News you can use from the County of 40 Mile

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

As the County of Forty Mile navigates its latest developments, residents are reminded of important deadlines and community opportunities. A key reminder for property owners: a 7 per cent penalty will be applied to any outstanding property taxes if unpaid by December 1. To avoid this fee, ensure payments are made before November 30. For convenience, payments can be submitted through mail post-marked by November 30 or via the drop box located at 113072 Highway 61.

In other community news, the County is now accepting nominations for the Farm Family of the Year Award. This accolade celebrates the dedication and contribution of local farming families, with nominations open until December 18. To participate, fill out the nomination form (accessible online on the County’s website) and send it to The 40-Mile County Commentator at Box 580, 147 – 5th Ave., Bow Island AB T0K 0G0. For inquiries, contact (403)-545-2258 or (403)-867-3530.

The recent County Municipal Meeting on October 9 brought several noteworthy discussions to the table. Key topics included:

• Daycare Facility Proposal: A proposal to renovate the old administration office into a daycare was explored, leading to the cancellation of the building’s sale agreement with a realtor. This decision allows for potential renewal if the daycare plans do not proceed.

• Manyberries Sewage Lagoon: The Manyberries Community Association expressed willingness to sell part of the land hosting the sewage lagoon, aiming to alleviate liability concerns.

• Golf Cart Regulation: Discussions centred on updating bylaws to align with provincial regulations, facilitating the use of golf carts on highways within Forty Mile Park. Peace Officer Payne suggested formalizing this through a pilot project, with an emphasis on firm enforcement moving forward.

• Budget Planning: The council set November 12 as the date for the upcoming budget meeting, ensuring proactive financial planning for the coming year.

• Traffic Control Bylaw Update: The council approved updates to the traffic control bylaw, ensuring effective management of traffic devices within the county.

During this meeting, the following update was discussed regarding the Shortgrass Library System (SLS).

SLS Board of Trustees, including appointees from all 11 member municipalities and Councillor Widmer, approved the 2025 & 2026 operating budgets at the August 2024 Board meeting. It was determined that:

• The 2025 Municipal Levy increased by 1.5 per cent to $5.04 per capita, totaling $18,144.00.

• The 2025 Library Materials Levy remains at $5.08, the same as in 2024, totaling $18,288.00, and does not require a motion.

• The council moved to accept the 2025 Municipal Levy at $5.04 per capita, based on a population of 3,600, totaling $18,144.00, and the motion was carried.

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected with your community has never been easier, thanks to the Forty Mile mobile app. This innovative app was designed to enhance community engagement and streamline access to essential county services directly from your smartphone. 

With features that allow you to submit permit applications effortlessly, receive push notifications on local alerts, and report public safety or crime issues through a simple photo-sharing function, the app puts the power of civic involvement at your fingertips. Additionally, you can access agenda meeting minutes and public hearing audio recordings with ease, ensuring you’re always informed about local governance. The convenience doesn’t stop there—with one-touch calling capabilities, reaching important departments and facilities is just a tap away. The app is available on the AppStore or on Google Play.

The County of Forty Mile’s council, municipal committee, agricultural service board, and park committee meet regularly to ensure proactive and efficient county government operations, benefiting businesses, farms, residents, and commercial interests alike. Download the app, visit the County website regularly, or follow the County’s socials (Facebook, X, and Instagram) to stay in the know.