In the recently released Organizational Review, City of Whitehorse staff said that they want a working environment that rewards excellence and ensures accountability for performance.
One recommendation in the review is to establish an Our People Our Priority Work Team to improve morale by addressing performance standards and providing recognition to those who achieve them.
Another recommendation recognizes the relationship between land planning, economic development and other areas by combining these in a new Development Services Department.
In recent weeks, while outlining some of my views as a candidate for city council, I raised concerns about the city’s failure to issue timely financial statements and pushed for council to reconsider a denied partnership with local museums.
Since then, I’ve been encouraged by the release of those financial statements and council’s new support for the museums’ plans. I have also been encouraged by the quality and diversity of candidates stepping forward to join council, particularly Joy Curteanu’s recent announcement and her focus on financial accountability and improved transit.
Now I urge the city to turn these organizational recommendations into action. While study and the historical perspective are important, it is fresh energy and the implementation of this plan that will actually improve the way the city functions.
Michael Kokiw
Candidate, Whitehorse City Council