Council Highlights – November 18, 2024
On November 18, 2024, the Town of Fox Creek’s Council convened for its Regular Meeting at the Fox Creek Greenview Protective Services Building. The meeting addressed several key topics impacting the community, including regional healthcare initiatives, recreation updates, financial policies, and more. Below are the highlights from the meeting:
Delegations: Supporting Healthcare in Rural Alberta
Council was honoured to welcome representative Ken Drysdale from the Maskwa Medical Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes in Northern Alberta. The delegation outlined their innovative approach to establishing medical centre in Grande Prairie, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring access to specialist and family physician care without any fees charged to patients. This initiative, led by a registered charity, exemplifies community-driven solutions to healthcare challenges.
The primary objective of Maskwa Medical Center is to provide timely medical services while reducing the referral cycle by utilizing virtual conferencing technology and attracting healthcare professionals to the region. The organization’s model is both impactful and cost-effective, with long-term benefits for the Peace Region, including Fox Creek.
Fox Creek Council expressed strong support for this initiative and resolved to take two significant actions:
- Drafting a Letter of Support – This letter will be addressed to Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange, advocating for local government backing of the Maskwa Medical Center project.
- Exploring Financial Support – Council plans to discuss potential funding contributions for this project in the next meeting, recognizing the direct benefits it will bring to the community and the region.
Staff Reports: Recreation and Operations Updates
Recreation Highlights
The Fox Creek Greenview Multiplex continues to see exceptional community engagement, with a 31% increase in total attendance compared to last October. Some key figures include:
- Pool Usage: Up by 36% with 1,021 bathers.
- Arena Attendance: A remarkable increase of 26%, totalling 4,402 visitors.
- Library Visits: Up by 37%, reflecting growing community interest in educational and cultural resources.
The Town is also gearing up for the Christmas Parade on November 29, 2024. Additional details about the event can be found here: https://foxcreek.ca/christmas-parade-2024/.
Operational and Administrative Highlights
The Operations team has commenced the installation of festive Christmas decorations across town.
Progress is being made on several capital projects, including upgrades to the Water Treatment Plant and the RV Campground Expansion.
Administration continues to refine designs for the Town Entrances project, with construction anticipated to begin in the spring.
Business: Strategic Decisions for the Community
Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
Council approved the 2024/2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting dates:
Scouts Hall Fees and Rates
Following community feedback regarding the new Scouts Hall fees, Administration conducted a thorough regional pricing analysis. Comparisons with similar-sized communities confirmed the fairness of the adjusted rates, and Council resolved to maintain the updated fees.
Regional Advisory Council Health Membership
Council reviewed a request to join the Regional Advisory Council Health. Recognizing the importance of Fox Creek’s representation in regional health matters, Council nominated Mayor Sheila Gilmour for membership. Pending approval, the Mayor will serve as Fox Creek’s voice on this vital council, advocating for improved healthcare access and policies.
Bylaws and Policies: Municipal Election Bylaw Update
Council gave the first reading of Municipal Election Bylaw 857-2021-A01, which introduces several updates to align with recent provincial requirements. Key changes include:
- Enhanced processes to ensure voter accessibility.
- Updated provisions for advance voting and special ballots.
- Streamlined protocols for candidate registration and financial disclosures.
- Mandatory Clean Criminal Report: A new provision requiring all municipal election candidates to provide a clean criminal record check during the nomination process. This step is aimed at promoting transparency and maintaining public trust in local governance.
These updates aim to improve the transparency and efficiency of the municipal election process.
Correspondence: Addressing Hunger in Canada
Council reviewed the Food Banks Canada Hunger Count Report, which provided a sobering overview of food insecurity across the nation. The report highlights the critical need for community support and collaboration to address growing demands on food banks. The Town remains committed to supporting local initiatives like the Fox Creek Food Bank to aid vulnerable residents.
The November 18 meeting reflects the Council’s ongoing dedication to enhancing community well-being and addressing regional challenges. Whether through support for innovative healthcare solutions, strategic planning for recreation and operations, or advocating for Fox Creek’s voice in regional matters, Council continues to prioritize the needs of residents.
