FCSS update

Shannon LeClair

Times Reporter

 

Catherine Walsh, Strathmore FCSS Coordinator, gave her first progress report to council at the April 3 meeting. FCSS has been in its new office since Feb. 4, and are sharing the space with Home Care and Bow Valley College. There is additional office space for agencies that are supported in kind, like the Christmas Hamper Society. A meet-and-greet was held on March 6 for the interagency groups. In the future FCSS plans on forming a working coalition with those groups to determine gaps in the programs and to reduce duplication of services being offered. 

“The transition of the Home Support Services program has gone smoothly. We are functioning in a similar manner, and offering the same services as were previously offered,” said Walsh. 

On March 26 there was a seniors tea held in the afternoon, and April 2 to 5 there was the Spring Adventure Quest held for kids ages 6-12. 

There will be an open house held on April 18 at the Strathmore FCSS offices from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., which is open to everyone. 

Walsh said FCSS will continue to work collaboratively with community groups. Currently they are working with Bow Valley College, on different learning experiences and The Youth Club of Strathmore on partnering on future programs. 

 

FortisAlberta agreement changes 

FortisAlberta representative Alison Thomas spoke at the April 3 regular Town Council meeting about the renewal of the Electric Distribution System Franchise Agreement. Fortis was requesting that the Town begin the process of terminating the old agreement, and complete the process to executive the new franchise agreement. Benefits from the new agreement include providing information about revenue from the distribution and transmission revenue by Sept. 1 of each year, allowing the municipality to budget and predict revenue. Fortis must obtain approval for all planned work within the municipality for work estimated at $100,000 or more. Any projects below that amount Fortis must provide written notice to the municipality. There are benefits to Fortis as well, which include the exclusivity if providing power to the community, and a long-term agreement that allows Fortis to secure low interest long-term debt. 

Council approved the new Electric Distribution System Franchise Agreement. 

 

Logo launch 

The Town of Strathmore recently changed its logo. The new logo was formally presented at the April 3 meeting.  The logo design cost the town $6,000 to have created. That cost does not include having it put onto sign to be displayed at the east and west entrance points into the town. 

“I think it’s a really unique and attractive sign and logo, and I know change is difficult and people aren’t really happy with change, and no disrespect to the previous logo but I think this is a really good showcase for our town,” said Councillor Pat Fule. 

He said council has been trying to be progressive and he thinks the new logo will look good at the Town’s two main entrance points. Most of council was happy to see the new logo, and are looking forward to it being displayed for people driving through to see.