Camrose County council has supported a study of regional wastewater options around Buffalo Lake, while making clear that the decision does not commit the municipality to building a system.

The county’s Sept. 15 highlights of its Sept. 8 meeting say council approved participation in the Buffalo Lake Regional Wastewater Feasibility and Action Plan. Council also backed a joint Alberta Community Partnership grant application led by the Summer Village of Rochon Sands.

Camrose County would contribute $5,000 if the grant application succeeds. The county described the study as a way to examine potential shared approaches to wastewater service around the lake.

The distinction between studying a system and approving one matters to property owners. The county says taking part does not require future wastewater infrastructure, mandatory connections, a regional services commission or capital spending.

Any future commitment to those steps would require a separate council approval, according to the highlights.

The lake borders several local governments and has both permanent residents and recreational properties. A regional study could help them assess whether shared service is practical, but the county has not announced a preferred design, cost estimate or construction schedule.

The county also reported work on Buffalo Lake wastewater planning among its broader planning and development activities. Elsewhere, engineering and design continue for lagoon and utility improvements in Ferintosh, while lagoon repairs in Round Hill and a countywide water master plan are in progress.