The new council and mayor of Rossland are doing a fantastic job sticking to their guns and listening to everything the public has to say.
It is great to see this group stepping forward and inviting the public to brainstorming events and council meetings, especially in light of all the things going on. From aging infrastructure leading to tax increases to in-house troubles with staff and the like it could possibly be easier for council to go about things a little quieter but they were voted in on an assumption of change and engagement and so far there have been no let-downs there.
Not only do these city officials deserve recognition for their tireless work — some work separate jobs while still putting in 30-plus hours in for the city — but the public is greatly in need of some congratulation too.
At last week’s Thoughtexchange, a surprising number of people turned up to express their opinions. This was quite shocking as usually when it comes time for budget discussion one can hear a pin drop in the room. Bravo Rosslanders.
Even mayoral candidate and ex-councillor Jill Spearn’s letter to council and subsequent appearance at the last meeting deserves some degree of praise. Her intentions were not ill-willed but only those of a concerned citizen wishing the best for her city and the ones she worked so closely with and grew to know over her years on council.
Perhaps situations akin to Spearn’s can be avoided in the future if mayor and council continue their open and welcoming approach. As time goes on and more issues are addressed, it would be great to see council continue on their path of openness and engagement.
All municipalities could learn to gain something by taking a look at Rossland’s fresh council mandate.
