Council Meeting Highlights — Regular Council Meeting September 24, 2026

The items below address key decisions and issues that emerged from the September 24, 2026, Regular Council Meeting.

Key Items on the Agenda

Council Business

Council reviewed and adopted meeting minutes from:

• September 10, 2026 County Council Meeting

Delegations & Presentations

Small & Agricultural Parcel Tax Relief — Garry & Dianne Lovich: Council received a request for small parcel tax relief relating to a 4.82-acre parcel created through a road diversion. The applicants noted that the parcel is assessed separately despite being part of a larger agricultural holding. Council directed Administration to prepare a detailed report, including mapping and additional background information, for consideration at a future meeting.

Lac Ste. Anne Sports Complex Tax Relief Request — Kavis Reed: Representing THEGAMEFOREVER.COM (TG4), Kavis Reed presented a request for tax relief related to lands proposed for the future Lac Ste. Anne Regional Sports Complex. The request cited the property's complex ownership history, significant accumulated tax penalties, and the intended community benefits associated with the project. Council received the presentation as information and directed Administration to return on September 24 with additional information, including potential tax incentive options and policy considerations that could be applied fairly and equitably to similar developments in the future.

Swearing In of Honorary Fire Chief Oaklynn: Deputy Fire Chief Brent Sanderson introduced four-year-old Oaklynn to Council. Oaklynn, who has been diagnosed with a progressive autoimmune condition, was formally sworn in as Honorary Fire Chief for the month of September. Council and Fire Services recognized her appointment and welcomed her to the County Fire Services family.

Operations Reporting

Shoulder Pull Deferral: Council approved the deferral of three shoulder-pull projects to 2027 due to persistent wet weather and unsuitable ground conditions. Deferring the projects will allow for the possibility to be bundled into a future request for proposals process, creating potential efficiencies and cost savings. Funding remains available through the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF), with 2026 budget funds being carried forward, and Administration authorized not to proceed with the work this year.

Corporate Services Reporting

Assessment & Taxation — Penalty Relief/Cancellation Requests: Council reviewed several taxation and penalty relief requests. A request related to a $572 tax penalty was received as information. Council also reviewed a request concerning an $8,060 outstanding balance consisting of taxes and fire service charges and directed Administration to provide a detailed breakdown at a future meeting. In addition, Council referred the Lovich's Small & Agricultural Parcel Tax Relief request for further review and reporting.

Second Quarter Financial Report: Council received the Q2 Financial Report, which provided an update on departmental spending, reserve balances, budget performance, and financial variances. Staff highlighted the value of regular financial reporting in improving transparency, accountability, and public awareness of the County’s financial position throughout the year. Council noted that the enhanced reporting process supports informed decision making for both Council and ratepayers.

Community & Protective Services Reporting

Lessard Lake Trail Development: Council provided landowner consent for the Alberta Beach Snowmobile Club to proceed with a development permit application for trail and shelter improvements at the Lessard Lake Public Campground and Outdoor Education Centre. The project is intended to enhance recreational opportunities and improve trail connectivity within the area.

Letters of Support: Council approved letters of support for both the Darwell Public Library Society and the Coyote Community Hall Association as they pursue external grant funding opportunities. Proposed projects include library revitalization for the library and facility improvements such as upgrades to washrooms, siding, doors, tables, and chairs for the local community hall. The letters provide support only and do not create a financial commitment for the County.

Fire Services Awards Invitation: Deputy Fire Chief Brent Sanderson invited Council members to attend the Annual Fire Services Awards Banquet on October 24 at the Cherhill Community Centre. Council received the invitation for information and acknowledged the importance of recognizing volunteer firefighters and emergency responders.

Bylaws and Policies

Proposed Bylaw 22-2017-06-2026 Wayfinder Corp.: Council gave second and third readings to Bylaw 22-2017-06-2026 approving the redesignation of land from Agricultural District to Aggregate Resource Extraction and Processing (AR) District. The bylaw enables the proposed aggregate resource development to proceed in accordance with County planning and land-use regulations.

Chief Administrative Officer Reporting  

Meeting Start Time Change: Council approved changing the start time of County Council and Municipal Planning Commission meetings from 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. The change takes effect beginning with the September 24, 2026 Council Meeting, and Administration was directed to advertise the new schedule accordingly.

Rail Safety Week: Council proclaimed September 21-27, 2026, as Rail Safety Week and directed Administration to prepare a letter to CN Rail outlining ongoing concerns related to railway crossing safety, vegetation control, maintenance standards, and responsiveness to local issues. Council emphasized the importance of both public rail safety awareness and improved rail corridor maintenance within the region.

Procurement and Purchasing: Council discussed the County's procurement and purchasing framework and directed Administration to continue operating under the existing policy while a comprehensive update is being developed. Administration advised that work is underway in consultation with the Rural Municipalities Association and that the future update will align procurement practices with broader financial management systems and current legislative requirements.

Correspondence Received: Council received correspondence from Evansburg RCMP Detachment, National Police Federation, Honourable Tara Sawyer, Minister of Agriculture & Irrigation. The correspondence was accepted as information.

Council Business 

County Council Monthly Committee Reports: Council members provided updates on committee activities, board meetings, and regional initiatives undertaken during the previous month. Reports highlighted ongoing collaboration with regional partners and participation in community activities.

Looking Ahead

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by attending public meetings in-person or online, viewing meeting recordings, and reviewing Council Highlights, Council Meeting Minutes, and future Council Agendas.