Town of Bow Island council meeting highlights – Feb. 9

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Town of Bow Island held its regular council meeting on February 9, addressing a range of important topics and correspondence.

The meeting began with the adoption of the January 26 minutes, which included Resolution 2026-020. Moved by Councillor Bill Ressler, this resolution approved a contribution of $87,362.56 toward the County of Forty Mile’s purchase of a Drager AirBoss Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. This equipment will enhance emergency response capabilities in the region. The amount will be included in the Town’s operating budget.

The February 9 meeting transitioned into new business, including a review of the budget report. Council also reviewed several pieces of correspondence, highlighting ongoing collaboration and planning efforts.

A letter from the Town’s Chief Administrative Officer, David Matz, was sent to Municipal Affairs in response to the 2025–2026 Municipal Accountability Program (MAP) Report. The letter outlined the Town’s commitment to addressing legislative compliance issues identified in the report. A detailed checklist of required actions was included, with completion timelines ranging from February to June 2026. Key actions include updating bylaws, improving financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with the Municipal Government Act. The Town expressed its appreciation for the guidance provided by Municipal Affairs and its commitment to completing the required actions within the specified timeframe.

The council also received a letter from Honourable Mike Ellis, Deputy Premier of Alberta and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services. The letter confirmed the issuance of Ministerial Order PSES 1/2026, which authorizes the Town of Bow Island, the Village of Foremost, and the County of Forty Mile No. 8 to delegate their emergency management powers to the Forty Mile Regional Emergency Advisory Committee. This regional collaboration aims to enhance emergency preparedness and response across the participating municipalities. Mayor Reynolds and council were commended for their leadership in pursuing this initiative.

A letter from Sonja Davis, Secretary-Treasurer of the Forty Mile Foundation (Pleasant View Lodge), was also reviewed. The letter confirmed the 2026 requisition tax rate of 0.00008970240, based on the Town’s 2025 Equalized Assessment. This results in a requisition amount of $18,163.15 for the Town of Bow Island. The approved 2026 budget for Pleasant View Lodge was enclosed with the correspondence.

The council meeting underscored the Town of Bow Island’s commitment to regional collaboration, legislative compliance, and fiscal responsibility. With several initiatives underway, including updates to bylaws and emergency management planning, the Town continues to prioritize the well-being and safety of its residents.

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for later this month, where updates on these initiatives and other matters will be discussed. Visit the Town of Bow Island’s website for updates on these and other agenda items.