In September or October of 2018, City Council will vote on an initiative called the Community Representation Framework. The outcome of this vote will likely have a significant effect on the current role of community associations.
Today, Calgary has 200+ community associations. The proposed framework would implement a new district or regional model, decreasing from 200+ to 80 associations.
While there may be some benefits to a district or regional model, we want to ensure that community associations maintain a key and central role in acting on behalf of their respective communities to continue carrying out the three traditional roles historically identified by the City of Calgary:
- Local amenity provider (community events, recreation, etc.)
- Local planning advisor (providing input into land use and development, and communicating to the community)
- Community/neighbourhood advocate
Community associations act on behalf of residents to create opportunities to have their voices heard and to maintain the distinctive nature of their communities, and it is likely that this new framework would affect their ability to do so. We encourage residents to become informed and contact their city councillor and community association with any questions or concerns.
Article provided courtesy of the Hounsfield Heights-Briar Hill Community Association. Further information on the Community Representation Framework can be found here.
