Strathcona County public meetings in 2024

Council Meeting

The council meeting will address several key items, including a public hearing on Bylaw 52‑2024 to rezone about 12.4 ha to Light Industrial. Council will also review the Transit Master Plan final report and approve service standards, amend the 2024 Capital and Operating Budget for year‑end reconciliation, decide on moving the 2025 election date, and consider revisions to Policy SER‑008‑011 on naming of development areas, roads, parks and public facilities.

• Bylaw 52‑2024: Map amendment to rezone ~12.4 ha (30.9 acres) to Light Industrial in NE 10‑53‑23‑W4 (Ward 1)
• Transit Master Plan Update – presentation of final report and approval of service standards
• 2024 Capital and Operating Budget Year‑End Reconciliation – amendment of budget items
• Bylaw 47‑2024 Election Day Bylaw – proposal to move election from Monday Oct 20 2025 to Saturday Oct 18 2025
• Revisions to Policy SER‑008‑011 – updated naming policy for development areas, roads, parks and public facilities

Council approved the Transit Service Standards, directed administration to prepare bylaws enabling four housing units as of right in Bremner for a Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund application, and gave final reading to a rezoning of 12.4 hectares from agriculture to light industrial. It also approved several consent agenda items, including a $11.07 million library grant and Council Priority Fund expenditures. A motion to engage on Sherwood Drive and Granada Boulevard intersection improvements was defeated.

• Approved Transit Service Standards (9-0)
• Directed preparation of bylaws for four units as of right in Bremner (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 52-2024 rezoning 12.4 ha to ILT Light Industrial (8-0)
• Approved $11,073,279 grant to Strathcona Library (consent)
• Approved $13,700 to Robin Hood Association for the Handicapped (consent)
• Approved $7,500 to Sherwood Heights Community League (consent)
• Defeated motion for Sherwood Drive/Granada Boulevard intersection engagement (4-5)
• Postponed Election Day Bylaw 47-2024 to April 29, 2025 (8-1)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council will meet to discuss the design and construction of an Indoor Fieldhouse and review the 2025 budget process. The session includes updates on the Fir Street Project and proposed amendments to the traffic bylaw regarding school bus lights.

• First reading of Borrowing Bylaw 49-2024 for Indoor Fieldhouse design and construction
• Bylaw 48-2024 amendment to Traffic Bylaw 16-2015 regarding school bus flashing lights
• Update on the Heartland Housing Foundation Fir Street Project
• Council Priority Funds applications for Ardrossan 55 Plus Club, Edmonton Movie Club, Strathcona Area 5 Senior Citizens Club, and Wye Community League
• Request for time extension for Good Hope Community Hall recommendations

Council authorized the Pioneer Housing Foundation to accept design changes for the Fir Street Project, reducing units to a minimum of 90 and replacing underground parking with surface parking. Through the consent agenda, Council approved the first reading of a borrowing bylaw for an indoor fieldhouse, amendments to the traffic bylaw, and several Council Priority Fund expenditures for local community groups.

• Adopted December 3, 2024 meeting agenda (7-0)
• Added enclosure to Planning and Development Services report regarding a land matter (9-0)
• Approved November 19, 2024 minutes, traffic bylaw amendments, and report timelines (9-0)
• Gave first reading to Borrowing Bylaw 49-2024 for Indoor Fieldhouse Design and Construction (9-0)
• Approved $5,372.77 total in Council Priority Fund expenditures for local community clubs (9-0)
• Authorized Pioneer Housing Foundation to accept Fir Street Project design changes (9-0)

Council Meeting - Special

The special council meeting on November 26, 2024 includes a closed session from 11:05 am to 12:05 pm. During this time council members will consider the Annual Chief Commissioner Performance Evaluation, the Chief Commissioner’s 2024 Self‑Assessment, an appointment of an Integrity Commissioner, and an update on the CAO recruitment. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Annual Chief Commissioner Performance Evaluation (closed session)
• Chief Commissioner’s Self‑Assessment 2024 (closed session)
• Integrity Commissioner Appointment (closed session)
• CAO Recruitment Update (closed session)
• Related Materials – Closed Session

Strathcona County Council held a special meeting on November 26, 2024, most of which was in closed session. In open session, Council approved the Chief Commissioner's 2024 written performance evaluation and acknowledged his performance as outstanding, and appointed Michael Solowan of Kingsgate Legal as Integrity Commissioner effective December 1, 2024. Both motions carried 9-0. The meeting adjourned at 11:44 a.m.

• Approved Chief Commissioner 2024 Written Performance Evaluation (9-0)
• Acknowledged Chief Commissioner's performance as outstanding (9-0)
• Appointed Michael Solowan of Kingsgate Legal as Integrity Commissioner effective December 1, 2024, for a term up to 5 years (9-0)
• Adopted the November 26, 2024 Special Council meeting agenda (9-0)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee is meeting to receive progress reports on community safety, policing, and open space planning. The body will discuss updates to the Housing Affordability Strategy and the transition of the Agriculture Master Plan to an Agricultural Framework.

• Immediate Roadside Sanctions pilot project for impaired drivers starting Q1 2025
• RCMP Triannual Update 3 including body worn cameras presentation
• Housing Affordability Strategy updates on supportive housing and mixed-use developments
• Proposal to transition the Agriculture Master Plan to an Agricultural Framework
• 2024 Accessibility Advisory Committee Annual Report

The Priorities Committee meeting on November 26, 2024, was primarily informational, with presentations on community safety, RCMP updates, open space planning, accessibility, agriculture, and housing. No substantive decisions were made; the only formal actions were adopting the agenda and approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Adopted agenda with changes (9-0)
• Approved October 8, 2024 minutes (9-0)

Council Meeting - Budget

The Strathcona County Council meeting on November 25, 2024 includes a budget overview, presentations from divisions, and discussion of flagged items such as the Sherwood Drive‑Granada Blvd improvements. Council will vote on a museum grant increase and a residential fill station project, and consider the Fees, Rates and Charges By‑law. The meeting concludes with the formal budget deliberations and approval.

• Flagged Item #2 – Sherwood Drive – Granada Blvd Improvements
• Museum Grant Increase (vote)
• Colchester Residential Fill Station (vote)
• Fees, Rates and Charges By‑law (Bylaw 38‑2024)
• Budget Deliberations and Approval

Council Meeting - Budget

The Strathcona County Council meeting on November 21, 2024 will review the 2024 budget. Items include flagged issues such as County support for the Museum and Archives and the Sherwood Drive‑Granada Blvd improvements, as well as presentations on fees, the capital budget, and council‑driven initiatives. A non‑statutory public hearing on the budget will be held, and the council will consider votes on a museum grant increase and the Colchester Residential Fill Station.

• Flagged Item #1 – Strathcona County Museum and Archives – County Support
• Flagged Item #2 – Sherwood Drive – Granada Blvd Improvements
• Fees, Rates and Charges By‑law
• Museum Grant Increase (vote)
• Colchester Residential Fill Station (vote)

Council Meeting - Budget

The council meeting on November 20, 2024 will review Strathcona County’s 2024 budget, including the capital budget and a by‑law on fees, rates and charges. Flagged items such as the Sherwood Drive‑Granada Blvd improvements and the museum grant increase will be discussed. A non‑statutory public hearing on the budget is scheduled for November 21. The meeting will conclude with motions and approval of the budget.

• Fees, Rates and Charges By‑law (item 9)
• Capital Budget (item 10)
• Museum Grant Increase (item 11.1)
• Colchester Residential Fill Station (item 11.2)
• Sherwood Drive – Granada Blvd Improvements (flagged item 5.2)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council is meeting to discuss updates to land use bylaws regarding housing affordability and utility services. The body will also review a new climate resilience plan and emergency management regulations.

• Bylaw 45-2024: Proposed expansion of garden suites on large lots and lots with rear lanes
• Bylaw 46-2024: Proposed expansion of secondary suites within townhouses and updated parking requirements
• Bylaw 18-2023: Northern Bear Water and Wastewater Services Franchise Bylaw
• Climate Resilience Plan 2024: Approval of themes and objectives
• Bylaw 53-2024: Emergency Management Bylaw

Council gave final reading to Bylaw 45-2024, expanding garden suite opportunities on large lots and rear-lane lots in urban areas, and Bylaw 46-2024, expanding secondary suites within townhouses and updating parking requirements. Both passed unanimously (9-0) after public hearings with no registered speakers. Council also approved several consent agenda items, including the Climate Resilience Plan and multiple utility bylaw amendments.

• Approved Bylaw 45-2024 garden suite text amendment (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 46-2024 townhouse secondary suite text amendment (9-0)
• Approved Climate Resilience Plan themes and objectives
• Approved Emergency Management Bylaw 53-2024 (all readings)
• Approved Northern Bear Water and Wastewater Franchise Bylaw 18-2023 (2nd and 3rd readings)
• Approved Water System Bylaw 43-2024 and Sewer Bylaw 44-2024 (all readings)
• Approved Election Bylaw 40-2024 (3rd reading)
• Approved $14,100 Council Priority Funds to Strathcona Christmas Bureau (8-0)

Council Meeting - Budget

Strathcona County Council will hold a series of budget meetings from November 13 to 28, 2024, to review the recommended multi-year budget, division presentations, and capital projects. The agenda includes a public hearing on November 21 and final approvals on November 25.

• Public hearing on the 2024 Budget
• Bylaw 38-2024: Fees, Rates and Charges
• Museum Grant Increase
• Colchester Residential Fill Station
• Sherwood Drive - Granada Blvd Improvements

Council Meeting - Budget

Strathcona County Council meets for a multi-day budget session starting November 13, 2024, to review the 2025 Multi-Year Recommended Budget, Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw, and Capital Budget.

• Vote on Bylaw 38-2024: Fees, Rates and Charges
• Budget Deliberations and Approval
• Strathcona County Library 2025 Requisition
• Heartland Housing 2025 Requisition
• Colchester Residential Fill Station

Council approved the 2025-2027 operating budget with a 90% municipal tax revenue increase for 2025, totaling $470,352,894, and the 2025-2026 capital budget at $166,900,055 for 2025. They also gave third reading to the 2025 Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw. Several amendments were adopted, including a $1.2 million reduction in natural gas utility costs, a $3 million addition for the Colchester Residential Fill Station, and a museum grant increase of $132,027 by 2027.

• Approved 2025-2027 operating budget with 90% tax revenue increase for 2025 (9-0)
• Approved 2025-2026 capital budget: $166.9M for 2025, $62.5M for 2026 (9-0)
• Approved $1.2M reduction in operating budget from natural gas utility costs (9-0)
• Approved $3M for Colchester Residential Fill Station in 2026 capital budget (9-0)
• Approved $132,027 museum grant increase over 2025-2027 (9-0)
• Approved reinstating Senior Any Day golf pass at Broadmoor for existing holders at $2,662 (8-1)
• Approved increasing Millennium Place operating hours on statutory holidays (9-0)
• Gave third reading to Bylaw 38-2024: 2025 Fees, Rates and Charges (9-0)

Council Meeting - Budget

The Strathcona County Council meeting will include a closed‑session presentation of the recommended multi‑year budget and a human‑resources presentation. Both items will be open for public comments. No specific motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Introduction of the recommended multi‑year budget
• Human resources presentation
• Public comments on budget and HR topics
• FOIP Section 24 – advice from officials
• FOIP Section 29 – information availability

The October 29, 2024 Council Budget meeting was largely procedural. Council adopted the agenda, then moved into a closed session to discuss the recommended multi-year budget and human resources, citing FOIP sections 24 and 29. No motions arose from the closed session, and the meeting adjourned without any substantive public decisions.

• Adopted the October 29, 2024 Council Budget meeting agenda (9-0)
• Moved into closed session to discuss budget and HR matters (9-0)
• Reverted to open session at 10:55 a.m. (9-0)
• No motions arose from closed session

Council Meeting - Special

Strathcona County Council is holding a special meeting primarily focused on a closed session. The body will discuss the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the selection process for an executive recruitment consultant.

• CAO Recruitment Discussion
• Selection Process for Executive Recruitment Consultant

Council held a special meeting and, after a closed session, unanimously approved a motion to have Administration undertake an invitational process to select and retain an Executive Recruitment firm as quickly as possible, using criteria set out in a private enclosure. The meeting also included procedural items: adopting the agenda and moving into and out of closed session. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted the October 29, 2024 special council meeting agenda (9-0)
• Met in closed session to discuss CAO recruitment and selection process for executive recruitment consultant (9-0)
• Approved motion to create private enclosure 1 for item 3.2 and keep it confidential under FOIP sections 24 and 25 (9-0)
• Approved Administration undertaking an invitational process to select and retain an Executive Recruitment firm using criteria in enclosure 1 (9-0)

Council Meeting - Special

The council will hold a closed session to receive an update on the Alberta Utilities Commission decision and related materials. All other agenda items are procedural, including call to order, agenda adoption, and adjournment. No public items or attachments are listed for discussion.

• Closed session: Update on Alberta Utilities Commission decision (no details provided)
• Closed session: Related materials (no attachments listed)
• Open session: No items selected

Council held a special meeting and, after a closed session, unanimously approved a motion to amend the Water Supply Agreement with Properties of Northern Bear Inc. and the Franchise Agreement with Properties of Northern Bear Inc. and Touchwood Holdings Ltd. to comply with Alberta Utilities Commission decision 28984-D01-2024. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with agenda adoption and closed session motions.

• Adopted the October 29, 2024 special council agenda (9-0)
• Met in closed session to discuss FOIP-protected matters (9-0)
• Reverted to open session (9-0)
• Approved amendments to Water Supply and Franchise Agreements with Properties of Northern Bear Inc. and Touchwood Holdings Ltd. to comply with AUC decision 28984-D01-2024 (9-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council will discuss borrowing for a new emergency services station and amend the 2024 capital budget. The body is also reviewing an election bylaw and several property tax relief requests.

• Borrowing Bylaw 4-2024 for Emergency Services Cambrian Crossing Station construction
• Q4 2024 Consolidated Capital Budget Amendments
• Bylaw 40-2024 Election Bylaw (first and second readings)
• Four property tax relief requests for penalty cancellations
• Naming of a park within Hearthstone at Cambrian Stage 1

Council directed administration to pursue option 1 for the Warren Thomas Airport, including considering rate increases, and to investigate the possibility and implications of selling the airport, reporting back by April 2025. Council also authorized a ten-year lease for the food services space at Millennium Place, approved a $3.71 million capital budget amendment, and gave first and second readings to the Election Bylaw. Several property tax relief requests were decided, with one denied and three approved.

• Directed administration to pursue option 1 for Warren Thomas Airport, including rate alignment, and investigate sale (9-0)
• Authorized 10-year lease for Millennium Place food services space with renewal options (9-0)
• Approved $3,710,000 Q4 2024 capital budget amendment (8-0)
• Gave first and second readings to Bylaw 40-2024 Election Bylaw (8-0)
• Denied property tax penalty cancellation for roll 2322524006 ($799.34) (8-0)
• Approved property tax penalty refund for roll 3105702009 ($100.24) (8-0)
• Approved property tax penalty cancellation for roll 8130002005 ($893.08) subject to payment (6-2)
• Approved property tax penalty cancellation for roll 8520304809 ($906.61) (6-2)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Strathcona County Priorities Committee will review a series of reports and presentations, including a budget increase request for the County Museum and Archives. Other items include updates on arts and cultural support, a seniors‑center proposal, housing‑affordability strategies for garden and secondary suites, and the Transit Master Plan implementation plan. The committee will also receive information on waste‑management, legislative impacts on the 2025 election, and the 2027‑2030 strategic plan.

• Strathcona County Museum & Archives Operating Budget Request presentation
• Promotion and Support for Arts and Cultural Activities report
• Advocacy for a Seniors Center presentation
• Housing Affordability Strategy update on garden and secondary suites within townhouses
• Transit Master Plan Engagement Results and Implementation Plan

The Priorities Committee recommended that Council provide a letter of support for a new bgc Strathcona facility, required for grant applications, with a 7-1 vote. The committee also referred the Strathcona County Museum & Archives operating budget request to Administration for inclusion as a Council Driven Initiative in the 2025 budget process. Other items were presented for discussion or information only, with no additional decisions made.

• Recommended letter of support for new bgc Strathcona facility (7-1)
• Referred Museum & Archives operating budget request to Administration for 2025 budget consideration (8-0)
• Adopted agenda with changes (8-0)
• Approved September 17, 2024 minutes (8-0)

Council Meeting - Special

This special meeting is primarily focused on a closed session. Council will conduct interviews with the Integrity Commissioner.

• Closed session for Integrity Commissioner interviews

The special council meeting on October 8-9, 2024, was primarily procedural, with the only substantive action being a closed session to discuss integrity commissioner interviews. Council voted to keep an enclosure related to these interviews private and directed administration to take actions as outlined in that enclosure. No other decisions were made.

• Adopted the October 8, 2024 agenda (8-0)
• Met in closed session to discuss integrity commissioner interviews under FOIP sections 17 and 19 (8-0)
• Created enclosure 4 for the integrity commissioner interviews, kept private, and directed administration to act on it (8-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council will review several bylaws during the public hearing, including a map amendment that would rezone about 62.28 ha from Agriculture to Rural Residential/Agriculture and Small Holdings. The council will also consider a text amendment to allow secondary suites, two road‑closure bylaws, and the removal of reserve designations from three parcels in Ardrossan. Additional items include rescinding two noise‑control policies and a change to the 2024 meeting‑dates schedule.

• Bylaw 35‑2024: Map amendment to rezone ~62.28 ha (153.89 acres) in NW 31‑52‑21‑W4, Ward 5
• Bylaw 39‑2024: Text amendment to update secondary‑suite regulations in Land Use Bylaw 24‑2024
• Bylaw 41‑2024 and Bylaw 42‑2024: Road‑closure proposals for Ward 3 and Ward 7
• Disposition of three reserve parcel designations in Ardrossan (Ward 5)
• Rescission of Policy SER‑009‑025 (Noise Control) and Policy SER‑009‑029 (Dangerous Goods Routes)

Council passed three readings of Bylaw 39-2024, updating land use rules to expand secondary suite opportunities in single and semi-detached dwellings, and Bylaw 35-2024, rezoning about 62.28 hectares in Ward 5 from agriculture to rural residential and small holdings. Council also approved a $3M capital project for a Colchester water fill station, amended a motion on not-for-profit capital funding, and rescinded two policies. Several other items were approved, including a letter of support for a new Strathcona Food Bank facility and a motion to prepare a draft bylaw for the Agricultural Service Board.

• Approved Bylaw 39-2024 (secondary suites) third reading (8-0)
• Approved Bylaw 35-2024 (rezoning 62.28 ha in Ward 5) third reading (8-0)
• Approved $3M Colchester water fill station capital project for 2026 budget consideration (9-0)
• Amended motion 2024/293 to include decision-making framework for not-for-profit capital funding (9-0)
• Rescinded Policy SER-009-025 Noise Control (9-0)
• Rescinded Policy SER-009-029 Public Consultation on Dangerous Goods Routes (9-0)
• Approved letter of support for new Strathcona Food Bank facility (9-0)
• Referred $250K/year Food Bank funding proposal to Administration for 2026 budget (8-1)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee will receive updates on food insecurity from the Strathcona Food Bank, a cat shelter pilot project, and a proposed modernization of the Agricultural Service Board. It will also review the 2024 municipal census results and the Library Board's 2023 annual report with audited financial statements. Additional items include a councillor request report, the 2023 Off‑Site Development Levies annual report, and an update on the 2025 brush and yard waste services relocation project.

• Strathcona Food Bank presentation and impact report
• Cat shelter pilot project update
• Agricultural Service Board modernization overview
• 2024 municipal census results summary
• Library Board 2023 annual report and audited financial statements

The Priorities Committee recommended that Council consider $250,000 per year for up to three years to support a new Strathcona Food Bank facility, and that the Mayor provide a letter of support. It also recommended that Administration draft a bylaw to establish the Agricultural Service Board as a governance committee. Both items will be considered at the October 1, 2024 Council meeting. Other reports were received for information only.

• Recommended $250,000/year for up to 3 years for new Strathcona Food Bank facility (9-0)
• Recommended letter of support for new food bank facility (9-0)
• Recommended drafting bylaw to establish Agricultural Service Board as governance committee (8-0)
• Adopted agenda with updated enclosure for census results (9-0)
• Approved July 9, 2024 Priorities Committee minutes (9-0)

Council Meeting

The September 11, 2024 Strathcona County Council meeting agenda consists of routine items such as call to order, agenda adoption, a closed‑session budget facilitated session, and adjournment. No specific motions, contracts, rezoning proposals, or fee changes are listed. All items are marked as having no attachments or selected material.

• Closed session – Budget Facilitated Session (no attachments)
• Motions arising out of closed session (no details provided)

Council held a closed-session budget facilitated session and then directed administration to prepare a draft policy by Q3 2025 to provide a decision-making framework for capital funding requests from not-for-profit organizations, including those for land leases and licenses. The motion was amended and carried unanimously (9-0). No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted agenda with changes, including adding a private enclosure (9-0)
• Met in closed session under FOIP section 24 (9-0)
• Directed administration to draft policy for non-profit capital funding requests, due Q3 2025 (amended, 9-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council is holding a public hearing to potentially replace Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 with Bylaw 24-2024. The body is also reviewing infrastructure options for the Sherwood Drive and Broadmoor Boulevard traffic circle and the Sherwood Drive Truck Fill facility.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 24-2024 to replace Land Use Bylaw 6-2015
• Borrowing Bylaw 4-2024 for Emergency Services Cambrian Crossing Station construction
• Approval of the 2024 external auditor appointment
• Revised Policy SER-013-005 Business Wayfinding Sign Policy
• Council Priority Funds applications for Josephburg Agricultural Society and The Owners: Condominium Plan No.842 0364

Strathcona County Council passed a new Land Use Bylaw, approved a budget reduction for traffic circle improvements, and decided to decommission the Sherwood Drive truck fill station in favor of expanding the Ardrossan facility. Council also authorized the signing of a multi-year RCMP financial plan and scheduled special meetings for the selection of an Integrity Commissioner.

• Approved Land Use Bylaw 24-2024 (9-0)
• Reduced traffic circle project budget from $6M to $1.26M (9-0)
• Approved decommissioning Sherwood Drive truck fill (7-2)
• Authorized 2025-2030 RCMP Multi-Year Financial Plan (9-0)
• Appointed Ernst & Young LLP as external auditor (9-0)
• Approved first reading of Borrowing Bylaw 4-2024 (9-0)
• Approved $3,175 in Council Priority Funds for community groups (9-0)
• Scheduled special meetings for Integrity Commissioner interviews (9-0)

Council Meeting

At its July 23, 2024 meeting, Strathcona County Council will review several items. The agenda includes public hearings on two land‑use bylaw amendments that would rezone and add definitions for specific parcels. Council will also consider a long‑term lease for The Bridge – Sherwood Park Ltd., an amendment to fee bylaws, and the results of the 2025 budget survey.

• Bylaw 34-2024 – map amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 (Ward 4) rezoning ~2.93 hectares to PU, R1B, R1C, R1D, R2C, and R3 zones
• Bylaw 36-2024 – text amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 (Ward 5) adding a definition for “local employment” use
• Long‑term lease – The Bridge – Sherwood Park Ltd. at Plan 9924818, Block 242, Lot 9MR (Municipal Reserve) Millenium Place
• Bylaw 30-2024 – amendment to Bylaw 36-2023 updating 2024 fees, rates and charges for the Center in the Park Hybrid Work Program daily rate
• 2025 Budget Survey Results – presentation of survey findings for the upcoming budget cycle

Council approved a $4,549,714 amendment to the 2024 capital budget, adopted three bylaws (rezoning, local employment text amendment, and Integrity Commissioner selection committee), and approved several expenditures and motions. The meeting included a closed session and a public hearing for two land use bylaws.

• Approved $4,549,714 Q3 2024 capital budget amendment (9-0)
• Gave third reading to Bylaw 34-2024 rezoning 2.93 hectares in Ward 4 (9-0)
• Gave third reading to Bylaw 36-2024 adding 'local employment' definition to Land Use Bylaw (9-0)
• Gave third reading to Bylaw 37-2024 establishing Integrity Commissioner Selection Committee (9-0)
• Appointed Councillors Anderson, Berghofer, Hartwick, Tonita to Integrity Commissioner Selection Committee (9-0)
• Approved $2,782.50 Council Priority Funds for Brookville Community League flagpole (9-0)
• Approved $4,825.00 Council Priority Funds for Saffron Centre security improvements (9-0)
• Approved long-term lease with The Bridge – Sherwood Park Ltd. at Millennium Place (9-0)

Council Meeting

The Strathcona County Council will consider approval of two long‑term lease agreements—one with Telus Inc. for a communication tower at NE 12‑52‑23‑W4 (Deermound Dog Park) and another with Switch Inc. for an internet tower at Plan 9020134, Lot A. The meeting also includes public hearings on several land‑use bylaw amendments, a proposal to add Phyllis Sadoway to the Commemorative Names Registry, and a vote on a new whistleblower policy. Additional items cover updates on the RCMP triannual report, veteran recognition opportunities, and a request for an extension on housing‑affordability strategy actions.

• Long‑term lease agreement with Telus Inc. for a communication tower on County‑owned land (NE 12‑52‑23‑W4).
• Long‑term lease agreement with Switch Inc. for an internet tower on Plan 9020134, Lot A.
• Bylaw 22‑2024: map amendment rezoning ~1.33 ha to low‑density country residential (Ward 5).
• Proposed addition of "Phyllis Sadoway" to the Commemorative Names Registry.
• Adoption of the proposed Whistleblower Policy (GOV‑002‑046) replacing the prior policy.

Council passed several land-use bylaws, including the Sochatsky Area Structure Plan and three map amendments. They also approved a new whistleblower policy and long-term lease agreements for communication towers with Telus Inc. and Switch Inc.

• Approved Bylaw 22-2024 rezoning 1.331 hectares in Ward 5 (8-0)
• Approved Bylaw 31-2024 rezoning land in Ward 6 (8-0)
• Approved Bylaw 32-2024 adopting Sochatsky Area Structure Plan (8-0)
• Approved Bylaw 33-2024 rezoning land in Ward 7 (8-0)
• Approved new Whistleblower Policy GOV-002-046 (8-0)
• Approved long-term lease agreements with Telus Inc. and Switch Inc. (8-0)
• Approved naming 'Veterans Memorial Park' and related commemorative items (8-0)
• Defeated installation of reflective post covers on Colwill and Granada Boulevards (4-4)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The committee will discuss updates on secondary suites as part of the Housing Affordability Strategy. The meeting also includes discussions on staff goal setting and an engagement plan for older adults. A presentation on hydrogen technology is also scheduled.

• Secondary suite implementation update
• Hydrogen technology overview
• Charleton Heights stormwater pond maintenance costs
• 2025 brush and yard waste services relocation update
• Land Use Bylaw refresh and public hearing timing

The committee received updates on the 'Mission to Mars' project, older adults engagement, and the Housing Affordability Strategy regarding secondary suites. Members also viewed a presentation on hydrogen technology as a low carbon fuel. No substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Adopted July 9, 2024 meeting agenda (9-0)
• Approved June 18, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0)

Council Meeting

The Strathcona County Council meeting on July 9, 2024, includes several scheduled closed session discussions. These items include a property assessment update, a budget facilitated session, transportation network updates, and an Integrity Commissioner RFP update.

• Land and Property Rights Tribunal – Property Assessment Update
• Budget Facilitated Session
• Update on Transportation Network Issues
• Integrity Commissioner RFP Update

Council met in a closed session to discuss property assessments, budget facilitation, transportation network issues, and an Integrity Commissioner RFP. No substantive motions or decisions were made during the open session.

• Adopted the July 9, 2024 meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved entering closed session at 1:03 p.m. (7-0)
• Approved reverting to open session at 4:28 p.m. (7-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council will consider several bylaws to implement new developer off-site levies for water, wastewater, and transportation improvements. A public hearing is scheduled to discuss amendments to the Hillshire Area Structure Plan and Land Use Bylaw regarding residential density. The meeting also includes reviews of community priority fund applications.

• New developer off-site levies for Ardrossan, North of Yellowhead, and Rural areas
• Amendments to Hillshire Area Structure Plan to increase residential density
• Rezoning of 15.66 hectares in Ward 6 to new residential districts
• Council Priority Fund applications for local community groups

Council gave three readings to Bylaw 25-2024 amending the Hillshire Area Structure Plan to increase residential density, Bylaw 26-2024 creating the HR4 zoning district, and Bylaw 27-2024 rezoning about 15.66 hectares (38.69 acres) in Ward 6. Council also gave three readings to three off-site levy bylaws (19-2024, 20-2024, 21-2024) and Bylaw 29-2024 amending the Water System Bylaw. Council approved $13,350 in Council Priority Funds for three community groups and directed Administration to report by September 10, 2024 on additional options for the Sherwood Drive and Broadmoor Boulevard traffic circle.

• Approved Bylaw 25-2024 Hillshire Area Structure Plan amendment (first and second reading 8-1, third reading 8-1)
• Approved Bylaw 26-2024 creating HR4 Hillshire Low to Medium Density Flex Residential district (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 27-2024 rezoning 15.66 hectares (38.69 acres) in Ward 6 (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 19-2024 Ardrossan Off-Site Levy Bylaw (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 20-2024 Urban Services Area, Country Residential/Estates and Rural Road Off-Site Levy Bylaw (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 21-2024 North of Yellowhead Off-Site Levy Bylaw (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 29-2024 Water System Bylaw amendment (9-0)
• Approved $13,350 in Council Priority Funds for Ministik Community Church ($4,200), The Friends of the Pioneers ($2,725), and South Cooking Lake Community League ($6,425) (9-0)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The committee will discuss the Climate Resilience Plan and a proposed Whistleblower Policy for feedback. Agenda items also include updates on the local hydrogen economy and Dow Canada’s operations in Fort Saskatchewan. Additionally, members will receive an update on the county's accessibility framework.

• Feedback on Climate Resilience Plan 'Degrees of Resilience'
• Proposed Whistleblower Policy and Hotline (GOV-002-046)
• Update on Strathcona County hydrogen economy growth potential
• Dow Canada Path2Zero expansion update in Fort Saskatchewan
• Presentation of the Accessibility Framework

The Priorities Committee adopted the agenda and approved the June 4, 2024 minutes, then met in closed session to discuss an Amalgamated Transit Union update under FOIP sections 24, 25 and 27. In open session, the committee received reports and presentations on hydrogen activity, the Accessibility Framework, the Climate Resilience Plan, a proposed Whistleblower Policy, Dow Canada's Path2Zero expansion, and a STARS annual update. No substantive decisions were made on these items; they were received for discussion or information only.

• Adopted June 18, 2024 agenda as presented (9-0)
• Approved June 4, 2024 Priorities Committee minutes (9-0)
• Moved into closed session at 9:02 a.m. for ATU update under FOIP sections 24, 25, 27 (9-0)
• Reverted to open session at 9:38 a.m. (9-0)
• Received update on hydrogen in Strathcona County (no decision)
• Received report on Accessibility Framework (no decision)
• Received overview of Climate Resilience Plan (no decision)
• Received overview of proposed Whistleblower Policy GOV-002-046 (no decision)

Council Meeting

The Council will consider Bylaw 28-2024 regarding the Council Code of Conduct and proposed changes to the 2024 meeting schedule. The agenda also includes motions related to storm water management costs in Charlton Heights and rural mobility bus rates. Additionally, the Council will review funding applications for local sports clubs.

• Bylaw 28-2024 Council Code of Conduct
• Motion regarding Charlton Heights storm water management pond costs
• Motion regarding subsidized rates for Rural Mobility Bus riders
• Proposed addition to the Commemorative Names Registry – Burnett
• Council Priority Fund applications for local sports clubs

Strathcona County Council cancelled the planned transition to paid parking at the Festival Place parking lot. The Council also gave third reading to Bylaw 28-2024, establishing a new Council Code of Conduct. Additionally, the Council approved expenditures from Priority Funds for local sports clubs and endorsed Councillor Parks for a national municipal board role.

• Cancelled scheduled transition to paid parking at Festival Place parking lot (7-0)
• Bylaw 28-2024 (Council Code of Conduct) given third reading (7-0)
• Approved $5,000 from Priority Funds for Archbishop Jordan Scots Football Club equipment (7-0)
• Approved $1,100 from Priority Funds for Sherwood Park Handball Club anniversary event (7-0)
• Approved addition of name 'Burnett' to Commemorative Names Registry (7-0)
• Endorsed Councillor Parks for Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board (7-0)
• Directed Administration to report on storm water pond costs in Charleton Heights by July 16, 2024 (7-0)
• Directed Administration to report on subsidized rural Mobility Bus rates by September 2024 (7-0)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee is receiving updates on several infrastructure and service projects. These include progress reports on Sherwood Drive road improvements and the Transit Master Plan analysis. The committee will also review the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan annual report.

• Sherwood Drive and Broadmoor Boulevard Traffic Circle Improvements update
• Sherwood Drive and Granada Boulevard Intersection Improvements update
• Transit Master Plan analysis and recommendations update
• Festival Place Parking Plan and 2025 proposed parking fees
• 2023-2026 Strategic Plan Annual Report

The Priorities Committee received updates on several projects, including the Sherwood Drive and Broadmoor Boulevard Traffic Circle Improvements, the Sherwood Drive and Granada Boulevard Intersection Improvements, the Transit Master Plan, Festival Place parking, the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan annual report, and the Supportive Outreach Services program. No decisions were made on these items; they were for discussion only. The committee approved the meeting agenda and the May 14, 2024 minutes, and a councillor request for information on the traffic circle was noted. The meeting adjourned at 1:55 p.m.

• Adopted the June 4, 2024 agenda as presented (9-0)
• Approved the May 14, 2024 Priorities Committee meeting minutes (9-0)
• Received updates on Sherwood Drive and Broadmoor Boulevard Traffic Circle Improvements (no decision)
• Received updates on Sherwood Drive and Granada Boulevard Intersection Improvements (no decision)
• Received update on Transit Master Plan analysis and recommendations (no decision)
• Received update on Festival Place Parking Plan and Implementation (no decision)
• Received 2023-2026 Strategic Plan Annual Report (no decision)
• Received update on Supportive Outreach Services Program (no decision)

Council Meeting

Council will consider several decisions including three readings of a bylaw amending the 2024 Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw, a text amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 for rear-detached garage setbacks in Cambrian Crossing, and approval of RCMP Annual Policing Priorities for 2024-25. Public hearings are scheduled for a road closure in Ward 4 and the land-use text amendment. Council will also review the first quarter 2024 management report, an IT security budget amendment, and updates to the financial reserves policy.

• Bylaw 10-2024 – Amendment to the 2024 Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw (three readings)
• Bylaw 18-2024 – Text amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 reducing rear setback for garages in Cambrian Crossing (Ward 4)
• Bylaw 12-2024 – Road closure of part of Original Government Road Allowance (Range Road 231) (Ward 4)
• RCMP Annual Policing Priorities 2024-25 – referral from Priorities Committee
• 2024 Operating Budget Amendment for Information Technology Services security improvements

Council established the Economic Development Advisory Committee and approved several community grants from Council Priority Funds. Other key actions included updating the Financial Reserves Policy and approving a road closure and zoning amendment.

• Enacted Economic Development Advisory Committee via Bylaw 23-2024 (9-0)
• Approved $350,000 budget increase for Microsoft licensing for IT security (9-0)
• Approved $39,225 in total grants from Council Priority Funds to six community organizations (9-0)
• Approved the acquisition of 13 artworks and 18 youth artwork loans (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 12-2024 to close Original Government Road Allowance (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 18-2024 to reduce detached garage rear setbacks in Cambrian Crossing (9-0)
• Approved revised FIN-001-024 Financial Reserves Policy (9-0)
• Approved removal and replacement of a County tree at 101 Granada Boulevard (6-3)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee will discuss and potentially recommend approval of the 2024-2025 RCMP Annual Performance Plan Priorities. The committee will also review results from the 2023 Public Satisfaction Survey and hear updates from the Strathcona Youth Justice Committee and the Canadian Birkebeiner Society on recreational sport tourism.

• RCMP Annual Policing Priorities 2024-25 presentation and approval request
• 2023 Public Satisfaction Survey results presented
• Recognition of Strathcona County as first stop in 2023 Edmonton Motorcycle Ride for Dad
• Strathcona Youth Justice Committee update on community involvement
• Recreational Sport Tourism presentation by Canadian Birkebeiner Society

The Priorities Committee unanimously recommended five 2024-2025 RCMP policing priorities to Council. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and adopted the current agenda. Several community presentations and information requests were discussed, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Agenda adopted (9-0)
• April 16, 2024 minutes approved (9-0)
• Recommended approval of 2024-25 RCMP policing priorities to Council (9-0)
• Information requests for Public Satisfaction Survey details and Gold Bar Park snow making equipment costs noted

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council meets May 7, 2024, to give three readings to the 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw and a Supplementary Property Tax Bylaw, and to decide on several land-use rezonings. A public hearing is scheduled for a proposed rezoning of 75.48 hectares (186.52 acres) in Ward 5 to Heavy Industrial (Heartland). Council will also consider motions on county ownership of Warren Thomas Airport, design planning for a seniors centre, rescinding a land transfer to BGC Strathcona, and adding reflective post covers for school zone signs.

• 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw – three readings to authorize the tax rate structure for the year's property taxes.
• Supplementary Property Tax Bylaw (14-2024) – three readings to authorize levying a supplementary property tax.
• Public Hearing at 5:00 PM for Bylaw 15-2024: rezoning ~75.48 hectares in Ward 5 to Heavy Industrial (Heartland).
• Motion following Notice of Motion – County ownership and operation of Warren Thomas Airport (Ward 7).
• Motion following Notice of Motion – Design and planning for a Senior's Centre (Wards 2 and 3).

Council passed the 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw and a supplementary property tax bylaw. They also approved several land rezoning requests and allocated Council Priority Funds to local community organizations.

• Approved 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw 9-2024 (7-0)
• Approved Supplementary Property Tax Bylaw 14-2024 (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 186.52 acres to Heavy Industrial (Heartland) via Bylaw 15-2024 (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 2.52 acres to Low Density Country Residential via Bylaw 17-2024 (8-0)
• Approved $203,482 increase to 2023 Annual Sidewalk Missing Links Program (8-0)
• Approved $10,750 in Council Priority Funds for local scouts, food bank, and sports (8-0)
• Decided Good Hope Hall will remain closed until strategy framework is complete (8-0)
• Requested cost-benefit analysis of Warren Thomas Airport ownership by October 2024 (8-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including the Strathcona County Housing Affordability Strategy, a 2024 operating budget amendment for fire break restoration from the May 2023 wildfires, and the approval of the 2023 consolidated financial statements. The agenda also includes items on community group funding, road and park naming in Ardrossan East, and amendments to traffic and appeal board bylaws. A closed session is scheduled to discuss topics such as funding for community groups, a lease termination, and a land transfer.

• Strathcona County Housing Affordability Strategy presented for discussion
• 2024 Operating Budget Amendment for Fire Break Restoration and Reclamation from May 2023 wildfires
• Strathcona County Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2023 presented for approval
• Bylaw 11-2024 to amend Traffic Bylaw 16-2015 regarding school bus flashing lights
• Ardrossan East Stage 10B road and park naming in Ward 5

Council approved the consolidated financial statements for 2023 and the Strathcona County Housing Affordability Strategy. The board also authorized a $300,000 budget amendment for fire break restoration and established a scope for 2025 budget reductions.

• Approved 2023 Consolidated Financial Statements (9-0)
• Approved Strathcona County Housing Affordability Strategy (9-0)
• Approved $300,000 budget amendment for Fire Break Restoration and Reclamation (9-0)
• Approved scope of work and facilitated session dates for 2025 budget reduction review (9-0)
• Approved $9,400 for Music Society of Strathcona County (9-0)
• Approved $10,900 for Strathcona Highland Society (9-0)
• Approved $4,025 for Sherwood Park Festival Singers Society (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 11-2024 amending Traffic Bylaw 16-2015 (9-0)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee will discuss the annual update to the 2023-2026 Corporate Business Plan and an overview of the proposed 2025 budget process. Members will also receive results from the On-Demand Transit evening and weekend pilot, a progress update on the Environmental Framework, and the 2023 Annual Management Report. External presentations are scheduled from the Edmonton International Airport and the Advocacy for Strathcona Seniors Center regarding a seniors center in Sherwood Park.

• 2024 Update to the 2023-2026 Corporate Business Plan
• 2025 Budget Process overview
• On-Demand Transit Pilot Results (evening and weekend)
• Edmonton International Airport presentation on corporate strategies and local impacts
• Advocacy for Strathcona Seniors Center presentation on need for a seniors center in Sherwood Park

The committee approved the recipient selections for the Strathcona County Awards of Excellence during a closed session. The remainder of the meeting consisted of reports for discussion and information, with no further substantive decisions recorded.

• Approved Award Recipient Selections for Strathcona County Awards of Excellence (8-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda with updated enclosure for item 5.7 (7-0)
• Approved March 5, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Council Meeting

This is a procedural meeting with a closed session for capital planning and advice from officials. No substantive open-session items are listed.

• Closed session for capital planning (FOIP Section 23, local public body confidences)
• Closed session for advice from officials (FOIP Section 24)

Council met in a private session to discuss capital planning matters protected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. No motions or substantive decisions arose from the closed session.

• Adopted the April 15, 2024 meeting agenda (8-0)
• Approved meeting in private for capital planning session (8-0)
• Approved reverting to open session at 1:40 p.m. (8-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council meets April 9, 2024, to discuss and decide on several items including a public hearing for a bylaw to rezone 7.12 hectares (17.6 acres) in Ward 4 from Agriculture: Future Development to Light Industrial. Council will also consider third reading of a land-use bylaw amendment in Ward 3, the final State of Infrastructure Report, asset retirement obligations, 2023 carryforwards and surplus allocations, and rescission of the Good Neighbour Policy. Several items are discussed in closed session, including the 2024 tax rate bylaw and an AHS ground ambulance contract.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 13-2024: rezoning 7.12 hectares (17.6 acres) at Lot 3, Plan 9421657 (SE 14-53-23-W4) from AD – Agriculture: Future Development to ILT – Light Industrial, with a site-specific height regulation of 17.0 meters for recreation, indoor use
• Third reading of Bylaw 6-2024: text and map amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 (Ward 3)
• Final State of Infrastructure Report to be used for capital planning
• Asset Retirement Obligation update and interim funding strategy approval
• Approval of 2023 operating and capital carryforwards and surplus allocations

Council approved a Master Services Agreement with Alberta Health Services for emergency medical services. They also authorized significant 2023 surplus allocations and an increase to the 2024 Capital Budget. Two land use bylaw amendments were passed.

• Approved Master Services Agreement with Alberta Health Services for Emergency Medical Services (9-0)
• Approved $750,000 transfer from 2023 surplus to cover asset retirement obligation costs (9-0)
• Approved $6,619,774 in operating carryforwards and $16,008,704 municipal operating surplus allocation (9-0)
• Approved $5,481,808 utility operating surplus allocation (9-0)
• Increased 2024 Capital Budget total planned spend to $265,413,299 (9-0)
• Passed Bylaw 6-2024 to create Direct Control district DC87 and rezone 1.17 hectares (5-4)
• Passed Bylaw 13-2024 to rezone 7.12 hectares to Light Industrial (7-2)
• Approved $5,200 in Council Priority Funds for Parent Grad and Salto Gymnastics Club (9-0)

Council Meeting

Council defeated first reading of Bylaw 24-2022, which would have adopted the Panorama Estates Area Structure Plan, after a public hearing where 10 speakers were in favour and 8 opposed. Council approved a $658.34 refund of 2023 tax penalties for one property (7-2) and denied a $20,018.81 cancellation of 2020-2024 taxes, penalties and charges for another (9-0). Council also approved extending the Heartland Housing Foundation agreement condition dates for the Fir Street site from March 31 to May 31, 2024, and endorsed Councillor Katie Berghofer to stand for the FCM Board of Directors with campaign costs up to $3,000.

• Defeated first reading of Bylaw 24-2022 adopting the Panorama Estates Area Structure Plan (0-9)
• Approved $658.34 refund of 2023 tax penalties for roll 7309039006 (7-2)
• Denied $20,018.81 cancellation of 2020-2024 taxes, penalties and charges for roll 1107701003 (9-0)
• Approved amendment to Heartland Housing Foundation agreement for Fir Street site, extending condition precedent waiver dates from March 31 to May 31, 2024 (9-0)
• Approved $12,000 from Council Priority Funds for Bev Facey Community High School building materials and technology needs (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved $1,000 from Council Priority Funds for Gilmore Park Community League newsletter (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved $1,500 from Council Priority Funds for Sherwood Park Kings Athletic Club Female Hockey Day (consent agenda, 9-0)
• Approved $3,608 from Council Priority Funds for Sherwood Park United Church 8-Church Ecumenical Mission event (consent agenda, 9-0)

Council Meeting - Special

Council rescinded a previous referral and granted first and second readings for Bylaw 6-2024. This bylaw proposes rezoning approximately 1.17 hectares of land within Lot 3, Block 11, Plan 9120631 from Public Services to a new Direct Control district (DC87). A motion to consider the bylaw for third reading was defeated.

• Rescinded motion to refer Bylaw 6-2024 to Administration (5-4)
• Approved first reading of Bylaw 6-2024 for DC87 rezoning (5-4)
• Approved second reading of Bylaw 6-2024 (5-4)
• Denied motion to consider Bylaw 6-2024 for third reading (5-4)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee will receive updates on RCMP crime statistics and initiatives, the 2024 property assessment, and a new Public Tree Management Directive. Presentations from Edmonton Global and the River Valley Alliance are also scheduled. The committee is not voting on any items; all are for discussion and information.

• RCMP Triannual Report 1 covering crime statistics and Annual Performance Plan progress
• 2024 Property Assessment information presented to the committee
• Public Tree Management Directive outlining how it will be applied in Strathcona County
• Edmonton Global 2024 Update on regional economic development activities
• River Valley Alliance Shareholder Update on the river valley initiative

The Priorities Committee adopted its agenda and approved the previous meeting's minutes, both by unanimous vote. The committee also voted to add two enclosures to the RCMP Triannual Report. The remaining items were informational updates on property assessment, tree management, older adults engagement, and external partnerships, with no substantive decisions made.

• Agenda adopted (8-0)
• February 6, 2024 minutes approved (8-0)
• Enclosures 2 and 3 added to RCMP Triannual Report (8-0)

Council Meeting

Council will hold public hearings on three rezoning bylaws: one rezoning 80 acres from agriculture to rural residential in Ward 6, one rezoning 3.6 acres in Cambrian Crossing in Ward 4, and one creating a direct control district for a 2.89-acre site in Ward 3. Council will also discuss recent increases in regional wastewater rates with Arrow Utilities, consider a 2% recreation infrastructure levy, and review intersection controls on Highway 21 at Township Roads 512 and 514.

• Public hearing on Bylaw 7-2024: rezone 32.43 ha (80.14 ac) from AG to RA in Ward 6
• Public hearing on Bylaw 8-2024: rezone 1.46 ha (3.61 ac) from R1C to R1B in Cambrian Crossing, Ward 4
• Public hearing on Bylaw 6-2024: rezone 1.17 ha (2.89 ac) from PS to DC87 in Ward 3
• Discussion of regional wastewater rate increases with Arrow Utilities CEO
• Discussion of a 2% recreation infrastructure levy to fund future recreation capital needs

Council approved an agreement to operate a commuter bus route between the Dow Centennial Centre and Bethel Transit Terminal. Two rezoning bylaws were passed, while a third was referred back to Administration to address concerns. Council also authorized safety beacons at two highway intersections.

• Approved commuter bus route agreement with City of Fort Saskatchewan (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 7-2024 rezoning 80.14 acres to Rural Residential/Agriculture (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 8-2024 rezoning 3.61 acres to Single Detached Residential B (9-0)
• Referred Bylaw 6-2024 rezoning to Administration to address setbacks and density (5-4)
• Approved up to $20,000 for flashing red beacons at Twp Rd 512 and 514 at Hwy 21 (9-0)
• Renamed 2% tax levy to 'Recreation Infrastructure' levy (9-0)
• Directed Administration to explore sites for 'A Safe Place' by June 25, 2024 (9-0)
• Denied report request for Social Framework Community Grants review (2-7)

Council Meeting

This agenda contains only routine procedural items: call to order, territorial acknowledgement, changes to agenda, closed session (strategic planning under FOIP exceptions), and adjournment. No open-session decisions, proposals, or public business items are listed. The meeting is essentially a closed strategic planning session with no actionable items for residents.

• Closed session for strategic planning under FOIP Sections 23 and 24
• No open-session reports, bylaws, or public hearings on the agenda
• Meeting runs from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Council Chamber, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park

Council met in private for a strategic planning session. No substantive motions or decisions were made during the open session of the meeting.

• Adopted meeting agenda (9-0)
• Approved move to closed session for strategic planning (9-0)
• Approved return to open session (9-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council meets on February 13, 2024, to consider several items, including two rezoning bylaws, amendments to the Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw, a capital budget amendment, and appointments. The meeting includes a closed session for topics such as corporate security and a sale agreement, followed by public hearings on the rezoning proposals.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 3-2024: rezoning 7.61 hectares in Ardrossan East to ALD, PR, PU, and R3
• Public hearing for Bylaw 5-2024: rezoning 52.98 hectares in Ward 6 to RA
• Amendments to Bylaw 37-2017 Responsible Dog Ownership
• 2024 Capital Budget Amendment for Self-Service Portal funded by Codes Acceleration Fund
• Council Priority Funds applications for Ardrossan 55 Plus Club, Men's Shed, Winder Inclusive Communities, and Sherwood Park Curling Club

Council passed two rezoning bylaws for land in Ward 5 and Ward 6 and amended the Responsible Dog Ownership bylaw. The board also approved several community grants and authorized an appeal against a pistol shooting range in Beaver County.

• Approved rezoning of 7.61 ha in Ward 5 to residential, recreation, and public utility uses (8-0)
• Approved rezoning of 52.98 ha in Ward 6 to Rural Residential/Agriculture (8-0)
• Passed Bylaw 1-2024 removing dog licensing and adding identification requirements (9-0)
• Authorized appeal of Beaver County development permit for a pistol shooting range (9-0)
• Approved $314,750 capital budget amendment for a digital review and approval system (9-0)
• Approved Sale and Construction Agreement with the Crusaders for Plan 9421657, Lot 3 (9-0)
• Approved Council Priority Funds for Ardrossan 55 Plus Club ($670), Men’s Shed ($5,000), Winder Inclusive Communities ($7,200), and Sherwood Park Curling Club ($6,275) (9-0)
• Appointed Councillor Anderson and Councillor Hartwick to Community Safety and Well-being Stewardship Committee (9-0)

Priorities Committee Meeting

The Priorities Committee will discuss several reports, including an update on the Agriculture and Food Sector Development Strategy, diversity and inclusion initiatives, results of an inclusive hiring audit by KPMG, a review of the Home Help Program, and findings from a housing needs assessment. The committee will also hear presentations from external groups such as the Alberta Ombudsman, Saffron Centre, and Volunteer Strathcona. No formal decisions are listed; items are for discussion or information.

• Inclusive Hiring Audit Results and Recommendations (KPMG)
• Home Help Program internal review and next steps
• Heartland Housing Foundation Housing Needs Assessment Report findings
• Accessibility Advisory Committee 2023 Annual Report
• Open House: W and T Serink zoning variance request

The Priorities Committee adopted its agenda and approved the minutes from the November 21, 2023 meeting, both by unanimous vote. The meeting consisted primarily of informational updates on housing, agriculture, diversity, and community services, with no new policies or budgets approved. Public speakers raised concerns about zoning, public hearing advertisements, and infrastructure, but these were not acted upon during the session.

• Agenda adopted as presented (9-0)
• November 21, 2023 Priorities Committee minutes approved (9-0)

Council Meeting

Strathcona County Council is meeting on January 30, 2024, to discuss and decide on several items, including a draft Housing Affordability Strategy in closed session, a bylaw to change municipal ward boundaries, and a public hearing on a land use bylaw amendment. The agenda also includes decisions on community grants, a road closure, and a commemorative name addition.

• Bylaw 31-2023: Municipal Ward Boundaries and Council Composition (second and third readings)
• Bylaw 2-2024: Text amendment to Land Use Bylaw 6-2015 (Ward 3) to add 'care centre, major' as permitted use in UV4 – Salisbury Village zoning district (public hearing)
• Road Closure Bylaw 4-2022 (Ward 4): closure of portion of Road Plan 8421442 (third reading)
• 2024 Social Framework Community Grant allocations decision
• Proposed addition of 'Peter R. Staveley' to Commemorative Names Registry

Council approved the 2024 Core and Collaboration Social Framework Community Grants and passed a land use bylaw amendment for the Salisbury Village Zoning District. They also authorized a security analysis of County facilities and a review of two highway intersections.

• Approved 2024 Core and Collaboration Social Framework Community Grants (8-0)
• Passed Bylaw 2-2024 adding 'care centre, major' as a permitted use in Salisbury Village Zoning District (7-0)
• Approved $3,000 from Council Priority Funds for Ardrossan Junior Senior High graduation (8-0)
• Approved adding Peter R. Staveley to the Commemorative Names Registry (8-0)
• Directed Administration to review intersections of Twp 512 and 514 on Hwy 21 (8-0)
• Directed Administration to report on the state of security of County facilities by May 7, 2024 (8-0)
• Passed Bylaw 31-2023 regarding municipal ward boundaries and Council composition (8-0)
• Passed Road Closure Bylaw 4-2022 (8-0)

Council Meeting

Council will consider motions to reduce the 2025-2028 operating budget and find program efficiencies, plus a capital budget amendment for the Strathcona Public Services Yard expansion. Several items are discussed in closed session under FOIP exceptions, including 2024 Social Framework Community Grant recommendations and a proposed addition to the Commemorative Names Registry. The meeting also includes decisions on a revised developer agreement security policy and changes to the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Motion to reduce the 2025-2028 operating budget
• 2023 Capital Budget Amendment for Strathcona Public Services Yard (SPSY) Expansion and Modernization project
• Revised Policy SER-008-027 Establishing Security in Developer Agreements
• Expenditure of Council Priority Funds for Colchester Community League, Girl Guides of Canada – Willow District, and Sherwood Heights Community League
• Closed session items: 2024 Social Framework Community Grant Recommendations and Proposed Addition to the Commemorative Names Registry

Council approved a comprehensive corporate review of all programs and services to lower the 2025 operating and capital budgets. The goal is to reduce the projected tax rate increase by 5%, from 7.27% to 2.27%. Other actions included appointing a board chair for the 2026 Alberta Summer Games and adjusting capital budgets for public services yard projects.

• Approved corporate review to reduce 2025 projected tax rate increase by 5% (6-3)
• Appointed John Dance as 2026 Alberta Summer Games Host Society Board Chairperson (9-0)
• Approved $10,225 for Sherwood Heights Community League Winter Carnival (9-0)
• Approved $5,000 for Girl Guides of Canada camp equipment (9-0)
• Approved $1,000 for Colchester Community League Perogy supper (9-0)
• Approved $400,000 budget transfer from Facility Capital Lifecycle Project to SPSY Expansion project (9-0)
• Approved revised Policy SER-008-027 Establishing Security in Developer Agreements (9-0)
• Directed report on Fleet and Facility Services business model by May 28, 2024 (9-0)