Twyla Ludwig

The council declared a state of local emergency in response to overland flooding and authorized payment for road repairs associated with a previous flood event. Key agenda items included reviewing the financial deficit for the 2024 fiscal year and establishing conditions for a conditional use application regarding a proposed tourist campsite. Committee reports were presented on town maintenance, fire department equipment, and road gravel management. The council also deliberated on various operational issues including road drainage, snow removal, equipment repairs, and administrative matters such as the review of mowing and lagoon tenders. Several by-laws were addressed, covering campaign expenses, the use of municipal resources, and the establishment of the annual tax levy.

The meeting addressed the approval of general and council expense accounts and the adoption of financial statements. Key business items included entering into a new lease for a grader, authorizing a V-Plow purchase, addressing camper permit changes, and approving a zoning variance for a secondary dwelling. Correspondence items involved financial and in-kind support for community organizations, permit renewals, and IT infrastructure upgrades. Council members discussed road and ditch maintenance, gravel exploration, and temporary road closures. The council also addressed several by-law readings, including grants of money, council indemnity, aggregate mining, and new election regulations, and appointed a Senior Election Official.

The Council discussed and approved various financial items, including general and council expense accounts and 2024 audited financial statements. A public hearing date for the 2026 financial plan was set, and several committee reports were received. The Council authorized attendance at an upcoming municipal conference, approved a subdivision application pending specific conditions, and granted a donation to the local regional airport. Additionally, the Council held an in-camera session, received reports on fire department and municipal activities, planned for post-election training, and scheduled the start of the summer season. Several by-laws regarding grants, council indemnity, and aggregate mining fees underwent first and second readings, and notices of motion were acknowledged to rescind previous resolutions.

The council meeting addressed several operational and administrative items, including appointments to the Westlake Watershed District Board and the Inter-Ridge Veterinary Board. A public hearing was held regarding a conditional use application for a seasonal campground expansion. The council also reviewed gravel tenders, discussed by-law readings, and authorized increases to annual grants for community halls and centres. Additionally, the council approved travel for staff to attend a professional conference, addressed snow clearing maintenance and animal control matters, and authorized staff vacation requests.

The Council reviewed auditor recommendations concerning the 2024 Audited Financial Statement, which included discussions on improving financial processes, implementing a third system back-up, addressing lagoon closure cost reporting, and conducting asbestos assessments on municipality-owned assets. Additionally, the council engaged in a budget discussion regarding the disbursement of Bi-Pole funds.