Back to SearchJuly 29, 2024
Municipal Census and Electoral Boundary Review Project Update – The Committee received an update on the Municipal Census and Electoral Boundary Review, presented by ISL and County Administration. The update included an overview of the current state of the divisions, three proposed electoral boundary options, and an unofficial population count. The Electoral Boundary Review was required following the dissolution of Hythe in 2021. The Committee provided feedback for Administration to present new possible boundary options using population and geographic area for future considerations. Options will be presented for public feedback at two open houses in August and another online survey. Learn more at www.countygp.ab.ca/censusandEBR.
Property Tax Information Summary – Administration presented to the Committee a summary highlighting 2024 property tax collection details. On July 26, reminder letters were sent to all unpaid accounts outlining the new balance and second penalty date.
Alberta Day Festival Update – Administration presented to the Committee the County’s plans for an Alberta Day celebration on September 1, 2024 at the Bezanson Community Event Centre. Alberta Day provides municipalities an opportunity to celebrate the history, heritage, and cultural identity of our province. For more information, visit www.countygp.ab.ca/events.
Proposed Playground Funding Policy – The Committee reviewed a proposed playground policy that considers various playground options and requested that Administration incorporate their feedback and present the draft Policy on Playground Grant Funding for approval at the next Council meeting on August 12, 2024.
First and Second Quarter Financial Summary Report – The Committee received an information report from Administration on the County of Grande Prairie’s financials for the first and second quarter of 2024.
RBC Dominion Securities Annual Portfolio Presentation – The Committee received a presentation on an annual review of the County’s financial portfolio from Senior Portfolio Manager Kevin Chrenek.
Ducks Unlimited Canada Boreal Wetland Centre – The Committee received an update from Conservation Programs Specialist, Rick Murray, on its ongoing event planning and some of the changes at the Boreal Wetland Centre (BWC). Included was information on improvements to amenities, data collection, cooperation with community groups, and engagement with the public via open houses. Ducks Unlimited Canada is a national registered charitable organization with a mission to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands and associated habitats.
Peace Library System Annual Report – The Committee received a presentation on the 2023 annual report from Peace Library System (PLS) Director Louisa Robison. Funding for PLS is provided by member municipalities, library boards, the province, and contracts with school authorities. In 2023, the County’s membership fee was $157,644.
County Library Board Annual Report – The Committee received a presentation of the County Library Board’s 2023 annual report and 2024-2028 Plan of Service. The annual report summarized library use statistics from County libraries in Elmworth, Hythe, LaGlace and Valhalla. The Plan of Service will guide library service in the County over the next five years, focusing on accessibility, programming, and collections.
Grande Prairie Public Library Annual Report – The Committee received a presentation on the 2023 annual report from Grande Prairie Public Library (GPPL) Director Hailey McCullough summarizing use statistics and an overview of successes and challenges. In 2024, the County Library Board provided $330,560 in funding to GPPL, along with $17,501 to GPPL’s book allotment via the Peace Library System. GPPL is the primary library service point for Clairmont, rural subdivisions south of the City of Grande Prairie, and the Bezanson area.
The next Regular Council Meeting will take place on August 12, 2024. The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will take place on August 30, 2024.
Council and Committee meetings are available to the public via live stream. Find connection instructions and meeting agendas under Council Meetings on the County website.