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NLIS 1 April 16, 2004 (Municipal and Provincial Affairs ) Municipal Awareness Day Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, announced that Monday, April 19 has been proclaimed Municipal Awareness Day. "This is a time for residents of our province to reflect on what their councils do for them," said Minister Byrne. "Municipal governments provide many essential services such as water and sewer, fire protection and waste management." The benefit of municipal councils to residents is sometimes not clear. For instance, having fire protection leads to better fire insurance which, in turn, keeps the cost of insurance down for this type of coverage. Municipal councils ensure that communities have orderly and controlled planning. They provide basic services such as clean water, street lighting, garbage collection and even recreational areas for children and families. All of these are important services which councils provide for residents on a daily basis. Every day councils and staff work hard so that residents get the best possible service for the best possible price. To aid municipalities in many of these services, Minister Byrne proclaimed the Regional Service Boards Act in February. This act allows government to formally establish regional authorities in municipalities which desire to work together to provide improved municipal services. Herbert Brett, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities, encouraged people to get to know their local council. "It is important that we recognize and support the important role municipal government plays in all our lives," said Mr. Brett. "Local democracy is the keystone of our society - councillors are elected to improve the quality of life for residents and we take that responsibility very seriously." The president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Municipal Administrators, Rodney Cumby, says "that municipal administrators and staff work tirelessly to provide municipal services to residents in their communities." He asks that residents take the time to reflect on the valuable services provided by municipal government throughout the year. Minister Byrne encourages residents to take part in any activities planned in their municipalities on April 19. "Monday was chosen for Municipal Awareness Day because it falls during Volunteer Week. This is only fitting as many mayors and councillors who are involved in municipal government volunteer their time to better their communities for their residents." Photo #1: Municipal and Provincial Affairs Minister Jack Byrne and Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities President Herb Brett sign the proclamation for Municipal Awareness Day. Missing from picture is Rodney Cumby, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Municipal Administrators. Media contact: 2004 04 16 11:05 a.m. |
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