Growing Cypress: Council tackles key community matters in February 19 meeting

Posted on February 27, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Cypress County Council meeting on February 19 was loaded with important updates, decisions, and discussions, all aimed at shaping the future of our community. From land use amendments to firefighting policies and even a potential hydrogen hub, here’s a breakdown of the top highlights.

A public hearing reviewed application 25/A02, which seeks to rezone a 0.23-hectare parcel of land in Dunmore from Agricultural District (A1-IDP) to Hamlet Industrial (HI). This change would allow the property to undergo a boundary adjustment to align with nearby industrial-use land. The area, situated along Charles Street, contains a residence, yard, established trees, and fencing. However, some of these features encroach onto neighbouring property, which the proposed adjustment aims to resolve. With businesses already dotting the area and industrial land dominating the vicinity, the rezoning aligns well with the local Master Area Structure Plan and Tri-Area Intermunicipal policies. Bylaw 2025/03 went to decision following the hearing and the three motions were carried.

Council is considering a sweeping update to the current Fire Services Bylaw. Proposed as Bylaw 2025/07, the changes aim to align fire service policies with provincial legislation, Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), and modern practices. Administrators emphasized the importance of keeping the bylaw clear and up-to-date to ensure operational efficiency and legal compliance. These updates are designed to protect residents by strengthening fire services as they adapt to new challenges. The bylaw will serve as a foundation for future decision-making, resource allocation, and emergency response strategies. The motions were carried.

Cypress County intends to renew its $10 million credit facility with ATB Financial through Borrowing Bylaw 2025/08. This credit line has proven invaluable for managing expenses early in the year while awaiting tax revenues. While current plans suggest no need to tap into the credit line in 2025, maintaining the facility ensures financial flexibility. Already supported by a robust $111.1 million portfolio, the County’s prudent approach to investments and cash flow ensures a solid financial footing while preparing for future needs. Approval was sought for the first reading. Council decided to do three motions at the meeting, and this was carried.

A bright spot in the meeting came from the Brooks Newell Region’s request for a letter of support for their hydrogen hub project. This initiative would produce and distribute hydrogen for the transportation industry, fueling growth along the Highway 1 corridor. Council recognizes the potential long-term benefits for economic development, job creation, and environmental innovation. Council is in favour of providing the letter of support. Supporting this project positions Cypress County as a forward-thinking partner in regional progress.

A $125,000 grant under the Alberta Community Partnership program to review and update the Regional Emergency Management Plan (REMP) has been awarded. This ensures local municipalities remain well-prepared for future emergencies. Collaborative efforts between municipalities continue to strengthen safety measures across the region.

In community-focused news, Council also acknowledged Cypress County’s recent $1,600 contribution to the Redcliff Public Library. These funds help ensure library services remain vibrant and accessible for all County residents.

Whether addressing rezoning applications, modernizing bylaws, or leveraging funding opportunities, these decisions speak to a vision for a stronger, more resilient Cypress County. Residents can look forward to the tangible benefits of these discussions in the days ahead.