As education boards, health authorities and municipalities seek to find innovative ways to sustain their operations, a number of critical questions are being raised. For example:

 

1. What constitutes a viable & healthy community in the future?

2. What are regional versus community responsibilities?

3. How will we redefine our roles and responsibilities?

4. What is the balance between 'top-down' versus 'bottom-up' decision-making?

 

Will the answers to these questions mean that you have to pay more taxes for less services in your community? Will the services you value most still be provided? Are you prepared to accommodate these type of changes?

At the same time, the Alberta government is seeking input on how best to manage growth and how to re-invest its surpluses in Alberta. Through the Alberta Growth Summit which is scheduled for September 29 and 30, input is being solicited from key groups and individuals across the province and from six sectors including: Government, Social Economy, MASH (Municipalities, Academic Institutions, Schools and Hospitals), Business & Industry, Energy and Agriculture & Rural Development.

The outcomes of the Summit will be published in October and will provide input for the government's agenda for the next three to four years. This information will also be helpful in providing excellent context for this year's conference in Jasper. These are just a few of the important issues and questions that will be discussed and debated during this year's Alberta Congress Board Conference in Jasper.

At the conference, you will find out what are likely scenarios for the future of your communities. As well, you will learn what decisions you can make today that will give you and your organization a distinct advantage in the next few years. Through the small group discussions, your ideas and recommendations will contribute to the development of action plans that will be undertaken by individuals and organizations who will follow through with their implementation.

This year's conference is taking place at the Jasper Park Lodge. These world-class accommodations have been selected for your comfort and enjoyment amidst the Canadian Rockies. You are encouraged to bring a companion along (at reduced rates) to the conference and share in the beautiful surroundings in Jasper.

Please take a few moments to review the program for the 1997 ACB Conference. Register early as space is limited. Set aside October 30 - November 2, 1997 on your calendar and fax or mail back a completed registration form now to reserve your space at the conference.

See you out at Jasper!

 

Don Diduck
Executive Director


Thursday, October 30

4:00 - 8:00 pm
Registration
 
5:30 - 7:30
Buffet Dinner
 
6:30 - 7:30
Orientation Meeting: Group Facilitators
 
8:00
Conference Opening: Ms. Lois Hole, Honourary Chair
Keynote Speaker: Dr. David Morris
 
9:15 - 10:30
Wine & Cheese Reception

 

Friday, October 31

7:00 - 8:30 am
Breakfast
 
8:30 - 9:45
Program Introduction
Panel Session
Panelists:
Mr. Tom McGee
Dr. Richard Plain
Dr. Roy Wilson
 
10:00 - 12:00
Small Group Breakout Sessions
 
12:30 pm
Luncheon
Panel Session
Panelists:
Dr. Perry Kinkaide
Mr. Thomas Hesse
 
1:45 - 2:30
Break
 
2:30 - 4:30
Small Group Breakout Sessions
 
4:30 - 7:00
Break
 
7:00
Dinner
 
7:30
Guest Speaker: The Honourable Iris Evans
 
9:00 - 11:00
Evening Social

 

Saturday, November 1

7:00 - 9:00 am
Breakfast
 
9:00 - 11:30
Small Group Breakout Sessions
 
11:30 - 12:00
Break
 
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Luncheon Buffet
 
1:00 - 3:00
Summary Presentations: All Small Group Facilitator and Participants
 
3:00 - 3:15
Presentations and Closing Remarks
 
4:00 - 4:30
Annual General Meeting: All Delegates Welcome
 
5:00 - 6:00
Reception: Schuh Plattlers Performance
 
6:00
Bavarian Dinner & Dance: Neil Gow and the Five Knights

 

Sunday, November 2

7:00 - 10:00 am
Breakfast Buffet
 
12:00 pm
Checkout