Emerson-Franklin council has created a new entity to oversee seniors services and recreation programs.

The new initiative, known as the Recreation and Wellness Advisory Committee, will take over the work that was formerly done by the Red River Recreation Commission and the Emerson-Franklin Services to Seniors Committee.

The move will allow council to help shape the direction of recreation programs and seniors services in the municipality, according to Reeve Dave Carlson.

"We'll have members of council and three community members at large that will comprise the board. Providing these services is such a critical part of our community and we want to make sure that everything is under the umbrella of the municipality so that we can ensure that all the services are delivered and the amenities are there for everyone."

Carlson said the new Recreation and Wellness Committee will basically combine all of the programs and services that were offered formerly by both the Red River Recreation Commission and the Emerson-Franklin Services to Seniors Committee.

Council also intends to hire a recreational and wellness facilitator to create a game plan to delivers these services and programs

"We want to bring everyone together, so that you're getting a strategic plan together in which events and programs are coordinated and there's no overlapping. Just trying to make everything as efficient as possible and to enhance the experience for everybody."

Carlson said Emerson-Franklin is a vibrant community with a lot of great people and volunteers and they want to maintain that great spirit. He says creating a committee focused on wellness and recreation will help keep everyone on the same page and maintain a great quality of life for local ratepayers.