Council Highlights – December 9, 2024

STAFF REPORTS

Community Services

The Community Services department continues to deliver impactful programs that enhance community engagement and support. Key updates include:

  • CHAMP Stars Program: With 11 participants, this program successfully increased cultural competency and inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
  • Hurray, Let’s Play: This free, weekly drop-in play program remains popular among families. Attendance has been steady, providing much-needed recreational engagement for children and caregivers.
  • Volunteer Contributions: The department reported 915 volunteer hours this year, with activities ranging from Community Gardens to Snow Angels, illustrating the community’s commitment to collective growth and support.
  • Senior Programming: Upcoming events like the Senior Christmas Dessert Night scheduled for December 11 aim to provide social connection and festive joy to senior residents​

Taste of the World Feedback: Following the successful event, 43 surveys were returned, with 91% of participants strongly agreeing that the event provided a safe and welcoming space for connection. Additionally, 70% emphasized the importance of free events in fostering engagement and community involvement. Notably, 100% of volunteer chefs who participated felt welcomed by the community. Survey results from 34 participants also highlighted strong interest in making Taste of the World an annual event, alongside suggestions for more programs for kids, cultural opportunities, and events like galas and family dinners.

Recreation

The Recreation department reported steady growth and engagement across various facilities and events. Notable updates include:

  • Facility Attendance: The pool recorded 1,203 bathers in October 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year, while the fitness center and track saw usage rise by 6% and 35%, respectively. However, arena attendance dropped by 30%, attributed to a combination of factors.
  • Holiday Events: The Christmas Parade on November 29 featured 23 participants (vehicles and floats), celebrating the festive season. Congratulations to the winners: OK Tire (1st place), Renegade Contracting (2nd place), and TCR (3rd place). Community events like the Float with Santa, which welcomed 70 attendees, added to the holiday cheer.
  • Upcoming Activities: The department announced several upcoming festive events, including:
    • Skate with Santa: December 21 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Pembina Arena.
    • Christmas Craft Night: December 16 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM for children aged 4–10.
    • Christmas Games Night: December 17 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM for children aged 6–12.
    • Christmas Light Competition: Residents are encouraged to participate on December 19 by ensuring their lights are on by 5:00 PM and house numbers are clearly visible.

The Recreation department thanks the community for its ongoing support and engagement, which ensures the success of these programs and events.

Operations

The Operations department has been working diligently to address seasonal challenges and ongoing projects despite being short-staffed. Key updates include:

  • Snow Removal: The department has begun the first major snow removal operation of the season. Two contract trucks are assisting Town crews in clearing priority routes and ensuring public safety. The Town appreciates the community’s patience as staff manage this critical task alongside their regular duties.
  • Facility Maintenance: The team collaborated with the Multiplex staff to keep parking lots clear for hockey games and other events during recent storms.
  • Water Treatment and Utilities: Regular monitoring and maintenance of water plants, wells, and lift stations continue. Notably, the water park leak issue has been successfully capped at its source. Additionally, one water employee completed required training in Edmonton to enhance operations.
  • Landfill and Transfer Station: Information is being gathered on the replacement of the aging cardboard baler due to safety concerns. Accurate quotes will be submitted during the upcoming budget discussions.

The Operations department is committed to maintaining high service standards and thanks the community for their understanding during this time of transition.

Chief Administrative Officer

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) provided updates on key achievements and ongoing initiatives, reflecting the Town’s focus on growth, efficiency, and community support. Highlights include:

  • Budget Preparation: The 2025 budget is being finalized for upcoming Council discussions, prioritizing financial sustainability and strategic investments in infrastructure and community programs.
  • Grant Applications: The Town successfully submitted a grant application to Alberta Health Services for the Community Supported Rural Clinic program, aiming to enhance healthcare accessibility in Fox Creek.
  • Capital Projects: Significant progress was reported on major infrastructure projects, including:
    • Water Treatment Plant Phase 3 Upgrades: Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2025 to improve water quality and supply capacity.
    • RV Campground Expansion: Design and procurement stages are nearing completion, with work expected to start in early 2025.
    • Wayfinding Signage: Delays due to contractor changes were addressed, and the project will resume in spring 2025.
  • Community Engagement: The CAO emphasized the importance of open communication with residents and stakeholders, noting the success of recent community consultations and Council’s proactive approach to addressing public concerns.

BUSINESS

Support for the Fox Creek School Battery Collection Initiative

Council reviewed a request from the Fox Creek School Shop Program to receive funds raised from batteries collected at the Town’s Transfer Station. This initiative aims to support the school program by funding equipment purchases, maintenance, and materials. While Council appreciated the community and environmental impact of the project, they recommended developing a policy to ensure fair and consistent support for such initiatives. Council directed administration to explore this policy further to guide similar future requests.

Support for the Fox Creek Historical Association

Council approved a one-time payment of $1,500 to assist the Fox Creek Historical Association with utility costs as the organization transitions its museum operations. Recognizing the importance of preserving Fox Creek’s history, Council committed to working closely with Administration to identify suitable storage solutions for the Association’s artifacts and archival materials.

In addition to supporting immediate needs, Council pledged to collaborate with the Historical Association on plans to reestablish the organization and explore opportunities for future museum development. This initiative underscores the Town’s dedication to safeguarding local heritage while fostering community engagement and support.

Fox Creek Municipal Library Board Appointment

Council approved the reappointment of Evelyn Rogers to the Fox Creek Municipal Library Board for a one-year term expiring in October 2025. In addition, Council passed a resolution allowing Rogers to serve more than three consecutive terms, acknowledging her dedication and contributions to the Library Board. The appointment ensures the continuation of strong leadership and supports the Library’s mission to provide valuable services and resources to the Fox Creek community​.

Approval of FRIAA Grant Applications
Council approved two applications for the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) grants to support critical wildfire management and forest stewardship initiatives:

  • Inter-Agency Project 2024: This project aims to enhance collaboration between agencies to improve wildfire preparedness and response strategies, ensuring greater safety for the Fox Creek community and surrounding areas.
  • Vegetation Management Plan Part 2: The second phase of this plan focuses on sustainable vegetation management practices to reduce wildfire risks and improve forest health.    

The December 9, 2024, Regular Council Meeting demonstrated Fox Creek’s commitment to fostering community well-being, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of its rich history. From supporting the Historical Association and innovative school programs to advancing wildfire preparedness through grant approvals, Council’s decisions reflect a proactive and collaborative approach to addressing the community’s needs.