While we understand the proposed changes to the Public Notification Bylaw could save the City money, we have concerns. Our main objection centres on the issue of transparency – the platform many councillors ran on. According to Ballotpedia, openness, accountability, and honesty define government transparency. In a free society, transparency is government’s obligation to share information with citizens. These changes limit the ease of access to information for residents, which should be upsetting to all those who value a government’s responsibility to inform residents. Not long ago, Airdronians were yelling foul about the City Square plan and the secrecy that appeared to surround it – it’s clear this community appreciates transparency and information. Yes, a condensed version of notifications will appear in print, but the details will no longer be there. The senior who is less familiar with Internet navigation or the resident who can’t afford Internet access will be expected to call the City to gather this information on their own – and, if they need further clarification, another call will be required. Those who are regular Internet users will have to wade through the City’s website, which is a complicated mess and not at all user friendly. The Airdrie City View is a free resource for residents and is delivered to every door in the city, making information truly available to everyone. This bylaw, if approved, will impact your access to City information. We encourage residents to attend the Jan. 21 meeting to voice their concerns.
