Council Highlights: September 8, 2025

Catch Council last night?
 
Here are some highlights:
 
➡ Representatives from the Mighty Peace Tourism Association provided an update on their website and tourism pursuits.
 
➡ Council provided first, second, and third readings to both Bylaw No. 2180, Peace River Policing Committee Bylaw and Bylaw No. 2181, Peace Regional Healthcare Attraction & Retention Committee Bylaw.
 
➡ Council provided first, second, and third readings to the new Industrial and Commercial Tax Incentive Bylaw. The bylaw is designed to encourage new commercial and industrial investment in Peace River by reducing the property tax burden on qualifying projects. With this bylaw, eligible new builds, major renovations, or expansions valued at $150,000 or more could receive a three-year tax exemption on the increased assessment as follows: 75% in year one, 50% in year two, and 25% in year three, up to a maximum of $250,000 total. The program aims to support business growth, attract new investment, create jobs, and help revitalize underused commercial areas.
 
➡ Council approved Development Permit Application No. 2025-42 for the area previously known as the Lions Campground (now under ownership of Peace River Adventures), subject to the special conditions outlined in Administration’s report and attached to the Minutes. The permit allows the construction of 10 all-season rental cabins and 10 seasonal camping stalls at the site.
 
➡ Council appointed Pat Fisher, Director of Infrastructure and Development, to the position of Development Officer. This is a secondary Development Officer appointment, which will provide greater flexibility for staff to provide coverage and maintain levels of service.
 
➡ Council appointed Cora Ostermeier to the Community Services Board as a public member at large for a three-year term.
 
➡ Council approved the Town of Peace River Library Bylaw dated November 21, 2024.
 
➡ Council reviewed a briefing note on the Town’s organizational and compensation review that had been initiated in early 2022 to evaluate the Town’s organizational structure and compensation practices. The note outlined actions undertaken by Administration to address and implement the review’s recommendations. You can view the new organizational chart in the agenda.
 
➡ Council moved to retain the prevailing ATCO Gas franchise fee of 32% for 2026, as well as the prevailing ATCO Electric franchise fee of 12.5% for 2026.
 
There's always more.
 
 
 
Our next Council meeting is Monday, September 22, 2025.