Redcliff Council tackles crime rates, infrastructure, and town bylaws 

Posted on September 18, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Redcliff Town Council met on September 8 for a busy session covering a range of topics from policing successes and financial planning to infrastructure priorities and bylaw updates. Residents can be encouraged by a significant drop in local crime rates and the town’s proactive approach to future planning.

The quarterly Community Policing Report brought welcome news for the community. For the period of April to June 2025, the Redcliff Detachment reported a substantial decrease in crime compared to the same time last year. Person’s crimes saw a 49 per cent reduction, property crimes fell by 46 per cent, and other criminal offenses decreased by 18 per cent. This positive trend may be, in part, attributed to the “Data2Action” project, a collaborative effort between RCMP and community partners to identify prolific offenders and educate the public on securing their property.

The report also highlighted the RCMP’s active role in the community. Members issued 50 violation tickets, while Redcliff Traffic Services issued an additional 95 tickets, primarily for speeding.

Beyond enforcement, officers engaged with students at Eagle Butte High School through impaired and distracted driving awareness programs. They also participated in numerous community events, including the DARE program, the Severn Persons parade, and Redcliff Days, where they co-organized a popular bicycle rodeo for local youth.

Council also received a letter of introduction to the new Alberta RCMP Commanding Officer, Deputy Commissioner Trevor Daroux, a veteran with 37 years of policing experience.

Town administration proposed streamlining several reserve funds to improve efficiency. The plan suggests combining smaller reserves—such as those for community celebrations and legal fees—into a larger Operating Contingency (Tax Stabilization) Reserve. This change would provide greater flexibility in managing unexpected operating expenses without placing a sudden burden on taxpayers.

Council was also made aware of the replacement of the provincial Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act with the new Access to Information Act (ATIA) and Protection of Privacy Act (POPA). Administration is currently updating town bylaws and processes to ensure full compliance with the new legislation.

A planned upgrade for the 800 and 900 blocks of 5th Street SE has been postponed. After a detailed review, town staff found that the underground utilities in the area are in good condition with no history of major failures.

Council also addressed a request from a homeowner on Broadway Avenue West regarding low water pressure caused by an undersized service line. The resident discovered the ½-inch line—which contradicts town records showing a 1-inch service—while undertaking costly upgrades on their property. Administration was asked to review the situation and present options for council’s consideration.

Residents will have an opportunity to observe the town’s budget deliberations. Council has scheduled special public meetings to review the upcoming capital and operating budgets. Final dates and times will be advertised to the public once confirmed.