Jordan Willner

The council meeting addressed various administrative and operational matters. Key agenda items included the approval of payroll and utility payables, the review of audited financial statements, and the discussion of RCMP communications. The council held a public hearing regarding a variance application for grain storage bin and dryer placement, which was subsequently approved. Furthermore, the council reviewed and revised the priority road system policy, incorporating updated graveling maps, and held discussions regarding a tile drainage project proposal.

The council discussed gravel crushing and hauling contracts, the impacts of tile drainage on municipal infrastructure, and the necessity of updating the ward distribution bylaw. Additionally, the meeting covered updates to the procurement policy regarding Canadian-made products, trade barrier restrictions, water rate increases in Kellwood, and the potential funding for a Veterinary College seat to aid recruitment. The council also addressed community donations, residential lead monitoring requirements, and infrastructure investment strategies.

The council discussed strategic housing development and methods to attract professionals to the municipality, specifically focusing on veterinary medicine sponsorships. They addressed a drainage maintenance request from the White Mud Watershed District and reviewed the process for listing and selling municipal lots. Additionally, the council debated and approved an advertising package with NCTV to promote municipal initiatives and events. The council also acknowledged a public notice regarding a zoning hearing and authorized the continuation of several recurring community advertising campaigns.

The Council meeting primarily addressed the unauthorized development of the boundary road allowance, resulting in a resolution to cease all further development on the road until compliance with provincial and municipal regulations is established. Additionally, the council authorized the signing of a revised Collective Agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers. The meeting also included a review of the fire bylaw and the establishment of annual fire service fees based on past operational statistics.

The council held a special meeting to present the 2026 financial plan. Key discussion topics included an overview of 2025 projects, such as the acquisition of a new fire department pumper truck and road rehabilitation work. The council reviewed the proposed 2026 municipal mill rate and discussed contributing factors to the budget, including deficit recovery, operational costs, and collective bargaining agreements. Additionally, the presentation covered the municipal tax dollar services, upcoming 2026 projects like road and bridge repairs, and the status of local municipal election preparations. The meeting concluded with the first reading of a bylaw to levy property taxes for 2026.