Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutWD-10-87 . •µ�°W - TOWN OF NEWCASTLE File € REPORT a f � was Res. # - d . By-Law # MEETING: THE GENERAL PURPOSE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE DATE: MARCH 2, 1986. REPORT #: WD-10-87 FILE #: SUB,JECT PUBLIC WORKS WEEK - MAY 17 to 23, 1987. RECOMMENDATIONS: It is respectfully. recommended: - t - I 1 . That this report be received; and, 2. That advertisements advising of Public Works Week and inviting members of the public to contact the Works Department for information about the activities of the Department be placed in the local newspapers. 3. That such ads include the proclamation attached as Schedule 'A' . < . .2 1T ( ) Page 2 REPORT NO. : WD-10-87 4. That letters be sent to area school boards, guiding and scouting organizations inviting them to arrange tours of Works facilities and that such invitations request a response by May 8, 1987. REPORT: Since 1983, The Town of Newcastle and other municipalities in Durham Region (Durham Region, Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax and Pickering) gave recognition to Public Works Week. Throughout North America, the week of May 17th to 23rd will be recognized as Public Works Week. Different approaches were taken by the above municipalities with varying degrees of success. Some, like the Town, made a proclamation and advertised, inviting the public to contact the Works Department for information. Others presented displays in shopping plazas or arranged tours for school children and other interested groups. A concensus as to the most effective way to involve the public has determined that the approach through schools seems most appropriate. However, since various Scouting groups have requested tours in the past, we propose that local Guiding and Scouting Organizations be invited to participate. If this recommendation is again pursued, schools, Guiding and Scouting organizations will be contacted. In 1985, as a result of invitations being extended to local schools, the department provided a tour for a Grade 6 class from Central School , Bowmanville and based on feedback from the school , this was a successful event. Page 3 REPORT NO. : WD-10-87 In 1986, as a result of petitioned improvements to High Street by Eddy Cooke, Council referred the matter to the Director of Public Works. Subsequently, Eddy Cook and his class were invited to visit the Work' s facilities and a presentation outlining the overall approach to road maintenance and construction was provided. Arrangements for tours should be made well in advance so that staff and equipment are ready, therefore, an indication from the schools etc. , as to their desires for participation should be received by May 8, 1987. Similarly if groups or individuals respond to newspaper ads and show interest, we will certainly respond to their requests. Also, as a courtesy, the Works Department will make arrangements for persons interested in viewing or enquiring about services provided by the Region. The Works Department has an ongoing program of public relations which promotes both the department and the Town throughout the year. Evening tours have been conducted for Scouting groups, participation in the co-operative education programs of local schools, by providing on-job training for students, and participating in the Regional Snow Plow Competition have all contributed in a positive sense. However, a more concentrated participation in Public Works Week will increase the visibility of the Works Department and provide interested citizens with an opportunity to gain more insight into the intricacies of its operation. . . .4 Page 4 Report No. WD-10-87 We cannot drive a car, turn on water, or even dispose of trash without coming into contact with some services provided by Municipal Public Works Departments. It is, therefore, considered worthwhile to encourage recognition through promoting and advertising "Public Works Week". Respectfully submitted, Recommended for presentation to the Committee, Y Gordon J. Ough, P. Eng. , Lawrence E. otseff, Director of Public Works. Chief Administrative Officer. :j co February 6, 1987. L11-6 SCHEDULE 'A' PROCLAMATION Whereas the health, safety and comfort of the community is greatly dependent on the facilities and services provided by the Public Works Department; and, Whereas the support from the community is vital in the continuing efficient operation of the Public Work's Services such as street maintenance, refuse collection, water and sewer systems, road construction and snow removal ; and, Whereas the quality and effectiveness of these facilities and services are dependent on the continued efforts and skills of Public Works Department Staff; Now therefore, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Newcastle does hereby proclaim May 18th to May 24th, 1986, "Public Works Week" in the Town of Newcastle to recognize the efforts of the Public Works Department in providing for health, safety, and comfort in the community.