KOURTNEY BRANAGAN
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Economic Prosperity (part two)

9/30/2021

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​Calls for economic diversification have been happening for years. Let’s be clear, Calgary is not lacking any economies but we can no longer be a one trick pony. No single sector is for the foreseeable future going to guarantee robust wages and spending like oil and gas did for years. We need to move into strong sectors, that combined, provide stability and consistency in hiring, growth, and investment into our city. It will be a balance and a cooperation between industries which moves Calgary forward.
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When we talk about economic development in Calgary, especially using the City budget, I believe we need to be thoughtful about which industries can and should be bolstered to provide to most impact. Right now I believe those sectors are tech (and tech adjacent), arts (including film), and the non-profit/social sector. There is also the case for the trades and the building industry as we take on large city building projects and improve our built form in our existing neighbourhoods. Economic growth and development must be a balance between resourcing and support for small to medium sized businesses while also attracting (and retaining) medium to large scale businesses, especially those who are looking to scale.

Where it is important for the City to be involved is supporting arms length organizations which focus on programming and resources specific to their sector. There are a few industries that are ripe for development and Calgary needs to continue to be a supporting player.
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The tech sector continues to show impressive gains. In order for the sector to grow, entrepreneurs need opportunities to test their ideas through programming and guidance. 
  • The City’s investment into the Platform Calgary space is great news as a central hub for collisions and partner organizations to support growth. In order to increase the number of entrepreneurs and companies in our city, Calgary should consider investing more into Platform Calgary, matching Edmonton’s investment into their tech sector. 
  • The migration of skilled workers is as much about a culture shift and as it is about skills adoption. Technology companies embrace failure and risk as a strategy and for the many who have come from traditional industries, this isn’t a mindset they’ve been used to performing under. (This is one more reason we need to teach kids critical thinking and problem solving and de-emphasize memorization and rote learning).
  • I support the move from Calgary Economic Development to use OCIF funds to bring in a global accelerator program. This is a big move which will attract growth stage companies to Calgary to hire and expand their companies.
I strongly believe a new fieldhouse is key to Calgary’s opportunities around life sciences, medical, and sport technology. Our elevation and seasonal changes make studying athletes and related technology ideal. We have already seen the likes of Garmin relocate to nearby Cochrane. Continuing to have world class facilities to study physiology, anatomy, and sports performance will help Calgary companies be leaders in their field.
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In the arts, Calgary Arts Development continues to improve their offerings. Spaces, grants, and mentorship programs are all critical to the development of artists across disciplines from performing arts to visual arts.
  • Improving Arts Commons is one step to the improvement of Calgary’s arts scene. We must continue to invest in smaller production companies and solo artists as well. 
  • Local venues like restaurants and bars are also vital facilities for local performers so we need to ensure these businesses are able to thrive in our economic climate.
  • Critical to the success of Calgary's art and culture scene and downtown revitalization is the use of public spaces for festivals and outdoor events.
  • As a winter city we need to support this work happening year round, not just in our summer and fall months.
  • Festivals and performances are great community builders. They bring together different organizations, give people a chance to volunteer, and blend both local and international talent. 
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One thing I cannot fail to mention is women’s economic participation. We must recognize the important role women play in the local economy, as major purchase decision makers, as business owners, and as volunteers.
  • Women make up the backbone of our public service in education and healthcare, this work is fundamental to the functioning of our society. 
  • Affordable and accessible childcare is an absolute necessity for women’s economic participation. I support a call for $10 a day childcare and that if the province fails to ratify a deal, the City should step in.
  • I will be highly critical that the tech sector does not fair much better than traditional industries for women in leadership roles at this current time. (I will say it is similar for BIPOC individuals). We need to be mindful that what we’re offering by way of programming, resources, and direction is attentive to building a more inclusive workforce.
While economic recovery is a city wide issue I want to ensure you that Ward 11 residents are top of mind for me. How we get people to and from their work, what kind of opportunities exist in neighbourhoods after work hours, and opportunities for participation in economic activities close to home (shopping, food, festivals) is top of mind for me. We need economic prosperity at the neighbourhood level as much as we do for the overall city.
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Kourtney

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Reconciliation

9/28/2021

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Ward 11 in the City of Calgary is one small corner of Treaty 7 land. As immediate neighbours of the Tsuut'ina nation we recognize all of Ward 11 resides on the traditional territories of the Tsuut'ina, the Blackfoot confederacy, the Ĩyãħé Nakoda nation. As neighbours we are stewards to the prosperous and just future for all Indigenous Canadians including the Metis, Inuit, displaced, and urban Indigenous who live across Calgary and in Treaty 7 territory.
When I was in Jr. High, students were bussed in from the Tsuuti’ina nation. From this we were exposed to hoop dancers, Indigenous artists, round dances, and bannock. What we were really part of was a system of racism and oppression. Bridging the gap wasn’t easy. You were told by older students that the ‘indians’ were lazy, poor students, and you had to watch your back because they would fight with you for no reason. I struggled. I watched them struggle. At the time I didn’t have the skills to build a bridge between our communities.
Fast forward to adulthood, when I’ve taken concrete steps towards understanding the truth about our history and the narrative we’ve been told as settlers. I’ve been fortunate enough to have learning opportunities from Indigenous leaders in our city on land acknowledgements, smudging, Indigenous economic prosperity, the intention of treaty, the Indian act and the repercussions, have read the Truth and Reconciliation 94 calls to action, and most impactfully, I have been involved in a blanket exercise.
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If you’ve never had a chance to be part of one. I want to change that. It changed me. I was able to reflect on my junior high years and see the years of generational trauma manifest itself. I saw children who were on their way to adulthood who had no one to believe in their abilities, this is the system they were still a part of. The narrative, the stereotypes, the racism. I felt and feel deep shame over my contribution to this. 

Calgary has received the White Goose Flying Report. I believe the calls to action from the White Goose Flying Report must be championed by this next council. I would be happy to lead a recommitment call with the new council group and recommit administration to making progress on the specific calls to action.
There has been a call for a dedicated Indigenous gathering place in Calgary. It is time to honour the commitment and move forward on finding a location in Calgary.

I am in favour of supporting Indigenous led justice and harm reduction. We must acknowledge the distrust in colonial systems like health care and law enforcement. This must be accomplished through budget allocations.
Things specifically I want to accomplish in Ward 11 are:

  • Strengthening the relationship with the Tsuuti'na nation as direct neighbours. This includes bridging the relationships between nation leaders and community leaders. 
  • I want to support community associations and other non-profits in Ward 11 in their reconciliation work so they understand that their actions and decisions are part of a just future. This can include land acknowledgement training, participating in blanket exercises, or shared events and learning opportunities.
  • In Ward 11 I would like to host a Neighbour Day celebration bringing together Treaty 7 Nations and neighbourhoods. This could be a city wide effort and I would work with colleagues to bring this forward.

​Reconciliation is an ongoing process. I am committed to unlearning my biases I’ve been taught. I'm committed to learning about ways in which we can support Indigenous teaching and leadership into our systems, services, and solutions.

Kourtney

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My Experience is my Why

9/23/2021

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My Experience is my WHY

I am often asked at the doors, what’s your background? Or what’s your experience? 
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This isn’t the place for my life story, but let me tell you about some defining volunteer, professional, and personal experiences. The culmination of these have developed a skillset that is suited to be an excellent councillor: adept communication, team work, leadership, innovative thinking, and amazing at building relationships. ​
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The Experience:
I was raised predominantly by a single mother who was a nurse. She was also an active volunteer. I am an active volunteer for multiple non-profit organizations.

Why this matters:
I believe community stewardship and volunteerism is a learnt behaviour. Freely giving of our time is a gesture of kindness that not everyone embraces. I saw early on that her involvement enriched our experience in our school and sports community, and this made me want to be involved in giving back to my children’s communities as they’ve grown as well. No matter her schedule, she made time, and still does to this day. I want to model this behaviour not only for my own daughters, but for other people as well.


There are many volunteer driven organizations across our city who partner with the City. I understand the important role volunteers and volunteer driven organizations play in the shaping of our city. These are voices and actions which need to be championed. I know, as a volunteer, that the support we receive from others is paramount to our success. I am committed to working with community groups to improve their relationships and reduce the barriers with the City and within their neighborhoods.

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The Experience:
Haysboro playground revitalization committee and President of the Community Association Board.

Why this matters:
I was able to bring my strengths to a team to compliment the overall goals of the organization. I am an excellent communicator, event organizer, and able to creatively find opportunities for growth.
Through our playground rebuild, I knew the value of having a central hub, ie. placemaking, as a key component of a community. Bringing this knowledge to the role of councillor means I understand and value the role community association buildings, playgrounds, as well as parks and green spaces play in creating strong connected communities. This is important as neighbourhood spaces need resources and funding to continue to provide programming and events for the community, and I can be a strong advocate and resource for these improvements.

As board member and President of the Haysboro Community Association I was able to lead an organizational shift. I supported new initiatives for events and programs and while supporting existing programming. I stewarded through a rebranding of the organization, moved membership fees to a more financially inclusive structure, and supported the growth of our message to new audiences through the adoption of social media. This increased community participation at events, in programs, and supported a sense of well-being and safety in the neighbourhood. I was also the lead in the large exterior renovation of the building as well as other interior renovations.

I am uniquely positioned to support Community Associations through my intimate knowledge of their opportunities and challenges. Many are facing a need for extensive upgrades to their buildings and are exploring ways to partner with the city to upgrade parks and green spaces.

The Experience:
Committee member with the City of Calgary on the Guidebook for Local Area Planning as well as two working groups for the Established Areas Growth and Change Strategy. I was a voice for community representation.
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Why this matters:
Committees are composed of representatives from various stakeholder groups including city planners and staff, developers and builders (private industry), business improvement associations, other community representatives, students, and other civic groups. The shaping of policy and plans is a collaborative effort of a spectrum of interests and objectives that need conversation and context.

Being on committees for the past five years means I have a solid understanding of how policy is developed to come to council, how working with others needs time together which is thoughtful and nuanced, and how compromise is key to a successful outcome. Policy work and good outcomes are dependent on the process of cooperation, this is an environment I thrive in and do my best work in.

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The Experience:
Organization leader in the tech sector and board member of the Calgary Regional Innovation Network.

Why this matters:
Multiple studies show that economies that operate in a high trust environment grow faster and have better deal flow. As Community Manager for Rainforest Alberta my role was to connect entrepreneurs, employees, and startups to talent, education, and funding. The community also held an expectation that you gave as much as you got, and you gave first. The result, a foundation of entrepreneurs, support organizations, and education institutions contributing to a rapidly growing tech sector in Calgary. 

In the role I mentored entrepreneurs with knowledge from my own business experience, reviewed resumes of those seeking employment, designed course work for post-secondary students, and hosted multiple events to create connections between the various people and groups in the sector. 

As an elected member to the Board of Fellows for the Calgary Innovation Coalition, we support the tech sector through funding allocation to member organizations who are supporting entrepreneurial growth in the tech sector. To sit on the board, fellows have to be nominated and elected by their peers from over 30 organizations. I have proven that I have the trust and support of leaders in Calgary to support the growth of the sector.

The Experience:
Small business owner selling goods across Alberta, BC, and Ontario. 

Why this matters:
As a small business owner, based out of my house, I grew my novel business to pay employees a living wage, cultivated wholesale accounts across the country, and won awards for my work. The experience also led me to partnerships with other small businesses in Calgary where we raised the exposure of local companies. 

Shopping local is important to me and cultivating the growth of neighbourhood businesses is an important part of a successful city. I also know the challenges small businesses face in permitting and accessing commercial space for production and sales. With a strong network of small businesses I believe we can modernize permit applications, sales opportunities, and local procurement of goods to improve the local economy and support small businesses in our City.
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What should stand out is my commitment to fostering relationships, developing innovative products and services, and having a deep understanding of the many moving parts needed for the role of councillor. I have depth in experience working in complex environments alongside multiple priorities and personalities, while being able to lead groups to successful outcomes. My authenticity for wanting to serve and support others drives my run for council. 

The experiences I’ve been fortunate to have are all a result of my desire to connect people to make bold initiatives move forward. As a result of this genuine care, I have secured peer-awarded recognition for my work for improving the sense of community and participation of marginalized groups.
Community development is integral to who I am. I want to encourage volunteers, non-profit groups, businesses, administrators, city staff, to be bold in their thoughts and actions. I want to champion ingenuity. The most impactful action I can take as a councillor will be empowering others to build a city that serves others and builds our collective capacity to be resilient and thriving against economic ups and downs, climate change, and health and social crises. Connecting with others is my passion and the greatest strength I can bring to this role.

Kourtney

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Local Economic Innovation

9/21/2021

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Calgary continues to be an attractive place to do business yet we have to ensure our competitive advantages can continue to support the needs of an evolving economy. Calgary has strengths across sectors. Many of these have been operating under the shadow of Oil and Gas and have also had to weather the ups and downs of the global oil market.

There is lots of talk about diversifying the economy. This is true, but what this really means is that many industries which are affected by ups and downs, like retail and food (restaurants), have a better base of stability to rely upon for consistency. Retail and restaurant can also be part of our diversification strategy when done alongside the growth of other sectors. 
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Local retail and restaurants can be strong attractors for tourism. As we look to continually improve the climate around business operations, we need to ensure our processes and regulations which support these industries also encourage innovation. The recent passing of the patio extension is a great example of the City’s business friendly moves.

With vacancies across the city in retail spaces, I would like to see the City partner with leasing agents to support a pop-up retail strategy. Two to six month leases would help local goods based businesses try store-front spaces in a short term model to drive awareness and sales without the financial burden. This can also be part of an area’s business model, helping to bring activity to an area that is currently in decline.
Further to store-fronts, I would like the city to explore pop-up retail at parks in designated areas. Imagine exploring your favorite regional park and being able to get food from food trucks, or discover a local artist all while listening to a local musician. I believe the City can play an integral role in exposing Calgarians to local businesses through the parks and green spaces we have in abundance at our regional parks. This past summer a local company called SupNFlow was set up at Carburn Park. This is an excellent example of the City providing opportunities for recreation at our parks while supporting a local business. I spoke to this in my blog post about Civic Tourism. I want to enable this kind of activity in Calgary, and Ward 11 is the perfect place to start with three regional parks and great access to water.
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The success of recreation, art, and food based businesses is contingent on the economic health of our city overall. Calgary continues to see growth in our tech based businesses and the City can continue to support growth in this area through key investments. There has been lots of talk around transforming vacant downtown office towers to residential but I’m wondering if we’re missing the mark on the transformation. Perhaps we need to look at the cultural structure of technology companies - should we instead be transforming existing office towers into layouts that support the open floor plan culture of technology based companies? By opening spaces up (ie taking down walls), towers can support a co-work model vision, creating spaces for actual co-work companies, or for small businesses to partner on spaces to lease in a shared environment. 

This kind of transformation can benefit more than tech companies. Marketers, realtors, artists, consultants - these are all people who may seek an office space outside of their homes. Downtown needs to be filled with all kinds of companies. When we create collision opportunities, people get creative and innovative, they build relationships, and businesses flourish. I have spent the better part of a decade being part of and creating these opportunities, and I want to bring this thinking to our City. I will stress, this model should and can exist outside of downtown as well.
The need to attract outside companies who bring external talent and work cultures to Calgary is important alongside local growth. This helps us grow our mindset and brings senior talent in new sectors to mentor junior talent. Often companies experiencing growth are looking for a home base for their company which matches their value model. Much of that attraction is the environment, both literally as in our parks and green spaces, but as well the lifestyle opportunities, low cost of living, great recreation, and other factors which make cities livable - education, healthcare, travel. This is why I will always keep sight on what the next generation of workers is looking for in a city, transit, bike lanes, parks. I will explore external attraction and arts and tech in the next blog post, and where the City can play a key role in their growth and development.

Kourtney

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Transportation Options

9/16/2021

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Transportation is a hot topic with priorities and focus varying from neighborhood to neighbourhood. 

I am a multi-modal user. I drive, walk, bike, and take transit. This informs my perspective and I feel it brings a balance to the conversation that may not exist in other candidates.

The coles notes version of this blog post is that I support investment into Calgary Transit and the City’s 5A Network “Always Available for All Ages & Abilities”. A city which supports non auto-oriented networks ensures Calgary residents can navigate their neighborhoods safely and cost-effectively year round. ​
WALKING AND CYCLING

The 5A network recognizes that Calgarians are actively needing and choosing different modes of transportation to navigate our city. This includes separated cycle tracks along with sidewalk and pathway improvements. 

What does improving the 5A network look like in Ward 11 neighborhoods?
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  • Retrofitting sidewalks with curb cuts, especially on busy walking corridors. Curb cuts benefit seniors, children, parents and visually impaired residents.
  • Completing ‘missing links’. Does a sidewalk end on the way to a major destination or is a sidewalk needed? These are areas called missing links. They’re often identified by a well worn path through the grass.
  • Provide separated cycling and scooting infrastructure. Sidewalks are not designed for cycling, neither are roads. Separated cycling tracks allow users of all ages and abilities to ride with confidence and without fear.
  • Well-marked crosswalks and traffic calming are key to helping residents feel safe walking in neighbourhoods. While vehicles may not be travelling faster than before, traffic volume has increased as has the size of vehicles. Traffic calming is the number one priority for residents who live on or near major neighbourhood arterial roads.
  • Snow clearing must be prioritized to and from transit stations and bus stops, at crosswalks, and along cycling routes.
​TRANSIT

Ward 11 has three transit stations, two BRT lines, and countless other bus routes. The Green Line will also be on the east edge of the ward with two stations. We have the opportunity to lead transit ridership in the city. To do this, our service must be responsive to ridership.
Transit stations must be clean and be safe. Heritage and Southland stations are desperately needing infrastructure upgrades. I will work to have parking lots and stations cleaned as well as improve accessibility for impaired users at stations.

We must not cut service due to low ridership during covid. Students, seniors, and low income Calgarians should have reliable and timely transit. Service level frequency must be maintained or increased to support users and to attract new users who will see transit as a viable option to driving.
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ROADS
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I haven’t forgotten about you auto-users. I want to assure you that investment into transit and bike lanes does not directly compete with investment in roads. We need roads for emergency services, transit, and to support ride-sharing, for-hire rides, and 

I have experienced and know that snow clearing after major events needs to evolve to better support entry and exit from neighborhoods.

There are routes which are frequented by accidents (Crowchild south before Glenmore anyone?) which need traffic pattern reviews.

As a result of sprawl, road volume has increased and so traffic noise is affecting neighbourhoods more. Sound walls need to be life-cycled to improve quality of life for adjacent residents.
Calgary will always have a mix of transportation options. As demographics and priorities shift amongst residents, the City needs to adjust our deliverables to meet the needs of users. I believe all systems can complement each other, not compete. With a shift in mindset towards giving people viable options to travel for school, work, or leisure, we build a city which is inclusive and equitable.

Kourtney

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Climate Resilience

9/14/2021

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Being a leader in climate change will set us apart from other cities. Addressing climate change and implementing mitigation strategies are not independent from economic prosperity. There is a clear shift in priorities across generations with younger Ward 11 residents demanding more action, while older Calgarians are also concerned about inaction.

Read more about Calgary's existing strategies:
Calgary Climate Policy
Calgary Biodiversity Strategy

This week (today probably), council will vote to approve the Clean Energy Improvement Program for Calgary. This is the right move for the City to take to support  home owners being able to finance retrofits on their homes through their property tax bill.
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Recently the Calgary Climate Hub surveyed Calgarians across the city on their sentiments about climate change and the need to act in Calgary. The full data set is available here.

A few highlights:
  • 86% of Ward 11 residents believe we need to "get serious about taking more proactive environmental actions"
  • ​73% agree with the statement "Investing in climate change is an investment in long term economic sustainability and prosperity"
  • 71% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that candidates should be addressing climate change in their platforms
So, how can Calgary become a leader and what issues do we need to address immediately to help move us forward to ensure we have resilient measures against the effects of climate change? We start by listening to the experts, both on staff with the City and those who are leaders in their field and in communities. I will continue to learn about what Calgary can do, here are a few of my priority areas, in short form. Please feel free to follow up for a more in depth conversation.

  • We need to use our land better. Sprawl is costly to the environment. Using our existing built city means placing people closer to services and amenities, decreasing the need for travel, especially by car.
 
  • Speaking of roads, we need to build infrastructure that supports active transportation like walking and cycling. Our transit service must also give people timely access to school, work, and play.
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  • The sides of our major roads require maintenance through mowing. Naturalizing boulevards and green spaces adjacent to arterial roads means less mowing is required, better carbon capture through trees and shrubs, and a better environment for pollinators though native flowering species.
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  • Converting green spaces to urban agriculture will support vulnerable Calgarians who often lack the means to access fresh fruits and vegetables. Community gardens also become valuable social hubs which strengthen neighbourhoods.
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  • In park spaces, our focus should be on perennial species which support native wildlife and pollinators. This will decrease the need for watering. Building out the urban tree canopy continues to be a priority. While establishing trees takes water, once settled, they help keep the ground and air cool, further reducing the need for watering of lawns and green spaces.
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  • Due to our population growth and decreasing availability of fresh glacier water, Calgary needs to be serious about decreasing our water usage. A report released in May of 2019 predicts that by 2036 we will reach peak limit. There are multiple communities which rely on the same water source further downstream who are also suffering from increased climate events like this year’s heat dome. Water is critical to farmers who grow crops, a major economic source for Alberta.
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  • With both hot summers and cold winters, Calgary is a unique location to develop building materials that insulate against both heat and cold. Calgary could be a hub for advancement in building materials if that economy is challenged to improve.
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  • Improving the efficiency of city owned buildings and partnering with civic organizations should be top of mind. Retrofits support the economy. Solar is the most obvious choice. I would encourage the City to make green certification a standard for any partner buildings like the new event centre. I would also like solar to be part of the new Green Line strategy.
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  • There has been progress on extended producer responsibility, and Calgary should continue to move this forward. This has been championed by Councillor Demong as written about here.​
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These are just a few of the many things we can do to make Calgary more climate resilient. Most importantly, we need to educate Calgarians on the benefits of climate mitigation strategies and how the work we do in this area will improve our lives socially and economically. Advising Calgarians of federal or provincial programs should be part of our commitment to informing residents about how to make their own homes and businesses more efficient.
Forward-thinking cities attract the best companies and the best talent. For Calgary to prosper we cannot ignore how our climate action must be part of our economic recovery. I also know I’ve likely got 40-50 years left on this planet and I want to be able to enjoy our city with clean air and fresh water for all of those years.

Kourtney

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Vibrant and Sustainable Communities (Pt. 2)

9/8/2021

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I believe context is always important. When I decided to run for council I was renting in a four-plex infill in an established neighbourhood. I could walk my kids to school, had a small yard for our dog, and loved the small community I built with the other families in our building. We all had dogs, my kids chatted them all up, we redirected skip-the-dishes on more than one occasion, and collectively questioned the large rock in front of our building.
At the same time I was actively volunteering as President of the Haysboro Community Association and was on multiple working groups with the City of Calgary around growth and change in established neighbourhoods. I sat on those committees not because I was pro-density but because I am pro-community. Being pro-community meant advocating for plain language, clarity on definitions and descriptions, and supporting a vision which focused on community amenities, parks, green spaces, and expectations alongside growth and change.
I’ve since moved to Garrison Green as I met a great guy and we blended our families. Had I not, I had no plans to move, buy, or otherwise change my housing situation. Garrison Green is a newer community (17 years old) with plenty of row housing, off-market/low-income housing, detached dwellings, condos, and dedicated senior’s living. We have green spaces and playgrounds. We are not a complete community as we have no neighbourhood retail, a school, or community building. We do not suffer from any more challenges around parking or traffic than any other community I’ve ever lived in.

I have written before on the transformation of established neighbourhoods. I recommend you read Part one of 
Vibrant and Sustainable Communities for more information and context.
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I also wrote an op-ed for Live Wire a while back. I acknowledge that currently detached dwellings are outpacing condo sales and that covid has caused a shift in how and where we want to live. I would take this moment to advocate for denser housing with three or four bedrooms. This can include apartments, condos, and row-housing.
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One thing I heard from candidates over and over this election cycle is the jargon of the ‘single-family’ neighbourhood. Ward 11 has 27 communities. Three of those have exclusively detached dwellings (Bel Aire, Mayfair, and Meadowlark Park). City wide those three communities are also an anomaly. Neighbourhoods aren’t defined by housing type. Communities have a boundary in which 89% of Ward 11 communities include a spectrum of housing. When we talk about ‘single-family (detached) neighbourhoods’ in exclusion of attached housing we do ourselves a disservice. That language is exclusionary and belittling of neighbours who for whatever reason live in housing that is not single detached. 

Below are four photos of Palliser, showing a variety of housing type within a two block radius. Some existing Ward 11 neighbourhoods have done a good job mixing uses, like Palliser, Windsor Park, and Kingsland. These are good examples to model and use as a starting point for neighbourhoods to understand that multiple housing types can co-exist in the same neighbourhood and the sense of community isn't negatively affected.
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Towers
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Row Housing
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Low Rise and Attached
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Detached
I have met a great number of good people in the past ten years doing incredible work building community in Ward 11 and across Calgary. This spirit and energy is what we need more of. Good neighbours are not defined by their stage of life, income, or living situation. There are active and engaged people in all types of housing. I have yet to hear on the doors that housing type is the number one thing people love about their neighbourhood. I hear parks, schools, and people.

Calgary cannot continue to grow exclusively on the edges of our city. It is not an affordable or sustainable version of a city. The most fiscally responsible and best use of our tax dollars is to place more people near the infrastructure that already exists - transit, recreation, schools, emergency services, parks.

I want to work with communities through their growth and development. I want to have honest conversations about which areas of neighborhoods are most likely to absorb a change in zoning and housing type due to factors such as proximity to transit, parks, as well as market value. The city has actively worked to provide a framework for this conversation (Guide to Local Area Planning) and has committed to working with communities through the Local Area Plan process. 

The Guide also has direction for transit oriented development, light industrial, and commercial planning. Ward 11 has all of these in our communities and we can take advantage of best practices to support a revitalization of our city to benefit the build out of Ward 11 as part of the overall growth goals for Calgary. There are empty and dead sites in Ward 11 which should be prioritized for development. Development will come in time as we continue to grow in population adding new residents to the city and as we see economic recovery or stabilization.

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I want to support communities in providing affordable and appropriate housing for all stages of life. I want seniors to be able to age in place which may mean their neighbourhood, not their house, so they have a familiarity of services. I want children to be able to walk to neighborhood schools because the population can support operations.
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  • If we want less street parking and neighbourhood traffic, then we need to support and build our active transportation network: walking, cycle, transit. We need viable options to driving.  
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  • More housing doesn’t equal more parking. I’ve met a couple with five vehicles and family of five with one vehicle.
 
  • The market is going to drive redevelopment in communities where purchasing and rezoning makes financial sense.
 
  • Detached housing isn’t going away on the majority of streets anytime soon. A reminder, if you or your neighbours don’t sell, nothing changes.​
Ward 11 has a choice. We can work with the process of change to shape our communities thoughtfully in a way which benefits residents, asking for delivery of amenities, services, and programs which foster community. Or we can resist and lose out on the opportunity to build relationships with local businesses and new neighbours. We will lose out to communities willing to accept the change. I don’t want this for Ward 11. I want our schools to be full, our playgrounds to be replaced, our sidewalks and intersections to be repaired. I want to protect a high level of service for our parks, snow clearing, transit service, and emergency services.

Kourtney

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About Me, a little bit more...

9/4/2021

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Raised in Calgary, I choose to stay here and raise my family here as well. Part of that has been driven by continued opportunities to work and volunteer in the city, part of it is driven by proximity to family and friends, and much of it is that Calgary affords me a lifestyle I appreciate. From the proximity to the mountains to our beautiful parks and friendly spirit, Calgary fits.

I've called a few communities home over the years, with my elementary school days in Deer Ridge, and later my mom, brother, and myself found ourselves settled in Haysboro. I did the inner city-living along with some condo dwelling throughout university and early full-time gigs in neighbourhoods like Sunalta, Kensington, and Glamorgan. Eventually I found myself back in Ward 11 in the neighbourhood of Haysboro with my young family. Through life changes, I’ve found myself in Garrison Green (also in Ward 11), exploring a new community and meeting new neighbours.
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Between my partner and myself, we have three kids, two dogs, a gecko, and a full fish tank. He works from home with a flexible schedule so has been instrumental in the campaign helping shuttle kids to and from camp, school, activities, and playdates.

When we find free time together, or should I say, when we make time to spend together, my partner and I find ourselves in the mountains. Back in the city we tend to our vegetable garden  find a night to eat out at one of our favourite restaurants, or enjoy an evening in with a craft beer.

​One of the things I appreciate most about Calgary is our park and pathway system. This allows us to walk our dogs in a good number of off-leash areas, bike throughout the city, and explore our river system. 
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My mom and step-dad, some cousins, and my grandma live here in the city as well. I have family across Alberta around the Red Deer and Edmonton areas. My mom’s side is very close and we gather for all the big holidays, plus sometimes birthday, and then whenever else we feel like it (though it's been much less in the past 18 months). I have a deep love for my extended family and their exuberance for bringing way too much food to every gathering. We’re the kind of family that sounds overwhelming when I talk about it but you can’t help but be sucked into the magic.
​Growing up we were raised by my mom, with my dad living in Edmonton. He was around but it was her example we saw day in and day out. She was always volunteering at school, for our team sports, and was the ringleader for spirit days at her work. As a nurse she has shaped my vision of commitment to care, she still works casually to support the system during covid although she is technically retired. This is her reminder - get vaccinated!

I read more than watch tv. I like my two cups of coffee every morning. I really like shoes (but the comfy cool casual sneaker kind). I’m a horrible singer. My favourite food is potatoes (in pretty much any form), and I would eat vanilla ice cream for dessert every day.
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Next week I will tell you more about my experience through volunteering and work, and how that has given me the foundation to be an excellent councillor for ward 11.
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Kourtney

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Investing in Ward 11

9/4/2021

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Ward 11 as a whole is amenity rich. Pathways, recreation centres and pools, athletic facilities and arenas, libraries, and transit. Ward 11 also has great access to major roads and shopping centres. We have a hospital and a good number of schools

Like much of the city built between the 60s and 90s, Ward 11 communities are experiencing a shift in their makeup. As councillor, my goal is to support neighbourhoods through shifts in neighbourhood populations, development changes, business cycles, and our civic infrastructure requirements.

Calgary has large opportunities and challenges in our next 20-30 years. Revitalizing the downtown core, bringing needed economic diversification, and working towards climate mitigation measures. I want to ensure that while we tackle these issues we continue to focus as well on the need of protecting community infrastructure and devising ways to bring more investment back into established neighbourhoods.
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I've written previous blog posts about making Calgary a city that supports neighbourhoods across seasons, ages, and explores how we can encourage small businesses in our parks.
  • Calgary as a winter city
  • Designing a city for girls
  • Civic Tourism
  • 40 Wishes for Calgary

I want Ward 11 to be full of neighbourhoods where families see a future. This means playgrounds and green spaces to play, neighbourhood schools remaining open, and recreation programming which supports a sense of community. I also want communities to be multi-generational and accessible, meaning neighbourhoods need to be designed for seniors to age in place and those with physical impairments can navigate our communities. At both ends of the age spectrum and for those with disabilities, neighbourhood design looks similar - curb cuts at road crossings, well marked crosswalks, snow clearing at transit stations and bus stops, clean transit stations, and well lit roads and sidewalks to name a few. A spectrum of civic services hosted in buildings kept in good repair is critical to serving residents. ​
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We can support neighbourhoods in the following ways:

  • Budget prioritization in both capital and operating to support facility upkeep, upgrades, and replacement. I believe we need to prioritize spending for usable aspects of our amenities. An example would be pathway repaving over large annual flower pot planting. 
  • Community Associations need guidance and oversight to manage and upgrade their facilities. Volunteers are fatigued and inexperienced to tackle large projects. I believe we need to support this work through the Calgary Neighbourhoods department as well as work closely with the Federation of Calgary Communities to get community associations the knowledge they need. 
  • Low-income and unhoused Calgarians, and Calgarians with disabilities need resources through agencies and organizations which are supported and partner with the City of Calgary. We need stable and predictable funding through Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) so organizations can spend more time servicing residents than applying for grants. We must continue to prioritize and fund new off-market housing projects across the city as well as ensure existing housing is kept in good repair. We must also continue to retrofit buildings and our public realm to accessible design standards.
  • Ward 11 has undeveloped and underdeveloped sites which could support a higher use. This could be housing, additional retail opportunities for local businesses, or a combination of both. We know that empty and underused sites attract crime. It is important as councillor that I work towards attracting development projects which support neighborhoods. Note: I will discuss neighbourhood development and land use in the next blog post.
Major planned or recent upgrades in Ward 11 Initiated by the City:

  • Rose Kohn and Jimmie Condon Arenas
  • Twinning of Stu Peppard Arena
  • Glenmore Athletic Park Plans
  • Anderson Station Upgrades
  • Inclusive Playgrounds in North Glenmore, South Glenmore, and Sandy Beach
  • Adaptive Lane on 50th
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A few major upgrades I would like to champion:
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  • A multi-use pathway (MUP) along 50th Ave, 19th St, 58th Ave, and 20th Streets as part of Glenmore Athletic Park upgrades. This will connect the MUP fully around the North section of the reservoir route. Currently walkers and cyclists are either forced to use the road or the grass boulevard adjacent to the road along these roads.
  • A twinned pathway in South Glenmore Park from the spray park/parking lot to the junction just past the pump track.
  • Public washrooms at North Glenmore Park (east end) and at Sue Higgins Dog Park.
  • Better way finding signage for public washrooms in all our regional parks. Perhaps not an upgrade, but an ask: washrooms open year round.​
  • The intersection at 90th Ave and 16th St SW (entrance to Glenmore Landing) is in poor condition and the pedestrian experience is dangerous with bumps, potholes, and poor placement of posts and poles. Just East the pedestrian experience crossing the slip lanes into Glenmore landing needs to be improved with wider curb cuts and better signage and road painting to draw attention to active users.
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  • Southland and Heritage LRT Stations need at the very least, to be deep cleaned, for the parking lot hazards to be removed or fixed, and for accessible design to be improved. I would add that bus loops need better shelter for the winter months and shade (trees) for the summer months. Long term plans need to include station upgrades to make them fully accessible (similar to Chinook station).
Within neighborhoods the following upgrades need to be prioritized:

  • More emphasis on crosswalk safety on wide and double lane roads especially within neighbourhoods in particular key walking routes to and from schools or any city buildings (pools, libraries, etc). We need to spend the money doing the work, not studying the intersections.
  • Adding curb cuts in side walks or expanding where necessary to better accommodate use.
  • Improving the rate of playground upgrades. Too many neighborhoods are spending an extraordinary amount of volunteer time fundraising for City infrastructure. If we want our established neighborhoods to attract young families to help us meet our density targets, the infrastructure must meet the lifestyle needs of residents.
  • We need more seating in our parks and greenspaces. This has been the number one request from seniors.
You are of course going to ask, how are we going to pay for this?
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  • First, budget priorities in both operating and capital expenditures. Focus on usable aspects.
  • Two, Ward 11 needs an advocate for projects to administration. This means having a mutually respectful working relationship with staff.
  • Third, we must examine if we can move some operating expenditures to capital expenditures where we can leverage debt to build our infrastructure needs. When we improve our City owned assets we build our overall fiscal capacity.
  • Fourth, we need to continue to explore levies on redevelopment and upgrades to support public realm improvements. This is ongoing work the City is undertaking.
  • Fifth, generate additional revenue for the city by bringing development to Ward 11 communities and the city as a whole. We must continue to strive for revenue growth in Calgary.
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Ward 11 needs an advocate at city hall. I am invested in bringing improvements to our neighbourhoods.

Kourtney

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The Promises

9/1/2021

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I’ve made some promises throughout this campaign, ones I feel like I can fulfill. Promises are different than platform planks in my mind. I have lots of great ideas for Calgary, its possible they're not feasible, or they cost an exorbitant amount. A promise is something I can come back and say - here's how I followed through on this statement. A promise can lead to tangible actions.

I'm offering up 11 promises.
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I will look into hosting office hours at community associations so travel to downtown isn’t required.

I understand that travelling to and from the core, by transit, bike, or car, isn’t feasible for some due to time, funds, or lifestyle constraints. My goal is to partner with community associations and other organizations to hold office hours in neighbourhoods.

I will build a family friendly office - toys, colouring, or maybe your teen has something they want to talk about, my office door is open to all ages.

I’ve been that parent. The one whose child care falls through but still wants to attend an important meeting. I also believe children benefit from watching their parents participate in city building. I grew up watching my mom volunteer and I have no doubt this spirit has been passed on. My own children are curious about my work, volunteerism, and my campaign. My office will need to be a space for them as much as for yours. Baby wipes, extra diapers, we will have it.

I will explore hosting town halls and finding a format that allows more people to connect, be it in person or online. This could include different days and times of the week to ensure we aren’t excluding voices by always hosting on the same day and time.

Many people have expressed both appreciation and frustration in previous town hall formats and availability. I would like town halls to be places where neighbours connect, subject matter experts join the conversation, and where we walk away inspired to tackle the challenges together.

I will 
leverage my social channels and newsletters to share about:
  1. Community events
  2. Engagement opportunities/feedback to the City
  3. Key dates for city program registration and free city events

These are items I have been doing throughout the campaign, and they shouldn’t stop. I believe we benefit from participating in events and activities throughout our city, but best in our neighbourhoods. 

I will support community associations and nonprofits with information about grants, connect leaders to each other for learning and sharing opportunities, and share about opportunities offered by other supporting organizations.

The councillor’s office is one of the main points of contact for community associations and other nonprofit organizations into the work happening with administration. It is vital to have a strong channel of communication and excellent working relationships. There are many other agencies and organizations which support nonprofits and community associations. Ensuring there is also knowledge sharing and good relationships is key to building neighbourhoods with a strong sense of community which in turn promotes safety, activity, and overall sense of well being.

I will participate in community events to the best of my ability and schedule.

I enjoy being out in the community. I like to have fun! I’m also not too shy to lend a helping hand, even the gritty stuff like hauling out tables and chairs. The best part of this campaign is getting to know people who feel the same way. Just like I will share out notices about events, I will also make sure to share the call out for volunteers.

I will work with my fellow councillors, city employees, and citizens in a collaborative, caring, and considerate manner.

There are many ways to be part of a respectful workspace. Coming to meetings prepared and having read the notes. Working through the appropriate channels to bring forward motions. Ensuring the voices of marginalized and underrepresented groups feel safe to voice their concerns. I will also listen to learn and understand and do my research where needed.

I will be honest and present facts to support my positions. I won’t conflate two items as being related when they aren’t.

I believe in an approach which both examines the data and the story. I believe in building trust and that comes from being honest and open with my thoughts and feelings as well. 

I will advocate for investment into established neighborhoods across the city, not just for Ward 11, this includes transit, recreation, parks, and other civic infrastructure.

I want Calgarians to see our existing neighborhoods as great places to live no matter their stage of life. I want us to grow our population in a sustainable way and this means attracting residents to live in our established neighborhoods. This requires amenities which are safe, convenient, and able to support the needs of the community.

I will champion policies which require leading with courage, this includes truth and reconciliation, anti-racism work, climate resiliency, accessibility, and poverty reduction.

These issues are the most divisive. They are also the most critical. Calgary needs to be a city that works for everyone. I want Calgary to be a leader in this work and I will champion experts to guide us through this work.

I will take time off to spend with my family and friends. 

I acknowledge that this job is important but I won’t sacrifice my relationship with those who have been my biggest supporters. The role cannot be a detriment to my health, mentally or physically. You need a councillor who can come to the table ready to work because I’ve recharged and reconnected with the other things in my life which are full of joy and laughter.

Kourtney

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