Wetaskiwin Tomorrow

Whenever I spend even a few moments in the Neighbors Outreach of Wetaskiwin, I hear stories of heartache and struggle and yearning, aching for change. I don’t hear scheming and plans for vagrancy!
There are definite and workable possibilities to address these struggles and addictions, we simply need to welcome these, not fear them, as a community!!!

External organizations in the community are a vital link for Wetaskiwin and the infrastructure would crumble without them. We need to look at including volunteer organizations that bring in lots of community interest and ecomomic ability into the community (e.g. Minor hockey hosts tournamnets and games throughout the year which is a vital part of Wetaskiwin’s economy)

First off – there is nothing “un”friendly or “un”welcoming about city hall. Whenever I need some direction I simply ask.
There is one thing that could be a little more obvious: who should I ask first? There doesn’t seem to be a main receptionist. It really doesn’t make much difference to me but it may be helpful for those who don’t enjoy public spaces.
It has always been a friendly atmosphere for me.

– Ted Hill from Draft Plan Comments

Unfortunately, this city is developing a reputation to the external world as being a location for frequent crime, substance abuse and addictions, and – in general – a city in decline with very few positive attributes. This is, in part, due to the high proportion of ‘bad news’ stories that make their way into the local papers and other news media. This isn’t the fault of the local media; they’re just doing their job. However, I think it would be exceptionally wise of the city to capitalize on a media liaison role and to have that person feed as many positive, newsworthy stories to the media as possible in a concerted effort to tip the balance of stories in a more positive direction.

For as much effort and money as was put into the renovations at City Hall (which, incidentally, are absolutely beautiful), paying a visit via the main entrance is much like walking into a closet, if you can find it at all. Once inside, depending on the day and time, you are either a) not greeted at all, b) eventually approached by a sour-faced individual who is clearly not the receptionist and has no particular interest in helping you, or c) occasionally helped by someone who may or may not be the receptionist, but is usually on the phone.

Since the City is probably not able to improve the situation architecturally (i.e. creating a welcoming area for visitors to gather in), my suggestion would be in two parts: first, improve the signage so visitors can find the main entrance; second, pare off as many of the telephone responsibilities of the front desk person as much as possible, freeing her up to greet and assist visitors, and put all of the other sour-faced people behind closed doors so they cannot continue to indimidate away future visitors and ratepayers.

– from Draft Goal Comments (‘Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere within City Hall‘)