High River public meetings in 2024
55 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Council
Council will consider several bylaws and the 2025 budget, including a 3.4% tax rate increase, a $34.2 million operating budget, and a $31.85 million capital budget. It will also vote on election-related bylaws and appointments, a fire mutual aid agreement, and a tax write-off. The meeting includes routine adoption of minutes and reports.
- Adopt 2025 Operating Budget of $34.2 million and Capital & Special Projects Budget of $31.85 million, with 3.4% tax increase
- Give readings to Bylaw 4632/2024 (Municipal Election Bylaw) to align with legislative changes
- Appoint Jody Hipkin as Returning Officer and Sonja Coleman as Substitute for 2025 election
- Approve 2025 Rate Bylaws (Bylaw 4635/2024 and 4636/2024) for fees and charges
- Authorize write-off of $38,671.02 in grant-in-lieu of property taxes
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss the ATCO Gas franchise fee agreement, which must be re-approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission before March 17, 2025, or it will terminate. They will also receive an update on the Aquatics Expansion construction project. The meeting includes adoption of the November 25, 2024 minutes.
- ATCO franchise fee agreement: estimated $728,625 in franchise fees for 2025, current fee rate 20%
- Deadline for AUC re-approval is March 17, 2025; otherwise agreement terminates
- Aquatics Expansion construction update (BN-24-35)
Regular Council
The High River Council will consider implementing a new Reserve Policy and reviewing a request from Westwinds Communities to extend borrowing beyond one year. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the financing of the Aquatics Facility Expansion.
- Implementation of Reserve Policy POL-0091
- Aquatics Facility Expansion funding via Community Infrastructure Reinvestment Fund
- Westwinds Communities request for borrowing extension under the Alberta Housing Act
- Annual review of Reserve Funds due by end of Q3 2025
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will hear delegations from Foothills Pride Society and Ledcor Technical Services, then discuss the broadband survey report, the 2025 operating/capital budget and municipal taxation, and the 2025 rate bylaw. It will also receive information on an infill variance application for 1109 4 St SE. The meeting is primarily for discussion and information; no final decisions are made by this committee.
- Foothills Pride Society delegation on security cameras, crosswalk paint, and statement on targeted vandalism
- Ledcor Technical Services delegation
- Broadband Survey Report (BN-24-36)
- 2025 Operating, Capital & Special Projects Budget - Municipal Taxation (BN-24-37)
- 2025 Rate Bylaw (BN-24-38)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to hear delegations and discuss business items. They will hear from Crowsnest Headwaters requesting a resolution against a coal mining referendum, and from Systemic Architecture Inc. about the Highwood Village North Apartments. Council will also consider a development permit for the apartments and an update to the Subdivision and Development Securities Policy.
- Delegation from Crowsnest Headwaters requesting High River object to Crowsnest Pass coal referendum
- Highwood Village North Apartments development permit application 2006.24 for 117 units in 3 four-storey buildings
- Variance requests for common amenity space (6.2% vs 10% required) and landscape area (35.1% vs 40% required)
- Update to Subdivision and Development Securities Policy (CDR-24-12)
- Infill variances for 1109 4 St SE: stone steps, covered porch, fence above 1.8m
Regular Council
Council will decide on three Community Vitality Advisory Committee grant recommendations totaling $11,820, and approve a new four-year risk management and insurance services agreement with Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) starting January 1, 2025, with expected premiums of $590,238 plus $24,475 for cyber insurance. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes, councillor and board reports, and a donation request from Habitat for Humanity.
- Award $5,120 to Jesus Rock of Ages Ministries for Connecting Culture through Basketball
- Award $4,200 to Unity Film Festival for High River Chronicles - Stories of a Prairie Town
- Award $2,500 to Windmill Theatre Players for their 50th Anniversary Celebration
- Approve Risk Management and Insurance Services agreement with RMA (Genesis Reciprocal Insurance Exchange) for 4 years, 2025 premiums $590,238, plus $24,475 for cyber insurance
- Donation request from Habitat for Humanity regarding 'Lunch with the Mayor'
Special Meeting of Council - 07 Nov 2024 - CLOSED pursuant to Sections 23(1) and 24(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
This is a special meeting of Council that is entirely closed to the public, held to discuss a legal item. The closure is authorized under the Municipal Government Act and the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. No public decisions or discussions are on the agenda.
- Closed meeting pursuant to Section 197(2) of the Municipal Government Act
- Closed under Sections 23(1) and 24(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
- Closed under Section 18(1)(e) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Regulation
- Agenda item: Legal Item
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee will consider two funding requests under the Community Vitality Fund: $8,620 for a basketball program and $4,200 for a documentary series. They will also review a new fund policy, funding accountability reports, and a funding agreement template, and ratify prior conference and event funding.
- Connecting Cultures Through Basketball - $8,620 request
- High River Chronicles - Stories of a Prairie Town - $4,200 request
- Ratification of Connecting the Dots Conference for $1,800
- Windmill Theatre Gala Request - $2,500
- el papalote 2024 Day of the Dead - $2,000
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to adopt minutes, hear a delegation from the High River Rotary Club about a wind sculpture, and then move into a closed session for a labour item. The main business is ongoing budget discussions, including finalizing the 2025 capital projects and considering a local improvement tax to fund the Aquatics Expansion.
- High River Rotary Club delegation: wind sculpture purchase totaling $32,650 USD, including shipping and 10-year warranty
- Closed meeting for labour item under MGA and FOIP
- 2025 budget: new capital projects include Crescent Avenue SE mains replacement ($65,000), Wallaceville Pathway Realignment ($300,000), and others
- Proposed local improvement tax of $75/year ($6.25/month) for Aquatics Expansion, shown separately on property assessments
- Tax stabilization reserve approximately $6.8M as of end of 2023
Regular Council
Council will hear delegations from CAREERS, Rowan House Society, and concerned citizens petitioning against the aquatics expansion borrowing bylaw. They will also give second and third reading to the new Town Plan and consider defeating Bylaw 4633/2024 for the aquatics expansion borrowing after a valid petition was received.
- Second and third reading of Bylaw 4629/2024 (Town Plan / Municipal Development Plan)
- Motion to defeat Bylaw 4633/2024 (Aquatics Expansion borrowing) after valid petition
- Delegation from CAREERS proposing a Foothills Advisory Group for youth internships
- Delegation from Rowan House Society annual update
- Petition from concerned citizens to stop the Aquatics Expansion borrowing bylaw
Organizational Meeting
This is the annual organizational meeting where Council will adopt the meeting schedule for the next year, set the deputy mayor rotation, and make appointments to internal and external boards and committees. The agenda also includes a closed session for a labour item and reappointments of citizens to town boards.
- Adopt Regular Council, Committee of the Whole, and Strategic Priority Session schedule for Nov 1, 2024 - Oct 31, 2025
- Adopt Deputy Mayor and Acting Deputy Mayor rotation schedule for Nov 1, 2024 - Oct 20, 2025
- Reappoint Rob Bennington and Sundi Clark to Assessment Review Board, Pat Shorrock to Library Board, Sundi Clark to Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (3-year terms ending Oct 31, 2027)
- Appoint councillors to internal boards (e.g., Community Vitality Advisory Board, Emergency Advisory Committee) and external boards (e.g., Calgary Metropolitan Region Board, Foothills Regional Emergency Services Commission)
- Closed meeting for a labour item under MGA and FOIP
Special Committee of the Whole Budget Discussions
The Special Committee of the Whole is reviewing the 2025 balanced budget, including revenue and expense projections, and discussing the municipal taxation framework, rates and fees, and final decisions on capital and special projects. The meeting includes presentations and Q&A, with no final votes scheduled.
- 2025 budget: $33.82M revenues, $30.17M expenses, balanced with $0 surplus/deficit
- Tax rate scenarios: 1% to 4.95% net municipal tax revenue increase, with residential impacts from $25 to $176 annually
- Capital projects: BSRC aquatics expansion ($20M+), 64th Street paving ($1.95M), 12th Avenue paving ($1.17M), 112th Street East upgrade ($65K-$1.25M)
- Rates and fees: proposed splitting Rate Bylaw into four schedules (utilities, parks/recreation, permits, general)
- Next steps: budget adoption Nov 12, rate bylaws Nov 25, tax bylaw May 31, 2025
Regular Council
High River Council is deciding on several operational items: adopting a sidewalk and pathway repair policy, renewing a lease with Lifemark Health Corp. for space in the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex, removing underused electric vehicle charging stations downtown, and updating strategic priorities. The agenda also includes routine consent items and requests for proclamations.
- Adopt Sidewalk and Pathway Repair and Inspection Policy POL-0089
- Renew lease with Lifemark Health Corp. for Unit 201, 228 12 Ave SE, with 2% annual rent increases over 5 years (year 1: $31,212.00)
- Remove plug-in electric vehicle charging stations off 3rd Ave S between Centre Street and 1st West
- Adopt updated Top 5 Strategic Priorities including recycling program, skatepark, town farm, 112 Street E area structure plan, and water strategy
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss three main items: a funding update on the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), a request from Highwood Golf for a noise bylaw exemption, and the joint administration building agreement with MD Foothills. The committee will also adopt minutes from previous meetings. No final decisions are being made at this meeting; it is for discussion and direction.
- Clean Energy Improvement Program funding update: FCM funding unlikely; administration recommends holding program until other funding available
- Highwood Golf requests exemption from Good Neighbor Bylaw noise restrictions to operate equipment before 7 AM
- Discussion of Joint Administration Building Agreement with MD Foothills (2001 agreement)
- Adoption of September 9, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes
- Adoption of October 7, 2024 Special Committee of the Whole Budget Discussions minutes
Special Committee of the Whole Budget Discussions
The Special Committee of the Whole is reviewing the 2025 capital and special projects budget, including a $20+ million aquatics expansion and several road projects. The budget is balanced with no property tax revenue increase, though scenarios for increases will be discussed at the October 21 meeting. Council will ask questions of administration before final adoption in November.
- BSRC Aquatics Expansion and Lobby Renovations: $20+ million
- 64th Street Paving: $1.95 million
- 12th Avenue Paving (East End to RCMP Intersection): $1.17 million
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Design and Regional Feasibility: $2.8 million
- 0% property tax revenue increase for 2025
Special Committee of the Whole Budget Discussions
The Special Committee of the Whole is holding budget discussions for 2025, reviewing the CAO's budget briefing and draft operating and capital budgets. The proposed budget aims to be balanced with no projected increases in taxes or utilities, though council may direct rate changes based on infrastructure needs. The meeting includes a question-and-answer period for council to query administration.
- 2025 Operating Budget Binder Version 1.0
- 2025 Capital Budget Binder Version 1.0
- HRGM Fee for Service Request (002)
- Each 1% tax increase generates approximately $155,000 in new revenue
- New construction estimated to bring about $200,000 in new revenue
Special Meeting of Council - 02 Oct 2024 - CLOSED pursuant to Sections 23(1) and 24(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act
This is a special meeting of Council that is entirely closed to the public under provincial privacy and municipal law. The only substantive item is a legal matter discussed in private. No decisions or public business are on the agenda.
- Closed meeting pursuant to Sections 23(1) and 24(1) of FOIP Act and Section 18(1)(c) of FOIP Regulation
- Legal item discussed in closed session
Regular Council
High River Council is deciding on several capital contracts, including a water treatment plant upgrade, rooftop unit replacement at Town Hall, and a new bucket truck. They will also consider funding for mold remediation at the Boys and Girls Club, cemetery ribbon replacement, and a consultant for the 112 St. E. area structure plan. Delegations will present on air quality monitoring and a youth mental wellness hub.
- Award $291,750.16 contract to Ridgeline/CIMA+ for Water Treatment Plant UVT upgrade and PLC 5 replacement
- Award $587,888 contract to Chisholm Industries for rooftop unit replacement at Town Hall
- Award $242,538 purchase contract to Altec Industries for a new bucket truck
- Approve $110,000 from reserves for mold remediation at Boys and Girls Club (1204-10th Street SE)
- Award $277,763 contract to Tetra Tech for 112 St. E. Area Structure Plan and Functional Servicing Report
Regular Council
High River Council will vote on whether to defeat Bylaw 4621/2024 for an Entertainment District, and consider first, second, and third readings of a new Board & Committee Bylaw. They will also decide on funding for a community event, approve a policy amendment, update council remuneration policies, and confirm participation in a transit funding expression of interest.
- Defeat Bylaw 4621/2024 Entertainment District (second and third reading)
- First, second, and third reading of Bylaw 4626/2024 to amend Board & Committee Bylaw 4615/2023
- Award $6,000 to Brian Chipchase Show & Shine
- Adopt amended Council Remuneration Policy #096 and new Reimbursable Expense Policy #097
- Confirm participation in Canada Public Transit Fund Expression of Interest via CMRB
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is discussing a collaborative regional economic development partnership with other Calgary Metropolitan Region municipalities, which may involve a future financial request. They are also considering a proposal for public art in a downtown traffic circle. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and routine procedural items.
- Discussion of Collaborative Regional Economic Development Partnership, with potential financial ask in first year
- Rotary proposal for public art in downtown traffic circle
- Adoption of August 12, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee is reviewing a $6,000 request for the Brian Chipchase Show & Shine. The committee is also discussing a revised policy for approval by Council on September 9, 2024.
- Brian Chipchase Show & Shine: $6,000 requested
- Revised Community Vitality Fund policy for Council approval
- Senator Riley Outdoor Playground discussion
- Remaining 2024 CVAC funding: $40,889.46
Second Public Hearing - Town Plan
Council is holding the second public hearing for Bylaw 4629/2024, the Town Plan (Municipal Development Plan), which will guide development in High River for the next 20 years. The hearing follows extensive public consultation and revisions made in response to feedback from the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board and Foothills County. Council will consider any public feedback received at this hearing before potentially adopting the plan.
- Bylaw 4629/2024 - Town Plan (Municipal Development Plan)
- New policies for regionally significant transportation corridors, including the 543 Corridor (498 Ave. E)
- New map identifying regional transportation corridors within 1.6 km
- Foothills County supports dark sky standard and no annexation policy
- DREAM developer requests thoughtful, practical implementation of policies
Regular Council
Council will consider first reading of a borrowing bylaw for the aquatics expansion, along with several policy updates and budget amendments. They will also discuss next steps for the RedTail Rise development, including requirements for an Area Structure Plan and rezoning. The agenda includes routine items such as minutes and correspondence.
- Bylaw 4633/2024 - Aquatics Expansion Borrowing Bylaw (first reading)
- Budget amendment of $102,500 for RCMP HVAC equipment replacement
- Adoption of Municipal Displays of Respect and Support Policy #094
- Amendment to Respectful and Violence Free Workplace Policy HR-POL-100-02
- RedTail Rise development: next steps including Area Structure Plan and rezoning
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss sandwich board signage. The agenda includes adoption of the July 8, 2024 minutes and a question-and-answer period for council to ask administration questions. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the only business item is the signage discussion. The meeting is scheduled for 1:00 PM on August 12, 2024, in the Joint Council Chambers.
- Sandwich Board Signage Discussion
- Adoption of July 8, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes
Regular Council
High River Council is reviewing a construction contract award for the Aquatics Facility Expansion and updates to the town's strategic priorities. The meeting also includes discussions on extending recreation passes during construction and deferring a utility project on Centre Street.
- Award $22,289,285 construction contract for Aquatics Facility Expansion to Chandos Construction LP
- Update Top Five Strategic Priorities, including the Town Plan and Water Strategy
- Proposed one-month extension for active recreation passes during pool closures
- Defer Centre Street Shallow Utility Relocation project to the 2026 Budget
- Sunset Drive-In Securities delegation
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss development options for the RedTail Rise project following a request from Rempel Homes for land use flexibility. Administration is reviewing the developer's concerns regarding rezoning and density requirements. A complete Area Structure Plan must be submitted before further options are finalized.
- RedTail Rise development next steps discussion
- Snow and Ice Control 2023 to 2024 Season Update
- Aquatics Centre Expansion discussion
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee is discussing two new funding applications and reviewing the fund's policy, procedure, and bylaw. The committee also welcomed a new member and noted $40,929.26 remaining in the 2024 funding summary.
- FCIS Sports Fiesta funding application for $1,774.50
- Angie's Weather or Knot funding application for $762.18
- Review of Community Vitality Fund Policy, Procedure, and Bylaw
- Discussion regarding a new fillable PDF application draft
- Report of $40,929.26 remaining in the 2024 funding summary
Regular Council
The High River Council will discuss a new Council Code of Conduct bylaw and a lease renewal for the High River Sunset Drive-In. The meeting also includes a delegation from the Friends of Foothills Schools Foundation.
- Bylaw 4631/2024 Council Code of Conduct (First, Second, and Third Reading)
- Renewal of lease with High River Sunset Drive-In Ltd. for 5 years at $10.00 annually
- Proposed installation of 12 electrical services for short-term camping at Sunset Drive-In
- Required $9,500.00 damage deposit for Sunset Drive-In electrical installations
- Delegation from Friends of Foothills Schools Foundation regarding golf tournament sponsorships
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review the 2023/24 Community Wellbeing Assessment to inform social service delivery for the next five years. The meeting also includes discussions on Canada Day celebrations and an infill variance policy for a garage projection on Macleod Trail SW.
- 2023/24 Community Wellbeing Assessment report presentation
- Infill Variance Policy 22-109-00 for 906 Macleod Trail SW garage projection
- Canada Day Celebrations discussion
- Municipal Displays of Respect and Support
Regular Council
Council will consider referring the Town Plan (Bylaw 4629/2024) to the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board. The meeting also includes discussions on launching a Clean Energy Improvement Program and various development security requests.
- Referral of Bylaw 4629/2024 (Town Plan) to the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board
- Request for grant funding to launch a Clean Energy Improvement Program for energy efficient upgrades up to $50,000
- Bylaw 4618/2023 regarding the closure of an unopened portion of 7 Ave. SE
- Security variance request for Dream Developments, Montrose Phase 4
- Amendment to the Signing Authority Policy #085
Public Hearing - Entertainment District Bylaw
Council will hold a public hearing to consider feedback regarding Bylaw 4621/2024. The proposed pilot project would allow adults to consume alcohol in specified public areas during special events from July to December 2024.
- Public hearing for Bylaw 4621/2024 (Entertainment District Bylaw)
- Proposed district boundaries: Macleod Trail SW to 6th Ave SW to 1st St SW
- Pilot project duration: July to December 2024
- Restriction: No smoking within the district boundary
- Restriction: Only disposable or recyclable cups permitted; no glass
Committee of the Whole
RedTail Rise Development Corp will present a delegation regarding their Area Structure Plan (ASP). The developer is requesting to maintain the existing Country Estate Residential land use rather than redesignating to the Traditional Neighbourhood District as suggested by Town staff.
- Delegation by RedTail Rise Development Corp regarding ASP and land use
- Discussion of Country Estate Residential (CER) vs. Traditional Neighbourhood District (TND) designation
Regular Council
Council will consider the 2024 Property Tax Bylaw to set annual tax rates. The meeting also includes a public hearing for the Municipal Development Plan and discussions on various community funding requests.
- First and second readings of Bylaw 4630/2024 (2024 Property Tax Bylaw)
- Public hearing for Bylaw 4629/2024 (Town Plan/Municipal Development Plan)
- $116,500 contract award to ISL Engineering and Land Services Ltd. for High Country Drive study
- $6,250 award for the High River Art Committee Tree Art project
- $2,500 funding request for the Guy Weadick Rodeo
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss options for a Clean Energy Improvement Program to provide property owners with financing for energy-efficient upgrades. Additionally, staff will present a proposal regarding the continuation of weekend and holiday snow and ice clearing for the Happy Trails pathway system.
- Clean Energy Improvement Program financing options
- Weekend and holiday Happy Trail pathway clearing pilot results
- Clean Energy Improvement Tax Bylaw first reading scheduled for June 24, 2024
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee is reviewing several grant applications and business items. Key discussions include funding for Windmill Theatre's 50th anniversary and a tree carving project at George Lane Park.
- Windmill Theatre Players 50th Anniversary funding request: $10,000
- Tree Art tree carving project funding request: $12,500
- George Lane Park Horse Shoe Pits application: $2,000
- Windmill Theatre Players 'Shrek' and 'Young Frankenstein' financial reports
- CVAC procedure update regarding exclusion statements
Regular Council
The Council is reviewing a first reading for an Entertainment District pilot bylaw and considering several significant budget amendments. Key discussions include infrastructure repairs for the library, fleet replacements, and large-scale municipal software acquisitions.
- First reading of Bylaw 4621/2024 (Entertainment District Bylaw - Pilot)
- $70,000 for High River Library fire suppression system repairs
- $256,592.50 contract award to Cam Clark Ford for light fleet replacement
- $426,215 award to Everest Construction for Outfall Modifications
- Software acquisitions for finance, permitting, and asset management
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review a 2024 protective services update based on community survey results. Members will also hear a delegation regarding the Sunset Drive In and review infill development variance applications.
- Sunset Drive In land use agreement delegation
- Protective Services 2024 update and community survey results
- Government of Alberta new funding for doctors discussion
- Development Permit 1023.24: Garage projection variance at 904 Macleod Trail SW
- Development Permit 1024.24: Vehicle access width variance at 902 Macleod Trail SW
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee is reviewing a funding application for a High River Pride rainbow crosswalk. The committee will also discuss current event plans and a $7,000 funding request for the High River Stampede Breakfast.
- High River Pride Rainbow Crosswalk Project delegation
- High River Stampede Breakfast funding request of $7,000
- Current CVAC financial statement showing $50,679 remaining
- Discussion of current events plan with Special Events Coordinator
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss land matters in a closed session. The agenda also includes the adoption of previous meeting minutes and a question and answer period with administration.
- Closed meeting regarding land discussion
Regular Council
Council will consider the first reading of a new Municipal Development Plan and review the 2023 audited financial statements. The agenda also includes significant investments in municipal software and community grant allocations.
- First Reading of Bylaw 4629/2024 (Town Plan)
- Adoption of 2023 Audited Financial Statements by BDO Canada LLP
- $54,800 in community grants via United Way/High River Partnership
- Fire Mutual Aid Agreement with the Town of Diamond Valley
- Software contracts totaling $266,070 for finance and $169,050 for permitting
Committee of the Whole
Developer Dream Unlimited presented feedback on the proposed Town Plan to the Committee of the Whole. The discussion focused on how municipal policies regarding land dedication, sidewalk widths, and road networks affect development economics and tax revenue.
- Discussion on Dream - Town Plan and its impact on land development
- Dream Unlimited presentation regarding policy refinement for land use efficiency
- Review of infrastructure intensity and road/utility dedication rates
- Discussion on the fiscal impact of Town Policy versus MGA Max Dedication
- Closed meeting regarding a labour item
Regular Council
High River Council will discuss a new outdoor water use and restriction bylaw and a broadband compliance study for underserved areas. The meeting also includes a presentation on Westwinds Communities housing updates and a subdivision naming proposal for Montrose Phase 4.
- Bylaw 4628/2024 Outdoor Water Use and Restriction Bylaw (First, Second and Third Reading)
- Broadband Compliance Study for underserved areas via Tango Networks
- Montrose Phase 4 Subdivision naming proposal
- Westwinds Communities housing update presentation
- Appointment of Councillor Jamie Kinghorn to the Museum of the Highwood Board
Regular Council
The High River Council is considering an update to its Strategic Priorities Chart following a quarterly meeting. The update proposes new timelines and milestones for key projects including the Town Plan, aquatic facility expansion, and the Town Farm site design.
- Update to Top Five Strategic Priorities: Town Plan (Adoption - May), Aquatic Facility Expansion (Tender - April), Town Farm Design and Outdoor Rink (Site Design - June), 112 Street E Area Structure Plan (Cost Recovery Agreement - July), and Water Strategy (Define Scope - June)
- Proposed $600,000 budget allocation for Town Farm park space design and multipurpose recreational surface
- Request for a proclamation for 'Lights On Afterschool Alberta Day'
- Correspondence regarding the Town's water supply
- Closed meeting regarding labour and land items
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing an update on the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex aquatic expansion. The discussion focuses on a $19,681,000 construction estimate and three options for managing facility operations during construction.
- Class B construction estimate of $19,681,000 for aquatic expansion
- Option 1: Close basin for up to 18 months ($0 additional cost)
- Option 2: Relocate air handling unit into temporary structure ($280,000)
- Option 3: Rent air handling unit for duration of construction ($308,000)
- Tender posting scheduled for April 17, 2024
Regular Council
The Council will consider adopting a new Reserve Policy (POL-0091) and a new Social Media Policy (POL-0093). They will also review a $5,000 funding recommendation for Highwood High School graduation bleachers.
- $5,000 grant for Highwood High School Graduation Committee outdoor bleachers
- Adoption of Reserve Policy POL-0091 to replace POL-16-109-00
- Adoption of Social Media Policy POL-0093
- Transition of Town Facebook page to a professional business page
Committee of the Whole
The Foothills Fiber Cooperative (FFC) presented a proposal to address insufficient broadband for residents and businesses in the foothills region. The FFC aims to guide the creation of an open-access fiber network utility to support remote work, education, and healthcare. The committee will also receive an update regarding solid waste garbage cans.
- Delegation by Foothills Fiber Cooperative regarding regional broadband solutions
- Update on Solid Waste Garbage Cans RF
Community Vitality Advisory Committee
The Community Vitality Advisory Committee is meeting to review several funding applications and ratify previous decisions. Key discussions include a request for new bleachers at Highwood High School and a delegation regarding a stampede breakfast.
- High River Stampede Breakfast - Centered on Wellness $7,000 application
- Highwood High School $5,000 request for new bleachers
- Ratification of Spitzee School Mural $4,000 funding
- Ratification of FCIS Sizzling Saturdays $962.50 funding
- 2024 CVAC funding carry forward of $11,641.96
Regular Council
Council will consider three readings of a new Solid Waste Management Bylaw to replace the 2008 version. They will also discuss allocating $75,000 in FCSS Community Grants to various local organizations and address development restrictions on 112 St. E.
- Bylaw 4620/2024: New Solid Waste Management Bylaw (First, Second, and Third Reading)
- Allocation of $75,000 in FCSS Community Grants to 10 local organizations
- Development and subdivision restrictions for 112 St. E pending an Area Structure Plan
- 2023 Council Disclosure Summary Report
- 2023 Fire and Protective Annual Report
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the presence of 34 advertising benches that do not comply with the Land Use Bylaw. Administration is seeking direction on four options, ranging from issuing removal notices to partnering with a professional signage company.
- Discussion of four policy options for third-party advertising benches
- Review of 34 identified bench sign locations
- Potential for a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) for a professional signage program
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review the progress and timeline for completing the Hamptons Bypass Connector Road. Discussion includes addressing workmanship concerns regarding traffic circles and reviewing costs for outstanding items like pathway extensions and speed cushions.
- Hamptons Bypass project budget update: $3,394,293.33 total budget with $3,089,590.59 spent to date
- Proposed $40,312 modification to North Roundabout aesthetics
- Proposed $38,000 installation of speed cushions
- Estimated $40,415 cost to extend pathway to Sunrise Crescent
- Estimated $32,000 savings by using seeding instead of sodding in certain areas
Regular Council
The Council will consider several business items, including a new recycling services contract and an intersection upgrade. They will also review updates to the Asset Management and Employee Compensation policies.
- Recycling Depot Services contract award to Consolidated Environmental Solutions Inc. for ~$188,118.50 per year
- $450,000 capital budget approval for High Country Drive & High View Gate intersection upgrade
- Adoption of the Asset Management Policy
- Adoption of the Employee Compensation Policy (POL 0090)
- Four-year Fee for Service Agreement renewal for High River Performing Arts Foundation
Regular Council
The High River Council will meet to adopt the 2024 operating and capital budgets. The proposed operating budget includes a 3.3% tax increase, which would cost an average $445,000 home approximately $81 per year.
- 2024 Operating Budget of $32.985 million
- 2024 Capital & Special Projects Budget of $24.11 million
- Proposed 3.3% tax increase
- Use of $645,000 from the Tax Stabilization Fund
- Three-year property management contract for Charles Clark Medical Centre
Special Committee of the Whole for Budget Discussions
The Special Committee of the Whole will meet to conduct general budget discussions. This session is intended for Council to ask questions of Administration regarding the budget.
- General budget discussions
Regular Council
Council is considering a request to authorize $40,000 from the Community Re-Investment Infrastructure Fund to support a grant reapplication. This funding would enable the Highwood Memorial Centre Society to seek a grant for an $80,000 hardwood floor refinishing project.
- Highwood Memorial Centre Hardwood Floor Refinishing Grant Application ($40,000 budget request)
- Correspondence regarding the proposed Rimrock / Tidewater Biodigester
- Correspondence from Westwinds Communities regarding 2023 Municipal Requisition
- Correspondence from Alberta Wilderness Association regarding AER Town Hall
- Correspondence regarding Sports Fiesta 2023
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a social media audit report and a feedback report regarding the 112 St. E open house. Members will also discuss future plans for the Highwood Centre and a new Town Social Media Policy.
- Social Media Audit Report by Strong Coffee Marketing
- What We Heard Report - 112 St. E Open House
- Highwood Centre Future Plans delegation
- Proposed Town Social Media Policy to replace 2013 procedure