Municipality reviews public services for enhanced efficiency and sustainability

As part of a significant move towards enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the sustainability of public services, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has shared notice with CUPE 1505 of its consideration to pursue alternative service delivery options for certain municipal services. This decision follows a comprehensive internal review of the Municipality's service delivery and operations. 

The main services being considered include: 

• Fleet Services 
• Solid Waste Services 
• Bylaw Services’ Custodian Services 
• Bylaw Services’ Guards 
• Public Works' Roads and Parks services 
• Trades services 
• Pulse 
• Additional impacts across the organization as a result of the above considerations 

This reflects the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and providing efficient and sustainable public services. 

In addition to potential outsourcing, the RMWB is planning organizational changes, including restructuring and centralization of services aimed at further enhancing operational effectiveness. Efficiencies are being looked at organization-wide, will span all employee groups including exempt staff, and will be dependent on the outcomes of collaboration with the Union. These changes will be approached with a focus on supporting and minimizing impacts on staff as much as possible, while maintaining important public services for the region. 

Cooperation with CUPE 1505 

Over the next 120 days, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo will engage in collaborative discussions with CUPE 1505 Executive, review alternative proposals, and ensure that decisions are made with transparency and fairness. The Municipality remains dedicated to transparency and will provide updates to employees and the public as the process unfolds. 

Commitment to Employees and Region 

“The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is committed to its employees and the Region we serve,” said Henry Hunter, Chief Administrative Officer. “We will be working with CUPE 1505 over the next 120-days in a collaborative fashion, while ensuring we remain focused on long-term sustainability of the services we deliver.” 

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Media inquiries:

media@rmwb.ca