Okotoks public meetings in 2024

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Town Council will discuss a motion to support a provincial Local Growth and Sustainability Grant application. It will also review amendments to the 2025 Capital Budget for Projects 269 and 280 and a request from Westwinds Communities to extend borrowing beyond one fiscal year. Two bylaws – Traffic Bylaw 37-24 (second and third reading) and Business License Bylaw 39-24 (third reading) – are slated for further readings.

• Grant Application Motion of Support for Alberta Local Growth and Sustainability Grant
• 2025 Capital Budget Amendments for Projects 269 and 280
• Request to Approve Borrowing Beyond One Year from Westwinds Communities
• Bylaw 37-24 Traffic Bylaw – second and third reading
• Bylaw 39-24 Business License Bylaw – third reading

Council unanimously supported a grant application to the Province of Alberta's Local Growth and Sustainability Grant and advanced $0.6M from 2027 to 2025 for two capital projects. Bylaw 37-24 (Traffic) was amended and passed, and Bylaw 39-24 (Business License) was passed. Council also authorized Westwinds Communities to borrow $1,362,267 for a 40-year mortgage. Several items were discussed in closed session, with a motion directing administration to provide changes to the Foothills Okotoks Regional Water Pipeline Phase 2 MOU.

• Supported Local Growth and Sustainability Grant application (unanimous)
• Advanced $0.100M for Project 269 Downtown Enhancement Program Riverside Drive (unanimous)
• Advanced $0.500M for Project 280 South Railway Street Development Placeholder (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 37-24 Traffic Bylaw as amended (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 39-24 Business License Bylaw (unanimous)
• Authorized Westwinds Communities to borrow $1,362,267 via CMHC mortgage (unanimous)
• Directed administration to provide changes to Foothills Okotoks Regional Water Pipeline Phase 2 MOU (unanimous)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will adopt its agenda and the minutes from the November 6, 2024 meeting. A closed session will be held to discuss a Family and Community Support Services funding request. The committee will receive information on the 2024‑2025 annual meeting schedule, the 2025 funding decision‑making process, and youth reports. The next meeting is scheduled for January 14, 2025.

• Adopt agenda for the December 4, 2024 meeting
• Adopt minutes from the November 6, 2024 meeting
• Closed session: Family and Community Support Services funding request (FOIP s.23(1) and 24(1)(g))
• Information: 2024‑2025 Annual Meeting Schedule and 2025 Funding Application materials
• Youth Representative reports from Smriti Thiruchitrambalam and Chase Giroux

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee is meeting to discuss the establishment of a mandatory policing committee and amendments to council nomination policies. The body will also consider a bylaw regarding parental leave for councillors and a request for an extension on short-term rental recommendations.

• Establishment of a Mandatory Policing Committee required by March 1, 2025
• Amendments to Council Committee Nomination Process Policy GP-D-2.2
• Proposed Parental Leave for Councillors Bylaw
• Request for extension regarding Short-Term Rental Recommendations

Intermunicipal Committee

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface text. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

Regular Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Council will hold a public hearing on the Ridgemont Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan and related land use amendments, and will consider a new traffic bylaw and election procedure changes.

• Public Hearing: Bylaw 32-24 (Ridgemont ASP) and Bylaw 33-24 (Land Use Amendment)
• Bylaw 37-24: New Traffic Bylaw (ready for three readings)
• Bylaw 41-24: Election Procedure Bylaw Amendment (ready for three readings)
• Council Meeting Date Amendment for 2024-2025 calendar
• Okotoks Public Library Board Chair 2024 Report

Council held a public hearing and then gave final approval to Bylaw 32-24 (Ridgemont Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan) and Bylaw 33-24 (Land Use Bylaw amendment for Ridgemont Phase 1), enabling phased residential and commercial development on about 63.82 hectares in northeast Okotoks. Council also passed the Elections Bylaw (41-24) after removing a criminal record check requirement for nomination papers, and postponed second reading of the Traffic Bylaw (37-24) to December 9, 2024. A motion from closed session added 160,965 m3 of water allocation under the Water Allocation Policy.

• Passed Bylaw 32-24, Ridgemont Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 33-24, Land Use Bylaw amendment for Ridgemont Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 41-24, Elections Bylaw, as amended to delete criminal record check requirement (unanimous)
• Postponed second reading of Bylaw 37-24, Traffic Bylaw, to December 9, 2024 (unanimous)
• Added 160,965 m3 to Water Allocation System per Water Allocation Policy clause 8(a) (unanimous)
• Amended 2024-2025 Council Meeting Dates calendar: April 21, 2025 meeting moved to April 22, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted Okotoks Public Library Board Chair report (unanimous)
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes from Nov 12 and Nov 19 meetings (unanimous)

Annual Budget Meetings

The Town of Okotoks council will receive a verbal update on the 2025 annual budget and will consider approval of the 2025 Capital Budget and the 2025 One‑Time Operating Budget. Three bylaws—Responsible Pet Ownership (Bylaw 35‑24), Urban Hen (Bylaw 40‑24), and Business License (Bylaw 39‑24)—are ready for three readings. A fees, rates, and charges bylaw (Bylaw 09‑25) will receive second and third readings, and service‑level policy amendments will be reviewed for budget impact.

• 2025 Capital Budget presented for council approval
• 2025 One‑Time Operating Budget presented for council approval
• Bylaw 35‑24 – Responsible Pet Ownership – three readings
• Bylaw 40‑24 – Urban Hen – three readings
• Bylaw 39‑24 – Business License – three readings

Council unanimously approved the 2025 Capital Budget of $37.029 million with $52.407 million in carry-forward funding, the 2025 One-Time Operating Budget, and the 2025 Operating Budget including salaries and wages. Three bylaws were passed: Responsible Pet Ownership (35-24), Urban Hen (40-24), and Fees, Rates, and Charges (09-25), the latter with amendments. Two external funding requests were defeated: $25,000 for Foothills Country Hospice Society and in-kind support for École Percy Pegler School playground equipment removal. Consideration of the Business License Bylaw (39-24) was postponed to December 9, 2024.

• Approved 2025 Capital Budget of $37.029M with $52.407M carry-forward (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 One-Time Operating Budget (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Operating Budget including salaries and wages (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 35-24 Responsible Pet Ownership (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 40-24 Urban Hen, replacing annual license with one-time fee (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 09-25 Fees, Rates, and Charges with amendments (unanimous)
• Defeated $25,000 donation to Foothills Country Hospice Society
• Postponed Bylaw 39-24 Business License to December 9, 2024

Regular Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Council will hold three readings of Bylaw 38‑24 to amend the Fire Services Bylaw, adding clearer language on prohibited debris, open‑flame dimensions and extinguishing requirements. The council will also conduct a first reading of Bylaw 09‑25 to establish fees, rates and charges for 2025. Additional items include a fence‑painting program update, an appointment to the public library board, and public delegations from a hospice society and a school playground group.

• Bylaw 38‑24 – Fire Services Bylaw amendments (three readings)
• Bylaw 09‑25 – First reading of fees, rates and charges for 2025
• Arterial and Primary Collector Fence Painting program approval
• Appointment of Foothills County Councillor to Okotoks Public Library Board
• Public delegations: Foothills Country Hospice Society expansion update and Percy Pegler School playground improvements

Council passed Bylaw 38-24, amending the Fire Services Bylaw to clarify prohibited debris, fire pit dimensions, and extinguishing criteria. Council also approved a program to rehabilitate and repaint arterial and primary collector road fencing by December 31, 2027, under the existing Parks operating budget. The 2024-2029 Economic Development Strategic Plan was accepted, and Foothills County Councillor Barb Castell was appointed to the Okotoks Public Library Board.

• Passed Bylaw 38-24 amending Fire Services Bylaw 10-17 (unanimous)
• Approved arterial and primary collector fence repainting program by Dec 31, 2027 (unanimous)
• Accepted 2024-2029 Okotoks Economic Development Strategic Plan (unanimous)
• Appointed Foothills County Councillor Barb Castell to Okotoks Public Library Board (unanimous)
• Received Community Safety 2024 Third Quarter Report as information (unanimous)
• Received 2024 Third Quarter Variance Report as information (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 09-25 Fees, Rates, and Charges (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from October 28, 2024 meetings (unanimous)

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee will vote to elect a Chair, Vice‑Chair and Treasurer whose terms run until October 31, 2025. It will also adopt the meeting agenda and the minutes from the October 8, 2024 meeting. Business items include discussion of campaign ideas and payment of an administrative invoice of $105.39. Reports from staff liaison, treasurer, council and youth will be received as information.

• Election of Chair (motion to cease nominations)
• Election of Vice Chair (motion to cease nominations)
• Election of Treasurer (motion to cease nominations)
• Adoption of agenda as presented
• Payment of administrative invoice totaling $105.39

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will vote to elect a Chair and a Vice Chair for the term ending October 31, 2025. It will also receive information on its funding, designate Sian Anderson as the voting delegate for the provincial association AGM, and discuss a resolution for that AGM. Additional items include reports from council and youth representatives and the adoption of the agenda and previous minutes.

• Election of Chair – nominations to cease
• Election of Vice Chair – nominations to cease
• Designation of Sian Anderson as voting delegate for the 2024 FCSS Association AGM
• Discussion of the resolution for the 2024 FCSS Association AGM
• Family and Community Support Services Committee Funding – received as information

Organizational Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Council is meeting to handle administrative setup for the upcoming year. The body will determine councillor seating and establish the meeting schedule from November 2024 to November 2025.

• Council appointments to boards, committees, and commissions
• Citizen member appointments
• Assignment of councillor seating by lot
• Draft Council meeting schedule for November 2024 to November 2025

The Town of Okotoks Council held its organizational meeting and unanimously approved appointments to various boards, committees, and commissions for the 2024-2025 term. Council also adopted the meeting schedule and assigned seating by lot. All decisions were carried unanimously.

• Approved council appointments to boards, commissions, and committees for 2024-2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed citizens to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board and Assessment Review Board (unanimous)
• Appointed citizens to the Family and Community Support Services Committee, Okotoks Public Library Board, and United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee (unanimous)
• Assigned council seating for 2024-2025 by lot (unanimous)
• Adopted the 2024/2025 Council Meeting Dates calendar (unanimous)

Regular Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Council is reviewing area structure plans for the Ridgemont and North Point developments. The body is also considering short-term options for affordable rental housing and a historic resource designation for a local residence.

• Bylaw 20-24: North Point Area Structure Plan for +/- 246ha of industrial development
• Bylaw 32-24: Ridgemont Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan for +/- 63.82 ha of residential and commercial development
• Bylaw 33-24: Land Use Bylaw Amendment to redesignate +/- 12.82 ha in Ridgemont Phase 1
• Bylaw 36-24: Designation of 38 Elma Street West as a Municipal Historic Resource
• Discussion on short-term options to increase affordable rental housing supply

Council passed Bylaw 20-24, adopting the North Point Area Structure Plan to facilitate phased industrial development on approximately 246 hectares in northeast Okotoks. They also gave first reading to Bylaws 32-24 and 33-24 for the Ridgemont neighbourhood, and passed Bylaw 36-24 designating 38 Elma Street West as a Municipal Historic Resource. Reports on housing needs, affordable housing options, and water use were accepted as information.

• Passed Bylaw 20-24 North Point Area Structure Plan (unanimous, Mayor absent)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 32-24 Ridgemont Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 33-24 Ridgemont Phase 1 Land Use Bylaw Amendment (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 36-24 designating 38 Elma Street West as Municipal Historic Resource (unanimous, Mayor absent)
• Accepted Housing Needs Assessment report as information (unanimous)
• Accepted Advancing Affordable Housing - Short Term Options report as information (unanimous)
• Accepted Water Use Review report and requested revised service level for annual reports (carried, Mayor absent)

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee is discussing updates to the Election Procedures Bylaw required by Bill 20. The body is also considering a resident's request to ban open wood burning fire pits and potential amendments to the Procedure Bylaw.

• Request to ban open wood burning fire pits within Town limits
• Amendments to the Election Procedures Bylaw for the 2025 General Election
• Potential amendments to the Council Procedure Bylaw
• Closed session discussion on Old Library Space Naming
• Closed session regarding a Human Resources matter

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Town Council will review and vote on multiple land‑use bylaw amendments, including changes to 149 Elizabeth Street and two residential phases. The meeting also includes a closed‑session discussion of human‑resources and intergovernmental matters, a consent agenda, and business items such as a property‑tax penalty cancellation request and Extended Producer Responsibility recommendations. Public delegations from the Rowan House Society will provide an update on domestic‑violence programs.

• Bylaw 24-24 – redesignate 149 Elizabeth Street from Downtown and Traditional Neighbourhood Districts to a General Commercial District.
• Bylaw 26-24 – redesignate approximately 2.44 ha of Wedderburn Phase 12 from Agricultural and Land Holdings to Neighbourhood Core District.
• Bylaw 27-24 – redesignate approximately 1.66 ha of D'Arcy Phase 14 from Agricultural and Land Holdings to Neighbourhood Core District.
• Bylaw 34-24 – amend the Community Standards Bylaw to clarify the definition of a graphic image.
• Extended Producer Responsibility Recommendations – decision on whether the Town will act as a service provider under new provincial legislation.

Council approved the transition to Extended Producer Responsibility programs for recycling and hazardous waste. Two land use redesignations for Wedderburn Phase 12 and D'Arcy Phase 14 were passed, and an amendment to the Community Standards Bylaw regarding graphic images was approved.

• Approved transition to Extended Producer Responsibility for curbside single-use, packaging, and paper products (Unanimous)
• Approved transition to Extended Producer Responsibility for Hazardous and Special Products (Unanimous)
• Denied request to remove $230.81 in property tax penalties for roll 0104810 (Unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 26-24 redesignating Wedderburn Phase 12 to Neighbourhood Core District (Unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 27-24 redesignating D'Arcy Phase 14 to Neighbourhood Core District (Unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 34-24 amending Community Standards Bylaw regarding graphic images (Unanimous)
• Directed Administration to redesignate 149 Elizabeth Street as a Downtown District (Carried)
• Approved amendments to Purpose Statement policies PS A 2.1, PS A 2.2, PS A 2.3, and PS A 2.4 (Unanimous)

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee will meet to discuss campaign planning, including event ideas and donations, and to approve administrative and campaign invoices totaling $190.23.

• Discussion of campaign planning and event ideas
• Approval of administrative invoice totaling $49.63
• Approval of campaign invoice totaling $140.60
• Review of social needs assessment and community conversations
• Next meeting scheduled for November 12, 2024

Intermunicipal Committee

The Foothills County and Town of Okotoks Intermunicipal Committee will receive updates on the Foothills‑Okotoks Regional Water Pipeline, the Green Haven Estates development, and the Champion Park asset offer. The committee will also hear a verbal report on the Cavalry FC Field House allocation and a discussion on the Joint Planning Area 3 Context Study boundary request. No formal decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project Update
• Green Haven Estates (verbal report)
• Champion Park Update (verbal report)
• Cavalry FC Field House Future Allocation and Utilization Update (verbal report)
• Joint Planning Area 3 Context Study – Boundary Discussion

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will receive information on a Social Needs Assessment community conversation, discuss Family & Community Support Services funding, hold a round‑table, and recognize outgoing committee members. The committee will also receive reports from the Council, the Community & Social Development Team Leader, and two Youth Representatives as informational items.

• Social Needs Assessment – Community Conversation
• Family & Community Support Services Funding
• Round Table discussion
• Recognition of outgoing committee members
• Reports: Council Update, Community & Social Development Team Leader, Youth Representatives

Regular Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Council will consider three land use bylaw amendments to redesignate parcels of land for neighborhood core and commercial use. The body will also discuss amendments to tribunal board and council procedure bylaws.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 26-24: redesignating +/- 6.02 acres at Wedderburn Phase 12 to Neighborhood Core District
• Public hearing for Bylaw 27-24: redesignating +/- 4.10 acres at D'Arcy Phase 14 to Neighborhood Core District
• Public hearing for Bylaw 24-24: redesignating +/- 1.19 acres at 149 Elizabeth Street to General Commercial District
• Bylaw 30-24 to add one Assessment Review Board Member
• Bylaw 31-24 to allow recording and publishing of Governance and Priorities Committee budget meetings

Council passed Bylaw 30-24 (Tribunal Boards amendment), Bylaw 31-24 (Procedure Bylaw amendment), and gave second reading to two land use amendments (Wedderburn Phase 12 and D'Arcy Phase 14). Second reading of Bylaw 24-24 (149 Elizabeth Street rezoning) was postponed to October 15, 2024. The meeting also changed the start time for the October 28 meeting to 2:00 p.m.

• Passed Bylaw 30-24 (Tribunal Boards amendment) (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 31-24 (Procedure Bylaw amendment) (unanimous)
• Gave second reading to Bylaw 26-24 (Wedderburn Phase 12 rezoning) (unanimous)
• Gave second reading to Bylaw 27-24 (D'Arcy Phase 14 rezoning) (unanimous)
• Postponed second reading of Bylaw 24-24 (149 Elizabeth Street rezoning) to Oct 15 (unanimous)
• Changed Oct 28 meeting start time to 2:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee will review the 2025 Annual Budget Check‑In process, which includes proposed adjustments to the town’s four‑year budget. The meeting also includes discussions on business licensing bylaw improvements, a Priority 3 snow and ice control pilot, the North Point neighbourhood area structure plan, and fire‑and‑rescue radio equipment. Additional items cover licensed child‑care services, municipal census and election plans, artificial intelligence initiatives, the transportation master plan, stormwater maintenance, salary and wage adjustments, library budget requisition, waste service levels, and dog licensing service levels.

• 2025 Annual Budget Check‑In Process
• Business License Bylaw and Process Improvements
• Priority 3 Snow and Ice Control Pilot
• North Point Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan
• Okotoks Fire & Rescue radios

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The agenda for the United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee on 2024-09-10 contains no listed items, only generic placeholders. No decisions, contracts, or discussion topics are identified in the document. The meeting therefore appears to be procedural with no substantive agenda items.

Regular Council Meeting

The council will vote on Bylaw 20-24 to adopt the North Point Area Structure Plan, enabling phased industrial development of about 246 ha in northeast Okotoks. A capital budget amendment will be considered to add Project 347 for the purchase of a fire water tender. Additional items include a proposal to change water and wastewater rate calculations, a one‑year noise‑attenuation pilot linked to traffic bylaw amendments, and revisions to the Business License Bylaw.

• Adopt North Point Area Structure Plan (Bylaw 20‑24) for ~246 ha industrial zone
• 2024 Capital Budget Amendment – Project 347: purchase of a fire water tender
• Water Rates Calculation Methodology – potential change to rate structure
• Noise Attenuation pilot and related Traffic Bylaw amendment
• Business License Bylaw and Process Improvements to reduce barriers

Council amended the 2024 Capital Budget to purchase a fire water tender truck and approved a one-year noise attenuation pilot. Decisions were also made regarding future business license amendments and utility rate structures for 2025. The North Point Area Structure Plan was amended but postponed pending regional board approval.

• Approved $0.750M for Project 347 - Fire Water Tender Truck (Unanimous)
• Approved one-year noise attenuation pilot (Unanimous)
• Directed Administration to proceed with Option 3 for Business License Bylaw improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Treatment of Public Policy EL A 2.3 (Unanimous)
• Approved replacing summer wastewater discount with year-round 0.9 multiplier for 2025 Bylaw (Unanimous)
• Approved increasing Tier 3 water rates to 3X multiplier for 2025 Bylaw (Carried)
• Amended Bylaw 20-24 regarding municipal servicing for North Point Area (Unanimous)
• Postponed final reading of Bylaw 20-24 pending Calgary Metropolitan Region Board approval (Unanimous)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will adopt the agenda, review minutes from June 5, 2024, and receive reports and correspondence as information.

• Adoption of agenda and minutes from June 5, 2024
• Presentation: Okotoks Family Resource Centre
• Funding - Mid-Year Report
• Correspondence from FCSSAA and local organizations
• Next meeting scheduled for October 2, 2024

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board

The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board will consider Development Appeal 2024-02 (2024-0160). The appeal challenges the Town's decision to refuse a development permit for a change of use to education in the Industrial Business Park district. The board will review the decision notice, the appeal application received on August 2, 2024, and related documents before making a determination.

• Development Appeal 2024-02 (2024-0160) – appeal of denied education-use permit at 209 Stockton Avenue
• Notice of Decision for Development Permit Application 2024-0160
• Development Appeal Application received August 2, 2024
• Notice of Appeal Hearing mailed August 14, 2024
• Western Wheel Advertisement (August 14 and August 21, 2024)

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Council will review a borrowing bylaw that would authorize $30.0 million of debt to fund a raw water pipeline, pumping station, reservoir and intake station in Foothills County. Several land‑use bylaw amendments will be read, including redesignations at 149 Elizabeth Street, Wedderburn Phase 12 and D'Arcy Phase 14. A capital‑budget amendment for Project 13 water‑main installation and a proposal for a municipally controlled corporation to develop below‑market rental housing will also be considered.

• Bylaw 25‑24 – Borrowing Bylaw authorizing $30.0 million for raw water pipeline and related facilities
• Bylaw 24‑24 – Land Use amendment redesignating Lots 25‑37, Block F, Plan 1420L at 149 Elizabeth Street to General Commercial District
• Bylaw 26‑24 – Land Use amendment redesignating ~2.44 ha from Agricultural to Neighborhood Core District at Wedderburn Phase 12
• Bylaw 27‑24 – Land Use amendment redesignating ~1.66 ha from Agricultural to Neighborhood Core District at D'Arcy Phase 14
• 2024 Capital Budget Amendment – Project 13 to increase budget for dedicated water mains to SW Reservoir (W8) linked to Tillotson Phase 1

Council passed Bylaw 25-24 authorizing $30 million in debt for raw water pipeline, pumping station, reservoir, and intake station in Foothills County. It also approved a $3.8M capital budget increase for land purchase and a $2.25M increase for water main installation. The Fire Services Master Plan was accepted, and a municipally controlled corporation for below-market rental housing was endorsed.

• Passed Bylaw 25-24 authorizing $30M borrowing for water infrastructure (unanimous)
• Approved $3.8M capital budget increase for Project 319 Land Purchase Placeholder (unanimous)
• Approved $2.25M capital budget increase for Project 13 Dedicated Mains to Southwest Reservoir (unanimous)
• Accepted Fire Services Master Plan and Community Risk Assessment (unanimous)
• Directed administration to develop 5-year fire services implementation plan (unanimous)
• Accepted business plan for Municipally Controlled Corporation for below-market rental housing (unanimous)
• Directed administration to develop short-term affordable housing options by Oct 31, 2024 (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 14-24 North Okotoks Area Structure Plan (unanimous)

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee will meet to discuss campaign planning, including event ideas and donations, and to approve administrative and campaign invoices totaling $155.94.

• Discussion of campaign planning and event ideas
• Approval of administrative invoice(s)
• Approval of campaign invoice(s) totaling $155.94
• Review of the 2024 Annual Meeting Calendar
• Receiving staff, treasurer, and council reports as information

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Council will review a first‑reading Borrowing Bylaw that would authorize $30.0 million of debt to fund a raw water pipeline, pumping station, reservoir and intake station in Foothills County. A public hearing will be held on Bylaw 20‑24 to adopt the North Point Area Structure Plan for phased industrial development of about 246 ha in northeast Okotoks. Additional items include a review of the Howard Park skate‑park layout, an amendment to the Community Facility Access Policy, and a provincial consultation on property‑tax exemptions for non‑profit organizations.

• Bylaw 25‑24 – Borrowing Bylaw to incur $30.0 M for raw water pipeline, pumping station, reservoir and intake station
• Bylaw 20‑24 – North Point Area Structure Plan public hearing for ~246 ha industrial development
• Howard Park skate park and playground final layout for council review and approval
• Community Facility Access Policy amendment (EL B 2.5) for council approval
• Property Tax Exemptions for Non‑Profit Organizations – provincial input request

Council approved the 'Option 2' site layout for the Howard Park skate park and inclusive playground. The body also advanced the North Point Area Structure Plan for industrial development and amended policies regarding community facility access and arts grants.

• Approved Howard Park skate park and inclusive playground site layout Option 2 (Unanimous)
• Defeated Howard Park skate park and inclusive playground site layout Option 3
• Read Bylaw 20-24 (North Point Area Structure Plan) a second time as amended (Unanimous)
• Amended Community Facilities Access Policy EL B 2.5 (Unanimous)
• Amended Arts and Culture Activation Grant Policy CMD F 2.4 (Unanimous)
• Directed Administration to send feedback to Municipal Affairs on non-profit property tax exemptions (Unanimous)
• Directed Administration to provide written feedback on Bill 20 regulations by July 26, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Read Bylaw 25-24 (Borrowing Bylaw) a first time (Unanimous)

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The committee will discuss campaign planning, including talent show ideas and donations. Members will also review the annual calendar and administrative reports. A motion is on the agenda to pay a $65.82 invoice from Pizza Hut.

• Campaign planning regarding talent shows, event ideas, and donations
• Payment of $65.82 administrative invoice from Pizza Hut
• Review of June 11, 2024, meeting minutes

Intermunicipal Committee

The committee will review a report regarding the utilization and future planning of the Cavalry Regional Fieldhouse. Members will also receive an update on the Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project. Additionally, updates are scheduled for Joint Planning Area 3 boundaries and the dissolution of the Friends of Champion Park Society.

• Cavalry Regional Fieldhouse utilization and future planning report
• Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project update
• Joint Planning Area 3 boundary discussion
• Friends of Champion Park Society dissolution update

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Council will consider the first reading of a new area structure plan for industrial development. The meeting also includes discussions on affordable housing incentives and a one-year pilot program for livestock emotional support animals. Additionally, council will review budget amendments for 338 Avenue design work.

• First reading of Bylaw 20-24 North Point Area Structure Plan (approx. 246 hectares)
• Approval of Affordable Housing Incentives Policy EL F 2.2
• One-year pilot program for livestock emotional support animals
• Capital Budget amendment for 338 Avenue design work
• Amendment to Recreation Fee Assistance Policy CMD F 2.5

Okotoks council approved a one-year pilot program allowing residents to keep livestock emotional support animals, passing Bylaw 23-24 and amending Bylaw 21-24 with a reduced weight limit of 180 kilograms. Council also approved the Affordable Housing Incentives Policy EL F 2.2, rescinded the Below Market Housing Incentives Policy CMD P 3.1, and directed administration to report on a Housing Reserve Fund before the 2025 budget. A $250,000 increase to the 2024 Capital Budget for 338 Avenue design was approved, and the deadline for a Municipally Controlled Corporation business plan was extended to November 30, 2024. Most motions carried unanimously.

• Approved Bylaw 23-24 Livestock Emotional Support Animals (third reading, unanimous)
• Approved Bylaw 21-24 Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw Amendment (third reading, unanimous)
• Amended both bylaws to reduce weight limit from 225 kg to 180 kg
• Approved Affordable Housing Incentives Policy EL F 2.2 and rescinded Below Market Housing Incentives Policy CMD P 3.1 (unanimous)
• Directed administration to report on Housing Reserve Fund before 2025 budget (unanimous)
• Extended deadline for Municipally Controlled Corporation business plan from June 30 to November 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 increase to 2024 Capital Budget for Project 260 – 338 Avenue design, total $1.000M (unanimous)
• Appointed Chase Giroux and Smriti Thiru to Family and Community Support Services Committee for one-year terms (unanimous)

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee will review the draft Affordable Housing Incentives Policy EL-F-2.2. The committee is also asked to provide recommendations for the Town's waste management program, focusing on service level adjustments and Extended Producer Responsibility Programs.

• Review of draft Affordable Housing Incentives Policy (EL-F-2.2)
• Recommendations for Waste Service Level Review

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The committee will discuss campaign planning, including ideas for a talent show and other events. Members will also review the annual calendar and administrative and campaign invoices.

• Campaign planning discussion regarding a talent show and event ideas
• Review of the annual calendar
• Payment of administrative invoices, including one from PizzaHut
• Adoption of minutes from the May 14, 2024 meeting

Regular Council Meeting

The Council will consider approving the 2024-2027 Corporate Business Plan and a capital budget amendment for fleet vehicles. The agenda also includes reviews of land use redesignations and road closure bylaws. A public hearing is scheduled to discuss Land Use Bylaw amendments.

• Approval of the 2024-2027 Corporate Business Plan
• Capital budget amendment for additional fleet vehicles and equipment
• Land use redesignation of 2.34 hectares to Traditional Neighbourhood and Recreation District
• Bylaw 35-23 regarding a road closure in the Tillotson area
• Public hearing for Land Use Bylaw amendments (Bylaw 18-24)

Council approved the Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project Phase 2 Memorandum of Understanding and amended the 2024 capital budget to increase the fleet operations budget to $0.715M. Several bylaws were advanced or passed, including road closures, land use redesignations, and updates to the Chief Administrative Officer Bylaw. Additionally, the Clean Energy Improvement Program was reopened indefinitely for new and waitlisted applications.

• Approved Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project Phase 2 MOU (Carried Unanimously)
• Reopened Clean Energy Improvement Program indefinitely (Carried Unanimously)
• Approved 2024 to 2027 Corporate Business Plan (Carried Unanimously)
• Amended 2024 Capital Budget for Project 293 Fleet Operations by adding $0.150M for a total of $0.715M (Carried Unanimously)
• Read a second and third time and passed Bylaw 35-23 for Road Closure (Carried Unanimously)
• Read a third time and passed Bylaw 17-24 for Land Use Redesignation (Carried Unanimously)
• Read all three times and passed Bylaw 19-24 amending the Chief Administrative Officer Bylaw (Carried Unanimously)
• Read a second and third time and passed Bylaw 18-24 for Land Use Bylaw Amendments following a public hearing (Carried Unanimously)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The committee will receive a presentation regarding the Town of Okotoks Community Resource Specialist. Members will also discuss resolutions for the 2024 FCSSAA Annual General Meeting and recognize outgoing youth members.

• Presentation: Town of Okotoks - Community Resource Specialist
• Resolutions for 2024 FCSSAA Annual General Meeting
• Recognition of outgoing youth members

Special Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Special Council Meeting will consider the Indigenous Relations Framework for approval as a municipal planning document and a key element of the Blackfoot pipe ceremony. The meeting will not be broadcast, but the public is invited to attend in person.

• Indigenous Relations Framework presented for Council and Elders approval

The Town of Okotoks Council unanimously adopted the Indigenous Relations Path Forward as a municipal planning document for the New North Trail. The plan was also accepted as a key element of prayer in the Blackfoot pipe ceremony, honoring its actions and pledges. The meeting included traditional ceremonies led by Elders and concluded with a unanimous adjournment.

• Agenda adopted unanimously (Motion 24.C.186)
• Indigenous Relations Path Forward accepted as plan for New North Trail and as elements of prayer in pipe ceremony (Motion 24.C.187)
• Meeting adjourned unanimously (Motion 24.C.188)

Intermunicipal Committee

The Foothills County and Town of Okotoks Intermunicipal Committee is meeting to discuss a letter sent to the Minister of Transportation regarding safety at the Highway 2 and 338 Avenue interchange, receive an update on the Friends of Champion Park, and review the regional water project. The meeting also includes a closed session for confidential discussions on the water project and intermunicipal planning.

• Foothills County letter to Minister Dreeshen on Highway 2/338 Ave interchange safety concerns
• Verbal update on Friends of Champion Park
• Update on Foothills/Okotoks Regional Raw Water Project
• Closed session on water project (FOIP s. 24(1)(a)(g))
• Closed session on intermunicipal planning (FOIP s. 21(1), 24(1)(a)(c))

Regular Council Meeting

Okotoks Council will consider a capital budget amendment for paving 48 Street, a land-use bylaw amendment for Wedderburn Phase 9, and a name change for the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. The meeting also includes approval of a subsidized transportation policy and a program and service review policy, plus recognition of local sports champions and student award winners.

• Capital budget amendment to increase funding for Project 63 (48 Street paving) due to scope and cost changes
• Public hearing on Bylaw 17-24 to redesignate 2.34 hectares in Wedderburn Phase 9 from Agricultural to Traditional Neighbourhood and Recreation & Open Space districts
• Council to choose a new name for the Rotary Performing Arts Centre
• Approval of Subsidized Transportation Policy EL-F-2.3 and Program and Service Review Policy GP-E-2.1
• Recognition of Carstar Okotoks Bisons for winning Hockey Alberta Junior B Provincial Championship

Council approved the renaming of the Rotary Performing Arts Centre and increased the budget for 48 Street paving. A land use bylaw amendment was read a second time following a public hearing. Council also requested a feasibility report on expanding an off-leash dog area.

• Renamed Rotary Performing Arts Centre to Old Church Theatre (Unanimous)
• Denied request to avoid using additional funds for new wayfinding signage (Defeated)
• Increased Project 63 – 48 Street Paving budget by $0.300M to a total of $0.675M (Unanimous)
• Approved Subsidized Transportation Policy EL-F-2.3 and Program and Service Review Policy GP-E-2.1 (Unanimous)
• Directed strategic and service level options for 2025 budget be presented by Sept 30, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Requested feasibility report on designating south road to off-leash dog park as off-leash area by July 15, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved second reading of amended Bylaw 17-24 to redesignate 2.34 hectares of land (Unanimous)

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee will discuss a resident's request to amend town bylaws to allow livestock emotional support animals, mirroring a Calgary bylaw. They will also review policies for subsidized transportation, program and service review, and rates and fees. The meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2024, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM.

• Discussion of bylaw amendments for livestock emotional support animals on residential property
• Review of Subsidized Transportation Policy for the Community Access Program
• Draft Program and Service Review Policy GP-E-2.1 for discussion
• Draft Rates and Fees Policy GP-F-2.9 for review

Special Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Special Council Meeting will consider Bylaw 05-24, which sets assessable and supplemental tax rates for the 2024 tax year. The agenda includes a closed session and motions arising from it, but the primary business is the three readings of the tax rate bylaw. Four alternative rate options are attached for council's consideration.

• Bylaw 05-24 authorizing 2024 assessable and supplemental tax rates
• Four alternative tax rate options (160, 166.5, 183.5) with impact analysis
• Closed session under FOIP Act exceptions
• Motions arising from closed session

Council approved Bylaw 05-24 Alternative 2. This bylaw authorizes the rates of taxation for assessed taxable properties and properties with supplementary assessments for the 2024 tax year.

• Passed Bylaw 05-24 Alternative 2 regarding 2024 tax rates (Unanimous)

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board

The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board will hear an appeal against the Town's refusal of a boundary adjustment for properties at 17 and 38 Oak Avenue. The applicant, Absolute Surveys Inc., is seeking to overturn the Subdivision Authority's decision on application SD2023-9.

• Subdivision Appeal 2024-01 (SD2023-9) for boundary adjustments to 17 and 38 Oak Avenue / Block X, Plan 1650E and a portion of SE ¼ 28-20-29-W4M
• Appeal against the Town of Okotoks Subdivision Authority's refusal of the subdivision application
• Public hearing scheduled for May 16, 2024, adjourned from March 21, 2024

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The committee will discuss the 2024 funding process, campaign planning including a talent show and event ideas, and review the annual calendar. They will also consider paying administrative invoices totaling $681.73. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and receiving reports.

• Discussion of 2024 funding process
• Campaign planning including talent show and event ideas
• Review of annual meeting calendar
• Payment of administrative invoices totaling $681.73
• Adoption of minutes from April 9 and April 25, 2024 meetings

Regular Council Meeting

Council will hold a public hearing on Bylaw 14-24 to adopt the North Okotoks Area Structure Plan, guiding development of about 129.4 hectares. They will also consider a 2024 operating budget amendment to fund electric vehicle charging stations, a response letter to the province on Bill 20, and amendments to the Sponsorship Policy. Several items are for information only, including correspondence and committee minutes.

• Public hearing on Bylaw 14-24 – North Okotoks Area Structure Plan (approx. 129.4 hectares)
• 2024 Operating Budget amendment to grant-fund installation of electric vehicle charging stations
• Draft letter to the province responding to Bill 20
• Amendments to Sponsorship Policy CMD-F-2.7
• Bylaw 18-24 – Land Use Bylaw amendment (Omnibus 3) for clarity and consistency

Council approved a budget increase for EV charging stations and adopted new community engagement and scholarship policies. A public hearing was held for the North Okotoks Area Structure Plan, which proceeded to a second reading.

• Approved $0.125M operating budget increase for electric car charging stations (Unanimous)
• Approved Community Engagement Policies GP-D-2.6 and EL-B-2.6 (Unanimous)
• Rescinded Community Engagement Policy CMD-R-4.6 and Council Community Connector Policy and Plan GP-D-2.3 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2024 Council Engagement Opportunities Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Sponsorship Policy CMD-F-2.7 (Unanimous)
• Approved Scholarship Awards Policy GP-F-2.8 as presented (Carried)
• Directed Administration to send an amended advocacy letter to the Minister of Municipal Affairs regarding Bill 20 (Unanimous)
• Passed second reading of Bylaw 14-24 North Okotoks Area Structure Plan (Unanimous)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee is meeting to discuss funding timelines and processes for 2024, including a presentation from the Sheep River Health Trust. The committee will also receive updates from council, the Community Wellness Team Leader, and youth representatives. The agenda is largely procedural, with no binding decisions scheduled.

• Presentation from Sheep River Health Trust
• Review of 2024 FCSS Funding Matrix and regional funding application forms
• Discussion of process for funding updates
• Council and Community Wellness Team Leader reports
• Next meeting set for June 5, 2024

United Way Okotoks Partnership Annual Funding

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Community Investment Sub-Committee is meeting to hear presentations from 10 local organizations requesting 2024 funding. Each organization will present its request, after which the sub-committee will vote on whether to fund each one and at what amount. The total requested funding across all items is $115,957.54.

• Foothills School Division Outreach Services at Cameron Crossing School requests $10,000.00
• Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools Connections Program requests $18,000.00
• Foothills Country Hospice Society Community Bereavement Boxes Program requests $3,897.54
• Foothills School Division Family School Liaison Counsellors requests $20,000.00
• Okotoks Family Resource Centre requests $15,000.00

Regular Council Meeting

Council approved the 2023 Draft Audited Financial Statements and amended the 2024 budget to reflect $1.684 million in requested tax revenue increases. The board also extended the deadline for a rental housing corporation business plan and set 2024 policing priorities.

• Approved 2023 Draft Audited Financial Statement (Unanimous)
• Amended 2024 Budget to include $1.684M general tax revenue increase (Unanimous)
• Extended Municipally Controlled Corporation business plan deadline to June 30, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Included Officer Visibility, Provincial Traffic Safety, and Crime Reduction in 2024 policing plan (Unanimous)
• Directed Administration to proceed with Option 2 regarding affordable housing from closed session (Unanimous)
• Read Bylaw 17-24 Land Use Bylaw Amendment first time (Unanimous)

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee will review and consider two draft community engagement policies (GP-D-2.6 and EL-B-2.6). Councillor Swendseid has requested discussion on the criteria and funding for the annual high school academic awards. A closed session is scheduled to discuss a town asset renaming under FOIP s. 24(1)(a).

• Review of draft Council's Community Engagement Policy GP D 2.6 and draft Community Engagement Policy EL-B-2.6
• Discussion of criteria and funding for Okotoks Academic Awards requested by Councillor Swendseid
• Closed session item: Town Asset Renaming (FOIP s. 24(1)(a))

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee is meeting to discuss and plan fundraising campaign events, including a talent show and other ideas, and to review communication methods and the annual calendar. The committee will also consider paying administrative and campaign invoices, and receive reports from the staff liaison, treasurer, and council. The meeting includes adoption of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Campaign discussion and planning, including a talent show and other event ideas
• Review of communication methods and the 2024 annual meeting calendar
• Consideration of an administrative invoice for a newspaper funding application
• Consideration of campaign invoices for payment
• Receipt of reports from staff liaison, treasurer, and council

Regular Council Meeting

This is a regular council meeting with a mix of routine items and significant land-use decisions. Council will consider first reading of Bylaw 14-24 to adopt the North Okotoks Area Structure Plan, and second reading of Bylaw 02-24 to redesignate land in Tillotson Phase 2. The agenda also includes a closed session, delegations, and several information items.

• Bylaw 14-24: Adopt North Okotoks Area Structure Plan for ~129.4 hectares (320 acres)
• Bylaw 02-24: Redesignate 9.58 hectares (23.67 acres) in Tillotson Phase 2 from Agricultural to Traditional Neighbourhood and Neighbourhood Core Districts
• Bylaw 16-24: Update CAO Bylaw to protect delegation of authority for land sales/purchases
• Rescind Election Signage Policy CMD-P-3.9
• Marigold Library System requisition for 2025-2026 per capita levy rates

Council passed Bylaw 16-24 to update the Chief Administrative Officer Bylaw regarding land sale and purchase authority. Other actions included rescinding an election signage policy and advancing a land use redesignation bylaw.

• Passed Bylaw 16-24 updating CAO delegation of authority for land sales/purchases (Unanimous)
• Rescinded Election Signage Policy CMD-P-3.9 (Unanimous)
• Read Bylaw 02-24 for land use redesignation of 9.58 hectares a second time (Unanimous)
• Read Bylaw 14-24 North Okotoks Area Structure Plan a first time (Unanimous)
• Approved Corporate Progress Report for July-Dec 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Closed Session item 3.3 (Unanimous)
• Forwarded endorsement of Closed Session item 3.1 to Intermunicipal Committee (Unanimous)

Intermunicipal Committee

The Intermunicipal Committee will receive updates on the Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project and the Joint Planning Area 3 boundary. They will also consider endorsing a second open house and drafting amendments to the plan's vision and guiding principles based on public feedback. Two items will be discussed in closed session under FOIP exceptions.

• Update on Foothills/Okotoks Raw Water Project
• Discussion on Joint Planning Area 3 Boundary (verbal report)
• What We Heard Report on Joint Planning Area 3, with motions to post report, hold second open house, and draft amendments
• Closed session items: Champion Park and Green Haven Development (FOIP s. 24(1)(a)(c))

Regular Council Meeting

Okotoks Council is meeting to act on several items, including a councillor resignation, 2023 financial results, and water-related bylaws. A public hearing will address election signage rules. The agenda also includes closed-session items and routine updates.

• Councillor Actemichuk resignation effective March 21, 2024
• Bylaw 15-24 Water Bylaw for all three readings
• Bylaw 12-24 Land Use Bylaw amendment for election signage
• Bylaw 11-24 Election Signage for second/third readings
• 2023 Financial Operating Results with Variance report

Okotoks Council approved transferring the 2023 $1.145 million operating surplus to Operating General Reserves and relinquishing $1.006 million in unspent operating project budget. Council passed Bylaw 15-24 (The Water Bylaw) through three readings and accepted the Water Shortage Response Plan. Council also passed Bylaw 12-24 (Land Use Bylaw Amendment) and Bylaw 11-24 (Election Signage) after a public hearing with no speakers. Council directed the Mayor to request a ministerial order to extend the deadline to fill a council vacancy following Councillor Actemichuk's resignation effective March 21, 2024.

• Approved transferring $1.145M 2023 operating surplus to Operating General Reserves (unanimous)
• Approved relinquishing $1.006M of remaining 2023 operating project budget (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 capital projects report with $4.864M reduction, net $37.882M carried to 2024 capital budget (unanimous)
• Directed Mayor to request Minister of Municipal Affairs extend time to fill council vacancy to next general election (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 15-24 (The Water Bylaw) through first, second, and third readings (unanimous)
• Accepted Water Shortage Response Plan (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 12-24 (Land Use Bylaw Amendment) through second and third readings after public hearing (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 11-24 (Election Signage) as amended through second and third readings (unanimous)

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board

The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board will hear an appeal by Absolute Surveys Inc. against the Town's refusal of a boundary adjustment for properties at 17 and 38 Oak Avenue. The meeting includes procedural items like electing a chair and adopting the agenda.

• Subdivision Appeal 2024-01 (SD2023-9) for boundary adjustments to 17 and 38 Oak Avenue / Block X, Plan 1650E and a portion of SE ¼ 28-20-29 W4M
• Appellant: Absolute Surveys Inc. (represented by Rick Grol)
• Letters from residents Gordon White, Sterling Kristensen, and Rosemary Ostrow are included in the record

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee will discuss and recommend to Council amendments to the Water Shortage Response Plan, a draft Water Bylaw (Bylaw 15-24), and a new drought monitoring tool. The committee will also consider options for a Mayor’s Youth Engagement program, including a draft terms of reference for a youth council. A closed session is scheduled to discuss asset naming under FOIP exceptions.

• Discussion of amendments to the Water Shortage Response Plan and draft Water Bylaw 15-24
• Review of drought management water statistics for March 2024
• Consideration of options for Mayor's Youth Engagement, including a draft Mayor Youth Council terms of reference
• Closed session item: Asset naming (FOIP s. 24(1)(a)(b)(g))

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The committee will review final 2023 Community Investment funding reports, finalize sub-committee members, and discuss campaign planning including a talent show and event ideas. They will also set annual allocation amounts for administration and campaign expenses per the Memorandum of Understanding.

• Review of 2023 final funding reports for Community Investment
• Finalize Community Investment Sub-committee members
• Campaign discussion including talent show and event ideas
• Set 2024 allocation amounts for Administration and Campaign expenses per the Memorandum of Understanding
• Receive 2023 and 2024 FCSS Funding Summary as information

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Regular Council Meeting on March 11, 2024, will discuss service level options for addressing excessive vehicle noise, receive the 2023 Municipal Enforcement Annual Report, and consider three readings of Bylaw 08-24 to establish Tribunal Boards and Bylaw 04-24 to establish Governance Committees of Council. The agenda also includes a closed session for intergovernmental relations and advice from officials, as well as a presentation from the Family and Community Support Services Committee Chair.

• Noise Attenuation: Council to provide direction on service level options for excessive vehicle noise
• Okotoks Municipal Enforcement 2023 Annual Report presented for information
• Bylaw 08-24 to establish Tribunal Boards, ready for three readings
• Bylaw 04-24 to establish Governance Committees of Council, ready for three readings
• Family and Community Support Services Committee Chair presentation of annual report

Council approved two new bylaws establishing Tribunal Boards and Governance Committees. They also directed administration to explore noise attenuation education for the 2025 budget and to align noise bylaws with the City of Calgary.

• Passed Bylaw 08-24 to establish Tribunal Boards (Unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 04-24 to establish Governance Committees of Council (Unanimous)
• Directed administration to include noise attenuation education (Option 1) in the 2025 budget process (Carried)
• Directed administration to propose noise bylaw revisions synchronized with City of Calgary's Traffic Bylaw (Carried)
• Accepted Okotoks Municipal Enforcement 2023 Annual Report (Unanimous)
• Adopted February 26, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will hear a presentation on the Age Friendly Okotoks initiative and review final 2023 funding reports. The committee will also receive updates from council, the Community Wellness Team Leader, and youth representatives. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and correspondence from the FCSS Association of Alberta.

• Presentation: Age Friendly Okotoks Overview and Update
• Review and discuss 2023 FCSS Final Funding Reports
• Council Update and Community Wellness Team Leader report
• Correspondence: FCSS Association of Alberta Board Meeting highlights (Jan 19, 2024)
• Next meeting scheduled for April 3, 2024

Regular Council Meeting

Okotoks Council will consider third reading of a bylaw to redesignate 4.19 hectares for a new neighbourhood, approve budget amendments for a fire truck and two transit buses, and receive reports on RCMP crime stats and climate infrastructure risks. The meeting also includes recognition of two youth and a closed session on human resources.

• Third reading of Bylaw 17-22 to redesignate 4.19 hectares at D'Arcy Phase 4 from Agriculture to Traditional Neighbourhood District
• 2024 Capital Budget Amendment for additional costs on a fire truck purchase (Project 45)
• 2024 Capital Budget Amendment to authorize purchase of two new transit vehicles
• Climate Infrastructure Vulnerability Risk Assessment results to guide adaptation planning
• Okotoks RCMP Municipal Detachment Quarterly Update and Fire Services Medical Responses Monthly Update

Okotoks Town Council amended its 2024 Capital Budget to increase funding for a fire truck and to add a project buying two new transit vehicles, both funded by grants. Council also gave third reading to a land use bylaw redesignating about 4.19 hectares from Agriculture and Land Holdings District to Traditional Neighbourhood District. Several reports were received as information, including the RCMP quarterly update and a response on deer feeding. All recorded motions carried unanimously.

• Amended 2024 Capital Budget: Project 45 - Fire Engine 100' aerial apparatus increased to $2.478M from $0.520M in 2024, reducing the 2026 portion (Funding Source: Grants $2.478M) — carried unanimously
• Amended 2024 Capital Budget: added new project to purchase two (2) new transit vehicles for $0.400M (Funding Source: Grants $0.400M) — carried unanimously
• Bylaw 17-22 read a third time and passed: redesignating approximately 4.19 hectares of Lot 3, Block 9, Plan 181 1640 from Agriculture and Land Holdings District to Traditional Neighbourhood District — carried unanimously
• Accepted the Climate Infrastructure Vulnerability Risk Assessment Results as presented — carried unanimously
• Received the Okotoks RCMP Municipal Detachment Quarterly Update as information — carried unanimously
• Received the Response to Councillor Inquiries and Suggestions Report regarding Deer Feeding as information — carried unanimously
• Adopted the February 12, 2024 Regular Council Meeting minutes and received remaining consent agenda items as information — carried unanimously

Governance and Priorities Committee

This agenda for the Okotoks Governance and Priorities Committee contains no substantive items for discussion or decision. The document consists entirely of procedural placeholders and interface elements from the eSCRIBE agenda management system. No rezonings, contracts, dollar amounts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings are listed.

• No substantive agenda items are present
• Agenda consists only of system-generated interface text
• No decisions, proposals, or discussions are scheduled

Regular Council Meeting

Council will hold public hearings on two bylaws related to the Tillotson Phase 2 development: a road closure for a portion of Westland Street and a land use redesignation of 9.58 hectares from agricultural to residential and core districts. Council will also discuss a provincial police governance survey and receive a Foothills Tourism Development Zone report.

• Public hearing on Bylaw 06-24 to permanently close a 1.6 m wide portion of Westland Street road right-of-way in Tillotson Phase 2.
• Public hearing on Bylaw 02-24 to redesignate 9.58 hectares (23.67 acres) from Agricultural and Land Holdings District to Traditional Neighbourhood and Neighbourhood Core Districts.
• Bylaw 13-24 to amend the Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw by reordering utility items and establishing GST categories.
• Discussion of the Provincial Police Governance Survey and legislative amendments related to the Police Amendment Act, 2022.
• Council will go into closed session to discuss citizen member appointments and land sales.

Okotoks council held public hearings on two bylaws and passed several procedural and administrative items. Bylaw 06-24, a road closure on Westland Street, received first reading after a public hearing with no objections. Second reading of Bylaw 02-24, which would redesignate 9.58 hectares (23.67 acres) from agricultural to neighbourhood districts, was postponed pending additional information on the Water Allocation Policy and water licensing. Council also passed Bylaw 13-24 amending the Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw, and corrected November 27, 2023 minutes to eliminate 2024 increases to the Paper Billing Charge and On Demand Local Transit Fares.

• Postponed second reading of Bylaw 02-24 (Land Use Redesignation) pending water allocation information (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 06-24 (Road Closure) (unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 13-24 amending Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw through first, second, and third readings (unanimous)
• Amended Nov 27, 2023 minutes to eliminate 2024 Paper Billing Charge increase, keeping $2.00 rate (unanimous)
• Amended Nov 27, 2023 minutes to eliminate 2024 On Demand Local Transit Fare increases (unanimous)
• Appointed six citizens to boards and committees (unanimous)
• Endorsed Option 1 from Closed Session report 3.2 on land sales (unanimous)
• Approved Sheep River Health Trust Christmas tree raffle request (unanimous)

Intermunicipal Committee

The Foothills County and Town of Okotoks Intermunicipal Committee is meeting to receive an update on the Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project and discuss a verbal update on the Highway 2 and 338 Avenue Overpass. The committee will also consider adopting previous meeting minutes and may enter a closed session to discuss Champion Park under FOIP exceptions.

• Foothills/Okotoks Regional Water Project Update received as information
• Verbal update on Highway 2 and 338 Avenue Overpass from Foothills County
• Closed session discussion of Champion Park (FOIP s. 24(1)(a)(c))
• Motion to direct joint administrations on Champion Park after closed session
• Next meeting scheduled for March 26, 2024 in High River

Regular Council Meeting

The Town of Okotoks Regular Council Meeting on January 22, 2024, includes a closed session for land acquisition, water update, lease options, intermunicipal approvals, and Champion Park. In open session, council will consider first reading of bylaws to regulate election signage and exempt it from development permits, and will give three readings to a bylaw amending election procedures for by-elections. The agenda also includes informational items on the Local Government Fiscal Framework, recreation fee assistance, and fire services medical responses.

• Bylaw 12-24: Land Use Bylaw amendment to exempt election signage from development permit requirements
• Bylaw 11-24: Election Signage Bylaw to regulate election signage
• Bylaw 10-24: Election Procedures Bylaw amendment for by-elections (three readings)
• Closed session items: Land Acquisition, Water Update, Lease Options, Intermunicipal Approvals, Champion Park
• Delegation: Awesome Kid Awards - Grade 4/5 students from Ecole Percy Pegler School recognized for snow shoveling

Okotoks Town Council passed Bylaw 10-24, an amendment to the Election Procedures Bylaw setting out differences in procedures for by-elections, through first, second and third readings. Council also endorsed 'option 2B' from a closed-session water update, with no details of that option recorded in the public minutes. Bylaws 12-24 (Land Use Bylaw Amendment) and 11-24 (Election Signage) received first reading, and reports on the Local Government Fiscal Framework and Recreation Fee Assistance Policy Utilization were received as information. Several items, including land acquisition, lease options, Champion Park and an external service level review, were discussed in closed session under FOIP exceptions.

• Passed Bylaw 10-24 (Election Procedures Bylaw Amendment) through first, second and third readings (unanimous)
• Endorsed option 2B from closed-session item 3.2 (Water Update) (unanimous)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 12-24 (Land Use Bylaw Amendment) (unanimous, via consent agenda)
• Gave first reading to Bylaw 11-24 (Election Signage) (unanimous, via consent agenda)
• Received Local Government Fiscal Framework report as information (unanimous)
• Received Recreation Fee Assistance Policy Utilization report as information (unanimous)
• Adopted the January 8, 2024 Regular Council Meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Added closed-session item 3.6 External Service Level Review Request to the agenda (unanimous)

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will hear presentations from Wild Rose Community Connections for two 2024 funding requests totaling $32,753, then enter closed session to discuss funding for 14 programs. After closed session, the committee will vote on motions to fund or not fund each program, with dollar amounts to be filled in.

• Wild Rose Community Connections requests $27,248 for DadConnexx and $5,505 for Volunteer Program
• Closed session for funding discussion under FOIP exceptions
• 14 motions on funding for programs including Christ the Redeemer Catholic School, Eunoia Equine Assisted Learning, Foothills Country Hospice, and others
• Next meeting scheduled for March 6, 2024

Family and Community Support Services Committee

The Family and Community Support Services Committee will hear presentations from 11 organizations requesting 2024 funding, totaling over $180,000. Items include adoption of the agenda and previous meeting minutes, and a closed session. The committee is discussing, not deciding, these funding requests at this meeting.

• Christ the Redeemer Separate School Division requests $20,000 for The Connection Program and $25,000 for the Family School Liaison Program
• Eunoia Equine Assisted Learning requests $9,180 for its program
• Foothills Country Hospice requests $18,465 for Volunteer Services
• Foothills School Division requests $50,000 for the Family School Liaison Counsellor Program
• Okotoks Meals on Wheels Society requests $1,000 for Volunteer Appreciation

Governance and Priorities Committee

The Governance and Priorities Committee is meeting to consider a water management update on drought initiatives and proposed service level changes, options for Mayor's Youth Engagement, and a review of the Finance and Audit Committee Terms of Reference due to recruitment challenges. The agenda also includes routine items like adoption of agenda, approval of minutes, and closed session items.

• Water Management Update: drought management initiatives and proposed service level changes
• Options for Mayor's Youth Engagement, including a Mayor Youth Council Committee Terms of Reference
• Finance and Audit Committee Terms of Reference review due to public member recruitment challenges
• Approval of minutes from December 4, 2023 meeting

United Way_Okotoks Partnership Committee

The United Way/Okotoks Partnership Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda and previous minutes, elect a treasurer for the term ending October 31, 2024, and discuss campaign and 2024 planning. The committee will also consider paying administrative and campaign invoices, and receive reports including a staff liaison report and a 2024-2025 memorandum of understanding. The meeting is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.

• Election of Treasurer for term ending October 31, 2024
• Discussion and planning for the 2024 campaign
• Approval of administrative and campaign invoices (amounts not specified)
• Staff Liaison Report includes 2024-2025 MOU with United Way
• Next meeting scheduled for February 13, 2024

Regular Council Meeting

The Okotoks Council will hold a regular meeting with several items for decision, including three bylaws ready for readings. Key actions include authorizing a $6.5M line of credit for operating expenses, approving supplementary assessments for 2024, and first reading of a land use redesignation for Tillotson Phase 2. The meeting also includes delegations, closed session discussions on water and bylaws, and correspondence on regional water study and drought readiness.

• Bylaw 03-24: Borrowing line of credit up to $6.5M for 2024 operating expenditures
• Bylaw 01-24: Supplementary assessments for residential and non-residential properties in 2024
• Bylaw 02-24: Land use redesignation of 9.58 hectares (23.67 acres) at Tillotson Phase 2 from Agricultural to Traditional Neighbourhood and Neighbourhood Core Districts
• Closed session items: Water update (FOIP s. 24(1)(c)) and Bylaw review (FOIP s. 24(1)(a)(g))
• Delegations: Calgary Metropolitan Region Board presentation, Sport Recognition Award for Foothills Falcons football team, and Awesome Kid Award for Brogan Mior

Council passed bylaws to authorize a $6.5M borrowing line of credit for 2024 operating expenditures and to allow supplementary property assessments. The council also approved a letter of support for the Town of Nanton’s Regional Water Study.

• Approved Bylaw 03-24 authorizing a borrowing line of credit up to $6.5M (Unanimous)
• Passed Bylaw 01-24 to authorize 2024 supplementary assessments for residential and non-residential properties (Unanimous)
• Approved sending a letter of support for the Town of Nanton’s Regional Water Study to the Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors (Unanimous)
• Read Bylaw 02-24 (Land Use Redesignation) for a first time (Unanimous)
• Decided to bring Mayor’s Youth Council Committee draft Terms of Reference back to a future Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting (Unanimous)