Back to SearchDraft Hamlet Resiliency Strategy Update –Administration provided an update on the draft Hamlet Resiliency Strategy for its nine rural hamlets: Bezanson, Demmitt, Dimsdale, Elmworth, Goodfare, Huallen, La Glace, Teepee Creek and Valhalla Centre. The purpose of the strategy is to plan for the long-term resiliency of these communities by determining how the County will support growth and maintain or create amenities and infrastructure for the hamlets. The draft strategy will now be available for public consultation, returning to Council for approval and implementation.
Grande Prairie Regional Sport Connection Annual Update –The Committee accepted an information update from Grande Prairie Regional Sport Connection (GPRSC) Executive Director, Karna Germsheid. The organization’s current activities include annual events such as the GPSportConnect.ca online registration system, Try-It Days where youth can experience a variety of sport activities, and Northwest Alberta Sport Excellence Awards to celebrate athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and supporters. The County of Grande Prairie has provided $174, 216 in Community Assistance funding to GPRSC since 2021.
Municipal Census and Electoral Boundary Review Project Update –The Committee received an update on the Municipal Census and Electoral Boundary Review from Administration. The Electoral Boundary Review was required following the dissolution of Hythe in 2021 which added 854 residents to the County. From 1986 to 2021, the population grew from 12,705 to 24,623 residents. By 2046, the population is projected to grow to 45,400 residents. The recommended boundaries, total number of Councillors and electoral divisions will be presented to the public at open houses in August.
Recreational Use of Stormwater Ponds Winter Report – Winter 2023 – 2024 was the third season of the County’s Recreational Use of Stormwater Ponds program, with stormwater ponds officially opening to skaters on December 22, 2023. Ice surfaces were created by volunteer groups in Carriage Lane Estates, Maple Ridge Estates, Westlake and Whispering Ridge.
Private Septic System Cost Comparisons – Administration presented to the Committee the cost comparison of different types of private residential septic systems in order to assist the Municipal Planning Commission with making decisions related to septic systems and proposed subdivisions.
Administrative Complex Redesign Project – Administration presented the Committee with an update on the Administrative Complex Redesign Project. A recommendation regarding construction will be brought back to Council once design is complete for a decision and spending authorization.
Office Hours and Customer Service – Administration presented information regarding a possible change to the County’s office hours to remain open through the lunch hour. Administration will bring the matter back to a Regular Council Meeting to provide options for extended customer service at County facilities.
Economic Development Mid-Year Review 2024 –The Committee received an information report on the Economic Development department’s mid-year activities and future planning. The report included key performance indicators (KPIs), participation in conferences and business events, and future plans.
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Survey 2024 – The Committee received an overview of the Economic Development 2024 BRE survey that provided an analysis of the County’s efforts in business retention and expansion, including KPIs and historical trends.
Broadband Infrastructure Support – The Committee recommended Council to direct Administration to continue to support potential projects, grant applications, and requests for letters of support on a case-by-case basis.
The next Regular Council Meeting will take place on July 15, 2024. The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will take place on July 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.