Monday, September 9, 2013

GCA Committees

I bet you don't know how many issues the GCA is dealing with at any given time.  To tell you the truth, I don't either, but I know it is a lot!

As part of my tendency to try to organize things in the month of September, I held a "committee chairs'" meeting tonight.  Representatives from 8 of 11 committees showed up (on a Monday night, no less!).  The committees represented included Environment, Traffic, Planning, Lansdowne, Education, Heritage, Health and Social Services and Membership. 

I can't believe the plethora of issues these people are working on:  naturalization of Browns Inlet, Lansdowne traffic, the 2nd Ave parking garage, zoning for conversions of single-family homes to multi-unit buildings (residential conversions), changes to the Official Plan, the Lansdowne development (and it's related issues), keeping an eye on construction at Mutchmor school, heritage research, security, membership outreach... but that's only top-dressing!  Dig a little deeper and I am struggling to find the time on the GCA's monthly agenda to have fulsome discussion about everything.

What I do know is this:  there is something here for everyone.  Pick a topic and you can get involved.  Want to join a committee?  no problem, I'll find you one!  Want to chair a committee?  While we have a full roster this year, we could probably find a co-chair role for you.  We certainly need for your contributions.  Come to the next Board meeting, Tuesday, September 24th (7 p.m. at the Glebe Community Centre) to see for yourself.  Our discussions are always lively and everyone is welcome to participate.  If you can't wait until then, come to our education session on residential conversions this Wednesday, September 11 (7 p.m. at the Glebe Community Centre).

The other thing I know is how very fortunate I am to be working with a group of committed individuals, who are giving of their time, knowledge and camaraderie.  Next time, I'll have to bring chocolate or wine to show my appreciation!