Bow Island Council discusses housing development and recycling depot contract 

Posted on March 27, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Bow Island Town council met early in March to discuss a range of topics, including a new housing development proposal and a contract for residential recycling services, among other items.

One of the main items on the agenda was a request for a decision regarding Phase 2 of Parkview Lane. The administration has been working with a developer to construct housing on Lot 22 Parkview Crescent, which was initially intended for high-density development like apartment buildings. The proposal suggests redeveloping the lot to accommodate fourplexes and row houses. The fourplex proposal includes 16 units marketed as low-maintenance multifamily homes, complete with small yards, garages, and parking. The rowhouse proposal is still in the design phase, but is intended for rental-style multifamily homes. This project requires increased investment from the Town for additional infrastructure, such as water and sewer mains, a paved road, and utilities. However, it aligns with the goal of building 51 “missing middle” units by the end of 2027 and may generate more long-term revenue for the Town.

Another discussion revolved around the Recycling Depot Letter of Intent. The administration has been working with Circular Materials (CM) on a contract for residential recycling services at the collection depot. While an agreement has been negotiated, new insurance requirements related to Environmental Incident Liability have emerged. Due to the time needed to obtain an insurance quote, CM proposed a Letter of Intent to ensure services can start by April 1. This letter would agree to the contract terms, with the contract signed retroactively once the Town provides proof of insurance. The CM service contract is expected to generate $1,176 in monthly revenue, while contracted service expenses with E360 are $1,250 per month, with additional insurance costs yet to be determined.

In correspondence, council reviewed a letter from Alberta Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver, providing details on Budget 2025. The budget includes an increase in Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF) capital funding by over 13 percent, from $722 million to $820 million, thanks to the LGFF’s revenue index factor. LGFF Operating funding remains at $60 million. The Grants in Place of Taxes (GIPOT) program will also see improvements, with payments to municipalities set to increase to 75 percent of the property tax amount in the 2025/26 fiscal year and fully restored to 100 percent in 2026/27. However, the Local Growth and Sustainability Grant (LGSG) program will not continue.

Council also took note of a media release regarding the launch of the Lethbridge Region Economic Resilience Task Force. In light of the tariffs and other recent challenges, this task force aims to strengthen and diversify the economy of southwest Alberta, building resilience in the business community. The task force will focus on attracting investment, managing supply chain impacts, and supporting export growth for local businesses.

In general news about Bow Island, the Town is seeking an office clerk to provide reception and administrative support. Responsibilities will include reception, cashier services, assisting with licenses and facility bookings, and cross-training in other administrative areas like accounts payable and tax/utility. Strong computer skills and experience in municipal administration or bookkeeping are required. See the Town of Bow Island website for more information and details on how to apply.