Keep on Blogging

Again, apologies for the hiatus. I have been, as you might expect, incredibly busy.

I was sworn in last week, and since have had the chance to participate in a public hearing, bring greetings to an arts group (FAVA) and a youth group (the City’s Youth Council). We’ve also had a number of informative briefings on pressing issues, like our city’s fiscal situation and the ongoing planning and coordination question unfolding in the larger Edmonton Region.

We’re finally getting through new-councillor orientation, so our days will be less filled with powerpoint presentations and veggie trays (one of which I am partial to, you may guess which). It bears mentioning, however, that I am profoundly impressed with the vast majority of the city’s staff whom I’ve met—the clerk’s office, the senior managers, the folks in the council services area, and all the others who keep city hall running—they seem a knowledgeable and committed bunch.

My office is coming together too. I’m adjusting slowly to the Windows environment, having never owned a PC before. Councillor Henderson is also a dyed-in-the-wool Mac user, and we’re both struggling a bit. On the plus side, my Blackberry is pretty amazing.

I’ll write in greater detail about the special initiatives the mayor has assigned me later, though I’ll note here that I’m excited to be leading the new Environmental Sustainability initiative in addition to joining Councillor Krushell in supporting the ongoing Youth and Next Gen initiatives. I’ve also been appointed to the Edmonton Public Library Board as well as the River Valley Alliance.

I’m told, and I’ve already seen some indication, that I’ll be quite busy for the next three years. This suits me fine as I work best when I’m kept busy.

“Life” is adjusting, though it will never be quite the same after this. Already people are recognizing me on the street, and though I was told to expect it and I am not surprised, it is a little odd to be known.

Web site revisions on the way… promise.