Redcliff Roundup: Community safety, sustainability initiatives, and festive news

Posted on November 28, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

A recent Redcliff council meeting was packed with important community updates, including some alarming stats from the RCMP and robust support for the local library – among other agenda items.

An overview of policing activities from April to June 2024 notes that the Redcliff Municipal RCMP report highlighted a 12 per cent increase in assault investigations compared to 2023, and a staggering 111 per cent rise over the last five years. Property crime also saw significant spikes with a 200 per cent increase in vehicle theft and a 300 per cent surge in stolen property cases. In response, the RCMP is emphasizing community vigilance and encouraging residents to lock their vehicles. Mental health-related calls also rose by 333 per cent, underscoring the need for enhanced community support and resources. The RCMP remains committed to addressing these challenges with proactive policing and community engagement.

In a heartfelt letter from a community member, the role of the Redcliff Public Library was highlighted. The library, cited the letter, is not only a hub for learning and literacy but also a vital resource for community health and well-being. Offering a wide array of programs for all ages, the library combats isolation and fosters social connections. It also provides essential digital literacy skills, making it a cornerstone of the community’s educational infrastructure. The writer urged for continued municipal support to sustain the library.

It was also noted that the Alberta Recycling Management Authority introduced the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiative, set to transform waste management in Redcliff. This program shifts the recycling burden from local governments to product producers, promising cost savings for the town. Starting April 1, 2025, Redcliff’s depot aims to adopt this system, after going through due diligence. The key dates to facilitate the transition include: 

• November 30, 2024: Populated agreements with compensation offers sent to depot communities.

• January 14, 2025: Deadline for council or leadership approval of the agreement.

• February 14, 2025: Deadline for council or leadership approval and execution of the agreement.

• April 1, 2025: The transition.

The council discussed unexpected repairs to the town’s ice plant, initially allocated a $20,000 budget. Due to unforeseen mechanical failures, the total repair costs exceeded the budget by $14,841. These repairs, crucial for the upcoming ice season, were funded from the town’s unrestricted surplus, ensuring that community amenities remain operational.

In other news, the town has officially ended Water Conservation Stage 1 as of November 6, 2024. The Town thanks businesses and residents for their cooperation in water conservation. 

As always, Redcliff has exciting community events to keep residents connected and engaged. Be sure to mark your calendars for November 29, 2024, when Redcliff will host its Christmas Tree Lighting & Winter Celebration at Memorial Park from 6 pm to 8 pm. 

Stay connected with these developments and more as Redcliff continues to thrive and evolve. You’ll find the community event calendar online at https://redcliff.ca/community-events.