust-Integrity! As Strathcona County's mayor, I will be there for you. Follow my Blog to learn more about my vision and thoughts for Strathcona County. Keep up to date on present issues. Together we will keep the Spirit of Strathcona County Ignited! My door is always open, the coffee is always on!Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-6527243729526809922012-04-17T12:33:00.000-06:002012-04-17T12:33:03.670-06:00Message from the Alberta’s Industrial Heartland’s Chair, Linda Osinchuk<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">It is dismaying to read what has been deemed as important election issues and discussed to no end in the media and social media: pearls, clothes, hair, love or hate of <state w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Alberta</place></state>, and so on and so forth.</span></span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">I was pleased to finally see someone pointing out some very important issues. Gary Lamphier hit the nail right on the head in his Edmonton Journal article of April 12, 2012 : </span><a href="http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Lamphier+Voters+deserve+answers+economic+questions/6443881/story.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica;">http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Lamphier+Voters+deserve+answers+economic+questions/6443881/story.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"> .</span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">70% of <country-region w:st="on">Canada</country-region>’s petrochemical activity takes place in <state w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Alberta</place></state>’s Industrial Heartland. This along with <state w:st="on">Alberta</state>’s large natural gas supply makes the importance of the petrochemical sector vital to the economy of <state w:st="on">Alberta</state> and all of <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Canada</place></country-region>. It is therefore very important for <place w:st="on"><state w:st="on">Alberta</state></place>’s political parties’ leaders to answer Mr. Lamphier’s question.</span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">As chair of the <state w:st="on">Alberta</state>’s Industrial Heartland, I speak for 5 municipalities: <placetype w:st="on">Fort</placetype> <placename w:st="on">Saskatchewan</placename>, <placename w:st="on">Sturgeon</placename> <placetype w:st="on">County</placetype>, Lamont, <city w:st="on">Edmonton</city> and <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Strathcona</placename> <placetype w:st="on">County</placetype></place>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We, as well as all Albertans deserve an answer to this question:</span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What specific plans do <place w:st="on"><state w:st="on">Alberta</state></place>’s party leaders have to boost the growth of the province’s petrochemical sector?” </span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">All municipalities throughout <state w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Alberta</place></state> need to understand that jobs and quality of life for their residents is as much at stake as that of the Heartland’s.</span></span></div><br />
<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Issues that affect <state w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Alberta</place></state>’s economy have a trickle down effect on other important issues such as health and education. To ignore key economic issues is ignoring the source of the Alberta Advantage. </span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">It seems that all promises are based on oil and gas revenues. Why, then, are these leaders not recognizing and maintaining these assets?</span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Will the leaders of <place w:st="on"><state w:st="on">Alberta</state></place>’s political parties come forward and answer Albertans?</span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Linda Osinchuk, Chair</span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><state w:st="on"><place w:st="on"><span lang="EN-CA">Alberta</span></place></state><span lang="EN-CA">’s Industrial Heartland</span></span></div><br />
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</div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-19817502514046620632012-04-05T13:48:00.001-06:002012-04-05T13:49:26.446-06:00Trip to San Antonio, Texas UpdateI have just returned from a petrochemical conference in San Antonio, Texas. What a busy week filled with great opportunities for potential business for the Alberta's Industrial Heartland and for Strathcona County!<br />
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Upon our arrival to this beautiful city, the AIHA board and Economic Development officers from each municipality met to go over the itinerary and names of the various companies we were going to be meeting with. Then it was of to two networking events where we introduced ourselves and took the opportunity to invite company representatives and CEOs to the AIHA luncheon we were holding the following day.<br />
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The next morning, we all gathered for breakfast at 7:30 at the Conference Centre and hear the opening session. Three panelists addressed the present and future climate surrounding the petrochemical industry. Canada was referenced a couple of times but it was obvious that many conference attendees were unaware of our (AIHA's & Alberta's) huge resource base. It made our presence here even more important and it is one of the reasons why we must attend these conferences.<br />
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Our team later split into two groups so that we would be able to attend two meetings before our luncheon. I was part of the group who met with Platts, a major company who we want to connect with. <br />
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At our luncheon, I had the pleasure, as AIHA chair, to provide welcoming greetings to close to 50 guests from various companies coming from all over the world: Russia, Japan, Brazil, and the U.S., just to name a few. This was an excellent opportunity to showcase the Alberta Industrial Heartland and all it has to offer. Later on that afternoon, we once again went in two groups to meet with various company representatives. My group met with Williams, an amazing company already present in the Heartland. <br />
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Afterwards we were invited to the San Antonio City Hall to meet with their elected officials, their economic development representatives, and the Canadian Consulate. What a great visit! I will be bringing back some good ideas that we could possibly look at for Strathcona County, such as their Alamo Academy, a concept for job creation and training. <br />
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That night we met Barbara Korol, the Director of Hydrocarbon Processing from Alberta Energy, Barbara also happens to live in Sherwood Park!<br />
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On Tuesday morning, we had meetings with three companies who have a presence in the Heartland: Air Products, Air Liquide, and CBI. This was followed by a very interesting lunch presentation by Dr. Bates, former U.S. Secretary of Defense. He spoke on Country Security when oil and gas are at stake.<br />
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In the afternoon we met with the Port of Antwerp, Belgium to compare chemical cluster comparisons. Tuesday evening the AIHA and EDO had dinner together to discuss this conference and future strategic plans for the Heartland.<br />
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Attending this conference was an important opportunity that allowed us to present the Alberta's Industrial Heartland to the world. We need to let others know what we do, what we offer and how we are the best.<br />
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Mayor LindaMayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-72761805716507932012012-03-30T11:41:00.000-06:002012-03-30T11:41:25.892-06:00Mayor's UpdateSpring has finally arrived to Strathcona County! Take advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoy our many trails and parks.<br />
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Last week I had the opportunity to attend a meeting of Alberta's mid-size city mayors which was graciously hosted by the City of Medicine Hat. What a great meeting it was.<br />
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It is very important to stress the importance and benefits of our mid-size cities working together and sharing our varied experience. There is much strength in numbers.<br />
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The focus of this last meeting was on three important areas:<br />
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<ul><li>Emergency medical services, with a special focus on ambulance services in our municipalities.</li>
<li>The need to focus on supporting equitable funding for policing.</li>
<li>Communicating with Municipal Affairs regarding sustainable funding and a four year term for municipal elected officials.</li>
</ul>I am very pleased to announce that we will get to showoff our beautiful Strathcona County as we host the next Alberta Mid-Size City Mayors' Meeting this up coming August.<br />
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On a different note, upon my return from Medicine Hat, I was pleased to find out that Strathcona County has been ranked #1 out of 190 Canadian municipalities in MoneySense business magazine's report in not 1 but 2 categories! We are ranked #1 for Best Municipality in Canada to Raise Children AND #1 for Best Municipality in Canada for Jobs. We also ranked #11 in the Best Municipality to Live In category! MoneySense Magazine used Statistics Canada's information to compile, weigh and rank 190 cities and towns in Canada by 22 separate categories. This is the first year that the magazine included Strathcona County! You can read their report through these links: <br />
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<a href="http://www.moneysense.ca/2012/03/20/best-places-for-jobs/">http://www.moneysense.ca/2012/03/20/best-places-for-jobs/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.moneysense.ca/2012/03/20/best-places-to-raise-kids/">http://www.moneysense.ca/2012/03/20/best-places-to-raise-kids/</a><br />
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We Strathconians have always known that we have amazing communities. Now all of Canada knows our best kept secrets. Congratulations everyone!<br />
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Always proud to be a Strathconian!<br />
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<em>Mayor Linda</em>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-85106606653027851752012-02-02T12:46:00.001-07:002012-02-02T12:51:37.040-07:00February is Rotary "World Understanding and Peace Day Month"The following was given to the Sherwood Park Rotarians at our last morning breakfast meeting and I wanted to share it with everyone. -- <em>Mayor Linda</em><br />
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A. Peace and Understanding<br />
<ul><li>Rotary Peace Day is Rotary's Anniversary of February 23, 1905.</li>
</ul>"The way to war is a well-paved highway and the way to peace is still a wilderness." - Paul P. Harris 1945.<br />
<ul><li>The Rotary way works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment; they can find peace if they will." Paul P. Harris, January 1946 (Passed away in 1947).</li>
<li>Rotary's Peace Action - 1. Provides future leaders with education at six Rotary Peace Centers around the world. 2. World Understanding initiatives.</li>
</ul>B. World Understanding<br />
Partial excerpts from Frank Deaver writings (Rotary Club of Tuscaloosa, Alabama)<br />
<ul><li>World Understanding is part of Rotary's fourth ideal of International Service</li>
<li>Thought provoking - Our world is full of minorities: racial and ethnic, religious, political, and many more. Interestingly, Rotarians also constitute a minority: of the more than six billion people in the world, our number is only a little more than 1.2 million. What makes Rotarians different is that we are a distinctly privileged minority. We are all too often the victims of a lack of understanding, or perhaps more accurately, of misunderstanding. We give to the Rotary Foundation, but we are only minimally aware of how our contributions are spent. February challenges Rotarians to introduce one minority (ours) to other minorities (those who are in need) at home and abroad.</li>
<li>How shall Rotary further its goal of World Understanding, and its ultimate goal of World Peace?</li>
</ul> 1. We must recognize and admit to our differences, whether they be differences of <br />
national pride, ethnicity, language, politics or religion.<br />
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2. We must focus on our commonalities, not on our differences. As Rotarians, we have <br />
embraced lofty goals of humanitarian and educational programs through our Rotary <br />
Foundation. Understanding leads to respect, respect to friendship, and friendship to <br />
service. Only with understanding can we be bound together in the common goals of<br />
Rotary friendship and service.<br />
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Written by Dennis Pommen<br />
Reprinted with permission.Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-7838434114156648542012-01-01T14:34:00.001-07:002012-01-01T14:47:31.056-07:00New Year's Thank You!<span lang="EN">Happy New Year Everyone! <br />
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2012 will be an exciting and busy year.<br />
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Yesterday's New Year's Eve event around Broadmoor Lake was incredible. I received so many positive comments. Great job everyone. Thank yo to all Strathcona County staff and amazing volunteers who made this all possible.Thanks to all! At our Mayor meet and greet table over the 5 hours my staff and I were there we handed out over 2000 sugar cookies . Wow! <br />
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Thank you to Diana and Theresa for organizing the Meet and Greet table and ordering the delicious sugar cookies from Sobey's. I would also like to thank Councillors Vic, Peter and Brian for coming out and helping! <br />
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Have a wonderful New Year's day and an even more wonderful and blessed new year!<br />
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Mayor Linda </span>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-10507381044997969082011-12-15T17:19:00.002-07:002011-12-15T17:19:49.917-07:00Livy Jeanne Wants to Put a Stop to Bullying<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Being bullied is a terrible experience. Most of us have experienced some level of bullying at one time or another in our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is often painful and affects one’s self-esteem. As adults, we try and cope with it using the tools we have developed over the years. But what about children who are being bullied? Children do not yet have these tools; they do not have the emotional strength to face this. Sometimes the result of the self-esteem damage is too much for a child to handle and sadly leads to heartbreaking results.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Livy Jeanne is a talented 16 year old singer – songwriter from <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Strathcona</placename> <placetype w:st="on">County</placetype></place> who was mercilessly bullied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This remarkable young woman decided that enough was enough and that something needed to be done to bring awareness to our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since she was 11 years old, Livy has been involved with many charities, giving of her time and talent to help our local and global community. A year ago, she decided to speak out and give support to all those who are being bullied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wants to encourage them and give them hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">I will let Livy tell you her story, in her own words:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">“I am Livy Jeanne, and I’m here to tell you that there are 160,000 kids each day that beg to stay home from school because they are being bullied. I was one of those 160,000.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">I cried a thousand tears before I realized that I had the ability within myself to turn away from the hurt, that I wasn’t alone and that there were people I could count on, people who cared for me and saw me for who I am.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">I could have easily turned to drugs, alcohol, cutting, conforming or even just disappearing… But I didn’t. By finding my passion (which is music) I found a place to express myself, find some personal strength and feel good about who I am.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">I feel a responsibility to connect with kids like me- the ones who have reached out for acceptance, struggled with being judged and wondered where they fit into this crazy world.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">By sharing my story and my music, I want them to know that I GET IT – because I’ve been there. And I’ve figured out that we are all important, unique and special individuals who matter. There is nothing wrong with being ourselves – and starting right now, today can be different!!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">WE DON’T HAVE TO BE INVISIBLE…</span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Livy has also started a blue “Awareness” bracelet campaign endorsing the Kids Help Phone line.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">If you would like to support Livy or help her with her campaign you can contact her via e-mail at <a href="mailto:livymusicinc@gmail.com">livymusicinc@gmail.com</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="mailto:LivyJeanne@LivyJeanne.com">LivyJeanne@LivyJeanne.com</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">You can also visit her website at<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://livyjeanne.com/site/"><span style="color: purple;">http://livyjeanne.com/site/</span></a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or listen to her<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/livymusic">http://www.youtube.com/livymusic</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Thank you Livy for caring and standing up to bullying!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Monotype Corsiva"; font-size: 20pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mayor Linda</span></i></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-32052432660911614392011-12-14T11:30:00.002-07:002011-12-14T11:33:09.186-07:00A Year in Review: 2011<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">This last year has been marked with excitement, drama, strategic decision making and most of all defining and standing up for Strathcona County’s needs and rights!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Excitement comes from the amazing activities and events being held in our new Community Centre and all around the County in all our other rural hamlets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To start 2011, it was magnificent to feel all the positive energy and ambiance of our New Year’s Eve celebrations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My very first Mayor’s New Year’s Levee was a success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other annual highlights include the Josephburg Chicken supper, the Ardrossan lobster fundraiser, and the South Cooking Lake Trail Days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are just a few wonderful events throughout the year that took place.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I personally believe in community spirit and pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the many highlights of being your Mayor is attending as many community events as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have made some awesome memories this past year and have met so many of our residents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved the Irish stew at the Partridge Hill Community Hall for the St. Patrick’s Day event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The community of Brookville always teams up great pyrogies and Ukrainian food with great fellowship at their Ukrainian Christmas event held every January.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Enjoying a hotdog and ice cream after a ride on a beautiful mare at South Cooking Lake Trail Days and watching the families and children loving the candy toss was amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Events such as this bring back such wonderful memories of a simpler, easier life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It recognizes where we all came from and it celebrates our history and community spirit.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Of course, it’s always exciting to officially start the Christmas season in the Heartland with the Lighting of the Christmas lights at Heartland Hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love listening to the children sing Christmas carols.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s always a pleasure talking with residents and seniors and I especially enjoyed the famous chili made by cooks at the Partridge Hill Community Hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The nativity display at the Bethel Lutheran Church, the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>nutcracker’s at Good Hope Community Hall and all the other messages at<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Brookville and Bremner Christmas celebrations added charm to all the excitement.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Hastings Lake and Antler Lake continue to have wonderful community gatherings especially at the Red Barn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks for the invite!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">There was plenty of drama through the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thinking back on this, I refer to a quote from President Teddy Roosevelt. In his speech “Citizenship In A Republic” delivered on April 23, 1910, “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The quote from President Roosevelt’s speech reminds me of why I aspired to be your Mayor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This quote says that the opinions of the people who criticize and observe others from the sidelines are meaningless, and that all the credit is due to the man who is actually in the arena, trying, failing, getting up again and fighting for what they believe in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe in the people of Strathcona County.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe in you and I believe in our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need (and deserve) to be heard, to be protected and safe, and to be healthy and to be respected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I disapprove of injustices and will fight hard to correct any.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The majority of you have said we must continue to fight for our full treatment hospital; to bury the transmission lines, and to ensure proper transportation corridors which include overpasses and adequate exit routes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have and will continue to be in the arena.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am and will be your voice.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Strategic planning sessions with Council and administrative staff identified the need for a rural strategy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Heartland was also identified as an important area to plan for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The County identity branding initiative, with a public engagement process was identified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Council further believed and endorsed a complete organizational review of our organization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We fully support the pursuit of excellence in customer service.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">During this year, I was honoured to be asked to represent Canada along with two other Mayors, Mayor Debra Button from Weyburn, Saskatchewan and Mayor Shari Decter Hirst from Brandon, Manitoba in a trip to Kiev, Ukraine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This trip highlighted the important need for economic and gender equality opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This trip was a Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) initiative connecting Canada with the Ukraine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Benefits for us are many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Positive trade opportunities, labour force expansion, business connections, positive political relationships and investments into the future for both countries are just a few.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The Alberta Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA), of which Strathcona County is one of five municipalities, also includes the City of Ft. Saskatchewan, the County of Lamont, the County of Sturgeon and the City of Edmonton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>AIHA has expanded their mandate to market themselves in the global world and to attract the eyes of the world to the largest hydro carbon processing centre in Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am presently chair of this association and have just returned from Doha, Qatar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With growing, cost advantaged feed stocks, supportive logistical systems and a supportive government environment, the AIHA is set to become a global centre for petrochemical and energy processing.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The primary purpose of trip was to attend the World Petroleum Congress which is held every three years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the Olympics of industry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Myself along with the Executive Director of AIHA, met with potential industry investors considering the Heartland for future investment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along with talking about who we are and what we can offer, this will open the doors to more business, therefore more jobs and further economic stability.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Both these opportunities were supported financially by FCM and AIHA respectively.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Thirdly, Communities in Bloom is a nationwide initiative that has put the bloom into communities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trees, flowers and amazing infrastructures, not to mention the exceptional volunteer pride, facilitates further growth in pride and health across Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next year our capital region will be hosting the national conference and Strathcona County will be part of this monumental event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also had the pleasure of attending the 2011 event in Quebec City.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Speaking of the Capital Region, the Capital Region Board, with 23 partnering municipalities, continues to work towards better governance, transit, affordable housing, GIS systems and possible economic opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are a strong voice at the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It has been busy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been exciting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of all it has been an honour to represent Strathcona County as your Mayor and to work together with a team of Councillors who are caring and passionate.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">We have hard working dedicated staff and an amazing community of residents, businesses, agricultural richness and industry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are the best municipality in Alberta and dare I say Canada and the World.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">2012 will be just as exciting!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Happy New Year and the best to you and your family,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Mistral; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">Mayor Linda</span><span style="font-family: Mistral; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-34609054683131132492011-11-23T15:58:00.001-07:002011-11-23T16:51:56.054-07:00Emergent Resolution: Request to Conduct a Cost Benefit Review of all Critical Transmission Infrastructure<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" name="_GoBack"></a>Dear Residents,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Below is a copy of the emergent resolution which will be presented by Strathcona County asking to conduct a cost benefit review of all critical transmission infrastructure:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" name="_GoBack"></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Conduct a Cost Benefit Review of all Critical Transmission Infrastructure </b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>critical transmission projects are identified in Section 2 of the Critical Transmission Infrastructure Schedule of the Electric Utilities Act, RSA 2000, c.E-5.1 (which schedule was formerly part of the proposed Electric Statutes Amendment Act, 2009 known as Bill 50); and</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas the Government Alberta has indicated that the critical transmission projects will cost Albertans approximately $5.6 Billion; and</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas increases in transmission costs without sufficient benefit in the short and medium term will have negative economic impact on residents, institutional, commercial and industrial stakeholders; and</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas Bill 50 was based on the provincial Energy Strategy; and</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas a major economic adjustment has occurred subsequent to the development of the Provincial Energy Strategy; and</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Whereas the provincial government has already placed two of the critical transmission infrastructure projects on hold;</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Therefore Be It Resolved that the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties request the provincial government put all critical transmission projects on hold until a comprehensive cost benefit review is completed.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Background</u>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Strathcona County and other surrounding municipalities were involved with a process with the AUC (Alberta Utilities Commission) over the last 10 months<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were and still are concerned about the overbuild of the overhead 500kv infrastructure and the potential economic impact associated with the overbuild.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Emergent reasons</u>:<u></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>AUC Decision 2001-436 was released November 1, 2011; just 3 weeks ago. Construction of the first critical transmission infrastructure project could begin as early as December of this year.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This issue has presented itself since the Spring Convention 2011 and needs to be dealt with<br />
before the next year’s 2012 Convention.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-67579979959874026482011-10-31T19:44:00.000-06:002011-10-31T19:44:07.353-06:00Alberta's Industrial Heartland Letter to Premier Redford<strong>To the Residents of Strathcona County and the Alberta Heartland, </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>You will find below a copy of the letter that I, as chair of the Alberta Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA), have sent on behalf of the AIHA to Premier Redford and Minister Morton on October 26, 2011.</strong><br />
<br />
Dear Premier Redford and Minister Morton,<br />
<br />
Re: Heartland Transmission Line Decision<br />
<br />
The member municipalities of the Alberta Industrial Heartland Association are deeply concerned with your government's decision to instruct the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) to move forward with the Heartland Transmission Line project. This contradicts the logic and reasoning displayed in suspending the AUC hearings on the other two north-south transmission line projects. It is absolutely critical to reassess the need for all three projects, including the Heartland Transmission Line.<br />
<br />
In discussion with the Government of Alberta over the past year, we demonstrated that major shifts in the economic outlook for Alberta's Industrial Heartland resulted a flawed "Needs Identification Document" for the Heartland Transmission Line. Notably, a much slower pace of industrial development in the region combined with major power users exploring co-generation options on site created a paradigm shift in electrical power transmission needs. This new reality appears to have been overlooked in the decision making process for the transmission lines.<br />
<br />
While the Heartland Transmission Line would deliver electrical support to our region, its major purpose is providing the east-west connection to reinforce Alberta's electrical grid. The decision to suspend hearings of the other two grids of the grid system makes it illogical to continue with the Heartland Transmission Line project. Proceeding with only the Heartland portion of the system could result in incompatible design and installation with the remaining and future grid network.<br />
<br />
We share your goals and visions of a reliable and cost effective electrical system supporting Alberta now and into the future. It is essential we take the necessary time to make the most appropriate decisions for the continued success of our province.<br />
<br />
We request a meeting with you and your Minister of Energy, Honourable Ted Morton, to discuss this matter further. Please have your office contact us directly to arrange this meeting.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
<br />
Linda Osinchuk<br />
Chair, Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-9940020838222233652011-10-24T19:57:00.001-06:002011-10-24T20:00:33.179-06:00Reaction to Premier's Announcement Reversal<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Once again Strathcona County residents are getting the short end of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>stick.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I am angry and demand answers to the following questions from Premier Redford: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Why did the Premier intervene and change Minister Mortons' Transmission Line message hours after it was released Friday morning? "Miscommunication" is a negligible excuse for a provincial government, especially when this was not some last minute decision on the government’s part.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Why is the Heartland line deemed critical? The Heartland industry did not ask for it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually, it will create a huge electrical cost to them. The future of huge feedstocks of natural gas could be an alternative energy source.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">To where and to what are these lines connecting to if the other two are now on hold and under review?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">If it is going to Fort McMurray,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>then south to the US for electrical export, it will mean more revenue to the province and huge companies like Altalink and Epcor, at residents’ cost!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">If this is so critical who is going to pay the cost for such a gigantic, never before seen in Alberta or Canada infrastructure? I certainly hope not only the residents of Strathcona County!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Strathcona County residents need answers now! Injustice has once again occurred! It is time the people of our County are show some respect!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As Mayor, I will continue to fight for a formal impact assessment study on the Heartland Project and I will fight to bury the lines if they do come through our schools, daycares and densely populated areas.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We deserve answers now not after the fact!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Tahoma", "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Mayor Linda Osinchuk </span></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-76973797261991969192011-10-14T13:33:00.000-06:002011-10-14T13:33:39.655-06:00Women! Politics! Challenges! Opportunities!<span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">My journey as a woman to become the Mayor of </span><br />
<span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;"></span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Strathcona County in 2010 was a journey of winning</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a personal battle. First, let me say I am e</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">x</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">tremely</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">honoured and very happy in my new role as Mayor</span><span style="color: #625f5f; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Let me share my story. During my second term</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">as Councillor, I began to th</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">nk about my future</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">and what I wanted to do follow</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ng my si</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">x</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">th year</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">as a municipal elected official. During this time,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I became very involved in mentoring women in</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">leadership roles and in elected positions</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">The</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Federation of Canadian Municipal</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ties initiated</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a program calling for a 30% increase of women</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">participating in municipalities by 2015</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">In Canada,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">only 23% of the municipal leaders are women </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">- </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">less</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">percentage on provincial and federal levels</span><span style="color: #635c3c; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">That</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">places our country </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">n thirty</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">-</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">eighth position </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">n the</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">world for having a balanced representat</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">on from the</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">female population</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">This is not a gender issue but a</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">democratic issue</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">When 52% of Canada's population</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">is female and the numbers at the decision </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">-</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">making</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">table are only 23%, there is an inequity</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Policies and laws are debated and then created</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">to represent the people who politicians are</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">representing. This is why I became so </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">nvolved in</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">the political process</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">There are too many injustices</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">when too much power is used without considering</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">the rights of the people</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">As women, we need to</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">encourage, mentor, fight and educate others</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">on the importance of ethical and just processes,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">while ensuring that bottom-line fiscal responsible</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">budgeting is done.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Strategic, Passionate, Access</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ble, Respectful,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ntegrity, hard wor</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">k</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ing, business savvy and caring are</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">characteristics I believe are a woman's best assets as</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a leader - politically or </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">n business and commun</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ty</span><span style="color: #7a7467; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">decided to visually place myself in the role as mayor so</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">that I can lead with these characteristics</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I was not sure</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">if I had what it took. I was with my husband J</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">m when</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I stated to him that I wanted to be the ne</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">x</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">t Mayor of</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Strathcona County</span><span style="color: #7a7467; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">He thought I lost it. I would be</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">going against an incumbent </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">- </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a d</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">fficult and challenging</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">position to be in - and the incumbent was also a woman</span><span style="color: #625f5f; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I told him that two women going after the position</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mayor speaks volumes. So with an amazing team,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">God's blessings and the belief of positive messaging,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">hard work and great campaign strategy, I became the</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">new Mayor of Strathcona County</span><span style="color: #625f5f; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I am dedicated to listening to all residents' issues and</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">embracing their stories, positive or negative</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I govern</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">with a strong knowledge of parliamentary law</span><span style="color: #635c3c; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I stand</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">up for issues when many would hes</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">tate to</span><span style="color: #635c3c; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I truly</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">believe I was placed on this earth to champion the good</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">and the right</span><span style="color: #635c3c; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Does that take a lot of balls and positive</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">attitude? You bet! Politics is not for the faint of heart.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">But it does take heart and a spirit of hope to know you</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">are there for the right reason.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">So look inside yourself and ask yourself what</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">challenges are in t he way for you to make your</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">dream come t rue. It is the internal battle that you</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">have to win. The rest will come, if you say, "I will, I</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">can, I am!" I am a woman who will not give up until</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">I am truly happy with who I am and what I am to</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-themecolor: text1;">do!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Every day is a blessing. Live it like it is your last</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">When you wake up, ask for God's blessings and</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">guidance</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Put a smile on your face and say to</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">yourself, "I will do my best today, mindful of</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">others and with a positive attitude." If you make</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a decision that hurts someone, then it was the</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">wrong decision</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">At the end of the day say thank</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">you for all that you e</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">x</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">perienced that day</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Even if</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">it is a difficult day, thin</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">k </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">about </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">w</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">hat you learned</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">from that e</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">x</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">perience</span><span style="color: #625f5f; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">. </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Hug people close to you and</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">pass on the best gift- a smile and a hello. You can</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">make a difference just by your attitude and how</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">people respond to you</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">W</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">th two more years as Mayor in this term, I plan</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">to continue to be accessible, transparent, caring,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">and open for business; to fight for our hosp</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">tal,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">buried transmission lines, overpasses, represent</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">industry and build relationships</span><span style="color: #7a7467; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">I would li</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">k</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e to ha</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">v</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e a legacy of being the 'People's</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Mayor; a Mayor who is not afraid to fight hard</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">issues; a Mayor who helps the young and old; a</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Mayo</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">r </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">who represents </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">i</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ndustry and business; a</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Mayor who cares!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Strathcona County is the en</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">rgy capital of Canada!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Energ</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">y </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">from our resources! En</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">rgy </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">f</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">rom the s</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">k</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">y</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">and </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">s</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">un abo</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">v</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">! </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">B</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">u</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">t most of </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">a</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ll the energy of the</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">w</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">onderful people, who work, li</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">v</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">e and pla</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">y </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">in </span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">o</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">ur</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">great communit</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">y</span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt;">!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">M</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">y </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">door is open! Coffee is on</span><span style="color: #544f47; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">! </span><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">God Bless!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><em><span style="color: #3c3529; font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Linda</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></em></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-70576910759165990092011-09-23T16:30:00.003-06:002011-09-23T16:47:59.949-06:00Questions for the 3 PC Leadership Candidates<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This morning I sent out a personal letter to each of the leadership candidates. This letter contains 3 questions that relate to very important issues to the residents of Strathcona County. A large number of residents have approached me with these concerns and I have a responsibility to residents to find out from these three candidates what their stand on these issues are. I had spoken to them prior to the first ballot and wanted once more to state these concerns. I look forward to soon be reading their replies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here is an excerpt from the letter:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Good job and congrats on arriving to this point on your bid to being the next leader of the PC party and the next Premier of Alberta.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am personally asking all three remaining candidates three very important questions before I give my support to them. I would like to hear from you to get back to me with your position in a very timely matter. These are crucial issues that effect the Municipality and the residents of Strathcona County. Your opinion on these items may have been stated before but this a new opportunity to revisit or explain any changes that you may have.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Will you, if you become Premier, ask the AUC (Alberta Utility Commission) to await their final decision on the placement and the work needed on the Heartland Transmission lines until Bill 50 (especially the electrical transmission area) is revoked and a <strong>formal </strong>impact assessment study is done? This assessment would include revisiting the real need for such a huge electrical line, true costs other than Altalink's and Epcor's stated costs for burying and above ground lines, and finally but most importantly commit to <strong>burying the lines where there is high density population and schools (This also means the 200 meter extra setback that is also proposed).</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong> </strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Will you commit, as Premier, that the Strathcona Community Hospital be built and be operating in a timely matter as a full treatment active hospital including obstetrics and medical surgical suites? This hospital would be a solution for you and the residents of Alberta north and south by relieving pressure off emergency rooms, be a center of excellence for diagnostics for Medivacs to fly into our Strathcona County airports (Josephburg or South Cooking Lake), also a center for possible clinics that residents are using in BC or USA. We are number 1 for live births in the Capital Region and we are in the center of the Industrial Heartland where a sealed emergency room is needed to be in place in case of an industrial incident occurring. We need it commitment to this hospital and <strong>NOT a "shelled-in" commitment.</strong> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Will you commit to supporting the BRIK 2 program and value added for the industry we have in the Heartland? We need to keep our jobs and refined oil in our Province! This includes Alberta Transportation reassessing the roads where heavy loads and traffic volumes for industry are effected.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These topics are crucial to this Municipality and impact thousands of people here and in our wonderful Province.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God Bless. I look forward to your answers.<br />
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Linda Osinchuk</span>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-72569122024641735772011-09-22T15:54:00.000-06:002011-09-22T15:54:29.537-06:00Hospital BBQ?Council and I have been invited to a BBQ on September 27th by Ellis Don and the Minister of Infrastructure on the site of our future hospital. Council is in Chambers that day and will not be able to attend until after 6pm at the earliest. I am curious as to the reason behind this invitation. I am anxiously awaiting for <strong>any kind </strong>of official update from the Alberta Government. <br />
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The residents of Strathcona County deserve this. We deserve some show of respect!<br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></em>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-27131484847098540892011-09-21T18:11:00.000-06:002011-09-21T18:11:29.135-06:00Hearthland Transmission Study Update<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am working, as chair of the Alberta Industrial Heartland Association board, to highlight the importance of transportation corridors, overpasses, road upgrades, and park and ride busing to the industrial facilities. Traffic flow, heavy loads and prevention of congestion are issues we are proactively working on to find solutions to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along with working with the Capital Region Board, these initiatives are important to communicate to Alberta Transportation and our new Premier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Industry is an economic engine for the future of our province!</span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></em>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-36139328163043801092011-09-21T10:34:00.000-06:002011-09-21T10:34:38.546-06:00Strathcona Hospital in the News<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am cautiously optimistic regarding the Minister of Health's statement. My intent is to continue to impress the importance of having a "full" active treatment hospital. Not only "shelled-in" spaces but actual concrete plans to have a fully finished product.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am publicly requesting communication from Health Minister Zwozdesky confirming his announcement regarding our "full service, acute care, community-based, 72 bed hospital." As of today, my office has not yet received any communication about the hospital.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I once again re-state that I would look forward to working with the Minister and our two MLAs in achieving this common goal.</span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></em>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-62089303772127880892011-09-20T17:55:00.000-06:002011-09-20T17:55:31.157-06:00PC Provincial Leadership RaceCongratulations to the top 3 candidates who have proceeded to the second ballot. <br />
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To all candidates, it was a race well run and thank you for having put your names forward and had your voices heard.<br />
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To the three remaining candidates, I am very interested in hearing your stand on Bill 50, specifically burying the transmission lines as well as completing the promised "acute care" Strathcona hospital. Your support of our local industry and their role as key economic drivers for Alberta is also a very important issue.<br />
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These issues are critical to our community. I hope to be able to meet and further discuss these with all three candidates.<br />
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I encourage Strathcona County residents to take a keen interest in the final choice of our next Premier and leading into our next provincial election.<br />
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LindaMayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-67962267333270324362011-09-15T12:40:00.001-06:002011-09-15T12:58:23.138-06:00PHOTO RADAR<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dear Residents,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">After a lengthy and intense discussion surrounding traffic safety in </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">, County Council passed a motion to cease photo radar operations within one year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vote of 5 to 4 directs Strathcona County Administration to phase out the photo radar vehicles and stand alone device by </span><date day="1" month="9" year="2012"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">September 1, 2012</span></date><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This policy change does not affect “red light” intersection cameras as they will remain active and in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Photo radar will remain in place until that time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Reasoning for this:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Five (5) new enforcement officers were approved to be hired and trained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These enforcement officers will provide additional traffic safety services not currently allowed within the confines of the photo radar contract.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will provide the driver immediate feedback. These officers will also be able to enforces other infractions that a camera cannot do. This should be completed by September 1, 2012.</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Current photo radar contract needs to be dealt with.</span></li>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">The current photo radar contract needs to be dealt with.</span></li>
</span></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Let me be clear; we are encouraging safe roads and safe driving, and we will continue to monitor speeding in our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Demerit points are a greater deterrent than a letter received three weeks later in the mail.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">We are proud to have listened to our residents and make effective changes where needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not about revenue, it is about instilling reassurance to our community that this is the right thing to do!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Sincerely,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Arial;">Linda</span></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-13091728592198524882011-08-29T11:35:00.001-06:002011-08-29T11:42:32.495-06:00Rick Orman Endorsement<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Almost a year ago, the residents of Strathcona County decided to take a different vision than what had been offered. They decided to embrace change rather than the status quo, they elected to have constructive consultation rather than appeasement, and they chose optimism over the “we can't do that" attitude that was prevalent in past councils. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At that election I presented myself as a candidate for Mayor, one who would conduct County business with openness, honesty and frankness. Meaning I will tell you the truth regardless of the political consequences and what they might mean to me.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your concerns are my concerns: a safe community, a community that encourages the Alberta Spirit, a community that face challenges together.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have fought against 20 storey electrical towers, I have said that we need an active treatment hospital instead of a glorified medi-clinic; I have said our community needs input into planning its future infrastructure; I have said that we need to encourage <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>investment in our community.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have listened to you for these last 10 months and have said "yes" to burying power lines, "yes" to an active treatment hospital, "yes" to constructive consultation in how future infrastructure is planned. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While challenging, these voices are being heard.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are many fine candidates now seeking the Leadership of the Alberta Progressive Conservative Party, each and every one of them would bring many admirable talents to the position of Premier of this great province.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But there has been one candidate who stands out when it comes to speaking to issues that mean so much to the residents of Strathcona County.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This candidate has been the only one who has said that the proposed power lines must be buried; he has been the only candidate to have committed to the new hospital that must be an active treatment hospital with real beds; he has been the only candidate who has said that people of Strathcona County must be consulted on what future needs our community will require and he understands our desire to have a vibrant business sector that will provide our future residents with good quality careers.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Because of these kinds of commitments and beliefs it is with great honour that I endorse and support for Alberta PC leader and our next Premier, Mr. Rick Orman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></em></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><br />
</div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-1288029242145512582011-05-24T17:13:00.000-06:002011-05-24T17:13:02.603-06:00Clarification Regarding Work on the Office of the Mayor<span lang="EN"> <div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Dear Residents, </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">After reading Ben Proulx's article on the renovations to the Mayor's office in Tuesday, May 17th Sherwood Park News, I felt it necessary to rectify some inaccuracies in its content. I respect Mr. Proulx as a journalist and am certain that he may have misunderstood some of my responses to his queries. I did invite The Sherwood Park News to come up to my office to personally see and discuss this topic, but they did not.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In my previous role as a Councillor, I did not have the opportunity to look at the Mayor's office design plans and had no say in the matter. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">While it is true that the previous council approved the whole plan for the Centre of the Park, we did not have detailed information on specifics. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I only became aware of the office's design and some of the requirements that were overlooked needed once I became Mayor.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Washroom and emergency exit door</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div></b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Because a privacy wall was built after the elected officials moved in, it became apparent that the Chief Commissioner, the Mayor and their staff only had one exit from where our offices are located.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> This was an obvious glaring safety issue. The previous mayor and administration should have caught this. This is unsafe in case of an emergency where that only exit is blocked. Therefore, a back storage room is being used for such a purpose. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is also where a water pipe is being brought up from the second floor for a toilet and sink. </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">These are needed in the Mayor's office because the Mayor's schedule is booked to the minute and availability of the present washroom for me and office staff members is important. We meet with dignitaries and various government representatives whose schedules are very tight. The present two stall washroom is used by office staff members and anyone who comes to meet with the staff and elected officials. This is very good use of a small, unused empty space.</span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Wet Bar</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div></b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There never was nor will be plans for a wet bar in the Mayor's office. There is a line that will need to be added to connect piping from the second floor to the third for the washroom.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Fireplace</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div></b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I purchased with my own personal money an electrical "fireplace" heater. It just plugs into an outlet and sits against a wall. The location of my office causes it to be very cold in winter due to a full wall of windows. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Furniture</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div></b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">When elected officials moved offices, the furniture that was put in the new office of the Mayor was old furniture that was previously in someone else's office. One of my assistants does not even have a desk to work on in her office. These offices do not have all the necessary pieces that are needed such as filing cabinets, shelves, or locks that work on the drawers.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> These offices were improperly equipped. The Mayor’s office does not even have a filing cabinet or proper lockable drawers. My personal items such as a comb, mouthwash, nylons, toothbrush, and other personal items were in one of only three drawers at my desk.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This furniture order is only to correct an unworkable space for myself and my assistant down the hall to professional workable offices. Once I moved in my office space, it was clear that these corrections needed to be done. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">All that was ordered for my office were an office desk, a filing cabinet and bookshelves.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Allocated Budget</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div></b><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We have not spent $45,000.00 on this office. It also includes other offices’ furniture not just the Mayor's office.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We are looking into the matter to find out why and by whom some things were overlooked.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Council and I work very hard to ensure the taxpayers dollars are used appropriately for things such as snow clearing, firefighting, policing, Center in the Park, recreation, etc. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It is unfortunate that this item which was so incorrectly reported has placed the great work I believe is being done in our County by Council and staff in a negative light.</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I sincerely hope that this answers many of your questions and brings clarification to this. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I believe in transparency and will continue to work hard as your Mayor as always. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></div></div></div></span>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-41688127341158567382011-04-29T09:03:00.000-06:002011-04-29T09:03:18.157-06:002011 State of the County Address<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Strathconians – shaping our future</span></strong><br />
<br />
Responsive, open-for-business, caring… that’s the kind of municipal government we strive to be in Strathcona County. <br />
<br />
Good afternoon and welcome to the annual State of the County address.<br />
<br />
It is a real pleasure to be in front of you today to share our vision, and some of the things we have been doing over the past year to achieve it. <br />
<br />
I would like to take a few moments to introduce our dignitaries and guests present:<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">• Dr. Jim Osinchuk<br />
• Tim Uppal, MP - Edmonton Sherwood Park and Kiran Uppal<br />
• Honourable Iris Evans, MLA - Sherwood Park<br />
• Dave Quest, MLA - Strathcona and Fiona Beland<br />
• Mayor Camille Berube, Town of Beaumont<br />
• Nolan Crouse, Mayor of St. Albert <br />
<br />
Representing Strathcona County Council:<br />
• Councillor Vic Bidzinski<br />
• Councillor Brian Botterill<br />
• Councillor Roxanne Carr<br />
• Councillor Linton Delainey<br />
• Councillor Jacquie Fenske <br />
• Councillor Jason Gariepy<br />
• Councillor Bonnie Riddell<br />
• Councillor Peter Wlodarczak<br />
<br />
Representing Elk Island Catholic Schools<br />
• Vice-Chair, Jean Boisvert<br />
• Trustee, Ted Paszek</div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">Representing Elk Island Public Schools<br />
• Chair, Lisa Brower<br />
• Vice-Chair, Barb McNeill<br />
• Trustee, Pat McLauchlin<br />
• Trustee, Harvey Stadnick</div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">I am continually amazed by the level of energy and passion within our community. I want to assure you that same level of enthusiasm is at work throughout Strathcona County, the organization, and among your Council. <br />
<br />
When I think about the state of Strathcona County, I think about accomplishment. I think about growth. <br />
<br />
<strong>Our roots</strong> <br />
<br />
Growth and accomplishment are built on a long-standing and proud human history, stemming from: <br />
• Canada's early history -- the First Nations people and the fur trade of the 18th and 19th century<br />
• Settlement starting as early as the 1880s when pioneers were attracted to the region with the promise of good soil, and the opportunity to own land<br />
<br />
Individuals and families of numerous cultural backgrounds came here largely from across the North American continent and from Europe, and many Métis families already here took up land claims as well.<br />
<br />
These pioneers first settled Clover Bar, then expanded into the Bremner and Ardrossan areas, the Salisbury and Colchester districts, along Wye and Baseline trails, and out to Cooking and Hastings Lakes. <br />
<br />
In two years, our community will celebrate 120 years since the Northwest Territories government declared an area in Strathcona County (known as Clover Bar) as Statute Labour and Fire District Number 2. <br />
<br />
Strathcona County was named for Lord Strathcona – Donald Alexander Smith (1820 – 1914) – who played a major role in the development of Western Canada.<br />
<br />
Among his many accomplishments, Lord Strathcona worked his way up to being Director, and the largest single shareholder of the Hudson’s Bay Company, and helped establish the Canadian Pacific Railway. He also personally financed the Strathcona Horse, a force of 540 hand-picked western Canadian marksmen for the Boer War. <br />
<br />
The southern portion of our municipality took on the name Strathcona when Local Improvement District #518 became the Municipal District of Strathcona on May 25, 1918. In 1943, the municipal districts of Clover Bar and Strathcona merged to become the Municipal District of Strathcona #83. Sherwood Park entered the scene in the mid-1950s, when two developers started up a satellite community for workers of the areas new oil refineries. Since this time, we have successfully made the transition to a world-class municipality. </div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">Through it all, we have clung to the values on which we were built – hard work, and an innovative, pioneering spirit. <br />
<br />
Today, we are rightly proud of our roots, and are working to preserve our heritage and sense of pride, even as we continue to grow and evolve as a municipality, supporting a unique mix of urban and rural residents, business, retail and industry. <br />
<br />
<strong>Growth <br />
</strong>Our growth has been positive and steady – as demonstrated by 2010 statistics such as these: <br />
Building permits:<br />
• Served over 63,000 customers<br />
• Issued close to 9300 permits, including: </div><blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">- 480 single-detached dwellings </div></blockquote><blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">- 431 multi-family units </div></blockquote><blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">- total construction value of $436 million </div></blockquote><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">• In 2011, we estimate growth at 3.5% <br />
• Predict 425 housing starts, with an average house price of $425,000<br />
• Anticipate over 300,000 square feet of new retail market growth <br />
<br />
These developments are fuelled in large part by rapid and continual population growth<br />
• almost three per cent in 2009 <br />
• seven per cent since 2006 <br />
<br />
<strong>Who are Strathconians?</strong> <br />
<br />
Who are Strathconians; the people who make up our County? Two-thirds, almost 62,000 people, live in Sherwood Park. The other third, just over 26,000 people, live in the rural areas of the County – on farms, acreages and in rural hamlets. The median age of our residents is 37.8, with an average family income of almost $110,000. More than 55 per cent of us have some post-secondary education. <br />
<br />
<strong>Partners with business and industry</strong> <br />
<br />
Good access to young professionals with high disposable incomes helps us attract new and retain existing business and industry -- Strathcona County is home to thriving business and industrial communities. <br />
<br />
A retail market analysis, completed recently for Economic Development and Tourism, is being used to guide the kind of retail and service sector businesses we want to attract to the County. It will also help determine how much land to allocate to retail development in future. The study analyzed the amount of commercial space available by merchandise category against residents’ expected future demand for those same categories. It also assessed the dollars currently being spent outside of the community, and identified gaps in the County's retail offerings. <br />
<br />
The report told us, among other things, that:<br />
• We can easily support another 345,000 square feet of retail space right now.<br />
• While the retail services available have improved dramatically over the past 10 years, there is still room to attract more retail services to Strathcona County. <br />
<br />
We continue to forge excellent working relationships with our local industry associations, such as the Strathcona Industrial Association (SIA), for:<br />
• emergency preparedness<br />
• air quality monitoring, and<br />
• public information and education <br />
<br />
Industry has told us that our Emergency Services Department is ‘second to none’ in their responsive attitude and services provided. The department turned some of its attention to the County itself recently:<br />
• creating an Emergency Management Branch<br />
• updating the County’s Municipal Emergency Plan and <br />
• completing business continuity plans for all Strathcona County departments <br />
<br />
In 2010, the County’s overall upgrader capacity grew in the Alberta Industrial Heartland with completion of the Scotford expansion, and we saw positive signals of the province’s continued support of that industry with the recent announcement of the North West Redwater Partnership for the Sturgeon Upgrader, with support from the BRIK Program. While this facility will be built in Sturgeon County, it is still good news for Strathcona County, which will benefit from related industries and growth in the region. <br />
<br />
<strong>Friends of the environment <br />
</strong>Partnering with business and industry to sustain our economic advantage is a municipal focus; however, it is not the only focus. We also recognize the importance of identifying and preserving our natural landscape, which is another aspect of what makes Strathcona County special. <br />
<br />
The Beaver Hills Initiative or BHI is a case in point. This award-winning partnership of 30 plus members, including all levels of government, is recognized at local, regional, provincial, federal and international levels. <br />
The BHI supports coordinated action to ensure land planning and management includes conservation and land stewardship of the Beaver Hills/ Cooking Lake Moraine. The intent is not to diminish development opportunities, but rather help individuals understand the factors that are paramount in a natural ecosystem and to help them set those management goals. We recognize there are also many other opportunities to support economic development in the area, such as assessing the eco-tourism opportunities for the region. One exciting project under this initiative is the Biosphere Reserve nomination to UNESCO. If approved, the area would be only the second biosphere reserve in all of Alberta. This designation would help foster sustainable development, and could build local capacity for research, monitoring and educational opportunities. <br />
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<strong>County highlights - Affordable housing </strong><br />
When I look at our own progress on a number of important fronts over 2010, many highlights stand out, and I would like to share some of these with you. <br />
<br />
Participation on the Capital Region Board led to provincial acceptance of a Capital Region Growth Plan that aligns closely to our own strategic plan. Moving forward, I expect our work on this board to result in some significant new initiatives: <br />
• affordable housing <br />
• transit <br />
• economic development opportunities <br />
<br />
Last year, for instance, we completed a number of affordable housing projects,started a first-time home ownership program and started a secondary suites grant program. <br />
<br />
Robin Hood Association's Aspen Village opened in March, and is now home to 36 individuals with developmental disabilities. Pioneer Housing Foundation completed Silver Birch Manor, which is connected to Silver Birch Lodge, a building with 60 self-contained apartments for low-income seniors. Habitat for Humanity held a dedication ceremony in December for two of three completed town homes in Emerald Hills, now home to two deserving families. <br />
<br />
We also started The HOME Program, to provide information and down-payment assistance to low-income, first-time home owners in Strathcona County. To date, this program has provided a total of $70,000 to 14 individuals and families in the purchase of their first home. It will continue running in 2011, along with the Secondary Suites Grant Program, which offers grants to home owners who want to develop an affordable rental suite in their home. <br />
<br />
<strong>Transit</strong> <br />
<br />
With support from the Canada-Alberta Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund we were also able to replace much of our transit fleet with greener and more accessible buses, and we arranged to pilot a double-decker bus and Nova articulating bus as possible means to expand rider capacity. Transit also signed a new, three-year U-PASS contract that includes the University of Alberta, MacEwan University and, for the first time in 2010, NAIT. The agreement signifies a continuing partnership between Strathcona County Transit, St. Albert Transit and Edmonton Transit. U-PASS is an exciting inter-municipal busing initiative that allows post-secondary students in the region to travel in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible way. <br />
<br />
<strong>Transportation <br />
</strong>Council approved the Sustainable Rural Roads Master plan, guiding how rural roads are maintained and rehabilitated. In 2010, we initiated an Integrated Transportation Master Plan to respond to the municipality's future transportation needs, as influenced by the surrounding districts. The plan will direct policies and provide guidance for funding projects and programs that will help us build an integrated transportation network including: <br />
• Auto <br />
• transit and <br />
• active modes, such as walking and cycling <br />
<br />
It will allow us to plan future network upgrades to keep transportation systems functioning at an acceptable level of service within the County, and it will position us well for future transportation challenges. <br />
<br />
<strong>Strategic initiatives <br />
</strong>Our street lighting policy review will include a reference to the new Light Efficient Community Policy that will ensure all new developments in the County adhere to the rules that will help guide us in preserving the night sky.<br />
<br />
We completed public consultation for the third sustainability pillar of our strategic plan, the Economic Sustainability Framework. This framework’s guiding principles include:<br />
• Ensuring the County’s sound financial condition and the fiscal capacity<br />
to deliver services and infrastructure on a sustainable basis <br />
• Focusing economic development on strong economic drivers <br />
• Enabling and promoting a diversified economy through the<br />
development of green jobs and investment<br />
• Partnering with community organizations, municipalities in the region,<br />
other orders of government and the private sector to promote<br />
sustainable economic development <br />
<br />
<strong>Public engagement <br />
</strong>Now that the three frameworks are complete, we are working to introduce a Sustainability Platform in 2011 to bring the three into balance to guide decision making for County operations: Social, Environmental and Economic. </div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">We recognize that each and every decision we make has an impact on citizens in more ways than just financial. <br />
Considering all of these impacts will help us ensure that success in one area is not achieved at the expense of other areas. <br />
<br />
<strong>Operational excellence - Community safety</strong><br />
Operationally, the County implemented a number of new initiatives in 2010designed to address the needs of Strathconians. We completed state-of-the-art renovations to Fire Station 5 at the intersection of Clover Bar Road and Baseline Road, and we approved funding to build a new Fire Station 6 to address the growth in population, as well as in the size and density of development. <br />
<br />
Our RCMP and Strathcona County Enforcement Services’ integrated service delivery model now includes:<br />
• 89 RCMP members <br />
• 16 Peace Officers<br />
• 70 support personnel <br />
all committed to ensuring Strathcona County is one of the safest communities in Alberta. </div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">Three policing priorities were identified in 2010:<br />
• improving traffic safety<br />
• reducing the impact of illicit drugs and<br />
• reducing the impact of “break and enters” in our community. <br />
<br />
The traffic safety program, including both enforcement strategies and public education initiatives, has resulted in a substantial reduction in fatal and injury collisions across the County. <br />
<br />
Our Drug Unit continued to target and dismantle some very prominent and highly organized criminal operations – there were some 57 drug-related charges laid against 15 individuals in 2010. Our detachment continues to be challenged by the property crimes generated out of low-level drug use. <br />
<br />
There was a marked increase in incidents of break and enters to garages and theft from vehicles. While the dollar-value for most of these incidents was quite small, these two areas of property crime combined is more of a problem than the previous year. We did, however, experience a very successful year in solving many major crime investigations, including making arrests in 10 business robberies. <br />
<br />
<strong>Winter maintenance </strong><br />
Changes to our Winter Maintenance Policy were put to good use in helping us deal with one of the heaviest snowfall years on record. Purchase of a fifth snow blower unit also increased our ability to meet the 12-day time frame stipulated by this policy. <br />
<br />
<strong>Infrastructure and rural growth </strong><br />
We approved a number of infrastructure projects essential to the rural hamlets: <br />
• $9 million sewer line extension to Ardrossan in support of anticipated<br />
growth. <br />
<br />
This year, we will also:<br />
• Construct a non-potable water truck fill site in the northern part of the<br />
County for agricultural water use<br />
• Begin construction of a new truck fill in Half Moon Lake, and<br />
• Investigate locations for a future site in the South Cooking Lake areas. <br />
<br />
<strong>Recreation</strong> <br />
<br />
We continue to make good progress in the revitalization of our recreational facilities – both indoor and outdoor – as part of the Open Space and Recreation Facility Strategy. Approved in 2008, this plan identifies recreation facilities, natural areas, parks and open spaces to be redeveloped or developed over the next 15 years. Last year saw work progress on revitalization of the: <br />
• Ardrossan Recreation Complex<br />
• Broadmoor Arena and Clubhouse, and<br />
• Millennium Place – which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year <br />
<br />
Planning and design work is now under way for:<br />
• Glen Allan Recreation Complex<br />
• Festival Place<br />
• Aquatics - indoors and outdoors including splash parks, and Emerald<br />
Hills – all scheduled for completion this year.<br />
<br />
Funding in 2011 is ear marked to advance our outdoor revitalization initiatives. Projects include trail development for a more walkable community. <br />
<br />
<strong>Seniors</strong> <br />
<br />
We moved forward with implementation of an Older Adults Plan: <br />
• Lawn Busters<br />
• Snow Busters <br />
• Friendly Visitors <br />
• a new Seniors Resource Directory <br />
All were new programs launched to support a better quality of life for Strathcona County’s seniors, and demonstrate the caring heart of our community. <br />
<br />
To put the need in perspective – each month in 2010, our Home Support Program: <br />
• saw an average of 255 clients <br />
• conducted over 9000 visits <br />
• provided more than 3600 hours of care<br />
- 74 per cent of these clients were more than 75 years old<br />
- 70 per cent live in Sherwood Park. <br />
An Elder Abuse Prevention/ Intervention initiative is on the books for 2011. </div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;"><strong>Youth </strong><br />
Our Youth Council celebrated 20 years of contribution to the community – the longest running Youth Council in Alberta. We will complete a third Youth Survey in 2011 to monitor and evaluate the health of youth in our community. I believe Strathcona County has a lot to offer our youth: <br />
• excellent recreational facilities<br />
• a variety of cultural opportunities <br />
• a new library, and <br />
• excellent school facilities - the new Archbishop Jordan Catholic High<br />
School currently being built is a case in point<br />
<br />
That said, I believe we could be doing more. The Youth Emergency Shelter Society (YESS) in Edmonton has indicated that up to 40% of their beds are utilized by Strathcona County youth at any given time. I am personally engaged in encouraging development of a youth shelter and activity centre in the County. <br />
<br />
<strong>Celebrations and awards </strong><br />
We hosted some significant celebrations last year. The Olympic Torch came through the community in January as part of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, British Columbia. Strathcona County was proud to host the flame as an official Route Community for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We also hosted a number of key Ministers as part of a Cabinet Tour in March 2010, and an Agricultural Services Board Tour in June that same year. <br />
<br />
We were excited this winter to celebrate the opening of our new Library and Community Centre as a ‘heart for our community. Since then, we have had many opportunities to open the doors of the facility to a wide array of community groups and County activities. <br />
<br />
In March 2011, we opened Strathcona County’s new Art Gallery@501, which will feature curated exhibitions from local, regional and national artists, visual arts programs for people of all ages, and special activities and events. </div><div dir="ltr" style="margin-right: 0px;">My own vision would be to see our community showcase the full range of talent in our community, from visual and performing artists, to dance, to all style and tastes of music. I have partnered with the Arts and Culture Council of Strathcona County to host the first-ever Mayor’s Celebration for the Arts on May 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Agora in the Community Centre. The event will include a buffet, live dance band and auction. Tickets are $50 and are available through the ACCSC, River City Rental or Salisbury Greenhouse. I hope you’ll come out and support arts and culture in our community. <br />
<br />
Throughout the year, Strathcona County received a number of awards recognizing our efforts: <br />
• Our Keys to Empowering Youth to Succeed (KEYS), a mental health<br />
promotion and prevention program, received the Excellence in<br />
Learning Partnerships Award from the Alberta School Councils’<br />
Association. <br />
• Strathcona County Recreation, Parks and Culture received the<br />
Celebration Award from the Arbor Day Foundation. The foundation<br />
honours tree planters, conservation groups and organizations,<br />
through its National Arbor Day Awards. This is the first time<br />
a Canadian community has been recognized. <br />
• The Canada Lands Company Sustainable Development Award for<br />
community-wide environmental initiatives - the County received<br />
a five-bloom rating in the 2010 National Edition of the Circle of <br />
Excellence category and special mention for Cooperative<br />
Efforts of All Sectors. <br />
<br />
<strong>Progress on Council priorities <br />
</strong>On October 18, I was honoured to be elected as your new Mayor. Since then, I am happy to report that our future is in focus. As a Council, we have set and are making good progress on a number of priorities:<br />
• We reviewed our sign regulations under the Land Use Bylaw this fall,<br />
based on feedback from local businesses.<br />
• On February 8, we passed a revised bylaw that:<br />
- allows inflatable signs year round<br />
- increases the length of time special event signs can be posted, and <br />
- reduces restrictions placed on third-party advertising among other <br />
changes. <br />
<br />
We established a committee of Council to draft governance policies, and reviewed policies on Codes of Conduct, Roles and Responsibilities and the Meetings Procedures Bylaw at the end of March. We will work to ratify these policies as quickly as possible. <br />
<br />
We established an Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee, including public representation, to help County administration and Council implement the Economic Development and Tourism strategy and we identified and took action on issues requiring our active intervention on the community’s behalf. <br />
<br />
Construction has already begun on Phase I of the hospital project, and we are pleased to hear the Premier commit an additional $69 million to commence Phase 2 in 2012. Together we will get an active treatment hospital that complements the needs of our Capital Region. <br />
<br />
<strong>Heartland Transmission Project</strong> <br />
<br />
As you know, we are actively engaged in the formal process related to the Heartland Transmission Project hearings, which began last Monday. We expect to present our own evidence within the next week or so that there is a strong, compelling case to be made for locating the transmission lines in the alternate route. Our position is based on the evidence, which shows that the East TUC route is adjacent to a greater number of residents, and has a higher incidence of schools, daycares and hospitals within 800 metres of the TUC. Whichever route is selected, we will still advocate for underground as a viable option. As it addresses health impacts and concerns, we believe this approach that should be considered in all densely populated areas, and that these costs to be borne by all Alberta transmission customers. We are doing everything we can to protect the interests of our residents and business community with respect to this issue. I urge everyone present today to get involved, and to become educated on this issue: <br />
• How will these lines affect you as small business owners,<br />
particularly if your business is located adjacent to the<br />
‘preferred’ route? <br />
• What are the potential impacts of the lines on our residents’ health,<br />
community aesthetics and property values? <br />
• What is being done to assess and mitigate these impacts?<br />
• How can we get involved to ensure our concerns are being addressed? <br />
<br />
By working together, we can make ourselves heard on this important issue. <br />
<br />
<strong>New initiatives</strong><br />
<br />
I would like to tell you about three new initiatives you’ll be hearing more about in the coming weeks. All are designed to improve dialogue between Strathcona County and its residents, business community and other stakeholders. <br />
<br />
The first is implementation of our new public engagement framework to support consistent, coordinated processes and practices across the organization. We recognize the growing demand for public engagement and the value of public contribution to decision making, and support public engagement processes that are honest, transparent and accessible to all. Over the next two years, we will be working to develop an engagement toolkit, provide training for County staff, and coordinate public engagement activities in the County. <br />
<br />
The second is a community branding initiative to create a strong brand and identity for our vibrant community in the market place. It will also help connect Strathonians, business and industry with a clear, shared purpose. We have already engaged in a number of meetings with stakeholders to get feedback on what makes our community a unique and special place to live, work and play. Our goal is to have something to share this fall. <br />
<br />
Finally, we will be implementing a number of social media tools to provide our community members with more avenues for input, and to facilitate conversations between the County and those we serve. <br />
<br />
<strong>Igniting the Spirit! </strong><br />
<br />
In closing, I just want you to know that we are here, and we want to hear from you; to be ever more responsive to your needs. <br />
<br />
I invite you to share your vision for 2011 and beyond with me. My door is always open. Together, we can mould a County that will continue to be a leader among municipalities, one we can all be proud to live in. </div><br />
<strong>Mayor Linda</strong>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-65209594330450567182011-04-18T13:48:00.000-06:002011-04-18T13:48:14.680-06:00Strathconians - What is our future?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">What makes us Strathconians? Do you live in </span><city><place><span lang="EN-CA">Sherwood Park</span></place></city><span lang="EN-CA">, Ardrossan, Josephburg, South or </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">North</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Cooking</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">Lake</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA">, Collingwood Cove, </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Hastings</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">Lake</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA">, </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Half</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Moon</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">Lake</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA"> or </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Antler</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">Lake</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA">? Nine vibrate hamlets within the boundaries of </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA">. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Almost 120 years ago this County was formed. Hard work, pride and the hope of a good future was part of our heritage.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">Now 2011 we need to embrace our pride, identity and a sense of hope for the future. On the 20<sup>th</sup> of April I invite you to my first State of the County address as your new Mayor. This luncheon event, starting at </span><time hour="11" minute="45"><span lang="EN-CA">11:45 am</span></time><span lang="EN-CA">, is a partnership with the </span><city><place><span lang="EN-CA">Sherwood Park</span></place></city><span lang="EN-CA"> and District Chamber of Commerce and will be held in our beautiful Agora (gathering place) in the Community Center at the Center of the Park. An exciting, positive and informative message on what makes us tick as Strathconians will be part of my address.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">As third largest municipality in the province, we are poised for many opportunities both residentially and business wise. Energy, Environment and Economics are the three prime legs of the proverbial stool. A stool like I remember I used as a farm girl milking cows in </span><state><place><span lang="EN-CA">Saskatchewan</span></place></state><span lang="EN-CA">. A solid, sturdy foundation needed to get a basic but tremendously important job done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA"> is a key economic engine in this province.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">Challenges are also before us. Issues such as 500 kv Transmission lines over our schools and families, proposed by Altalink, Epcor and recommended by AESO to run along our immediate boundaries west of our community along Highway 14. It is identified as the preferred route. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA">These lines possess the largest threat ever to our residents and business owner’s health, property value, environment and fundamentally the identity of all of Strathconians! The fight of our lives is before us. </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">A fight that include petitions; resolutions on burying the line and looking at less densely populated areas without schools; a recommendation to investigate a by-law that would ensure a “buffer zone” is guaranteed between any proposed 240V or higher transmission lines to protect all Strathconia’s, supporting and working with school parent groups, organizations and individuals, and MLA Quest who is also fighting the fight. We have just entered the legal hearing process with the AUC (Alberta Utility Commission). This will take at least 4-5 weeks. This has already cost us half a million dollars. Is it worth it! Darn right it is! Together we will succeed!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA">Our message is loud and clear! </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA"> is a vibrant, caring community proud of its rural roots and is open for business! We stand tall, proud and passionate as Strathconians. I know I do and I will work hard for all of us. My door is open. Coffee is on. I would be honoured to sit and have a chat with you.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-CA"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linda</span></em></span></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-2311725935303064802011-02-20T00:04:00.004-07:002011-04-06T15:40:32.169-06:00Transmission Line Battle<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">The proposed 500 kV transmission line is this community’s greatest challenge. If <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>built, these lines will stand 20 stories high.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is approximately the same height as the CN and Epcor buildings in downtown <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Edmonton</place></city>. </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">The transmission line issue was one of the issues that concerned Strathcona County residents brought to my attention time and time again as a Councillor, during the election </span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">campaign, and now as Mayor. I promised the residents that I would fight for them and that, at the very least, I would do everything in my power to have these lines buried if the regulator determines that the lines are to be built within Strathcona County.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">There are many elements that factor in this Transmission Line battle such as, health, economy and environment. We are now moving forward. </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">Our overriding consideration in expanding our original motion to do what is in the best interest of our residents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The evidence points strongly to the Alternate West Route as having the least impact on Albertans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We believe we have a strong case on which to challenge the preferred route.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">Why should we, the residents of <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Strathcona</placename> <placetype w:st="on">County</placetype></place>, accept putting our children, elderly and ourselves at risk when there are several alternatives? Why not look at all of these? </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">I heard you loud and clear. Strathcona County Council heard you loud and clear! </span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">Strathcona County has intervener status with the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). This is our opportunity, through legal Counsel, to express our case on behalf of County residents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">Minister Ron Liepert stated, during the Cabinet Tour stop in Strathcona County, that he did not want to interfere with the AUC process. This is understandable but the government also needs to listen to the people.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">Strathcona County residents and ALL Albertans have until March 4, 2011 to sign their names to the Heartland Transmission Project petition to bury the lines.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";">While focused on having the line buried, the petition is also useful in demonstrating a high level of community concern for the potential health impacts of these lines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I encourage you to get involved, either by signing the petition, or contacting your MLA directly. Petitions are available at Millennium Place, County Hall, Strathcona County Library, Ardrossan Rec Complex, Glen Allan Rec Complex, and Heartland Hall Contact Office.</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif";"><strong>“…progress, in whatever form it takes, should never be allowed to trample the rights of the community or the broader culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Progress, in all its forms, should serve us, not us it.”</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>–Joseph Boyden, author</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Mistral; font-size: 20pt;">Linda</span></i></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-21676508323016082052011-02-16T14:20:00.000-07:002011-02-16T14:20:02.812-07:00A Day to Celebrate!Today is a day in history to celebrate. Bold, inspiring steps have led to the announcement of the North West Upgrader in the Industrial Heartland. As Mayor of Strathcona County, I am excited and honored to be able to host with my fellow colleagues for breakfast and a dialogue session, the Premier of Alberta, eight Ministers including our own Minister Iris Evans and our MLA Dave Quest. In this session of the Mini Cabinet tour we had the opportunity to talk about issues like transmission lines, health, the Anthony Henday, the opportunity of partnership, economics, jobs, but most importantly: A quality of life for Strathconians!Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-13458324151247775152011-02-11T12:29:00.000-07:002011-02-11T12:29:37.595-07:00Building a Legacy: What does it take?<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">February is heart month and the start of the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese calendar. It is mid-winter, </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; display: none; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-hide: all;">a good </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">time to reflect <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">over </span>on the last three busy months and to peer into the future. </span></em></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Record snow fall this winter has tested all of us. Two priority 4 (residential) clearing have been<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">s</span> initiated and a third one is <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">most </span>likely to<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>be needed before the winter is over.<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>Softening of snow through warm temperatures has<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>accelerated the need for fast windrowing. Our crews have been working extremely hard to keep up. I ask for your patience as we tackle this challenge from Mother Nature. The cost of <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>this year's snow clearing could be as high as $6 million<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> dollars</span>, but <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">. S</span>snow clearing is a must and must be budgeted<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">! </span> Your gov</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">ernment is responsive. </span></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Throughout the election, I personally heard along with other<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">s</span> Councillors that the sign bylaw needed to be revised. I am pleased to say we have listened. In consultation with businesses, Chamber members and residents, we have worked hard to come up with the best solution<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">s</span> for all. It is important to have an "open for business" approach in the County. We have also <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">started </span>created an economic development committee comprised of public members with various business background, elected officials, Chamber members, and administrative <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">an admin </span>support. This committee will f<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">Purpose is to f</span>ocus on fostering and supporting a strong economic climate in </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">. Yo</span><city><place><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">ur</span></place></city><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> local government supports business and commerce. </span></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Your Council and <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">I </span>have worked hard to set the framework for a very important governance policy for Council that<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>will provide the rules of conduct, along with clear roles and responsibilities. This policy will be complete <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">done </span>by the end of March. Your government<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>provides leadership. </em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Our hospital has received renewed life with <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">an </span>the recent injection of $69.1 million<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>from the province. We are watching closely as the first phase is constructed. Completion of Phase 2 has been promised - with beds - by 2013.<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span></span></em></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">The next challenge <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">fight </span>for our community is the proposed 500kv transmission lines. If<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>built, these lines will stand 20 </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">stories high. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is almost 6 times the height of the CBC radio tower on </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Wye Road </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">and the same height as the Edmonton CN building. If the regulator determines that the lines are to be built within </span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">, we are asking that they be buried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need your help to take this message to the province. <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>Petitions are available in County Hall, Strathcona County Library,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Millennium Place, Ardrossan Recreation Complex, Heartland Hall Contact Office and Glen Allan Recreation Complex. You can also download it and print it at: <a href="http://www.lindaosinchuk.com/petition/petition_htlp.html">http://www.lindaosinchuk.com/petition/petition_htlp.html</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Let's rally together! Your municipal government is <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">a </span>people government that supports its residents' needs. </em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">We are also in the process of developing an identity and brand for<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span></span><place><placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">. We will be coming to you for your input. This is very timely and is important for<span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>building community pride, as well as supporting the economics, history and environment of our community. These activities, <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;">is </span>alongside <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with </span>a new Community Center, an awesome library, great events such as the Festival of Trees, Christmas County appreciation luncheon for County staff, New Year's Eve celebration, Mayor's first New Year's Levée, and memorable Remembrance Day, have been incredible with more on the horizon. </span></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Your government, together with you, will continue to <span style="display: none; mso-hide: all;"> </span>ignite our community spirit! </em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><place><placename><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">Strathcona</span></placename><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> </span><placetype><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;">County</span></placetype></place><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black;"> is a vibrant, exciting community. Together, we will build a legacy that provides hope, is caring and builds community. </span></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<em></em></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Mayor Linda </em></span></div></div>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5116839638233325850.post-55160125477093763812011-01-25T11:15:00.000-07:002011-01-25T11:15:29.456-07:00Strathcona County Sign Bylaw Saga<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">It is well known that I voted against the controversial sign bylaw. As councillor, I listened to numerous business owners and business owner-residents complain about the sign bylaw, about its’ lack of common sense, about the need to revisit it and review it attentively. I heard you and promised that once Mayor, I would continue to work hard to ensure this bylaw would be reviewed and amended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promised to ”<span style="color: #111111;">revisit the sign bylaw to ensure fairness and business sense in the County."</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">On </span><date day="30" month="11" year="2011"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">November 30, 2011</span></date><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">, with Council in agreement, we directed Strathcona County Administration to report back to Council in January regarding amendments to Section 10, Sign Regulations of the Land Use Bylaw 8-2001.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We requested that they specifically address Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce and the Alberta Portable Sign Association’s concerns relating to Portable Signs, Inflatable Signs, Window Signage, and Third Party Advertising.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12pt 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Strathcona County Administration reported back to Council on </span><date day="11" month="1" year="2011"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">January 11, 2011</span></date><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> with a detailed report based on the feedback they received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(For more information visit: <a href="http://www.strathcona.ca/files/Files/att-lls-arm-110111-report12-1.pdf"><span style="color: purple;">http://www.strathcona.ca/files/Files/att-lls-arm-110111-report12-1.pdf</span></a> )</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It is with great pleasure that I inform you that Council has decided to schedule a Public Hearing on </span><date day="8" month="2" year="2011"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">February 8, 2011</span></date><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> for Bylaw 1-2011.</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">After having fought hard to get this bylaw reviewed, I am overjoyed to have been able, with the help of Council and a common sense approach, to finally reach this goal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Even though I, personally, will not be present at the public hearing, you can rest assured of my 100% support of the revised bylaw.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Linda</span></em><em><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></em></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"></div></span></span>Mayor Linda Osinchukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12282992744657675765noreply@blogger.com0