Kneehill County public meetings in 2024
30 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will consider adopting the 2025 operating and capital budget, including grant and reserve transfers. Several bylaws are up for decisions: road closure on Railway Ave in the ex-hamlet of Allingham, cancellation of a public hearing for Bylaw 1910, and approval of electoral boundaries (Bylaw 1908). Council will also vote on extension agreements for fire services, transfer stations, and other municipal services with the Village of Carbon, Village of Linden, and Town of Trochu. Other items include appointments to the Agricultural Service Board and a returning officer for the 2025 election.
- 2025 Budget Adoption (operating, capital, and forecasts)
- Bylaw 1906: Road Closure – Railway Ave within Ex-Hamlet of Allingham
- Bylaw 1908: Electoral Boundaries and Council Composition
- Extension agreements with Village of Carbon, Village of Linden, and Town of Trochu for fire/transfer station services
- Non-County Water Connection request for Acme Golf Course
Council approved the 2025 operating budget of $32,127,835, along with reserve transfers, a capital budget of $8,149,780, and multi-year forecasts. They also approved a water connection for the Acme Golf Course, closed a road in Allingham, and passed an electoral boundaries bylaw. All decisions were carried, with some votes not unanimous.
- Approved 2025 Operating Budget of $32,127,835
- Approved 2025 Capital and Project Budget of $8,149,780
- Approved water connection for Acme Golf Course from county rural waterline
- Closed Railway Avenue in Ex-Hamlet of Allingham (Bylaw 1906)
- Cancelled public hearing for Bylaw 1910
- Appointed Rinske Metzger to Agricultural Service Board 2025-2028
- Approved $600 grant to Susan MacKenzie for Robbie Burns Night
- Adopted Bylaw 1908 on electoral boundaries and council composition
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will consider additional information on the 2025 budget, including a presentation. They will also approve the minutes from the November 19, 2024 meeting and may enter a closed session. No other substantive items are listed.
- 2025 Budget – Additional Information (with two PDF attachments)
- Approval of November 19, 2024 COW meeting minutes
- Closed session (topic not specified)
The Committee of the Whole recommended including the Carbon Management Services project in the 2025 operating budget, but defeated a motion to add a fourth Community Peace Officer position. The committee also unanimously recommended removing the Horseshoe Canyon Trail Masterplan project from the proposed budget and bringing the amended budget to the December 10 Council meeting. The meeting included a closed session for intergovernmental relations.
- Recommended including Carbon Management Services project in 2025 operating budget (carried)
- Defeated motion to include fourth Community Peace Officer position in 2025 operating budget
- Recommended removing Horseshoe Canyon Trail Masterplan project from 2025 budget (unanimous)
- Recommended bringing amended 2025 budget to December 10 Council meeting (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Council will hold a public hearing on Bylaw 1905, the draft Municipal Development Plan, at 1:00 p.m. They will also receive the 2025 budget audit service plan and continue budget deliberations. Other business includes first reading of Bylaw 1910 to redesignate land from Agricultural to Light Industrial, adoption of an Election Bylaw, and a letter of support for Horseshoe Canyon Campground and Cabins.
- Public hearing on Bylaw 1905 – Draft Municipal Development Plan (1:00 p.m.)
- Presentation of 2025 Audit Service Plan by MNP auditors
- 2025 Budget – responses to questions and deliberations
- Bylaw 1910 – redesignation of SW 29-31-24 W4 from Agricultural to Light Industrial
- Bylaw 1909 – Election Bylaw
Kneehill County Council approved the 2025 Family and Community Support Services budget and passed a new election bylaw. Council also initiated the redesignation process for land in the Agriculture District to Light Industrial and directed staff to arrange meetings regarding the draft Municipal Development Plan.
- Approved 2025 FCSS budget (7-0)
- Passed Election Bylaw 1909 (7-0)
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1910 for land redesignation (7-0)
- Scheduled public hearing for Bylaw 1910 for Jan 28, 2025 (7-0)
- Directed staff to meet with local municipalities regarding Bylaw 1905 (7-0)
- Approved travel for Council to attend 2025 EDA Conference (7-0)
- Authorized letter of support for Horseshoe Canyon Campground (7-0)
- Directed staff to amend the draft 2025 budget (7-0)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss a Community Aggregate Payment Levy and road use agreements. The body will also review policies regarding grader gravel services and dirt trail road allowances, and discuss the impact of Bill 20.
- Community Aggregate Payment Levy and associated ByLaw
- Road Use Agreement discussion
- Policy 13-2 Grader Gravel Services review
- Policy 13-36 Maintenance of Dirt Trail Road Allowances review
- Bill 20: The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2024
The Committee of the Whole recommended that Council proceed with a new Community Aggregate Payment Levy bylaw and approved revisions to the Grader and Gravel Services policy. Members also received information regarding Road Use Agreements and Bill 20: The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act.
- Recommended Community Aggregate Payment Levy Bylaw for first reading
- Approved revisions to Policy 13-2 Grader and Gravel Services
- Accepted Road Use Agreement information
- Received presentation on Bill 20 for information
- Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will discuss and potentially decide on the 2025 budget following question responses and deliberations. The agenda also includes a discussion on municipal participation in the Lone Butte Solar Project, with related documents such as specific concerns and a proposed land-use bylaw amendment. Additional items include reviewing policies on commercial dust control and seeding roadsides, and considering an extension agreement with the Town of Three Hills.
- 2025 budget deliberations with question responses and presentations
- Municipal participation in the Lone Butte Solar Project
- Review of Policy 13-1 Commercial Dust Control and Policy 13-25 Seeding Roadsides
- Economic Development Plan 2024–2027
- Town of Three Hills extension agreement for fire services and recreational operations
Kneehill County Council approved a $75,000 budget for legal representation in AUC proceeding 29380 related to the Lone Butte Solar Project, and directed a letter to Minister Neudorf about concerns over the Land Suitability Ranking System. Council also approved the 3-year Economic Development Plan, appointed Amy Merrill to CAEP, and adopted several policy changes. All decisions were carried, with most unanimous.
- Approved $75,000 for legal representation in AUC proceeding 29380 (unanimous)
- Directed letter to Minister Neudorf re: Land Suitability Ranking System concerns (unanimous)
- Approved 3-Year Economic Development Plan 2024-2027 (carried)
- Appointed Amy Merrill as CAEP Member at Large for one-year term (unanimous)
- Endorsed Amy Merrill as CAEP Board director nominee (carried)
- Approved revisions to Policy 13-4 Dust Suppression and repealed Policy 13-1 (unanimous)
- Approved Policy 13-25 Seeding Roadsides (unanimous)
- Approved closing County Office at noon on Dec 24, 2024 (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Council will review the 2025 core operating budget and a forecast for 2026-2028. The meeting includes discussions on solar project participation, community grants, and updates to county policies.
- 2025 Budget – Core Operating and 2026-2028 forecast
- Municipal participation in Lone Butte Solar Project
- Round Two 2024 Community Grants
- Policy 13-10 (Mailboxes) and Policy 13-6-7 (Gravel Stockpile Leases) reviews
- Disposal options for fire engines
Council unanimously approved participating in the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) process regarding the Lone Butte Solar Project, with specific concerns to be discussed at the November 12, 2024 meeting. Council also approved several policies, community grants totaling $5,125.37, and the donation of two fire engines to a charity. The 2025 Core Operating Budget was received for information only, and a delegation regarding the draft budget was addressed with a written response.
- Approved participation in AUC process for Lone Butte Solar Project (unanimous)
- Deferred discussion of specific Lone Butte Solar concerns to Nov 12, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved Policy 13-10 Mailboxes as presented (unanimous)
- Approved amended Policy 13-6-7 Gravel Stockpile Leases, directed adding rates to Master Rates Bylaw (unanimous)
- Approved $5,125.37 in Round Two Community Grants to four non-profits (unanimous)
- Donated two fire engines to Alberta Society for Firefighters Abroad – Project Paraguay (unanimous)
- Directed written response to Renewable Energy Reclamation Security Engagement by Oct 25 (unanimous)
- Directed development of a Kneehill County Governance Model document (carried)
Organizational Meeting
The council is meeting to establish its internal structure and leadership for the upcoming term. Key actions include electing the Reeve and Deputy Reeve and appointing members to various boards and committees. The body will also set the 2025 meeting schedules for council and several commissions.
- Election of Reeve
- Election of Deputy Reeve
- Establishment of Municipal Office
- Setting 2025 meeting dates for Regular Council, Committee of the Whole, Agricultural Service Board, and Municipal Planning Commission
- Appointments to 21 boards and committees, including the Police Advisory Committee and Kneehill Housing Corporation
At the organizational meeting, Council elected Ken King as Reeve and Faye McGhee as Deputy Reeve for 2024/2025 via secret ballot. Council also approved the 2025 meeting schedule, established the municipal office, and made numerous board and committee appointments for the year.
- Elected Ken King as Reeve (secret ballot)
- Elected Faye McGhee as Deputy Reeve (secret ballot)
- Established municipal office at 1600 2nd Street NE, Three Hills, AB
- Approved 2025 regular council meeting dates (second and fourth Tuesdays with exceptions)
- Approved 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting dates (third Tuesday with exceptions)
- Approved 2025 Agricultural Service Board meeting dates
- Approved 2025 Municipal Planning Commission meeting dates (fourth Thursday with exceptions)
- Appointed council members to various boards and committees (e.g., Agricultural Service Board, Police Advisory Committee)
Committee of the Whole
The Kneehill County Committee of the Whole will review the Economic Development Plan and consider a delegation from Kneehill Adult Learning regarding a community grant. The meeting also includes a discussion on a youth scholarship idea and the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Review of Economic Development Plan documents
- Delegation from Kneehill Adult Learning for community grant
- Discussion on youth scholarship ideas
- Approval of September 17, 2024, Committee of the Whole minutes
- Closed session regarding Intergovernmental Relations
The Committee of the Whole unanimously recommended that Council accept the Economic Development Plan as amended, and also recommended exploring a youth engagement framework. They received the 2023 Year in Review for information and heard a delegation from Kneehill Adult Learning regarding a community grant application. All decisions were unanimous and will be presented to Council at the October 22, 2024, Regular Council Meeting.
- Recommended accepting amended Economic Development Plan (unanimous)
- Recommended exploring youth engagement framework (unanimous)
- Received 2023 Year in Review for information (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of September 17, 2024 COW meeting (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will discuss the proposed 2025 budget and related projects, consider cancellations of 2024 tax accounts, and vote on the appointment of external auditors. The meeting also includes a grant application for a regional SCADA master plan and a review of the Draft Municipal Development Plan under Bylaw 1905. These items are presented for council decision or further discussion.
- 2025 Budget – Setting the Stage and Proposed Projects
- 2024 Tax Account Cancellations
- Appointment of County External Auditors
- ACP Grant Application – Regional SCADA Master Plan
- Bylaw 1905 Draft Municipal Development Plan
Council gave first reading to Bylaw 1905, the draft Municipal Development Plan, and scheduled a public hearing for November 26, 2024. They also approved $68,444.21 in tax cancellations for orphan well properties, appointed MNP as auditor for three years, and supported several grant applications. The meeting included a closed session for confidential matters.
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1905 Municipal Development Plan
- Scheduled public hearing for Bylaw 1905 on November 26, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
- Approved $68,444.21 in tax cancellations for orphan well properties
- Directed administration to apply for Provincial Education Requisition Credit of $68,252.28
- Appointed MNP as external auditor for three years (through 2026)
- Approved ASB membership structure change to 4 producer and 3 council members
- Supported ACP grant applications for Regional SCADA Master Plan, Trochu, and Three Hills projects
- Directed administration to prepare governance model project proposal
Council Meeting
The council will consider the 2025 Capital Equipment Plan and related presentations. Items include a wastewater project for the Hamlet of Huxley, a policy review for Texas Gate (13‑29), and a grant request for Wimborne Community Hall. The meeting also covers annual tax cancellations and updates from legislative services.
- 2025 Capital Equipment Plan presentation (RFD and CEP documents)
- Hamlet of Huxley Wastewater project
- Policy Review 13‑29 Texas Gates
- Wimborne Community Hall request and Rural Community Hall Capital Grant
- 2024 Annual Tax Cancellations
Council approved a $5,120,000 draw from the Capital Equipment Plan reserve for 2025 purchases and agreed to consider a $3,600,000 contribution to the reserve during budget deliberations. They also approved funding for two community halls, a new septic pumping service in Huxley, and several policy updates. All votes were unanimous except the capital draw and flag protocol policy, which carried without recorded opposition.
- Approved $5,120,000 draw from Capital Equipment Plan reserve for 2025 (carried)
- Approved consideration of $3,600,000 contribution to CEP reserve in 2025 budget (unanimous)
- Approved $2,750.00 to Wimborne Community Centre and $2,250.00 to Swalwell Community Centre from Rural Hall Capital Grant (unanimous)
- Approved new septic tank pumping service in Hamlet of Huxley, cost recovery, starting 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Policy 13-29 Texas Gates as amended (unanimous)
- Approved 2024 tax cancellations for gas co-ops per Policy 16-15 (unanimous)
- Approved cancellation of Grants in Place of Taxes portion for Roll #30211533000 (unanimous)
- Approved Policy #11-2 Letter of Support, #11-22 Flag Protocol, #11-4 Meetings in County Office (all carried)
Committee of the Whole
The Kneehill County Committee of the Whole will hold a meeting on September 17, 2024. It will present the 2025 Capital Equipment Plan, review the draft Municipal Development Plan (Bylaw 1905), and discuss the Economic Development Plan. No decisions are indicated; the items are for presentation and discussion.
- 2025 Capital Equipment Plan Presentation
- Bylaw 1905 Draft Municipal Development Plan review
- Economic Development Plan discussion
The Committee of the Whole recommended that Council approve a $5,120,000 draw from the Capital Equipment Reserve for 2025 purchases and consider a $3,600,000 contribution to the reserve during 2025 budget deliberations. It also recommended that Administration bring back the amended draft Municipal Development Plan for further discussion and potential first reading. The Economic Development Plan item was deferred to the October meeting. The meeting included a closed session for personal privacy matters.
- Recommended $5,120,000 draw from Capital Equipment Reserve for 2025 CEP purchases (unanimous)
- Recommended $3,600,000 contribution to Capital Equipment Plan Reserve for 2025 budget (carried)
- Recommended amended draft Municipal Development Plan be brought back to Council for discussion and potential first reading (unanimous)
- Deferred Economic Development Plan to October COW meeting (unanimous)
- Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
- Approved June 18, 2024 COW minutes (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for personal privacy (FOIP Section 17) (unanimous)
- Returned to open meeting (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will hear delegations, consider public hearings for road closures and zoning changes, and review bylaws regarding unsightly premises and electoral boundaries.
- Public Hearing: Bylaw 1906 for Railway Ave road closure
- Public Hearing: Bylaw 1907 for DC5 to Agriculture zoning
- Third Reading: Bylaw 1904 for Agriculture to Recreation zoning
- Third Reading: Bylaw 1903 Unsightly Premises Bylaw
- Third Reading: Bylaw 1908 Electoral Boundaries and Council Composition
Council approved a six-month, penalty-free tax deferral payment plan for Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. for its 2024 property taxes, with payments from October 2024 to March 2025. Council also gave final readings to several bylaws, including the Unsightly Premises Bylaw and a land redesignation, and approved the 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan. The meeting included public hearings for road closure and land redesignation, with no public speakers.
- Approved tax deferral payment plan for Pine Cliff Energy (6-month, no penalties) (unanimous)
- Approved third reading of Bylaw 1903, Unsightly Premises (unanimous)
- Approved third reading of Bylaw 1904, redesignation to Recreation (unanimous)
- Approved second and third reading of Bylaw 1907, redesignation to Agriculture (unanimous)
- Approved 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan (unanimous)
- Approved Policy #1-2, Sponsorship to Agriculture Non-Profit Organizations (unanimous)
- Approved 2024 Kneehill Regional FCSS Agreement (unanimous)
- Gave first reading to Bylaw 1908, Electoral Boundaries and Council Composition (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will meet on August 20, 2024, to discuss and vote on several land-use bylaws, infrastructure updates, and policy matters. The meeting includes public hearings on agricultural land redesignation, road closures, and waste management services.
- Bylaw 1904: Redesignation of agricultural land to recreation (2nd and 3rd readings)
- Bylaw 1906: Road closure on Railway Ave (Ex-Hamlet of Allingham) for first reading
- Bylaw 1907: Redesignation from DC5 to A land use (first reading)
- Bylaw 1903: Unsightly premises bylaw (third reading)
- Kneehill County Solid Waste Services update and landfill evaluation
Council unanimously approved restricting use of the Torrington landfill to Kneehill County ratepayers or residents, effective January 1, 2025. They also directed administration to investigate long-term solid waste service costs. Several other items were approved, including first readings of bylaws, a public hearing, and budget allocations.
- Restricted Torrington landfill use to county ratepayers/residents, effective Jan 1, 2025 (unanimous)
- Directed administration to investigate solid waste service costs beyond current site lifespan (unanimous)
- Gave first reading to Bylaw 1906 for road closure of Railway Ave in Allingham (unanimous)
- Gave first reading to Bylaw 1907 to redesignate land from DC5 to Agriculture (unanimous)
- Approved Type 6 Bush Buggies for Carbon and Three Hills at $390,000 each in 2025 budget (unanimous)
- Approved reserve contributions: $695,637 to Infrastructure, $500,000 to Bridges, $500,000 to Water (unanimous)
- Approved $433,267 to Capital Equipment Plan Reserve from equipment sale (unanimous)
- Deferred discussion of Wind Concerns Kneehill County to Sept 10, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
Council Meeting
Kneehill County Council will meet on July 23, 2024, to conduct routine business including approving minutes, discussing infrastructure, community services, and corporate matters. The meeting includes first readings of proposed bylaws and updates on planning, economic development, and protective services.
- First reading of Bylaw 1904 to amend Land Use Bylaw 1808
- Bylaw 1903, Unsightly Premises Bylaw presented for review
- Bylaw 1898, Town of Trochu Senior’s Living Complex Borrowing Bylaw scheduled for second and third readings
- 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan discussed for updates
- Economic Development Plan 2024–2027 reviewed
Council gave final readings to Bylaw 1898, authorizing borrowing for the Town of Trochu Senior's Living Complex, and approved an updated agreement. It also gave first reading to Bylaw 1903 (Unsightly Premises) but defeated unanimous consent for third reading. Several other items were directed for further review or information.
- Approved Bylaw 1898, borrowing bylaw for Trochu Senior's Living Complex, final reading (unanimous)
- Authorized Reeve and CAO to sign updated Trochu Senior's Living Complex agreement (unanimous)
- Gave first reading to Bylaw 1903, Unsightly Premises (carried)
- Gave second reading to Bylaw 1903, Unsightly Premises (carried)
- Defeated unanimous consent for third reading of Bylaw 1903
- Directed Administration to pursue 'Opt-out' service model with Circular Materials (unanimous)
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1904, Land Use Bylaw amendment (unanimous)
- Awarded $2,000 scholarships to Evan Gorr and Reagan Wiebe (unanimous)
Council Meeting
The Council will review several land use changes, including a public hearing for a redesignation from agriculture to recreation. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a water allocation request from the Village of Acme and a follow-up on a request from Badlands Recreation Development Corp.
- Public Hearing: Bylaw #1902 Redesignation – Agriculture to Recreation
- Bylaw #1900 Second and Third Reading: Redesignation Agriculture to Local Rural Commercial
- Village of Acme Request for Water Allocation
- Follow-Up to Request from Badlands Recreation Development Corp.
- Delegation: Prairie College & Mission Aviation Fellowship of Canada
Kneehill County Council passed second and third readings for Bylaw #1900 to redesignate land to Local Rural Commercial and Bylaw #1902 to redesignate land to Recreation District following a public hearing. Council directed administration to enter an agreement with Badlands Motorsports Development Corp. and apply for a STIP-LMI grant, declined a water allocation transfer request from the Village of Acme, authorized an amended letter of concern to the Premier regarding the Alberta Utilities Commission, rescheduled upcoming meeting dates, and voted to investigate water service upgrades for the Three Hills Airport.
- Approved second and third readings of Bylaw #1900 to redesignate land from Agriculture to Local Rural Commercial (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Directed Administration to enter an agreement with Badlands Motorsports Development Corp. and apply for the STIP-LMI grant (CARRIED)
- Opened and closed a Public Hearing for Bylaw #1902 (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Directed Administration to inform the Village of Acme that Kneehill does not wish to transfer Aqua 7 water allocation (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Authorized the Reeve to sign an amended letter of concern regarding the Alberta Utilities Commission to Premier Danielle Smith (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Rescheduled the July Council meeting to July 23rd and the August meeting to August 20th (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Approved second and third readings of Bylaw #1902, as amended, redesignating land from Agriculture to Recreation District (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
- Directed Administration to investigate options for upgrading water service to the Three Hills Airport (CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review several draft documents including an Unsightly Premises Bylaw and a 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan. The committee is also scheduled to discuss the Economic Development Plan 2024-27 and an AUC decision regarding Three Hills Solar Power Corp.
- Unsightly Premises Bylaw Draft 2
- 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan
- Economic Development Plan 2024-27 Draft
- AUC Decision re Three Hills Solar Power Corp.
The Committee of the Whole recommended that Council adopt an updated Unsightly Premises Bylaw. It also requested that Administration present the 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan and the 2024-27 Economic Development Plan to Council for consideration and approval.
- Recommended Council adopt updated Unsightly Premises Bylaw (Carried)
- Requested Administration present 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan with amendments to Council (Carried Unanimously)
- Requested Administration bring Economic Development Plan 2024-27 with changes to Council for approval (Carried Unanimously)
- Recommended Council send letter to Province regarding AUC Decision 28086-D01-2024 (Carried Unanimously)
- Approved May 21, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried Unanimously)
Council Meeting
The Council will hold a public hearing regarding a Land Use Bylaw amendment for Local Rural Commercial zoning. The meeting also includes an annual report delegation from Kneehill Regional Family and Community Support Services and a review of the County Credit and Fuel Cards policy.
- Public Hearing: Bylaw #1900 Land Use Bylaw Amendment to Local Rural Commercial
- Delegation: Kneehill Regional Family and Community Support Services Annual Report
- Century Farm Award Presentation: Sept Farm
- Policy Review: #16-12 County Credit and Fuel Cards
- Policy Review: #16-6 Additional Named Insured Policy
Kneehill County Council approved updates to two administrative policies regarding credit cards and insurance. Council also received the 2023 Kneehill Regional Family and Community Support Services annual report and held a public hearing regarding a land use bylaw amendment.
- Approved revised Policy #16-12, County Credit and Fuel Cards (unanimous)
- Approved Policy #16-6, Additional Named Insured Policy (unanimous)
- Opened and closed public hearing for Bylaw #1900 (unanimous)
- Requested Seniors Outreach presentation on programming and statistics (carried)
- Received 2023 FCSS Annual Report for information (unanimous)
- Accepted June 2024 Protective Services Report (unanimous)
- Accepted Council & Committee Report for information (unanimous)
- Received Council Follow-Up Action List for information (unanimous)
Council Meeting
The Council will review delegations regarding the Kneehill Housing Corporation and Accurate Assessment 2024. The agenda includes discussions on fluoride reduction in the Hamlet of Wimborne, land use redesignations, and budget guidelines.
- Bylaw 1902: Redesignation from Agriculture to Recreation
- Town of Trochu Senior’s Living Complex Borrowing Bylaw
- Capital Equipment Plan Pre-authorization for a snowplow
- Hamlet of Wimborne naturally occurring fluoride reduction
- Open Farm Days community event funding request
Council authorized the purchase of a Class 8 Highway Snowplow and approved several infrastructure and corporate expenditures. The board also established 2025 budget guidelines and moved forward with a land redesignation bylaw.
- Approved up to $555,000 for a Class 8 Highway Snowplow (Unanimous)
- Approved $15,000 purchase of Virtual City Hall (Unanimous)
- Increased Council Screen replacement budget from $44,000 to $64,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 for Open Farm Days event in Trochu (Unanimous)
- Appointed Fallon Sherlock as Agricultural Fieldman (Unanimous)
- Passed first reading of Bylaw 1902 to redesignate land from Agriculture to Recreation (Unanimous)
- Set 15-vendor minimum threshold for Country Market events (Unanimous)
- Adopted 2025 budget guidelines focusing on strategic plan alignment and service levels (Unanimous)
Committee of the Whole
The Kneehill County Committee of the Whole will meet on May 21, 2024, to discuss several policy revisions. The agenda includes reviews of mailbox policies and gravel stockpile lease templates. Members will also examine a draft bylaw regarding unsightly premises.
- Review of Policy 13.10 Mailboxes
- Review of Policy 13.6.7 Gravel Stockpile Leases
- Discussion of Unsightly Premises Draft Bylaw
The Committee of the Whole recommended Council approve policy 13-10 on mailboxes and revisions to policy 13.6.7 on gravel stockpile leases, directing Administration to add gravel stockpile lease rates to the Master Rates Bylaw at its next normal update. On the proposed Unsightly Premises Bylaw, the committee requested further changes for consideration at a future Committee of the Whole meeting. The committee also went into closed session under Section 17 (personal privacy) and approved its April 16, 2024 minutes as amended.
- Recommended Council approve policy 13-10 (mailboxes) as presented (unanimous)
- Recommended Council approve revisions to policy 13.6.7 (gravel stockpile leases) and add lease rates to the Master Rates Bylaw at its next update (unanimous)
- Requested further changes to the proposed Unsightly Premises Bylaw for a future Committee of the Whole meeting (unanimous)
- Approved the April 16, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Approved the agenda as presented (unanimous)
- Held a closed session under Section 17 (personal privacy) from 9:40 a.m. to 10:31 a.m. (unanimous)
Council Meeting
The council will consider multiple land use bylaw amendments and a proposal for a road closure. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Hamlet of Huxley wastewater study and reports from community delegations.
- Land Use Bylaw Amendments (Bylaws 1895, 1896, and 1900)
- Road Closure Bylaw 1870 for an undeveloped road allowance
- Hamlet of Huxley wastewater study
- Local Improvement Bylaw 1901 amendments
- FCSS Community Coach annual report delegation
Council defeated two proposed land use bylaws (1895 and 1896) that would have redesignated agricultural land to Direct Control Districts. Council unanimously approved the closure of an undeveloped road allowance in Section 25-33-25 W4 for $15,500. Additionally, Council accepted the Hamlet of Huxley Wastewater Study and directed staff to hold a community engagement session regarding its findings.
- Bylaw 1895 (land redesignation) defeated (1-6)
- Bylaw 1896 (land redesignation) defeated (1-6)
- Approved $15,500 value for road allowance closure in Sec 25-33-25 W4 (unanimous)
- Bylaw 1870 (road closure) passed third reading (unanimous)
- Bylaw 1900 (land redesignation) passed first reading (unanimous)
- Public hearing for Bylaw 1900 scheduled for June 11, 2024
- Bylaw 1901 (Sunnyslope Water Local Improvement) passed third reading (unanimous)
- Accepted Hamlet of Huxley Wastewater Study as information (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Council Meeting
The Council will hold a public hearing regarding Bylaw 1895 and 1896 land use amendments for DC7 and DC8. The agenda also includes reviews of the 2024 tax rate bylaw and the Hamlet of Huxley wastewater study. Additionally, council will discuss 2024 dust suppression rates.
- Public Hearing for Bylaw 1895 & 1896 Land Use Bylaw Amendments
- Review of 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw
- Hamlet of Huxley Wastewater Study
- 2024 Dust Suppression Rates
- Request from Badlands Recreation Development Corp.
Council passed the 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw and the Trochu Recreation Area Special Tax Bylaw. The board also established 2024 dust suppression rates and accepted the 2023 audited financial statements.
- Approved 2024 Dust Suppression rates: Full Calcium Chloride $10/m, Top Spray Calcium $5/m, Spec Crude $56/m (Unanimous)
- Passed 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw #1897 (Unanimous)
- Passed 2024 Trochu Recreation Area Special Tax Bylaw #1899 (Unanimous)
- Accepted 2023 Audited Financial Statements (Unanimous)
- Approved water truck and operator use for Linden Sports Day (Unanimous)
- Authorized Reeve to send funding confirmation letter to Minister Devin Dreeshen (Unanimous)
- Added Unsightly Bylaw to May 21, 2024, Committee of the Whole Agenda (Unanimous)
- Held public hearing for Land Use Bylaw Amendments DC7 & DC8 (Bylaws 1895 & 1896); no decision recorded
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review a vegetation cutting request and service level review. The meeting also includes an update on enterprise vehicle leasing and a delegation from the Alberta Utilities Commission.
- Vegetation Cutting Request and Service Level Review
- Enterprise Vehicle Leasing Update
- Delegation: Alberta Utilities Commission
The Committee of the Whole unanimously recommended that Council consider mowing and snow removal agreements with Rural Community Halls in Kneehill County Hamlets. They also recommended considering a mowing service for private cemeteries after consulting with owners. The committee received information on the Alberta Utilities Commission and the Enterprise Vehicle Leasing Program, and held a closed session regarding third-party business interests.
- Agenda approved as amended (unanimous)
- February 20, 2024 minutes approved (unanimous)
- Recommended Council consider mowing/snow removal agreements with Rural Community Halls (unanimous)
- Recommended Council consider private cemetery mowing service after consultation (unanimous)
- Received Alberta Utilities Commission presentation for information (unanimous)
- Received Enterprise Vehicle Leasing Program update for information (unanimous)
- Closed session held for Third Party Business Interest (FOIP Section 16)
Council Meeting
The Council will review the 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw and its impact on assessments. The meeting includes a delegation from the Southern Alberta Energy from Waste Association and discussions regarding community grants and agricultural economic outlooks.
- 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw
- 2024 Assessment and Tax Rate Impact
- Southern Alberta Energy from Waste Association delegation
- Community Grants Round One 2024
- Economic Outlook: Agriculture 2024
Council provided first reading for the 2024 Tax Rates Bylaw and authorized several draws from the Revenue Stabilization Reserve to cover housing and education funding. The board also approved community grants for five non-profit organizations and phase one of an agricultural economic project.
- Approved first reading of Bylaw #1897 for 2024 Tax Rates (Unanimous)
- Approved $640,286 draw from Revenue Stabilization Reserve for 2023 Alberta School Fund under-levy (Unanimous)
- Approved $220,024 draw from Revenue Stabilization Reserve for Kneehill Housing requisition (Unanimous)
- Approved $51,356 budget amendment to reduce property tax revenues via Revenue Stabilization reserve (Unanimous)
- Approved $7,200 for phase one of Economic Outlook: Agriculture 2024 (Unanimous)
- Approved community grants totaling $15,524.50 for five non-profit organizations (Unanimous)
- Approved hosting Ratepayer Evenings in Three Hills and Sunnyslope in June 2024 (Unanimous)
- Directed Administration to request the Province waive a $640,286 education funding error (Unanimous)
Council Meeting
The Council will review several items including land use bylaw amendments and a delegation regarding wind concerns. The meeting also includes reports on 2023 budget results and 2024 ratepayer impacts.
- Bylaw 1895 & 1896 Land Use Bylaw Amendment to Direct Control
- Wind Concerns Kneehill County delegation by Kelly Tainsh
- Annual Appointment of Fire Guardians
- 2023 Q4 Preliminary Operating and Capital Budget Results
- Trochu Flower, Baking and Photography Show Sponsorship
Kneehill County Council unanimously approved first readings for two land use bylaws redesignating agricultural land to Direct Control districts, with a public hearing scheduled for April 23. The council also approved significant budget adjustments, including $5.7 million in capital project carryforwards and $959,557 in operating carryforwards, while directing administration to mitigate specific requisition increases in the 2024 mill-rate discussion.
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1895 (redesignating land to Direct Control District 7)
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1896 (redesignating land to Direct Control District 8)
- Scheduled public hearing for land use bylaws on April 23, 2024
- Approved $5,695,480 in capital project carryforwards
- Approved $959,557 in operating project carryforwards
- Approved $3,077,826 in reserve contributions
- Directed administration to mitigate $220,024 Kneehill Housing requisition increase
- Directed administration to mitigate $640,286 Alberta School Fund requisition under-levy
Council Meeting
The Council will review a delegation from the RCMP regarding community priorities. Discussion items include the Huxley Streetlighting Upgrade and various youth event sponsorships.
- Huxley Streetlighting Upgrade
- RCMP Delegation: Three Hills, Olds, Beiseker & Drumheller RCMP
- Youth Event Sponsorship: Kneehill 4-H District
- Growing Kneehill 2024 Events
Council approved hosting three country markets at Horseshoe Canyon and set 2024 RCMP community priorities, including rural crime prevention and road safety. Additionally, council authorized funding for two new streetlights in Huxley and a $1,000 sponsorship for the Kneehill 4-H District. Council also voted to pursue an economic development opportunity following a closed session.
- Approved two new streetlights in Huxley (unanimous)
- Approved $34,000 budget for 3 Country Markets at Horseshoe Canyon (carried)
- Directed staff to partner with Open Farm Days for agriculture events (unanimous)
- Set 2024 RCMP community priorities (unanimous)
- Approved $1,000 sponsorship for Kneehill 4-H District (unanimous)
- Authorized administration to pursue economic development opportunity (5-2)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Council Meeting
The meeting includes delegations from Kevin Niemi and the Trochu Housing Corporation. Council will also review updates to cemetery grant funding, cemetery, and parks drone policies. An RCMP quarterly report is scheduled for presentation.
- Trochu Housing Corporation loan guarantee bylaw discussion
- Updates to Cemetery Grant Funding and Cemetery policies
- Update to Parks Drone Policy
- RCMP Quarterly and Protective Services Report
- Delegation from Kevin Niemi
Kneehill County Council approved several policies and directed administration to modify the Town of Trochu Guaranteeing Loan Agreement timelines and interest rates at the Trochu Housing Corporation's request. Council also approved new cemetery grant and cemetery policies, a parks drone policy, and appointed Theresa Cochran as a signing authority. A cheque for $15,000 was presented to the Wimborne Community Centre, funding previously granted on February 13, 2024. All recorded votes carried unanimously.
- Directed Administration to modify Town of Trochu Guaranteeing Loan Agreement timelines and interest rates (unanimous)
- Approved new Policy 2-2 Cemetery Grant Funding (unanimous)
- Adopted Policy 2-1 Cemetery Policy with recommended changes (unanimous)
- Adopted Policy 12-5 Parks Drone Policy with recommended amendments (unanimous)
- Appointed Theresa Cochran as authorized signing authority for her term of employment (unanimous)
- Approved nomination of the Calhoun Family for the 2024 BMO Stampede Farm Family Award (unanimous)
- Directed replacement of Braconnier Campground picnic shelter in 2025 with project plan in 2025 budget (unanimous)
- Accepted RCMP Quarterly Report and Protective Services Report (unanimous)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss wastewater in the Hamlet of Huxley and proposed streetlighting upgrades. The meeting also includes a review of the Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan and follow-up regarding the Unsightly Premises Bylaw.
- Hamlet of Huxley wastewater discussion
- Huxley streetlighting upgrade assessment
- Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan discussion
- Unsightly Premises Process and Bylaw follow up
The Committee of the Whole recommended that Council fund two new streetlights in the Hamlet of Huxley and investigate septic tank costs for the area. The committee also requested recommendations for an Unsightly Premises Bylaw and deferred the Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan discussion.
- Recommended Council investigate septic tank condition assessment and pump out costs for Huxley (Unanimous)
- Recommended Council approve funding and installation of two new streetlights in Huxley from the Operating Budget (Unanimous)
- Recommended Council direct administration to provide options for Horseshoe Canyon Map Sign (Unanimous)
- Deferred Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan conversation to April 16, 2024 (Unanimous)
- Recommended Council request administration provide recommendations and benchmarking for Unsightly Premises Bylaw (Carried)
Council Meeting
The council will conduct a public hearing for Bylaw 1894 to redesignate land from Agriculture to Light Industrial District. The meeting also includes a third reading for Bylaw 1889 regarding solar and wind setbacks.
- Public hearing for Bylaw 1894 (Agriculture to Light Industrial redesignation)
- Third reading of Bylaw 1889 regarding solar and wind setbacks
- Wimborne Community Centre Rural Community Hall Capital Grant application
- Subdivision extension requests for KNE190128, KNE190129, KNE190130, and KNE190131
- Policy update regarding haying on County Road Allowances
Council approved the redesignation of specific lands from Agriculture to Light Industrial District and granted $15,000 to the Wimborne Community Centre Society. Other actions included extending subdivision deadlines and approving a haying policy for road allowances.
- Approved $15,000 Rural Hall Capital Grant to Wimborne Community Centre Society (Unanimous)
- Passed third reading of Bylaw 1889 to replace sections 71 and 74 of Land Use Bylaw 1808 (Carried)
- Passed second and third readings of Bylaw 1894 to redesignate portions of SE 24-28-24 W4 and NE 13-28-24 W4 to Light Industrial District (Carried)
- Granted 2-year extension to subdivisions KNE190128, KNE190129, KNE190130, and KNE190131 until January 30, 2026 (Carried)
- Approved Policy 1-32-1 regarding Haying on County Road Allowances (Unanimous)
- Directed Administration to request presentations from NRCB, AUC, and an electrical grid expert (Unanimous)
- Presented $100,000 cheque to Acme Alumni Association (previously approved Sept 26, 2023)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss a proposed amendment to Land Use Bylaw 1808. The agenda also includes discussions on growing Kneehill event options, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and a resolution regarding renewable energy and grid stability.
- Bylaw 1889 Amendment to Land Use Bylaw 1808 discussion
- Renewable Energy and Grid Stability resolution proposal
- Growing Kneehill event options discussion
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) presentation
Kneehill County's Committee of the Whole met on January 16, 2024, and approved its agenda and the amended December 5, 2023 minutes. The committee recommended that Council direct staff to prepare a resolution on electricity availability from all energy developments for the RMA 2024 Fall Convention, and recommended that Council consider third reading of proposed Bylaw 1889 at the February 13, 2024 Council meeting. It also accepted a report on Extended Producer Responsibility for information and asked Administration to bring chosen Growing Kneehill event options to Council for approval. Several items were discussed in closed session under FOIP sections on advice from officials and privileged information.
- Approved the agenda as presented (unanimous)
- Approved the December 5, 2023 COW minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Recommended Council direct staff to prepare an RMA resolution on electricity availability from all energy developments (unanimous)
- Accepted the Extended Producer Responsibility report for information (unanimous)
- Recommended Council consider third reading of proposed Bylaw 1889 on February 13, 2024 (carried)
- Requested Administration bring chosen Growing Kneehill event option(s) to Council for approval (unanimous)
- Went into closed session twice for advice from officials and privileged information (unanimous)
Council Meeting
The Council will review the 2024 Master Rates Bylaw and a land use redesignation for SE 24-28-24 W4. The meeting also includes a delegation presentation from STARS Air Ambulance.
- Bylaw 1894: Redesignation for SE 24-28-24 W4
- Master Rates Bylaw #1893
- STARS Air Ambulance delegation presentation
- Tourism Advocacy Summit 2024
Council passed a new bylaw establishing rates, fees, and charges for various operations and services. The board also increased funding for a facility assessment project and STARS Air Ambulance.
- Passed Master Rates Bylaw #1893 (Unanimous)
- Increased Integrated Facility Condition and Asset Retirement Assessment Project budget by $40,000 to $365,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved first reading of Bylaw 1894 to redesignate land from Agriculture to Light Industrial (Unanimous)
- Scheduled Public Hearing for Bylaw 1894 for February 13, 2024 (Unanimous)
- Allocated additional $2,000 to STARS Air Ambulance, totaling $5,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved attendance of two councillors at the Tourism Advocacy Summit (Carried)
- Approved forwarding a regional STARS funding proposal to the Kneehill Regional Partnership (Unanimous)