Revisiting Compensation: Olds Town Council's Path Forward

Table of Contents

Olds Council Considers Changes to Remuneration Policy

In a recent development, the Olds town council convened on June 10 to discuss crucial recommendations concerning remuneration for its members. This pivotal meeting marked the beginning of a thorough review process set to continue into the fall. At the heart of these discussions were recommendations put forward by the Citizens’ Committee on Council Remuneration (CCCR), which presented its findings in a detailed report on May 13.

Recommendations and Discussions

The CCCR, represented by committee members Patrick Martens and former town councillor Debbie Bennett, undertook a comprehensive comparative analysis. They evaluated remuneration policies across various municipalities, including Mountain View County and several towns and cities such as Brooks and Wetaskiwin. This extensive research aimed to align Olds’ remuneration structure with prevailing norms and best practices in comparable jurisdictions.

Key recommendations from the report emphasized maintaining the part-time nature of the mayor and councillor roles, reflecting the significant time commitments and responsibilities associated with these positions. The report highlighted that the role of mayor, particularly, demands a seven-day-a-week commitment, extending beyond typical business hours. For councillors, substantial part-time dedication is necessary to effectively fulfill their duties.

Per Diems and Benefits

The committee recommended retaining per diems for elected officials for official duties conducted outside of Olds. It proposed updating these rates to account for inflation, ensuring they remain equitable for incoming council members starting in 2025. Furthermore, the report advocated for extending current health benefits to elected officials opting into the coverage, leveraging existing administrative frameworks to provide cost-effective health care solutions.

Policy Adjustments and Operational Enhancements

In addition to remuneration specifics, the CCCR proposed adjustments to Policy 106C, outlining council activities and responsibilities. Notable suggestions included implementing a flat hourly rate for per diems and promoting the use of name tags and corporate wear to enhance visibility and professionalism during official functions. The committee also recommended rotating councillors through various agencies, boards, and committees to foster broader understanding and informed decision-making within the council.

Community and Council Responses

Patrick Martens underscored that the recommendations are open to refinement and modification, emphasizing the collaborative nature of policy development. He encouraged council members to engage actively with the proposals, ensuring they reflect the community’s best interests. Councilor Heather Ryan expressed appreciation for the committee’s thoroughness and anticipated robust debate among council members on the recommendations presented.

Conclusion

As Olds town council moves forward with deliberations on remuneration and policy adjustments, community engagement remains pivotal. The insights and perspectives of residents will play a crucial role in shaping these decisions, ensuring they align with community values and expectations.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on the proposed changes to council remuneration in Olds? Do you agree with maintaining part-time roles for the mayor and councillors? Share your opinions and ideas in the comments below. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our community!