Geoff Lynch

This strategic plan outlines a clear direction for the County of Wetaskiwin to achieve its vision of "Rural Communities Growing for Tomorrow." The plan's mission is to deliver transparent governance, allocate resources responsibly for quality services, and foster innovation for a prosperous future. It is built upon five key pillars: Economic Development, Core Service Delivery, Infrastructure, Community Engagement, and Financial Sustainability. The goals include fostering a thriving local economy, prioritizing municipal services, investing in innovative infrastructure, strengthening community relationships, and ensuring long-term financial stability.

The council addressed several items, including the removal of a tax roll entry for collection, approval of amendments to the Planning and Development Committee's Terms of Reference, and the first readings of bylaws regarding the repeal of an Area Structure Plan and rezoning. Other topics included accepting an invitation to a prayer breakfast, a notice of motion regarding council chair purchases, authorization for site improvements at a transfer station, and approval of attendance at a sports hall of fame banquet. Amendments to an organizational policy were approved, and an additional agenda item regarding a business awards gala was addressed. Additionally, the council held a closed session regarding tourism lease requests and a CAO update, resulting in the denial of a twenty-five-year lease request while supporting a three-year extension.

The council addressed several items including the award of tenders for infrastructure projects such as ditching improvements and culvert replacements, and the award of requests for proposals for Transportation and Infrastructure Master Plans. Multiple public hearings were conducted regarding the repeal of several area structure plan bylaws. The council also approved a strategic plan for 2026-2030, a new policy for leasing county lands, and the addition of outstanding fire service and property clean-up fees to tax rolls. Additionally, the council reviewed RCMP quarterly reports, held a closed session to discuss confidential matters, and addressed a funding request from the local Legion.

The council discussed the proposed development of hiking trails on provincial land and the scheduling of the 2026 public auction for tax arrears properties. Other topics included a decision to decline participation in the Rural Renewal Stream program, the approval of hiring summer students for 2026, and the scheduling of community open house events. The council also addressed a sponsorship request for a youth society and held a closed session to discuss personnel and contractual matters, which resulted in the acceptance of a CAO update, approval of a shared community peace officer program with the Town of Millet, and a cost-of-living allowance increase for the CAO.

The council conducted a comprehensive review of the proposed 2026 operational and capital budgets across various departments, including Legislative Services, Administration, Financial Services, Assessment, Public Works, and Emergency Services. Discussions involved evaluating various service enhancements, with specific directives given to administration regarding inclusions and exclusions in the draft budget. The council also deliberated on multi-year capital plans for gravel and paved roads, bridge projects, fleet management, and utility infrastructure, and held a closed session to discuss matters exempt from public disclosure.