Counting the value of a census

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

The Town of Strathmore’s 2017 Municipal Census is on hold until discussion resolves some of Strathmore town council’s questions on the census and citizen’s survey.
If approved, census takers would be knocking on doors prior to the end of April and presenting a citizen’s survey with the census call.
“Council has budgeted funds in the 2017 budget to conduct a Strathmore census. Because it is a snapshot in a specific time, council must set a date and all questions and data will affect that date,” said Jennifer Sawatzky, legislative service coordinator for the Town of Strathmore.
Some discussion at the March 1 town council meeting centred on whether a census or survey was needed; and if done, what costs would be incurred.
Previously a yearly census was conducted, but is only required every three years. The 2015 Strathmore census was the last one completed.
“I take into consideration the fact that we’ve only recently received the results of the federal census and I question the value of doing another municipal census so soon after the federal census,” said Coun. Bob Sobol. “The more important part of this is, perhaps seeking input from our population in regards to questions that are known as a citizen’s survey. I really suggest that we wait a year, so that we can give our new council an opportunity to go to the public with questions they may have.”
Councillor Denise Peterson commented on the process and implementation of the debate.
“We should set up a regular strategic plan for a census that reflects the federal census and to work within that structure. I don’t like making the decision of when a sitting council stops making decisions. It’s an impossible question for me. You have to continue the business, “she noted.
Strathmore town administration said many communities find a local census reflects more numbers than the federal census. They reminded council that provincial and federal money is awarded on a per capita basis, so accurate numbers are essential. The 2016 federal census states Strathmore has a population of 13,756, an 11 per cent increase from 2011, with 5,358 private dwellings.
The federal census also may not provide specific breakdowns for municipal areas in Alberta, or cover some subject matter that could be important to local decision making.
“The provincial government bases their funding dollars on a population basis,” said Sawatzky. “The benefit of doing a census in any year is with the more population there is more funding.”
Mayor Michael Ell added that census/survey costs might be recouped through additional funding generated by new census numbers.
“My thinking is, it’s been budgeted for, we know the costs, we’ve discussed it, we planned for it and it would give a new council new information that would allow them to make good decisions,” said Coun. Pat Fule. “It is not just about citizen population, it is also about citizen surveys that could help with programming and other things.”
Fule said a delay would postpone information into 2018 and put the new council at a disadvantage.
Council decided further discussion would take place at the Committee of the Whole on March 8. Discussion will also cover survey questions. Council decision moves to the March 15 council meeting. Both meetings are open to the public.