Regional Advisory Council member, and newly minted Vermilion Mayor, Robert Snow, says Lloydminster needs a seat at the table if it wants its rural health concerns heard.
Snow spoke Nov. 18 during a lunch meeting with the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society. He explained the role of the council and how its members provide feedback to the provincial government on rural health issues.
Mandate explained
Snow said the council’s job is to share what rural communities experience and advise the provincial government on what frontline realities look like outside major cities.
“It is about making sure we are communicating the concerns of rural communities directly to government,” said Snow.
He told the group that council members listen to residents, bring their observations forward and push for practical solutions.
No seat for Lloydminster
Snow confirmed Lloydminster is the one of two major rural service hub in Alberta without representation on the council. He said Cochrane is the other one.
He said having a voice from Lloydminster is important because the pressures here differ from many small centres.
“This region has unique challenges and the government needs to hear them directly,” said Snow.
Lack of action from provincial government
The province has not moved to appoint someone from Lloydminster, despite previous discussions with local stakeholders.
Community members at the meeting expressed frustration that the government continues to overlook the city, especially on issues like seniors care, transition beds and long term planning.
Snow stressed the importance of residents and advocacy groups continuing to push for representation.
Community needs recognized
Snow told the group he appreciated being invited to present and answer questions. He said the community’s engagement shows residents are serious about improving local seniors care.
He encouraged attendees to stay organized and continue raising awareness, adding that the government responds when communities speak up collectively.
