Half as many attend sequel

Council is expected to report next month whether the recommendations put forward and voted on by citizens in attendance at the second Patricia Street predicament meeting will be put into action.

With about 40 people at Tuesday night’s meeting, half as many attended the sequel as did the first on May 22.

The 125 ideas collected at the first meeting were grouped into categories and the attendees divided into groups to come up with one list of suggestions that could be implemented quickly, and a list of those that would have a strong impact.

For each suggestion, the group decided how and when it would be implemented, and by whom.

They narrowed the list down to the top 25 solutions, then individuals voted on their favourite three.

The highest rated solution with 12 votes was better communication for bars and RCMP, which included suggestions such as more police in bars, radio systems to connect bar managers, and meetings between law enforcement and bar managers.

Other top ideas were to enforce existing bylaws and laws, improve communication between bar staff and patrons, and develop awareness campaigns and an orientation program.

Mayor Richard Ireland said discussions are an important part of the problem-solving process.

“Talk is absolutely crucial,” he said. “Before we act, we have to apply some thought, talk is going to be a fundamental issue.”

At the beginning of the night, facilitator Rick Moyse from Alberta Community Development asked the group for its opinions on the previous meeting.

“It was oriented to the kids who work here,” Bette Weir said. “There was no satisfaction at all.”

“I thought how it was handled was good,” Anna Marie Couture said. “But things I heard are things I’ve heard for years, it’s nothing new.”

After giving the attendees a chance to develop their suggestions, Ireland acknowledged the frustration initially felt by some.

“I am particularly enthused by people who expressed frustration and dissatisfaction, thank you for coming back,” he said. “It really has been an important exchange.”