The pitter-patter of little feet – as well as a lot of excited chatter and laughter – could be heard throughout the Civic Facility on April 21 as the Township of Langley welcomed hundreds of children to Municipal Awareness Day.
Since 2003, the Township has been opening its doors to local students to show them what municipal government does and the services and programs it provides to keep the community clean, safe, and healthy. The tradition features fun, hands-on opportunities to learn at various stations that are set up by Township employees indoors and out.
This year, the youngsters learned about making maps and signs, graphic design, how to care for trees, water, and the environment, film production, emergency preparedness, and safety. The students also participated in a mock Council debate, cast their votes in an election, and had the chance to climb inside municipal vehicles and a fire truck.
More than 1,800 elementary school children, their teachers, and parents attended the 14th annual event, which also coincided with the Township’s 143rd birthday.
“Municipal Awareness Day is a great way for our young residents to learn what the Township does to keep our community running on a day-to-day basis,” said Mayor Jack Froese. “It is a wonderful day for the students, and members of Township Council and staff have a great time, too. It’s a fun opportunity to connect with younger members of our community, and really rewarding to see them talking with staff, playing educational games, and learning how things work.”
Refreshments for the event were generously donated by Willoughby Save-On-Foods.