| Q-Nothing ever changes— | A-Change can only be initiated by the citizens of our community. We believe that through this dialogue, the community will identify priorities that will improve our home and lifestyle. Collectively, we have to bring change. |
| Q-There are so many surveys that have taken place, some over the years, what is different about this one? | A-This is not a survey so much as it is a community engagement questionnaire, that we hope will engage all sectors of our community, especially those who have never been heard from before, to start a more substantive conversation about the future of Wood Buffalo. We hope to start a discussion about how to make our community a better place to call home. This is why we have a street questionnaire which will connect with everyone, even those who have no access to internet. |
| Q-How is this different from Future Forward? | A-The CEI is about engaging the citizens at the street level and all the responses will be shared with all levels of government and the community. There does not appear to be an implementation plan for FF. We hope to have an action plan come out of this initiative. |
| Q-We provide input in all these surveys and never hear back, never get the results. | A-The results of this initiative will be well publicised through our website, through social media and through print/radio media and also through community stakeholders and partners who led the |
| Q-What is the Chamber hoping to achieve through this initiative? | A-The Chamber wants to assess the satisfaction of Wood Buffalo residents with their quality-of-life and to see in what ways the business community and other private and public partners can improve it. The chamber also wants the community to understand its role in contributing to progress within the region. |
| Q-What does our community look like today? | A-We has seen vast changes in the past decade. The baby boomers are retiring and with the start up of new oil sands companies, we have seen an influx of many diverse cultures in the community. We also have many more new, young families call the region home. And, at the same time, there are several rural communities, largely Aboriginal, that want to balance preserving traditional values with enjoying the benefits of development. The demographics of Wood Buffalo are much different than they used
to be and it is important to make sure the community evolves to meet
the different needs of its new residents |
| Q-Is this initiative limited to Fort McMurray only? | A-This is a regional initiative and engagement and dialogue will take place in all outlying communities as well. |
| Q-Is this about the election? | A-It is about accountability and how everyone plays a role in holding all sectors including public office accountable to ensure our community is progressing. |
| Q-Why should I care, my taxes are low | A-Accountability also comes in knowing where your tax dollars are being spent and if you are getting value for your tax dollars. Are you getting all the services you need to make this a happy place for your family. |
