Council establishes Intergovernmental Relations Standing Committee to advance regional priorities

At their October 6 meeting, RMWB Council approved the creation of a new Intergovernmental Relations Standing Committee (IRSC). The motion to create the IRSC was made by Councillor Jennifer Vardy.

Through collaboration and engagement, the Committee will help advance regional priorities and strengthen connections with Indigenous communities, neighbouring municipalities and other levels of government.

The IRSC will include the Mayor as Chair and four councillors appointed by Council. At least one councillor must represent a rural ward. Committee members will be chosen each year during Council’s Organizational Meeting. Following the first 12 months, the Committee structure will be evaluated to determine whether it remains an effective and sustainable model.

We have seen firsthand the value of productive and collaborative relationships with other levels of government,” says Mayor Sandy Bowman. “This Committee is designed to support and grow those relationships, advance advocacy priorities and champion regional interests with a clear and unified voice.”

“The Committee will give Council a dedicated forum to discuss emerging issues, coordinate advocacy efforts and build strong partnerships that support the region’s future,” says Jennifer Vardy, Councillor for Ward 1. “We do this informally now, but this structure will help to better focus our efforts.”

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and recommend advocacy priorities and an advocacy plan for Council’s approval.
• Monitor progress through an advocacy tracking framework.
• Identify strategic engagement opportunities with governments and other partners.
• Review funding opportunities, emerging government policies, proposed legislative changes and issues affecting the region.
• Establish process for collaboration among Council members, Administration and consultants.

The IRSC’s work supports Council’s Strategic Governance Plan, especially the strategic theme of Intergovernmental and Nation Relations. Members will also help advance priorities related to economic development, competitiveness, community services and resident well-being. By working closely with governments and partners at all levels, the Committee will help ensure the needs of residents are heard and represented.

The creation of the IRSC reflects practices used by municipalities across Alberta. While governance models vary, municipalities commonly use dedicated committees or Council-led structures to coordinate engagement with other orders of government. To learn more about Council’s Strategic Plan, visit rmwb.ca/strategicplan.

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