One of the biggest themes to come out of the recent election was how Council engages with the community. Many candidates agreed that consultation often starts too late — after key options have already been decided — making public input feel tokenistic.

Common ideas for improvement included:

Involving the community earlier in planning processes

Using plain language and sharing more background info

Holding meetings at accessible times (not just during work hours)

Closing the feedback loop – showing how input shapes outcomes

Making Council information and workshops more open and transparent

One simple suggestion: each ward councillor could hold a monthly drop-in session at a set time and accessible public venue — in the evening — where anyone can pop in and talk about what’s on their mind.

We are currently working on a paper to Council and we’d love to hear your thoughts — what’s working, what’s not, and what ideas you have for better community engagement.

Email us at concernedratepayerskapiti@gmail.com with your ideas/thoughts