The Town of Bonnyville is looking to discuss rural transportation in the area.
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The town received a letter from the City of Cold Lake seeking to discuss rural bussing.
“I am writing on behalf of the City of Cold Lake to determine if there is an appetite for communities in our region to form a working group and jointly request the Government of Alberta consider a program to support rural bus lines that serve our communities,” read a letter from the office of the mayor in Cold Lake.
The letter details struggles the local bus company, Cold Shot, has been facing in providing service. It goes on to say public transportation options are important and should be expanded regionally with support from the Alberta government.
At the May 13 meeting, The Town of Bonnyville faced the decision if they wanted to be a part of these discussions.
“I don’t think it would hurt to be part of the discussion,” said Coun. Byron Johnson. “Not having rural bus routes right now does hurt our area quite a bit. Some people are stranded because they can’t get into the city.”
Johnson was in favour of attending these discussions.
As council discussion continued, others around the table voiced support for attending the meetings.
“Something that we talk about often is patients going to get services in a different municipality,” said Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau. “Once they get discharged, they’re left in that municipality whether they have their wallet with them or somebody who can help them.
“This would be a good way to help that sector of the population.”
Council was ultimately in favour of attending these meetings.
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