Letter to Citizens - April 2025

Letter to Citizens

April 16, 2025

Dear Citizens,

Spring is in the air, Easter is around the corner, and many families will come together to celebrate and enjoy each other’s company. Enjoy the moment—and take some time to remember, visit, or do something special for someone who may be shut in or in need.

It has come to Council’s attention that some citizens may not be fully aware of the work being done on their behalf. I would like to take this opportunity to share a summary of our collective efforts.

Main Street Revitalization

Our downtown corridor is in need of upgrades—both above and below ground. We have engaged Associated Engineering to prepare a comprehensive plan that considers subsurface utilities, improved water flow and fire hydrant pressure, safer intersections and traffic patterns, enhanced lighting and crosswalks, better parking layout, and decorative, aesthetic features. This revitalization will require significant capital investment, and Council will actively pursue available grants to fund this important project. We’ll keep you updated on our progress.

In the meantime, Council has approved wider parking stalls on Main Street to reduce vehicle damage from opening doors. We’ve also installed two new pedestrian crossing lights—one in front of the TD Bank and another near the Card Home—to improve pedestrian safety. The next set of lights is planned for the intersection of Main Street and 4th Avenue.

Derelict and Vacant Properties / Unsightly Premises

Council has passed a bylaw creating a new taxation category that allows for an increased tax rate on derelict and vacant properties. This measure encourages property owners to repair, rent out, or make better use of these properties. We’re pleased to report this initiative has been successful—only a few properties remain non-compliant. Our Peace Officer continues to work closely with affected property owners.

In addition, the Town has issued nearly 200 letters regarding unsightly premises. Thanks to the efforts of our Peace Officer and the cooperation of residents, only a small number remain unresolved.

Safety and Security

Council members meet regularly with the local RCMP detachment to discuss community safety. These meetings are highly valuable and help guide the annual priorities we set together.

Currently, the RCMP is focused on three Council-identified goals:

1. Reducing criminal activity (drug-related and property crimes)
2. Improving road safety
3. Increasing community engagement (including school visits and educational sessions for youth and parents)

A CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) analysis was conducted on Main Street by certified Town officers. Businesses were informed of the findings, and an incentive program was created to help willing participants implement safety improvements (Main Street CPTED Grant Program).

We also receive quarterly updates from Sgt. Wright, who provides comprehensive progress reports on these goals. We’re grateful for the RCMP’s commitment, including increased Main Street foot patrols in coordination with our Peace Officer.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity or crime by calling 911 for emergencies or the local RCMP detachment at 403-653-4931 for reports or complaints.

Animals and Animal Shelter

Council has approved the hiring of a part-time Dog Catcher. If you need assistance, please call 403-634-6400. We’ve also increased the capacity of the Town’s pound to better accommodate retrieved cats and dogs.

Sewer Plant Upgrade

The need for upgrades to the Town’s sewer plant has been a major concern for the past four years. Progress was delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, but we’re pleased to report that, thanks to the hard work of our CAO and consultants, we have applied for significant government grants to help fund this nearly $18 million project.

To put this into perspective, the Town’s annual tax revenue is just over $3 million. We are confident that this project can move forward without placing an undue burden on property owners. We look forward to recognizing and thanking our funding partners soon.

Many thanks to our wastewater operators and Public Works team for their ongoing efforts to maintain and repair critical infrastructure in the meantime.

Property Assessment and Taxes

When you receive your 2025 tax notice, you may see an increase in your property assessment. This reflects the 2024 real estate market. The good news is that, due to the increase in overall assessments, Council will not be raising the mill rate this year. We’re committed to easing the tax burden for residents wherever possible. Tax rates will be set in May, and we’ll keep you informed.

Economic Development

With the introduction of various new incentives, we aim to attract new businesses and enhance the appearance of Main Street to support future development. We’re also pleased to report that the Chamber of Commerce now has a full and active board, which will help serve the business community and collaborate with the Town as a key partner in driving economic growth.

Always at your service,
Mayor Kronen