Bow Island Buzz: Nov. 25 council meeting highlights and other news

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Town of Bow Island’s council met on November 25 and the meeting included a review of the strategic plan. 

The strategic plan places significant emphasis on promoting residential and commercial development while supporting local businesses by connecting them with economic partners and pursuing enhanced broadband access. Recreational opportunities for residents are also a focus, with ongoing projects to expand amenities in parks and engage the community in the development of new facilities. Efforts to beautify the town include defining the role of the Tourism Committee, enhancing digital marketing, and promoting seasonal decorations. 

Also discussed were a few issues relating to taxes, including a tax penalty cancelation request. A local business had approached the council with a request to forgive part or all of the tax penalty incurred for the 2024 tax year. The business had prepared its payment on July 16, 2024, with the intention of submitting it on time. However, after consulting with the Town about appealing its tax assessment, it was confirmed that the appeal deadline had passed, delaying further action. A miscommunication within the business led to the payment not being mailed before the deadline.

As a first-year business, the company has fully acknowledged the error and is now asking the council to consider waiving part or all of the late fees. Under Section 347 of the Municipal Government Act, council has the authority to cancel or reduce tax arrears if deemed equitable. 

The Public Works Department is enhancing its operations with the addition of a 2019 Ford F350 pickup truck. With its flat deck and built-in toolboxes, this well-kept vehicle is an excellent fit for the water/sewer department, providing the capability to move heavy items such as fire hydrants and pipes. This purchase will also help overcome the limited availability of highway operational vehicles. Valued at $28,100 plus GST and minor associated costs, the truck is being financed through the equipment reserve.

The Fire Department Association has requested additional funding from the Town to address a financial shortfall in covering firefighter response fees. These fees are distributed based on the hours firefighters spend responding to emergencies, with any surplus typically reserved for high-demand years or distributed among members. However, a surge in response hours this year, largely due to a significant structure fire in town and a reigniting grass fire, has resulted in a substantial deficit.

While response time is compensated, activities such as meetings, training, and community outreach remain unpaid volunteer commitments for firefighters. The total response costs for this year are estimated at $24,625, far exceeding the Town’s budgeted contribution of $16,000. To bridge the gap, the association is requesting an additional $8,625 to cover the deficit and support their critical work in protecting the community.

Correspondence on the agenda revealed that The Town of Bow Island has received important news regarding upcoming changes to police governance in Alberta. The Honourable Mike Ellis, Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services, has outlined legislative updates aimed at enhancing civilian oversight of the RCMP. These changes, effective March 1, 2025, will require communities across Alberta to establish new policing committees or engage with existing advisory boards based on their population size and policing agreements.

These governance changes are designed to ensure that local voices play a more active role in shaping policing goals and performance. For Bow Island, it represents a significant opportunity to influence law enforcement priorities and ensure safety remains a top concern for its residents. The Town now has a transition period to prepare and implement the necessary bylaws to align with this new framework.

Mayor Gordon Reynolds noted about this correspondence, “Our Council currently has good access to, and communication with, the RCMP, but I do welcome the concept of civilian oversight. Due to our population, the FAQ from the Minister puts us in with all the small communities (under 5000 pop.) in the province. Forty Mile, Foremost and Bow Island have a combined population of about 6500 and are mostly served by one detachment. Opting out of this provincial plan and creating a more local body might work better for us. We will have to wait for more details, have local conversations and meet with the government.”

As the holiday season gets underway, Bow Island residents have an exciting lineup of community events to look forward to.

St. Michael’s Annual School Auction & Supper will kick things off on December 6 from 5 PM to 7 PM. This cherished tradition is a great chance to share a meal, engage in some friendly bidding, and support the school community. Whether you’re looking for unique auction items or simply a warm gathering to enjoy with family and friends, this event promises to deliver.

On December 8, the Holiday of Lights Event will bring the magic of the season to life from 5 PM to 10 PM. This much-anticipated evening is a celebration of dazzling lights and holiday cheer that brings the entire town together. 

For those seeking a moment of relaxation and well-being amidst the holiday buzz, Yoga at the Multiplex is weekly on Tuesdays from 6 PM to 7 PM. This session offers the perfect opportunity to unwind, stretch, and recharge while connecting with others in the community.

Stay connected and engaged this holiday season! Check the Town of Bow Island website for details on upcoming council meetings and the many events taking place over the holiday season.