Jeff Hilstad

The Assessment Review Board hearing was held to review a property tax complaint regarding tax roll 12715 for 148 Cougar Point Road. The homeowner presented arguments concerning the property's assessment relative to neighboring homes, citing marketability issues such as a shared driveway, proximity to busy roads, the presence of a wood foundation, and old plumbing. The respondent discussed the property's recent purchase price, the nature of the requested reduction, and clarified previous communications regarding potential property improvements.

The Council meeting involved several land use planning discussions. Key items included public hearings and bylaw approvals for the Palliser Trail Spa Direct Control District, which aims to facilitate development of a wellness resort, and the Indian Flats Road Direct Control District, intended to support the Alpine Club of Canada's infrastructure and trailhead parking needs. Additionally, the Council addressed requests from the Homelessness Society of the Bow Valley regarding shelter access, approved a recreation services agreement with the Municipal District of Bighorn, established a funding agreement with Tourism Canmore Kananaskis, and approved amendments to the Prospect Heights Retaining Wall capital project. A Joint Use and Planning Agreement with Canadian Rockies Public Schools was also finalized.

The council discussed the 2026 property tax rate bylaw, focusing on the allocation of municipal tax requirements, the implementation of the livability tax program following adjustments from provincial bill 28, and the impacts of education and senior requisitions. Comparisons with neighboring municipalities and competitor data were reviewed to support the proposed tax split of 65 percent residential and 35 percent non-residential. Additionally, the council received an update on the status of assessment appeals and the distribution of tax collection towards municipal services, the provincial education system, and supportive housing for seniors.

The council meeting focused on the Property Tax Task Force Report, specifically regarding the approval of the Property Tax Policy for 2027 implementation and recommendations for the Livability Tax Program. Key discussion topics included the Livability budget amendment options, the cancellation of specific capital projects like the YWCA Moustache Lands Project and the Palliser Pedestrian Crossing Design, and the adjustment of funding sources for the Stoneworks Creek Mitigation project.

The committee discussed findings from the 2026 Business Retention and Expansion Triage Survey, covering key trends in business performance and growth expectations, along with housing, taxation, and affordability challenges. An update was provided on the Waste Water Treatment Plant Odour Control Phase 3 Project. Councillor updates detailed various committee activities, intermunicipal agreements, and local advocacy efforts, while administrative updates highlighted progress on the Livability Tax Program, emergency management audits, and economic development initiatives such as the SMARTstart program and Canada Day funding.