Town re-examining standards of services and service levels

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Town of Strathmore council is conducting its annual review of its standards and expectations of local services and service levels, aiming to see where improvements may be necessary.

Presented by Kara Rusk before the Committee of the Whole, April 8, the Service and Services Levels Inventory Review was indicated to not be seeking any decisions or approval at the time, but rather to review how services and service levels are defined, align with strategic priorities, and fiscal direction.

“Service levels are at the strategic level that set the standards and benchmarks that define the quality and quantity of the services to be provided by the town,” said Rusk. “How it gets done still remains with administration to align with the expectations and standards that are set by council and in alignment with the budget.”

For example, should council wish to change the standard on the frequency of grass cutting throughout the town, that falls within the inventory; however, the method by which this is accomplished remains with administration to align with council’s expectations.

Rusk explained the current goal is to transition the town towards priority-based budgeting and further refine the current service inventory system, which is still effectively in its infancy. 

Work on the service level inventory began following the previous council’s approval in January 2024. 

In June 2025, administration brought forward the initial “Beta” version of the inventory, serving as a starting point and a proof of concept.

“Council had an opportunity at that time to provide feedback to refine the structure, clarity, and alignment with its strategic priorities,” added Rusk.

The adoption of the initial inventory took place in July, serving as the foundational framework, and representing an important first step towards more transparent service planning with budgeting and fiscal sustainability.

Priority-based budgeting refers to an outcomes-driven approach, allocating resources based on efficacy of programs and services in order to achieve the town’s highest priorities as opposed to simply increasing the overall budget; and by extension, creating higher taxes for residents and businesses.

This was outlined by the current council as one of its strategic priorities in the new plan they developed for the current term.

Any service level changes which are approved during a future council meeting will be incorporated into the 2027 budget in order to align with service level expectations set by council. 

Following Rusk’s presentation, council noted interest in a more expansive snow removal program, and service improvements regarding alleyway maintenance as current points of interest for when the inventory review returns for approval.