Editor,
At the most recent council meeting, there was some debate around the cost of the city’s rebranding exercise. It was noted the current cost paid to third parties is approximately $40,000 and then an additional $450,000 over the next several years to replace signage and other city assets.
It was questioned by Coun. Daniel Fontaine about the amount of staff time currently incurred on this projects. The response from management was “this is included in the current work plans.”
It could be interpreted by some that by using internal resources there is no cost to the city taxpayers. However, this is misleading because there is a cost to our city employees and an opportunity cost because when they work on one project that takes them away from other activities.
I believe when city management put forward a project to council for consideration, it should include not just the external cost, but also the cost of staff time supporting such projects.
The amount of time staff has available in any given year is limited, and therefore decisions should be made with the full information so that they are being put towards their highest and best use.
If city management is uncomfortable sharing the amount of internal resources are being directed to a particular project that is arguably a red flag the costs of their time outweigh the benefits to the city and its taxpayers.
Joanne Folka
Glenbroke North resident
Editor’s note: Staff reports to council contain a section about financial implications, but the reports do not currently detail the amount of staff time that may be required to complete projects or initiatives.
