Council Highlights: Nov. 24, 2025

Catch Council on Monday, Nov. 24?
 
Here are some highlights:
 
➡ Jaspreet Parmar presented a delegation in closed session about a property concern. This was in closed because it relates to the privacy of an individual.
 
➡ Council directed Administration to send a letter to Sagitawa Friendship Society in response to their request to reconsider the previously defeated motion to provide a letter of support for Sagitawa to apply for Temporary Emergency Responses Measures (TERM) funding, which would support 24/7 shelter operations. Through the letter sent to Sagitawa, Council confirmed that its stance did not change and the Town would not be sending a letter of support for TERM funding. We are aware that Sagitawa has separately received funding to operate the out-of-the-cold shelter from 10pm to 8am November through April. Council did not make this decision lightly, having to balance community concerns with the valuable work Sagitawa does to support those in need. Council has shared its concerns about the shelter and its effect on community safety and hopes to see Sagitawa address these concerns through the winter season.
 
➡ Council passed all three readings of both Bylaw #2183 and Bylaw #2184, authorizing MasterCard borrowing and establishing a line of credit at Alberta Treasury Branch.
 
➡ Council passed first reading of the 2026 Utility Rates Bylaw. Before finalizing the bylaw, we want your feedback. The proposed utility rate increases support the Town's goal to move to full cost recovery for water and sewer utilities by 2029, which requires average annual rate increases of 9.7% for water and 10.1% for sewer from 2025 to 2029. Council's intention in passing first reading is to open the subject up for discussion before making a decision on rates in a future meeting.
 
➡ Administration briefed Council on our Snow and Ice Policy. You can see further information on that and a map of priority routes here: https://www.peaceriver.ca/roads-infrastructure/road-and-sidewalks/snow-…
 
➡ Council adopted a new Business Recognition Policy to recognize and celebrate local businesses and their dedication to our community.
 
➡ Council approved allocating $115,000 as matching funds should the Town's grant application to the Northern Regional Economic Development Program be successful. The Town is seeking to implement a tourism marketing campaign that builds on the Roger Brooks Destination Development Study. A preliminary cost estimate is $170,000 to $230,000, spent over 2026 and 2027, if the grant application is successful.
 
➡ Council directed Administration to provide a letter of support to keep the Northwestern Polytechnic Fairview campus open, in response to recent news that it would be closed.
 
And there's always more! Board appointments, reports, and whatnot.