Airdrie council sets strategic priorities

Council unanimously approved its 2013 Strategic Priorities, May 7.

Focusing on economic, environmental and social sustainability, this year’s priorities include:

• Well-managed growth – the City will design and plan its newly annexed lands, sequencing provision of infrastructure to support commercial and industrial development.

• Customer service – Airdrie will increase web-based options for customers with the goal of saving them time and money.

• Fiscal balance – The City will educate citizens about the true costs of services, infrastructure and programs. It will also try to maximize operational efficiencies and implement an asset management strategy.

• Social sustainability – Airdrie will advocate for post-secondary and specialized learning opportunities and for health-care options in the city.

• Economic prosperity – The municipality hopes to attract businesses to offset residential taxes and provide employment opportunities.

• Arts and culture in motion – Airdrie will continue to support community arts and cultural events.

• Environmental stewardship – Through education, the City hopes to reduce the amount of water used and waste produced.

Each year, council’s Strategic Priorities drive the organization’s direction, business planning and budgeting for the next year.

This year, council considered input provided by residents, the community café, the environmental scan and various socio-economic and political indicators when deciding on their priorities.