EMBRUN – It’s been five years since the township of Russell established its Citizen Recognition Program and the municipality’s current council members recently approved some updates.
The request for changes was made during the township’s June 20 council meeting when communications coordinator, Megan Beehler, asked politicians to approve the recommended updates. Council approved the request.
“The introduction of a Citizen Recognition Program was approved by council in 2017,” Beehler said in her report. “Over the last five years, the administration has proposed a number of ways to improve the program. The updated version simplifies the award categories, criteria, and logistics of the administrative process. These changes will help the township encourage more nominations and recognitions within the community.”
The 2022 version of Russell’s Citizen Recognition Program outlines the purpose, criteria, and procedures of the program, along with information on the Recognition Wall, which is located in the Town Hall, and a note on exclusions. Council members and employees of the township are not eligible for an award if it’s related to their role as a municipal representative.
There are three types of recognition avenues available. These include the Certificate of Recognition, the Community Award, and the Key to the Township. Certificate recognitions are used to celebrate things like a milestone birthday, anniversary, or some other major life milestone. The community awards are given to individuals who have proven to be “exceptional community members, working tirelessly to make the township of Russell a better place to live, work, and raise a family.” Meanwhile, keys to the township are given to persons, organizations, or groups who represent the community on a national or a global scale.
To learn more about the program, including how to nominate someone for an award, visit Russell’s website (Russell.ca). Information can be found by accessing the “Your Township” tab and choosing the “Awards and Recognitions” link. Council agendas and minutes can also be accessed via the municipality’s website.
