Marlene Walsh

The council meeting addressed several operational and governance items, including the passing of the 2026 Operating Budget and Taxation Bylaw No. 300-36. Discussions covered ongoing projects such as signage updates, asset management, water quality and quantity initiatives, and community cleanup efforts. Appointments of bylaw enforcement officers were confirmed, and various financial reports, including a transfer between accounts, were received. The council reviewed reports on emergency management, legislative updates concerning Bill 28, and regional collaborations, while planning for future joint meetings and capital planning sessions.

The council discussed updates on the water distribution feasibility study and ongoing animal control enforcement strategies. Proposals regarding signage, including potential electronic message boards and gazebo power installations, were reviewed. Policy matters, including asset management and the use of artificial intelligence, were addressed. The council evaluated the 2026 operating budget, emergency management readiness, and various regional projects involving water quality and infrastructure. Furthermore, the council awarded a contract for development officer services following a closed session and received several departmental and committee reports.

Key discussions during the meeting included a presentation on the Climate Ready Infrastructure Service Project, focusing on the Scope of Work, expansion opportunities, Asset Management, and grant funding confirmation. Council deliberated on the Keeping of Animals issue, opting to table the decision until the subsequent meeting. Signage was discussed, specifically quotes for walking trail signage and the installation of power and an electronic message board at Cantin Park, including consideration of placing a sign at the main entrance to minimize light pollution. Updates were provided on the 2026 Spring Municipal Leaders Caucus, and it was decided the Beachwave Park Survey would not proceed, with a focus shifting to resident awareness of existing programs. The FireSmart Program Survey indicated low awareness but high interest in free home assessments. Other agenda items covered the Police Funding Model, the Onsite Hazard & Risk Assessment via SVREMP, the Asset Management Plan progress, the Development Officer Contract Renewal, the Water Application for Shoreline Weedbed Management, and discussion regarding accessory buildings under the Land Use Bylaw.

The public hearing was convened to discuss Bylaw No. 300-34, a Land Use Bylaw Amendment. Key discussions included ensuring the bylaw explicitly references the NBC(AE) building code, as it constitutes Alberta Law since May 2024. Council members and residents provided feedback on specific sections of the bylaw, including cross-referencing issues and phrasing regarding boat hoists. Municipal Planning Services clarified that although the North Alberta Code is not explicitly named, its requirements are incorporated. Council ultimately moved to approve the Second Reading of Bylaw No. 300-34, and subsequently granted unanimous consent for the Third and Final Reading, which also repealed the previous Land Use Bylaw No. 218-08.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda with several new items added for discussion, such as FCM Membership, the 2026 Minister's Awards, and the TVRSSC 2026 Approved Budget. Discussions arose from business items including an update on the Water Distribution Feasibility Study, ongoing work regarding Animal Control violation tickets, and research into signage options. Council granted second and third readings and approved the adoption of Bylaw 300-27 Procedure Bylaw, repealing the existing one. Updates were provided on the LILSA Water Quality and Water Quantity Project (WQ2), including endorsements from participating municipalities and plans for grant funding discussions. Asset Management discussions focused on project overviews and challenges in accessible tool adoption for rural areas. The draft 2026 Operating Budget was noted as under discussion. New business covered the 2025 Audit status, the 2026 Spring Municipal Leaders Caucus, FireSmart Resident Survey feedback, and support for the Alberta Beach Seniors & 50 Plus Club. Financial reports for January 2026 were received. Correspondence addressed FortisAlberta grant opportunities and recognized the anticipated increases in the RCMP Police Funding Model. Department reports detailed ongoing Hazard and Risk Assessments, a mock emergency exercise, and updates on recreation, utility infrastructure (SANG), and education (Northern Gateway). Administration reported on AI use research, budget drafting, and bylaw updates.