Strathcona County approach to inclusiveness and anti-racism.

The following is a statement from Mayor Rod Frank:

“Strathcona County has no place for racism.

As mayor, I am committed to using my position of influence to give voice to everyone in our community, and to ensure that our community remains a place where all feel welcome to live, work and do business.

Our efforts to promote inclusion and awareness are on-going. For example, weeks ago, Strathcona County Council approved two new policies aimed at building greater diversity and inclusion within our organization and community. These policies were developed over the past year, with input from residents, staff and subject matter experts from the county and around the region.

The Diversity and Inclusion Policy aims to thoughtfully create opportunities for participation in all aspects of community life. The policy is focused on five areas: planning, policies and evaluation, service program delivery, communication and engagement, community partnerships and workplace culture.

Internally, our Inclusive Hiring Policy guides the county’s staffing guidelines and hiring practices towards attracting a diverse, engaged and talented workforce. The policy speaks to inclusive hiring practices, reasonable accommodation, meaningful work for meaningful pay and community partnerships.

We are also harnessing the collective leadership of the Canadian Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities to influence positive change.

Moving forward, my intention is to welcome conversation and champion opportunities for positive change.”

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 percent of refining in Western Canada. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595