Posts
There you have it!
There is always more misery among the lower classes than there is humanity in the higher.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
The Class Warfare Hustle
There you have it!
There is always more misery among the lower classes than there is humanity in the higher.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Crowsnest Pass residents: How's it all been working out for you, so far?
Today, I posted the following comment on Dean Ward's blog post...
Crowsnest Pass how to run a community more efficiently using your tax dollars
We are generally the better persuaded by the reasons we discover ourselves than by those given to us by others.
Crowsnest Pass how to run a community more efficiently using your tax dollars
We pay for a mayor and council who it seems are incapable of
doing nothing but what they’re told... by the outside hired help? Needing their
hands held like no other mayor and council before them? Costing us an arm and a
leg in the process while they fumble about (I, by the way, as a full-time mayor
(not needing his hand held) would have come a whole lot cheaper... just saying.
J
And I certainly would have concentrated on growing our economy as my first
priority, rather than regulating it to death and thereby allowing it to slide
into the toilet).
First, we have a mayor who for two decades mismanages this
place so badly that for 10 years running (and counting) we are on the short
list of the twenty worst communities in all of Canada in having continual declining
populations. Now we have an educator in charge who obviously knows not what he
does and as a result needs costly ‘experts’ to tell him and his council what to
do. The way things are going, soon we will be the best managed little ‘ghost
town’ in all of Alberta .
Oh what a farce we have become all because as a community we
lack the ability to recognize what is needed is a ‘catalyst’ to turn things
around here. New bylaws, rules and regulations alone won’t do it, when what the
problem is, is we have an ineffective elite, a non-intellectual business elite
that doesn’t believe in the Pass. Until these people can be turned around by a
catalyst to see the wisdom in investing in their own community, how do you
expect to get the outside world to?
For over ten years now I have spoken out telling people what
needs to be done but nobody listens because the ‘suits’ here have everybody
brainwashed into believing what is needed is more professionals (experts) like
them, to (mis)manage things and tell them what to do. I have only one question to
ask the residents in this community with respect to this, and that is ‘how’s
that all been working out for you, so far???
JP
We are generally the better persuaded by the reasons we discover ourselves than by those given to us by others.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Open Letter to WILDROSE MLA PAT STIER
First, let me congratulate Pat Stier on his win here in Livingstone-Macleod. Second, let me clarify that I do not know Pat, have never met him, did not support him or his party in the last election, but since he did win and is now our new MLA I am prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt, with respect to his good intentions in working for the best interests of the people in this riding.
In this regard, this morning, I sent Pat the following email message.... "Although not a Wildrose supporter (yet) I welcome the change you represent for the Crowsnest Pass and wish you the very best in your new endeavors to, hopefully, be the blood transfusion that for so very long has been needed in this community."
I'm hopeful Mr. Stier will in fact work for the best interests of this community, in particular. For on the homepage of his website, and in his campaign literature, he is on record as saying:
It’s Time For A Change!! What I believe in:
- It is time for a change. Corruption and arrogance are an almost inevitable result of 40 years of absolute Government. Changing leaders will not do much to root out the basic problems that have built up in the Tory party of unbridled power.
That is change I can believe in!
Pat Stier definitely represents change. I'm hoping it is the right kind of change that benefits all, rather than just a tiny elite as is what has been the case for so very long in these parts.
Pat, we'll be watching you and supporting you when we can but you will have to deliver. The first thing you will have to do is prove to us that things have changed with your election win, that the status quo is no more, and new breath will soon be pumped into our community with the likes of you and your kind.
Tossing out one set of bums for new ones just gives us more of the same bums with different faces.
Monday, April 23, 2012
WOW!! I'm now in WILDROSE country here in Livingstone-Macleod
I can't believe Evan Berger lost his seat! One held here by the conservatives for the past 40 years or so?
Before Evan, David Coutts and before him Fred Bradley both of whom held the MLA seat for Livingstone Macleod for 15-17 years each. This region of SW Alberta has gone completely over to WILDROSE!
Which means the status quo has been shaken and we are now into a new era. One that will probably have all kinds of ramifications that I can't even guess at right now?
Tired, going to bed. For tomorrow is a new day and looks like maybe a new beginning for those of us who have only known the old, for so long.
Democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve.
Before Evan, David Coutts and before him Fred Bradley both of whom held the MLA seat for Livingstone Macleod for 15-17 years each. This region of SW Alberta has gone completely over to WILDROSE!
Which means the status quo has been shaken and we are now into a new era. One that will probably have all kinds of ramifications that I can't even guess at right now?
Tired, going to bed. For tomorrow is a new day and looks like maybe a new beginning for those of us who have only known the old, for so long.
Democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Some people get it. Others need to catch up... especially our politicians
Jose, a regular blogger here, made the following comment on another local blog where it received absolutely no attention? Even the moderator was at a loss for words, it seems...
Taxes in the Crowsnest Pass
The problem is not what the tax increase will be -- it is what we are now paying for taxes. As the Municipality expanded in area and the need to service these new developments, so did the need for "field" services. These new staff were a necessity. Unfortunately, this new field staff appears to have justified a new expanded "improved" Admin staff that we simply can't afford -- and simply do not need.
Really, with nearly three times the population in the past, the Crowsnest was adequately administered by far fewer people. Why the increase? Well, to have a higher paying position, one needs more subordinate staff to justify the higher paid position. This is accomplished by bringing in the Consultants, who do what the masters they were hired by want. This then of course assures more consulting work. You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.
And on it goes, until we end up with the bloated unnecessary Admin staff that we now have in the Crowsnest Municipality. It's the same as with the School system, where the Admin staff grows and grows at the expense of the teachers who they are there to originally support. When the time comes to cut costs and staff, it is the teachers and janitors that go, and not the Administrators and their bloated support staff.
The same will happen in the present Crowsnest Municipality Admin. When the time comes to cut, it will be not be the staff that one walks by everyday in the office. It will be the "faceless" field staff, who the Admin are there to support, that will be the ones that are let go. Guess that's why we have Unions....
Jose
Comment: Well I for one believe Jose is speaking truth to power. We don't have to accept what is not good for us, or for our community.
In this regard, yesterday, my wife and I went to the advance poll and voted. While there and to my surprize people started talking (complaining) about how bad our local municipal government (not the provincial government/election) is in the direction they are taking us, especially with their 'Peace Officers' (Revenue Police) initiative and most importantly as fiscal managers.
Which brings me back to Jose's comment because of what one lady in particular said about how other communities within our region are sharing managers, rather than hiring more (along with additional support staff) as we have recently been doing. One CAO, for example, now looks after several municipalities instead of just one. Imagine the cost savings with this one approach? In this one area of management alone, never mind how this could apply to other managerial departments,as well? After all, in any enterprise labour costs are typically around 35% of all expenditures. Get a handle on trimming the fat in this area and you save the taxpayer mega bucks in paying less property taxes. But alas, instead, our mayor and council falling victim to the experts (consultants) have gone in the opposite direction, as Jose so astutely points out, resulting in costs rising, and therefore our property taxes too? Because of too much FAT in the system, which is not healthy for a community, whereas LEAN and MEAN is.
It is examples (initiatives) like this, coming from ordinary residents, that if council would take the time to listen to could change things for the better here. But no! Because it seems this council has all the answers and therefore does not have to hold town hall meetings, read the letters to the editor in our newspapers, or just talk with average people here in their own community. Instead of just talking exclusively with their own little elite circles of establishment types, who of course know what is best for the rest of us (as they have recently demonstrated with their cancelling of Thunder in the Valley), because they consult with big city out of town 'professionals' (experts), rather than listening to the ordinary man/woman on the street.
Until mayor and council get off their high horse and start listening to the people who elected them there will continue to be a major disconnect between what the people really want and need, and what they're getting.
If this trend of ignoring the will of the people by mayor and council continues then maybe the rumour I heard that day at the advance polling station about a petition circulating around town (if true) to remove them, might have to be, what needs to be?
After all, more and more people these days are shopping around for Money Back Guarantees.
Experts say we need more experts. Experts everywhere agree.
Taxes in the Crowsnest Pass
The problem is not what the tax increase will be -- it is what we are now paying for taxes. As the Municipality expanded in area and the need to service these new developments, so did the need for "field" services. These new staff were a necessity. Unfortunately, this new field staff appears to have justified a new expanded "improved" Admin staff that we simply can't afford -- and simply do not need.
Really, with nearly three times the population in the past, the Crowsnest was adequately administered by far fewer people. Why the increase? Well, to have a higher paying position, one needs more subordinate staff to justify the higher paid position. This is accomplished by bringing in the Consultants, who do what the masters they were hired by want. This then of course assures more consulting work. You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.
And on it goes, until we end up with the bloated unnecessary Admin staff that we now have in the Crowsnest Municipality. It's the same as with the School system, where the Admin staff grows and grows at the expense of the teachers who they are there to originally support. When the time comes to cut costs and staff, it is the teachers and janitors that go, and not the Administrators and their bloated support staff.
The same will happen in the present Crowsnest Municipality Admin. When the time comes to cut, it will be not be the staff that one walks by everyday in the office. It will be the "faceless" field staff, who the Admin are there to support, that will be the ones that are let go. Guess that's why we have Unions....
Jose
Comment: Well I for one believe Jose is speaking truth to power. We don't have to accept what is not good for us, or for our community.
In this regard, yesterday, my wife and I went to the advance poll and voted. While there and to my surprize people started talking (complaining) about how bad our local municipal government (not the provincial government/election) is in the direction they are taking us, especially with their 'Peace Officers' (Revenue Police) initiative and most importantly as fiscal managers.
Which brings me back to Jose's comment because of what one lady in particular said about how other communities within our region are sharing managers, rather than hiring more (along with additional support staff) as we have recently been doing. One CAO, for example, now looks after several municipalities instead of just one. Imagine the cost savings with this one approach? In this one area of management alone, never mind how this could apply to other managerial departments,as well? After all, in any enterprise labour costs are typically around 35% of all expenditures. Get a handle on trimming the fat in this area and you save the taxpayer mega bucks in paying less property taxes. But alas, instead, our mayor and council falling victim to the experts (consultants) have gone in the opposite direction, as Jose so astutely points out, resulting in costs rising, and therefore our property taxes too? Because of too much FAT in the system, which is not healthy for a community, whereas LEAN and MEAN is.
It is examples (initiatives) like this, coming from ordinary residents, that if council would take the time to listen to could change things for the better here. But no! Because it seems this council has all the answers and therefore does not have to hold town hall meetings, read the letters to the editor in our newspapers, or just talk with average people here in their own community. Instead of just talking exclusively with their own little elite circles of establishment types, who of course know what is best for the rest of us (as they have recently demonstrated with their cancelling of Thunder in the Valley), because they consult with big city out of town 'professionals' (experts), rather than listening to the ordinary man/woman on the street.
Until mayor and council get off their high horse and start listening to the people who elected them there will continue to be a major disconnect between what the people really want and need, and what they're getting.
If this trend of ignoring the will of the people by mayor and council continues then maybe the rumour I heard that day at the advance polling station about a petition circulating around town (if true) to remove them, might have to be, what needs to be?
After all, more and more people these days are shopping around for Money Back Guarantees.
Experts say we need more experts. Experts everywhere agree.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Crowsnest 2012 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
Enjoyed the evening in the company of Ernie and Ann Fantin (former owners of Fantin Funeral Homes) whose table we shared along with Donna Dalman, President of the Bellecrest Senior's Association and her husband. Interesting conversation and good laughs had by all.
At one point during the course of the evening, Ann, who I had never met before (although knowing her husband for many years), said to me that actually meeting and getting to know me was totally different from what she had 'heard' about me. I told her, "well there you go, prove that you have to be careful about what you read in the newspapers. They don't always tell the truth". :-( As it has been said, "The press serves him who owns it. It does not spread “free” opinion – it generates it".
The fact we have these dinners and that so many people turn out is testament to the character and resilience of this community. We are blessed to have so many caring and giving people here who make such a 'positive' difference in so many people's lifes, in selflessly sharing what they have in so many ways.
In closing let me say, the Mayor did an 'excellent' job throughout the evening telling jokes and making us laugh (as did Darryl Ferguson, our moderator), while at the same time instilling in us that as a community and a people, we truly are more than just the sum of our parts.
THE WORLD IS HUGGED BY THE FAITHFUL ARMS OF VOLUNTEERS.
Just as fire blows out candles, good deeds for the benefit of others destroy a selfish life.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
'Red Light District' comes to the Crowsnest Pass
Maybe?
Competition, or no competition? That is the question
Talking with our new Development Officer yesterday, after calling the municipal office to find out how the vote went Tuesday night in the Land Use Bylaw amendment that if passed paves the way for another liquor store in Frank (to go along with the Saloon that's already there), I was told it passed. In a recorded vote with Councillors Saindon and Saje opposed.
Our poll on this issue (see sidebar) clearly shows the majority of residents here were against... while council voted for? Another disconnect with the majority by the minority serving the interests of a small elite, so it seems?
With the passage of this amendment I guess boys will soon be coming into town, hitching up their ponies, having a few and then visiting one of the many houses of ill-repute that tend to spring up in these types of environments. Good times will soon be had by all! Just like in the old days. :-)
So what if the neighbourhood gets all shot to hell. But hey, isn't that why Thunder in the Valley was cancelled? Because a small number of establishment types complained of too much noise and revelry in their neighbourhood, during this 'one weekend'. (The Apollonians deny the Dionysians their pleasures.) Selfishness knows no bounds when it comes to the rich and well connected, especially when the well-connected is one of their own?
Anyhow, it seems like council has a double standard and is sending out mixed messages, now doesn't it? Or are they sending a clear message that Blairmore will be spared and Frank will soon be the red-light capital of the Pass? If so, how enterprising these fellows are? Maybe that's also why they've recently sent out Expressions of Interest to build a hotel in Blairmore on the old CLC site, so that they have a place to put the over-flow from Frank, on weekends. :-)
As it has already been said... "This mayor and council will be damned if they do, and damned if they don't... but damned they will be"... regarding this amendment.
We may not imagine how our lives could be more frustrating and complex - but Council can.
Competition, or no competition? That is the question
Talking with our new Development Officer yesterday, after calling the municipal office to find out how the vote went Tuesday night in the Land Use Bylaw amendment that if passed paves the way for another liquor store in Frank (to go along with the Saloon that's already there), I was told it passed. In a recorded vote with Councillors Saindon and Saje opposed.
Our poll on this issue (see sidebar) clearly shows the majority of residents here were against... while council voted for? Another disconnect with the majority by the minority serving the interests of a small elite, so it seems?
With the passage of this amendment I guess boys will soon be coming into town, hitching up their ponies, having a few and then visiting one of the many houses of ill-repute that tend to spring up in these types of environments. Good times will soon be had by all! Just like in the old days. :-)
So what if the neighbourhood gets all shot to hell. But hey, isn't that why Thunder in the Valley was cancelled? Because a small number of establishment types complained of too much noise and revelry in their neighbourhood, during this 'one weekend'. (The Apollonians deny the Dionysians their pleasures.) Selfishness knows no bounds when it comes to the rich and well connected, especially when the well-connected is one of their own?
Anyhow, it seems like council has a double standard and is sending out mixed messages, now doesn't it? Or are they sending a clear message that Blairmore will be spared and Frank will soon be the red-light capital of the Pass? If so, how enterprising these fellows are? Maybe that's also why they've recently sent out Expressions of Interest to build a hotel in Blairmore on the old CLC site, so that they have a place to put the over-flow from Frank, on weekends. :-)
As it has already been said... "This mayor and council will be damned if they do, and damned if they don't... but damned they will be"... regarding this amendment.
We may not imagine how our lives could be more frustrating and complex - but Council can.
Monday, April 16, 2012
BEWARE!! WILDROSE come with thorns
What worries me this election is will what happened in Quebec with the NDP 'orange wave' in the last federal election repeat itself here? Will the protest vote and the personal popularity of Danielle Smith cause people to get elected that never should be?
I understand Pat Stier will not be participating in the upcoming Livingstone Macleod All-Candidates debate in Pincher Creek this week, which suggests to me he's thinking the fewer people who get to know him and what he's really all about, the better his chances are... of getting in under Danielle's skirt. Scary thought!!
So the moral behind this story I am sharing with you people is 'Roses come with thorns. Be careful you don't get pricked.'
Get all the fools on your side and you can be elected to anything.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Alberta election: letter from a concerned voter
Here's an excellent letter that all Albertans should read in order to ensure that this time around we get a government we need and want, instead of one we don't need or want...
Mirror Mirror
by Pincher Voice
Rob Bernshaw, Letter to the Editor
Mirror Mirror on the wall who it the fairest of all?
With the Battle lines drawn and D-Day of Monday April 23, 2012 rapidly approaching, will Albertans be the casualties or the victors in this struggle of power over our future.
What future will we face as we wake up to face a new day on Tuesday April 24, 2012?
Will the future be a bleak wasteland of continued intimidation and coercion, with municipalities pitted against municipality in order to gain favor with the government of the day?
Or will there be the dawning of a new day with openness and transparency, brightly shining on all Albertans; with all municipalities working together to achieve a better Alberta for us all?
Will Alberta awaken to a government that truly listens and reflects the values of all Albertans or to a government of closed door patronage appointments and favoritism?
These choices are ones that need to be fully examined before the ballots are marked for the party of our choice.
In closing here is a message to all Parties:
Quit your bickering and get down to business of working together towards a better future for all us Albertans, instead of self interest towards the golden plum of power over our future! We are tired of the petty squabbles amidst the fear of losing power and control over our lives. We don’t care about what petty dirt is being dredged up to make the other party look bad! We are not in high school anymore, where the school yard bullies are demeaning others in order to make themselves look better.
It did not work then and it certainly does not work now!
All parties need to take a good hard look in the mirror before slinging the mud of insinuation and defamation; as they will make the thrower dirtier then the receiver!
We are all in the same boat and we all sink or float together.
Get back to discussing the issues at hand like the environment, education, universal health care, to name a few and of course the most important: A Balanced Budget free of debt with an eye to building a quality future for all Albertans.
Before going out to meet the day, take a long hard look in the mirror in order to make a decision of whether to sling mud or to direct your words and actions towards being a benefit to all Albertans.
When arriving home at the end of the day reflect in the mirror, if what was done during the day, was a benefit to all Albertans or only the person staring back from the mirror!
Mirror Mirror on the wall who is the fairest of all: the response back should be all Albertans are the fairest of all!
Now get out and make that happen!
To all Albertans please do not let the mud slinging, disillusion us to the fact that we need to get out and vote en masse in order to effect change for a better Alberta.
Exercise your right to vote as we are the only ones that have control of our lives on the choices we make everyday. We need to make them good choices reflecting our views and the way we live.
From a concerned voter becoming disillusion with all the mud being thrown in the eyes of all us Albertans.
The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.
by Pincher Voice
Rob Bernshaw, Letter to the Editor
Mirror Mirror on the wall who it the fairest of all?
With the Battle lines drawn and D-Day of Monday April 23, 2012 rapidly approaching, will Albertans be the casualties or the victors in this struggle of power over our future.
What future will we face as we wake up to face a new day on Tuesday April 24, 2012?
Will the future be a bleak wasteland of continued intimidation and coercion, with municipalities pitted against municipality in order to gain favor with the government of the day?
Or will there be the dawning of a new day with openness and transparency, brightly shining on all Albertans; with all municipalities working together to achieve a better Alberta for us all?
Will Alberta awaken to a government that truly listens and reflects the values of all Albertans or to a government of closed door patronage appointments and favoritism?
These choices are ones that need to be fully examined before the ballots are marked for the party of our choice.
In closing here is a message to all Parties:
Quit your bickering and get down to business of working together towards a better future for all us Albertans, instead of self interest towards the golden plum of power over our future! We are tired of the petty squabbles amidst the fear of losing power and control over our lives. We don’t care about what petty dirt is being dredged up to make the other party look bad! We are not in high school anymore, where the school yard bullies are demeaning others in order to make themselves look better.
It did not work then and it certainly does not work now!
All parties need to take a good hard look in the mirror before slinging the mud of insinuation and defamation; as they will make the thrower dirtier then the receiver!
We are all in the same boat and we all sink or float together.
Get back to discussing the issues at hand like the environment, education, universal health care, to name a few and of course the most important: A Balanced Budget free of debt with an eye to building a quality future for all Albertans.
Before going out to meet the day, take a long hard look in the mirror in order to make a decision of whether to sling mud or to direct your words and actions towards being a benefit to all Albertans.
When arriving home at the end of the day reflect in the mirror, if what was done during the day, was a benefit to all Albertans or only the person staring back from the mirror!
Mirror Mirror on the wall who is the fairest of all: the response back should be all Albertans are the fairest of all!
Now get out and make that happen!
To all Albertans please do not let the mud slinging, disillusion us to the fact that we need to get out and vote en masse in order to effect change for a better Alberta.
Exercise your right to vote as we are the only ones that have control of our lives on the choices we make everyday. We need to make them good choices reflecting our views and the way we live.
From a concerned voter becoming disillusion with all the mud being thrown in the eyes of all us Albertans.
The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Gossiping at the local Trade Fair
BOY, oh BOY!! did I get an ear-full at this year's Chamber of Commerce Trade Fair. But first, let me say, the attendance as far as display settings was far down from usual? Another sign of what seems to be our recent never-ending slide downwards?
Ted Menzies, MP: Shared with 'Ted' my concerns about his party and the standard they were setting. In this case, Ted got an earful (and probably more than he bargained for) but took it in good stride giving back as much as he was getting, but of course having the weaker argument due to his misguided beliefs, values, morals and ethics. But hey, what else do you expect from a politician? :-)
Shar Lazzaratto: The Manager of our local Community Futures office and I shared a few pleasantries at which time I noticed a tinge of blush on her cheeks (must be of the remembrance of all the fond moments we have shared together in the past on the political and economic battlefields of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass) that gave her pause? At which time Evan appeared...
Evan Berger, MLA: Asked Evan if he thought what happened in Quebec with the orange wave resulting in the NDP getting so many seats might happen here with the Wildrose doing the same thing? Said he hadn't thought of it that way but ya, who knows? Told him I thought his seat was safe but that we'll probably end up with a minority PC government with Wildrose as official opposition, and hopefully, the NDP and Liberals will land up with far more seats than they do now. That will serve the people better than what we have been getting with lopsided one party majority governments running things, accountable to no one but themselves.
Municipal 'union' employee: Employees both inside and out (CUPE) are beside themselves. Management has recently been served with several grievances (with more to come) in the midst of very contentious union/management negotiations for a new contract. It's getting uglier by the day, apparently. CAO Myron Thompson and CFO Marion Vanoni are thought to be the bad guys in this piece.
York Creek Lodge: Seems there is plenty of turmoil happening here with disgruntled employees and residents. Apparently 19 employees who were recently working there, are no longer doing so? Manager and Board have a revolt on their hands??
Municipal Councillors: None chose to talk to me, so I didn't disturb them from talking among themselves. :-( Or from sitting silently alone, looking forlornly, I'm thinking, to a better place and time? :-(
General Gossip: The community is going to hell in a basket. There is an actual hate for this mayor and council, including open hostility. The rumour has it that one councillor with his wife were booed at Sobey's, and days before that he was asked to leave Chris' Restaurant when making a disparaging remark about some locals being 'hillbillies'? Shocking!! To think some of our elected officials could think that some of our own fine upstanding 'Mountain people' (residents) could in fact be... dumb, redneck 'hillbillies'. Will the wonders never cease? :-)
Conclusion: There is definitely a lot of anger with this council, and in most people's minds the clock has already started ticking down for this gang.
What they need is a 'PRINCE' to safe them... but unfortunately, I don't do house calls. :-)
Show me someone who never gossips, and I'll show you someone who isn't interested in people.
Ted Menzies, MP: Shared with 'Ted' my concerns about his party and the standard they were setting. In this case, Ted got an earful (and probably more than he bargained for) but took it in good stride giving back as much as he was getting, but of course having the weaker argument due to his misguided beliefs, values, morals and ethics. But hey, what else do you expect from a politician? :-)
Shar Lazzaratto: The Manager of our local Community Futures office and I shared a few pleasantries at which time I noticed a tinge of blush on her cheeks (must be of the remembrance of all the fond moments we have shared together in the past on the political and economic battlefields of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass) that gave her pause? At which time Evan appeared...
Evan Berger, MLA: Asked Evan if he thought what happened in Quebec with the orange wave resulting in the NDP getting so many seats might happen here with the Wildrose doing the same thing? Said he hadn't thought of it that way but ya, who knows? Told him I thought his seat was safe but that we'll probably end up with a minority PC government with Wildrose as official opposition, and hopefully, the NDP and Liberals will land up with far more seats than they do now. That will serve the people better than what we have been getting with lopsided one party majority governments running things, accountable to no one but themselves.
Municipal 'union' employee: Employees both inside and out (CUPE) are beside themselves. Management has recently been served with several grievances (with more to come) in the midst of very contentious union/management negotiations for a new contract. It's getting uglier by the day, apparently. CAO Myron Thompson and CFO Marion Vanoni are thought to be the bad guys in this piece.
York Creek Lodge: Seems there is plenty of turmoil happening here with disgruntled employees and residents. Apparently 19 employees who were recently working there, are no longer doing so? Manager and Board have a revolt on their hands??
Municipal Councillors: None chose to talk to me, so I didn't disturb them from talking among themselves. :-( Or from sitting silently alone, looking forlornly, I'm thinking, to a better place and time? :-(
General Gossip: The community is going to hell in a basket. There is an actual hate for this mayor and council, including open hostility. The rumour has it that one councillor with his wife were booed at Sobey's, and days before that he was asked to leave Chris' Restaurant when making a disparaging remark about some locals being 'hillbillies'? Shocking!! To think some of our elected officials could think that some of our own fine upstanding 'Mountain people' (residents) could in fact be... dumb, redneck 'hillbillies'. Will the wonders never cease? :-)
Conclusion: There is definitely a lot of anger with this council, and in most people's minds the clock has already started ticking down for this gang.
What they need is a 'PRINCE' to safe them... but unfortunately, I don't do house calls. :-)
Show me someone who never gossips, and I'll show you someone who isn't interested in people.
100,000 visitors, and growing
Today I realized that as of the other day (April 11) I have been blogging here for the past 4 years.
In that time, I have had over 100,000 visitors. (Not bad for a hick in the sticks, hey! :-) ) Far more than any other local blog, where there maybe at times more chatter, but obviously far less substance. ;-)
Off to visit the Chamber of Commerce Trade Show at the Sportsplex.
People who disagree with me are ill-informed and have their views clouded by an unrealistic ideological agenda, while I am a clear-minded pragmatist.
In that time, I have had over 100,000 visitors. (Not bad for a hick in the sticks, hey! :-) ) Far more than any other local blog, where there maybe at times more chatter, but obviously far less substance. ;-)
Off to visit the Chamber of Commerce Trade Show at the Sportsplex.
People who disagree with me are ill-informed and have their views clouded by an unrealistic ideological agenda, while I am a clear-minded pragmatist.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Talk of the Town: Thunder in the Valley
Original Air Date: Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thunder in the Valley, a major fireworks display highlighting the annual Crowsnest Pass Rum Runner Days, has been cancelled for this summer. It's a decision by municipal council that has sparked fireworks of its own. Dan Rickard has started a petition to reverse the decision and light up the sky once again.
CTV - Talk of the Town: Thunder in the Valley
Where is the Thunder?
Never doubt that a small group of people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
Thunder in the Valley, a major fireworks display highlighting the annual Crowsnest Pass Rum Runner Days, has been cancelled for this summer. It's a decision by municipal council that has sparked fireworks of its own. Dan Rickard has started a petition to reverse the decision and light up the sky once again.
CTV - Talk of the Town: Thunder in the Valley
Where is the Thunder?
Never doubt that a small group of people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
Trying to stay positive but *shit* keeps happening
Went out into the community today with my wife and had breakfast (trying to be positive by spending money in the community). Then went to Rexall Drugs and spent more money. Finally ending up at Field's (which is going out of business) where my wife while there landed up buying (in addition to our other purchases - more money spent. Big time!) for me and her Badges for the Rodeo, from one of the young guys going door to door (with riders on horseback outside). At the same time in conversation while selling her our Badges he told her some negative news.
Now, up to this point, everything was positive for me... and my community. The bad news is this will be the last year for the Rodeo here in the Pass. Another blow! Due to a lack of volunteers and lack of interest from what I understand.
On top of this, I now know I will be paying more on my property taxes and who knows what else this council will come up with that will result in them having their greedy hands in my pockets due to the mismanagement of this municipality by the former mayor and his councils, and the excesses of our current mayor/council/administration.
But alas, the establishment types would have us ignore what is going on (as many of these same people did themselves for two decades with the previous establishment mayor that resulted in the mess that we now have that they suddenly want cleaned up 'overnight' at our expense, while at the same time taking away what little we had and enjoyed and instead think positive, happy thoughts. (These Gallant types make me want to puke!)
Pretty hard to think positive when so much negativity is pissing me off! Brought on by one form of government or another in my face, in my pockets, and too much in my life, period!
... but then I stop and think about all the positive things I have to be thankful for...
Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die, so, let us all be thankful.
Now, up to this point, everything was positive for me... and my community. The bad news is this will be the last year for the Rodeo here in the Pass. Another blow! Due to a lack of volunteers and lack of interest from what I understand.
On top of this, I now know I will be paying more on my property taxes and who knows what else this council will come up with that will result in them having their greedy hands in my pockets due to the mismanagement of this municipality by the former mayor and his councils, and the excesses of our current mayor/council/administration.
But alas, the establishment types would have us ignore what is going on (as many of these same people did themselves for two decades with the previous establishment mayor that resulted in the mess that we now have that they suddenly want cleaned up 'overnight' at our expense, while at the same time taking away what little we had and enjoyed and instead think positive, happy thoughts. (These Gallant types make me want to puke!)
Pretty hard to think positive when so much negativity is pissing me off! Brought on by one form of government or another in my face, in my pockets, and too much in my life, period!
... but then I stop and think about all the positive things I have to be thankful for...
Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die, so, let us all be thankful.
Crowsnest Pass Mill rate set for 2012
Crowsnest Pass Promoter
By Joni MacFarlane Editor
The 2012 mill rate passed first reading Friday morning with a 2.5 per cent increase. Property owners will see an increase on their tax bill to be sent out in the next couple of weeks. Depending on the assessed value of your property, this increase could be anywhere from $30 to $235 on residential properties and from $50 to $1,000 on commercial properties.
Second and third readings are scheduled for the next council meeting on Tuesday April 17.
Watch next week's Promoter for more details.
Comment: After all the hullabaloo on some local blogs that ate up more local bandwidth than the news of Thunder in the Valley being cancelled, we now know the sky is not falling with respect to our property taxes.
But the jury is still out on how much more we will be paying in other areas that council has the means and ability to raise additional revenues, such as electrical and water & sewer for example?
No man's life, liberty or property are safe while the legislature (council) is in session.
By Joni MacFarlane Editor
The 2012 mill rate passed first reading Friday morning with a 2.5 per cent increase. Property owners will see an increase on their tax bill to be sent out in the next couple of weeks. Depending on the assessed value of your property, this increase could be anywhere from $30 to $235 on residential properties and from $50 to $1,000 on commercial properties.
Second and third readings are scheduled for the next council meeting on Tuesday April 17.
Watch next week's Promoter for more details.
Comment: After all the hullabaloo on some local blogs that ate up more local bandwidth than the news of Thunder in the Valley being cancelled, we now know the sky is not falling with respect to our property taxes.
But the jury is still out on how much more we will be paying in other areas that council has the means and ability to raise additional revenues, such as electrical and water & sewer for example?
No man's life, liberty or property are safe while the legislature (council) is in session.
Support your local 'Thought Police'
Did that wake you up?
Few people are capable of expressing with equanimity opinions which differ from the prejudices of their social environment. Most people are even incapable of forming such opinions.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Former interim fire chief speaks out
Last month I did a post on Interm Fire Chief/Director of Protective Services Ken Brands quitting...
More dysfunction within our local government ranks
Just read this week's Promoter and saw the following news story by Joni MacFarlane that wasn't in their on-line news...
Former interim fire chief speaks out
Former Interim Fire Chief Ken Brands had a few words to say to council during the public hearing portion of the meeting on April 3.
"On behalf of myself, the office and the Fire Commissioner and the Crowsnest Pass Fire and Rescue Service, I wish to thank you for the support and approval of our operational plans and our more-with-less budget plans," said Brands. "With this vision and the enthusiasm and expertise so evident with the Fire and Rescue Service leaders, the level of service and dedication and proficiency of the members will grow."
Brands then attempted to relay his experience at an in-camera session that took place on Tuesday, March 20 shortly before his departure, but was stopped by Mayor Bruce Decoux.
The mayor told Brands he couldn't publicly talk about any discussions that took place in-camera. These sessions are not open to the press or the public.
Brands went on to describe comments he learned that went out to the public after that in-camera session.
Two days later, Brands said, he "requested confirmation of administrative support" but was told he would be called later. During that same morning, "it was brought to my attention that administration had been heard to relate how unprofessional and whining we had been at council on Tuesday night">
Brands said he tried again to get administration's support of his department's plan for the future.
"I asked twice and twice received no reply," he said. "At this point, I knew I could not continue and stated, I'm done and left."
Brands again thanked the mayor and council for their support.
"I ask you to please keep in mind that you have a Fire and Rescue service with great potential for growth and further service to the community."
COMMENT: Oh, what this man could say if only allowed to speak his mind and tell us all the dirt, intrique and backstabbing that goes on at these in-camera meetings?
As I have said before "when I was on council, I could count on one hand the number of in-camera meetings we had over a 3-year period". These guys we got now go in-camera at practically every council meeting, which suggests to me transparency, openness and individual accountability have gone the way of the dodo bird.
Obviously, too much Council business is being conducted behind closed doors, instead of out in the open as it is meant and should be. And this in large part is the main reason this community is so upset right now. People feel excluded from the process that affects their life's. They're demanding to be part of the process, not an after thought, but an integral player at the table.
Kudos to Ken Brands for stepping up to the plate in trying to do what so many before him were afraid to do i.e. speaking out.
Speak the truth, but leave immediately after.
More dysfunction within our local government ranks
Just read this week's Promoter and saw the following news story by Joni MacFarlane that wasn't in their on-line news...
Former interim fire chief speaks out
Former Interim Fire Chief Ken Brands had a few words to say to council during the public hearing portion of the meeting on April 3.
"On behalf of myself, the office and the Fire Commissioner and the Crowsnest Pass Fire and Rescue Service, I wish to thank you for the support and approval of our operational plans and our more-with-less budget plans," said Brands. "With this vision and the enthusiasm and expertise so evident with the Fire and Rescue Service leaders, the level of service and dedication and proficiency of the members will grow."
Brands then attempted to relay his experience at an in-camera session that took place on Tuesday, March 20 shortly before his departure, but was stopped by Mayor Bruce Decoux.
The mayor told Brands he couldn't publicly talk about any discussions that took place in-camera. These sessions are not open to the press or the public.
Brands went on to describe comments he learned that went out to the public after that in-camera session.
Two days later, Brands said, he "requested confirmation of administrative support" but was told he would be called later. During that same morning, "it was brought to my attention that administration had been heard to relate how unprofessional and whining we had been at council on Tuesday night">
Brands said he tried again to get administration's support of his department's plan for the future.
"I asked twice and twice received no reply," he said. "At this point, I knew I could not continue and stated, I'm done and left."
Brands again thanked the mayor and council for their support.
"I ask you to please keep in mind that you have a Fire and Rescue service with great potential for growth and further service to the community."
COMMENT: Oh, what this man could say if only allowed to speak his mind and tell us all the dirt, intrique and backstabbing that goes on at these in-camera meetings?
As I have said before "when I was on council, I could count on one hand the number of in-camera meetings we had over a 3-year period". These guys we got now go in-camera at practically every council meeting, which suggests to me transparency, openness and individual accountability have gone the way of the dodo bird.
Obviously, too much Council business is being conducted behind closed doors, instead of out in the open as it is meant and should be. And this in large part is the main reason this community is so upset right now. People feel excluded from the process that affects their life's. They're demanding to be part of the process, not an after thought, but an integral player at the table.
Kudos to Ken Brands for stepping up to the plate in trying to do what so many before him were afraid to do i.e. speaking out.
Speak the truth, but leave immediately after.
The Pincher Creek Voice: Meet the Candidates
Visiting The Pincher Creek Voice I see they have profile information on at least two candidates running in our upcoming provincial election.
One of whom is incumbent Evan Berger for the Conservatives. And surprisingly, a local Pass boy by the name of Matthew Halton (nephew of the Matthew Halton school Haltons) for the NDP.
Will be watching the provincial leadership election debate this evening, which starts at 6:30 pm. A good chance to see who's who, and what's what.
Anticipation high for Alberta leaders' debate
p.s. For those interested in visiting The Pincher Creek Voice from this blog in future, you can do so from a link I have just put up on my sidebar under Interesting 'Pass Blogs.
UPDATE:
Just been informed by way of email that "This Matthew is actually a great-nephew of THE Matthew Halton of CBC war correspondent fame".
Elections are won by men and women chiefly because most people vote against somebody rather than for somebody.
One of whom is incumbent Evan Berger for the Conservatives. And surprisingly, a local Pass boy by the name of Matthew Halton (nephew of the Matthew Halton school Haltons) for the NDP.
Will be watching the provincial leadership election debate this evening, which starts at 6:30 pm. A good chance to see who's who, and what's what.
Anticipation high for Alberta leaders' debate
p.s. For those interested in visiting The Pincher Creek Voice from this blog in future, you can do so from a link I have just put up on my sidebar under Interesting 'Pass Blogs.
UPDATE:
Just been informed by way of email that "This Matthew is actually a great-nephew of THE Matthew Halton of CBC war correspondent fame".
Elections are won by men and women chiefly because most people vote against somebody rather than for somebody.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Mayor and Council must explain themselves
Having a few unexpected days off work I purchased (as some of you know, a rarity with me) the Pass Herald (as I have done for several weeks now) to find even more letters to the editor from disgruntled residents over how our municipality is being managed these days with over-paid consultants running things, and a Mayor and Council who appear to be missing in action?
On this last point, Dick and Susan Burgman write "... we cannot understand why we haven't heard a single word from Council about these recent events and the public outrage around them. Not a press release, not a public meeting, nor any other attempt to explain themselves..."
Another person who wants answers on our behalf is Dan Rickard whose website I linked to here previously on this blog in an earlier post. Today, Dan contacted me by email with a link Thunder in the Valley cancelled of a CBC.ca Radio interview he did yesterday.
It seems 'Pompous Bruce' (as he is fondly referred to by his admirers) and his band of miscreant 'followers' on council (who like to tax-penalty poor people out of their homes, while also setting up the apparatus to 'Revenue Police' (Peace Officers) us to death here, in their new 'police state') have nothing to say?? "Not available for comment". Yet resident/taxpayers want and demand answers?
Having nothing to say by elected officials is just not good enough! Mayor and Council must explain themselves!... We must have accountability!!... Anything else short of this is plain bureaucratic BS!!!
Bureaucracy defends the status quo long past the time when the quo has lost its status.
On this last point, Dick and Susan Burgman write "... we cannot understand why we haven't heard a single word from Council about these recent events and the public outrage around them. Not a press release, not a public meeting, nor any other attempt to explain themselves..."
Another person who wants answers on our behalf is Dan Rickard whose website I linked to here previously on this blog in an earlier post. Today, Dan contacted me by email with a link Thunder in the Valley cancelled of a CBC.ca Radio interview he did yesterday.
It seems 'Pompous Bruce' (as he is fondly referred to by his admirers) and his band of miscreant 'followers' on council (who like to tax-penalty poor people out of their homes, while also setting up the apparatus to 'Revenue Police' (Peace Officers) us to death here, in their new 'police state') have nothing to say?? "Not available for comment". Yet resident/taxpayers want and demand answers?
Having nothing to say by elected officials is just not good enough! Mayor and Council must explain themselves!... We must have accountability!!... Anything else short of this is plain bureaucratic BS!!!
Bureaucracy defends the status quo long past the time when the quo has lost its status.
Growth and Development: 'old school vs new school'
I see in this week's Promoter - Passburg rezoning turned down that council turned down yet another development project along what appears to be 'old school vs new school' grounds i.e. Mayor Decoux with Councillors Lonsbury and Mitchell voting to defeat the bylaw, in a tied vote (because Councillor Saje, once again, missed a council meeting (there are only two a month?)), with Councillors Saindon, Gallant and Gail voting in favour.
One has to wonder how much more business and development will this current council chase away before they are done?
Also, I wonder if the old school would have voted the way they did if the developer in this case were a... Cervo... for example?
More 'mixed messages' that are killing this community.
The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, 'I'm from the government and I'm here to help.'
One has to wonder how much more business and development will this current council chase away before they are done?
Also, I wonder if the old school would have voted the way they did if the developer in this case were a... Cervo... for example?
More 'mixed messages' that are killing this community.
The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, 'I'm from the government and I'm here to help.'
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
When you're just 'not' good enough to be part of the 'in-crowd'
Having read Sasha JaegerBaird's blog post Feeling Pushed Out one has to wonder if our municipal boards and committees are now for the 'politically connected' only? i.e. wife's and friends of Mayor and Councillors.
I have spoken out before on how 'class' and 'privilege' run the roost here in the Pass. About elites running things for their sole benefit (at our expense) with no better example of this than our local Community Futures (CF) operation. Now it seems municipal boards and committees are going the way of CF in being an elite, secretive and self-serving 'old-boys club'.
Have the suits taken over our municipality? Are our boards/committees to be made up of the elite, the educated and the entitled only, with the rest of us excluded by them? Or will the odd one of us from the wrong side of the tracks be allowed in, occasionally, as Sasha apparently was, as mere 'window dressing'?
This community for sometime has been run and is headed towards a class society of the haves and have not's, the politically connected and those who are not, the elites and the great unwashed.
Occasionally one of us gains entry and all hell breaks loose with the establishment, who feeling threatened unleash their yellow journalists to shout from the roof tops that anarchy is upon us and that the barbarians are at the gates, and must be stopped at all costs and by whatever means necessary. They are oblivious to the world around them, living as they do a sheltered life of privilege from want and need, and as such lack understanding of those not of their kind. As a result, new blood that will create the change needed and desired in this community is plucked from the ground, and society's chance at blossoming is crushed before even given a chance to germinate.
No matter where you look today you will see governments made up of these people in trouble (municipal, provincial and federal) because of their major disconnect with the people due to their insufferable arrogance and ignorance of the average person's plight these days.
Inflation is killing people and the gouging and fleecing by corporations and financial institutions goes on unabated. Milk is up to $6.29 plus the recycling fee of $0.05 and deposit of $0.25 and milk today cost $6.59. Now add a loaf of bread to that and that's one hour's wages for that average person working at Timmy's or Wal-Mart, or any other of those growing minimum wage type jobs, corporations with the help of their (not ours) bought and paid for government(s), provide to people these days.
Meanwhile, we continue to allow these so-called 'elites' to keep on running things on our behalf, instead of putting people of our own kind in power... and then supporting them once in. People who not only know a thing or two about the real world most of us now live in, but who have life experience, common-sense, moral and ethical understanding, and a real desire and commitment to change things for the better for ordinary people, to boot... people, such as Sasha.
A committee can make a decision that is dumber than any of its members.
I have spoken out before on how 'class' and 'privilege' run the roost here in the Pass. About elites running things for their sole benefit (at our expense) with no better example of this than our local Community Futures (CF) operation. Now it seems municipal boards and committees are going the way of CF in being an elite, secretive and self-serving 'old-boys club'.
Have the suits taken over our municipality? Are our boards/committees to be made up of the elite, the educated and the entitled only, with the rest of us excluded by them? Or will the odd one of us from the wrong side of the tracks be allowed in, occasionally, as Sasha apparently was, as mere 'window dressing'?
This community for sometime has been run and is headed towards a class society of the haves and have not's, the politically connected and those who are not, the elites and the great unwashed.
Occasionally one of us gains entry and all hell breaks loose with the establishment, who feeling threatened unleash their yellow journalists to shout from the roof tops that anarchy is upon us and that the barbarians are at the gates, and must be stopped at all costs and by whatever means necessary. They are oblivious to the world around them, living as they do a sheltered life of privilege from want and need, and as such lack understanding of those not of their kind. As a result, new blood that will create the change needed and desired in this community is plucked from the ground, and society's chance at blossoming is crushed before even given a chance to germinate.
No matter where you look today you will see governments made up of these people in trouble (municipal, provincial and federal) because of their major disconnect with the people due to their insufferable arrogance and ignorance of the average person's plight these days.
Inflation is killing people and the gouging and fleecing by corporations and financial institutions goes on unabated. Milk is up to $6.29 plus the recycling fee of $0.05 and deposit of $0.25 and milk today cost $6.59. Now add a loaf of bread to that and that's one hour's wages for that average person working at Timmy's or Wal-Mart, or any other of those growing minimum wage type jobs, corporations with the help of their (not ours) bought and paid for government(s), provide to people these days.
Meanwhile, we continue to allow these so-called 'elites' to keep on running things on our behalf, instead of putting people of our own kind in power... and then supporting them once in. People who not only know a thing or two about the real world most of us now live in, but who have life experience, common-sense, moral and ethical understanding, and a real desire and commitment to change things for the better for ordinary people, to boot... people, such as Sasha.
A committee can make a decision that is dumber than any of its members.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Poll: New liquor store in Frank
To the left is a new Poll that you can take part in on whether Mayor and Council should approve the establishment of a new liquor store at Fas Gas in Frank, up the street from an existing liquor store.
See my previous post on this issue...
Competition, or no competition? That is the question
Sometimes what's right isn't as important as what's profitable.
See my previous post on this issue...
Competition, or no competition? That is the question
Sometimes what's right isn't as important as what's profitable.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Did you get on your knees and pray for forgiveness?
I'm talking to you Mayor and Council. For thee are sinners in the eyes of the people who you have betrayed and spurned. Judgement day is upon you (in eighteen months, to be precise) unless thee repent and mend thy ways.
Pretty heavy stuff for Easter, hey? :-)
But in all seriousness, we are all responsible for what we do (our actions) and eventually we must all pay the piper, so to speak.
Unless, we mend our ways and learn to be kind to our friends and neighbours (residents), instead of treating them as the enemy... or worse yet, as children. For it has been said, "kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear".
When we treat our neighbours as they deserve to be treated, we make them even worse; when we treat them as if they were who we wish they were, we improve them.
Pretty heavy stuff for Easter, hey? :-)
But in all seriousness, we are all responsible for what we do (our actions) and eventually we must all pay the piper, so to speak.
Unless, we mend our ways and learn to be kind to our friends and neighbours (residents), instead of treating them as the enemy... or worse yet, as children. For it has been said, "kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear".
When we treat our neighbours as they deserve to be treated, we make them even worse; when we treat them as if they were who we wish they were, we improve them.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Competition, or no competition? That is the question
Received the following email request today...
Mr. Prince,
I wrote a letter to the editor for both the Crowsnest Pass Herald and the Pass Promoter, but unfortunately missed the deadlines for both (as I was only recently made aware of the issue I write about below). I would like to get the word out about a decision that is to be made by Council on April 17 and am hoping that you might find the content of my letter appropriate for sharing with the readers on your blog. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Thanks!
Dana
Dear Editor:
My name is Dana Tartal, and my father-in-law is Matt Tartal, owner of Frankslide Liquor in Frank, AB. I am writing to ensure that the residents and business owners of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass are aware of the potential consequences of a decision that is set to be made by Council via Public Hearing at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2012. These consequences will impact not only my father-in-law and his business, but also the other residents and business owners of Crowsnest Pass alike.
If approved, Bylaw No. 844, 2012, would allow a liquor store to be built along Hwy. 3 in Frank, adjacent to the current locations of the Fast Gas and A&W restaurant… and less than 500 metres east of an existing liquor store in a community of only 263 residents (many of whom are minors)!
Now, I encourage you to ask yourself whether or not the approval of Bylaw 844 would be a good idea for your community and your family. As a small-town mother and business owner myself, I would propose that it would be reckless and irresponsible for several reasons; to be fair, let’s look at both the positive and negative impacts of this decision.
The benefits
The owner of the proposed liquor store would enjoy his or her share of profits, and the municipality would receive increased tax revenues (at least until the weaker of the two liquor stores closes down). While a certain amount of competition is healthy and vital to a free market economy, there is a threshold at which point the supply outweighs the existing demand. In this case, there are some significant negative impacts that could result.
The collateral damage
The proximity and density of liquor stores in an area should be of particular importance to a community. There are many influential municipalities (including Edmonton, AB) who have already imposed bylaws specifically limiting the proximity of liquor stores in order to protect the wellbeing of community members as well as competing businesses. High densities of liquor stores in a particular area could result in increased Gaming and Liquor Act offenses. With greater competition comes an increased risk of selling liquor to minors in order to maintain revenues.
The approval of Bylaw 844 is akin to placing two A&W restaurants right beside each other. First of all, the franchise would never allow it because it simply doesn’t make sense; secondly, the two businesses sell the exact same products from the same distributors. In Alberta, the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission strictly regulates and controls all liquor products available for resale in the province. This means we’re not talking Teen Burgers versus Big Macs. Both liquor stores only have access to identical products, completely inhibiting the opportunity to differentiate oneself from the competition.
The proposed liquor store is also less than a 30 second drive from the existing liquor store in Frank. This is the gateway to the municipality for all westbound traffic into the community. How will this impact the perception of the travelling public and tourists alike? The municipality is currently reviewing the popular Thunder in the Valley event because of the risk to public safety; however, approving Bylaw 844 would create an image that this is a ‘party’ community.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, approval of Bylaw 844 would be in non-compliance with numerous policies outlined in the Crowsnest Pass’ Municipal Development Plan (MDP). Bylaw 844 requires a Land Use Bylaw amendment because a liquor store is not a prohibited use on a C-2 zoned lot; however, MDP Policy 9.4 states that “when land use bylaw amendments are proposed to accommodate new commercial uses, consideration shall be made to existing and adjacent land use patterns in the area.” Accordingly, having two liquor stores practically side-by-side should not warrant an approved amendment.
Additionally, MDP policies state that the municipality will “support existing local businesses”, “protect existing (commercial) developments”, and “attempt to manage adverse impacts on adjacent activities”. It is clear that approving Bylaw 844 will set dangerous precedence by conveying that the municipality will contravene its own policies, putting all local businesses at risk.
Would this new liquor store serve a need in the community that currently isn’t being met by the five liquor stores already operating throughout the municipality? Whether or not you agree with the statements I’ve made above, it’s important that you talk about this upcoming decision with your family, friends and colleagues. Evaluate the implications it may have on the social and business environment of the community, and how it may impact your family. Have your voice heard on April 17.
Dana Tartal
Mayerthorpe, AB
UPDATE: - April 06
Just read this week's Promoter and found the following in relation to the above...
Land use amended to include liquor stores
A land use bylaw that permits liquor stores was unanimously approved for first reading by council at the March 20 meeting.
Development Officer Ryan Dyck reported to council that the amendment to allow liquor stores on C-2 Drive-in Commercial land "is not expected to have undesirable repercussions" and is generally thought to be acceptable.
Dcyk said the issue was brought to light when an application was submitted to accommodate a future development permit at the Fas Gas in Frank.
He also noted that if council has "concerns about the proliferation of liquor stores or concerns about the compatibility of land uses adjacent to liquor stores, these concerns could be employed in the forthcoming Land Use Bylaw".
When the defining moment comes along, you define the moment or the moment defines you.
Mr. Prince,
I wrote a letter to the editor for both the Crowsnest Pass Herald and the Pass Promoter, but unfortunately missed the deadlines for both (as I was only recently made aware of the issue I write about below). I would like to get the word out about a decision that is to be made by Council on April 17 and am hoping that you might find the content of my letter appropriate for sharing with the readers on your blog. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Thanks!
Dana
Dear Editor:
My name is Dana Tartal, and my father-in-law is Matt Tartal, owner of Frankslide Liquor in Frank, AB. I am writing to ensure that the residents and business owners of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass are aware of the potential consequences of a decision that is set to be made by Council via Public Hearing at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2012. These consequences will impact not only my father-in-law and his business, but also the other residents and business owners of Crowsnest Pass alike.
If approved, Bylaw No. 844, 2012, would allow a liquor store to be built along Hwy. 3 in Frank, adjacent to the current locations of the Fast Gas and A&W restaurant… and less than 500 metres east of an existing liquor store in a community of only 263 residents (many of whom are minors)!
Now, I encourage you to ask yourself whether or not the approval of Bylaw 844 would be a good idea for your community and your family. As a small-town mother and business owner myself, I would propose that it would be reckless and irresponsible for several reasons; to be fair, let’s look at both the positive and negative impacts of this decision.
The benefits
The owner of the proposed liquor store would enjoy his or her share of profits, and the municipality would receive increased tax revenues (at least until the weaker of the two liquor stores closes down). While a certain amount of competition is healthy and vital to a free market economy, there is a threshold at which point the supply outweighs the existing demand. In this case, there are some significant negative impacts that could result.
The collateral damage
The proximity and density of liquor stores in an area should be of particular importance to a community. There are many influential municipalities (including Edmonton, AB) who have already imposed bylaws specifically limiting the proximity of liquor stores in order to protect the wellbeing of community members as well as competing businesses. High densities of liquor stores in a particular area could result in increased Gaming and Liquor Act offenses. With greater competition comes an increased risk of selling liquor to minors in order to maintain revenues.
The approval of Bylaw 844 is akin to placing two A&W restaurants right beside each other. First of all, the franchise would never allow it because it simply doesn’t make sense; secondly, the two businesses sell the exact same products from the same distributors. In Alberta, the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission strictly regulates and controls all liquor products available for resale in the province. This means we’re not talking Teen Burgers versus Big Macs. Both liquor stores only have access to identical products, completely inhibiting the opportunity to differentiate oneself from the competition.
The proposed liquor store is also less than a 30 second drive from the existing liquor store in Frank. This is the gateway to the municipality for all westbound traffic into the community. How will this impact the perception of the travelling public and tourists alike? The municipality is currently reviewing the popular Thunder in the Valley event because of the risk to public safety; however, approving Bylaw 844 would create an image that this is a ‘party’ community.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, approval of Bylaw 844 would be in non-compliance with numerous policies outlined in the Crowsnest Pass’ Municipal Development Plan (MDP). Bylaw 844 requires a Land Use Bylaw amendment because a liquor store is not a prohibited use on a C-2 zoned lot; however, MDP Policy 9.4 states that “when land use bylaw amendments are proposed to accommodate new commercial uses, consideration shall be made to existing and adjacent land use patterns in the area.” Accordingly, having two liquor stores practically side-by-side should not warrant an approved amendment.
Additionally, MDP policies state that the municipality will “support existing local businesses”, “protect existing (commercial) developments”, and “attempt to manage adverse impacts on adjacent activities”. It is clear that approving Bylaw 844 will set dangerous precedence by conveying that the municipality will contravene its own policies, putting all local businesses at risk.
Would this new liquor store serve a need in the community that currently isn’t being met by the five liquor stores already operating throughout the municipality? Whether or not you agree with the statements I’ve made above, it’s important that you talk about this upcoming decision with your family, friends and colleagues. Evaluate the implications it may have on the social and business environment of the community, and how it may impact your family. Have your voice heard on April 17.
Dana Tartal
Mayerthorpe, AB
UPDATE: - April 06
Just read this week's Promoter and found the following in relation to the above...
Land use amended to include liquor stores
A land use bylaw that permits liquor stores was unanimously approved for first reading by council at the March 20 meeting.
Development Officer Ryan Dyck reported to council that the amendment to allow liquor stores on C-2 Drive-in Commercial land "is not expected to have undesirable repercussions" and is generally thought to be acceptable.
Dcyk said the issue was brought to light when an application was submitted to accommodate a future development permit at the Fas Gas in Frank.
He also noted that if council has "concerns about the proliferation of liquor stores or concerns about the compatibility of land uses adjacent to liquor stores, these concerns could be employed in the forthcoming Land Use Bylaw".
When the defining moment comes along, you define the moment or the moment defines you.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
What I think...
Even during my hey days on council (when I was shaking things up with the establishment) do I ever recall such universal hate and resentment by residents with their mayor and council.. and where they are taking us.
In my opinion, what is transpiring here is a classic case of Class Warfare. The elites here want to continue running things for them and their kind. They want regression bordering on depression (but not for them and their kind, who already are, or will soon be, receiving some form of lucrative government pension i.e. teachers, police, politicians, bureaucrats, etc., etc. (something the Pass has an unusual abundance of i.e. former public servants).
They want things to remain as is, along the lines of what we have had, and still are i.e. backwards. Progress disturbs their thing. Such as, Thunder in the Valley. Too much success, noise and bad elements for these people. This small group, with more of their kind on council doing their bidding, has to-date successfully run ram-shod over the majority in this community. In fact, over the vast majority of people here and in Southern Alberta/B.C. They have decided for us that it is just to bad, we can learn to do without. So sad, too bad, but like it or not, that is how things go here i.e. the 1% rule and the rest of us suck it up.
But this time I think the establishment got it all wrong and went to far. When compared to my Council/Ratepayer days, I see a marked difference between then and now. The biggest difference is the 99% are united as one in their collective condemnation, and are saying 'enough is enough'.
But alas, it appears as though mayor and council still do not get the message, being still in a state of denial.
What's it going to take to both wake them up, and smarten them up?
Meanwhile in the valley, we are being asked to be less negative and more positive. Pretty hard to be positive when so much negative things are happening all around you, almost daily. With so much selfishness being perpetrated by the elite in a community starving for more, having had so little for so long under the former mayor and now what little we had is being taken away from us, the present council's request makes me think of the following quote...
They are all masters at pissing on our leg, and then while smiling, tell us "it must be raining!"
Make Shit Happen: Mobilizing the Power of the People is what I hear out there loud and clear. Soon the roar I suspect will be so loud that even mayor and council will literally be blown away by it. For tyranny here has ruled for far too long and the people are not going to take it anymore with this new bunch. 'Freedom' is no longer just a word anymore for the residents here, for 'Police State' is now in our vocabulary. Considering they now are already calling the shots as to what we can and cannot do, such as no more TITV!!
p.s. Most of you can sit on your ass and do nothing, not even comment, but as it has been said "you cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today".
The modern conservative is engaged in one of man’s oldest exercises in moral philosophy; that is, the search for a superior moral justification for selfishness.
And the hits keep on comin'
Just spoke to my 'media' guy who tells me our Devon Gas Plant in Coleman is closing their doors, having served their employees with notice yesterday.
This is a 'HUGE' hit for the Pass. 30-odd 'good paying' jobs soon to be gone, as well as an excellent corporate citizen and major sponsor of a host of activities and events will be no more. The amount of dollars in lost tax revenue, spending in the community by this company and its employees, will definitely be felt. Its impact on our community psychologically will be enormous.
People are saying that the recent actions of Mayor and Council are turning us into a ghost town. Not far off the mark when you consider this latest hit, now is it?
Life is just one damned thing after another.
This is a 'HUGE' hit for the Pass. 30-odd 'good paying' jobs soon to be gone, as well as an excellent corporate citizen and major sponsor of a host of activities and events will be no more. The amount of dollars in lost tax revenue, spending in the community by this company and its employees, will definitely be felt. Its impact on our community psychologically will be enormous.
People are saying that the recent actions of Mayor and Council are turning us into a ghost town. Not far off the mark when you consider this latest hit, now is it?
Life is just one damned thing after another.
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