Back to SearchNovember 30, 2023
Bioeconomy Development Zone Rating Designation – The Committee received an update for information from Aryn Garswood, Head of the BDO Zone Initiative & Specials Projects and Mahmood Ebadian, Project Principal of Ecostrat Inc. After Ecostrat conducted regional research and discussions with regional subject matter experts who made up the independent review committee, the final report supported the Phase 1 findings that the County of Grande Prairie and Municipal District of Greenview are an ‘A’ Rating for woody biomass. The goal of this BDO Zone Rating designation for the MD of Greenview and County of Grande Prairie is to enable the region to leverage its biomass resources as a powerful engine for biobased investment and job growth in the region.
Analysis of Grazing Lease Rates – Administration presented to the Committee a compiled comparable analysis of grazing lease fees. The Committee tabled this item for more information to be brought to a future Committee meeting.
Analysis of Road Allowance and Land Lease & License Rates –Administration presented a report on comparable road allowance leases and licenses which found the County’s rates to be below the average and not accurately reflective of the value of land. The Committee recommended administration incorporate the increase to the municipal road allowance fees into the 2024 Schedule of Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw being presented to Council for approval later this year.
Safety Codes Fees – Administration presented a review of the current Safety Code fees in comparison to other unaccredited areas: the City of Grande Prairie, and Leduc County for consideration for the upcoming 2024 Interim Budget.
Subdivision Authority Bylaw – The Committee directed Administration to prepare a Subdivision Authority Bylaw with the proposed amendments for review and approval at a future Council meeting.
Business License and Welcome Program – The Committee received a report for information from Economic Development on standardizing the process for welcoming new businesses to the County, including identification, business license process, welcoming, and ongoing communication.
The Committee also provided feedback on potential suggestions for the business licensing program in the County, emphasizing knowledge of businesses operating in the County and compliance with existing zoning regulations.
Regional Workforce Development Partnership – The Committee received an overview from Economic Development who is leading the municipal Regional Workforce Development partnership which aims to address the skills gap, foster economic growth, and enhance the labour market within the peace region.
Economic Development Third Quarter Report – The Committee received a report for information on the Economic Development department’s Third Quarter activities and future planning. The report included an update on regional initiatives, business supports, marketing efforts, and investment attraction efforts.
County Receives Marketing Canada Award – The Economic Development team was awarded the Marketing Canada Award at the 2023 Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) Conference.
The next Regular Council Meeting will take place on December 18, 2023. The next Committee of the Whole Meeting will take place on December 12, 2023.
Council and Committee meetings are available to the public via live stream. Find connection instructions and meeting agendas through the events calendar on the County website.